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Fifty-seven pro-Palestine protestors at the University of Massachusetts Amherst were arrested by campus police Wednesday night for trespassing during a sit-in protest at the Whitmore Administration Building, where students demanded Chancellor Javier Reyes condemn the Israel Defense Forces' attacks on Gaza and cut the university’s ties with defense contractor Raytheon Technology.
TOWN OF FRANKLIN
Mon. Oct. 30
Franklin Agricultural Committee Agenda
7:00pm
7:00pm
Weds. Nov. 1
5:00pm
Economic Development Subcommittee Meeting
5:30pm
Wildlife Photography Workshop Showcase
6:00pm
7:00pm
Cancelled-Friends of Franklin Library Meeting
7:00pm
Thurs. Nov. 2
Conservation Commission Meeting
7:00pm
STATE HOUSE AND BEYOND
House and Senate Democrats appear to be sticking to a limited agenda for their fall session, focusing on one of the few areas where they've been able to find common ground this session: spending. With two-plus weeks left for formal sessions, there's no indication that Gov. Maura Healey, House Speaker Ron Mariano and Senate President Karen Spilka are closing in on any final deals before Nov. 15 in the areas they have identified as priorities, such as housing production and affordability, the massive transition to clean energy, reforms targeting health care system problems, and changes to make Massachusetts less vulnerable to gun violence. House Democrats have signaled that a long-term care bill may finally emerge soon. Senate Democrats are dusting off a prescription drug cost control bill they approved in February 2022, but there's no indication that House Democrats, who didn't entertain the measure last session, will show more interest this time around. On issue after issue, Democrats appear content to wait until next year to act, if they act at all. House and Senate members have not had a chance to formally weigh in on the one major bill (H 4090) that could pass by Nov. 15, a supplemental budget that legislative leaders say is being privately negotiated - pre-conferenced is the term they use - by Ways and Means Chairs Rep. Aaron Michlewitz and Michael Rodrigues. The branches are likely to just sign off on whatever the two chairs come up with since there will be little time to haggle over differences. The state comptroller is legally required to file a report summarizing annual state government revenue and spending by Tuesday (Oct. 31) but that filing will be late again this year since the Legislature has not finished its spending decisions for fiscal year 2023, which ended June 30.
The final bill could address funding for overdue raises for many state employees and pour more money into a crisis that is reaching a tipping point. Starting on Wednesday (Nov. 1), Massachusetts won't be able to guarantee emergency shelter for homeless families, including asylum-seeking migrants from other countries, according to the governor. "We do not have enough space, service providers or funds to safely expand beyond 7,500 families. We expect to hit that limit at the end of the month," Healey said Oct. 16. "From that point on, we'll no longer be able to guarantee shelter placement for new families entering." In her first months in office, Healey and her team suddenly found themselves deeply involved with trying to manage a migrant-fueled humanitarian crisis, a situation that shows no signs of abating and which has now raised questions about the state's compliance with its own right-to-shelter laws. Expect more details from the governor's office ahead of Wednesday on what will happen to families if they are turned away from shelters. Healey this month named Lt. General Scott Rice emergency assistance director to lead shelter crisis operations but there has been little in the way of public crisis management communications since his appointment.
Monday brings the arraignment of former state Sen. Dean Tran on charges that he violated state ethics law by using members of his Senate staff to campaign for him while they were on state time and state payroll. The week's hearings get underway, including a focus on rural school aid. Advocates hold a rally Tuesday on the eve of what could be significant changes for families trying to access the state's emergency shelter system. Beacon Hill is sure to be packed in the late afternoon and evening for Halloween trick-or-treating. Lots of changes could come Wednesday, including a waitlist instead of guaranteed shelter for unhoused families and pregnant women in Massachusetts and a stepped-up police presence around Boston's Mass. and Cass area. And the governor, treasurer and other state officials will shift into sales mode Thursday to pitch the commonwealth to investors at the annual Investors Conference, with also features closer looks at the Bay State economy. ends the week with a business breakfast and Fall River school groundbreaking.
Sunday, Oct. 29, 2023
KANE ON 4: Brian Kane, executive director of the MBTA Advisory Board, talks with Jon Keller about recent revelations about problems on the Green Line Extension, declining T ridership, and the system's financial woes. (Sunday, 8:30 a.m., WBZ-TV Ch. 4)
WU ON 5: Boston Mayor Michelle Wu is the guest on WCVB's "On The Record" program. Mass and Cass will be the primary topic. (Sunday, 11 a.m., WCVB-TV Ch. 5)
MOULTON, TEPPER ON 10: Congressman Moulton is on NBC Boston's "@Issue" program discussing gun control, House Speaker Mike Johnson's election, and funding for wars in Ukraine and Israel. Also on Sunday's show: Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary Tepper. (Sunday, 11:30 a.m., WBTS-TV Ch. 10)
CREEM, RAUSCH ON REPRODUCTIVE JUSTICE: Senate Majority Leader Creem and Sen. Rausch are slated to participate in a hybrid "tea time" conversation about reproductive justice at Temple Beth Elohim. (Sunday, 4 p.m., 10 Bethel Road, Wellesley | More Info and Registration)
PROFILES IN COURAGE: Five women senators from South Carolina -- Katrina Shealy, Margie Bright Matthews, Mia McLeod, Sandy Senn, and Penry Gustafson -- who formed a bipartisan coalition to filibuster a near-total abortion ban in their state are recipients of the 2023 John F. Kennedy Profile in Courage Awards. Ambassador Caroline Kennedy and her children, Jack Schlossberg and Tatiana Schlossberg, will present the awards. A special international award will go to South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida for "working to improve relations between their countries despite domestic opposition stemming from historical issues." The ambassadors to the United States for the Republic of Korea, Ambassador H.E. Hyundong Cho, and for Japan, Ambassador Koji Tomita, will accept the award. (Sunday, 8:15 p.m., Kennedy Presidential Library, Columbia Point, Dorchester | Livestream)
Monday, Oct. 30, 2023
TRAN ARRAIGNMENT: Former Sen. Dean Tran is scheduled to be arraigned on two counts of violating state ethics laws, having been indicted by Attorney General Andrea Campbell last month. Campbell alleged that the 47-year-old Fitchburg Republican, who served in the Massachusetts Senate from late 2017 until early 2021, "used members of his Senate staff to campaign for him while those staff members were on state time, state payroll, and purportedly working for the Legislature" during campaigns in 2018 and 2020. The impermissible work is alleged to have taken place during official work hours at the MassGOP campaign regional field office in Fitchburg, the AG's office said. Massachusetts ethics laws prohibit state, county and municipal public employees from using public resources in connection with political campaigns or other private political activity, including engaging in political activity on public work time, Campbell's office said. The Massachusetts Senate sanctioned Tran in 2020 after the Senate Ethics Committee found his office staff had been performing campaign work with public resources during business hours. He denied the charges. He was removed from his position as assistant minority whip and banned from interacting with his staff except through official emails. (Monday, 9 a.m., Courtroom 705, Suffolk Superior Court, 3 Pemberton Square, Boston)
POST COMMISSION BIGDA HEARING: POST Commission holds an adjudicatory hearing for Gregg Bigda, a Springfield police officer who has faced multiple legal issues over the years. The Boston Globe referred to him last month as "the poster boy of police brutality in Springfield." (Monday, 9 a.m., Zoom)
FLOOD RISKS IN BOSTON: Boston City Council Committee on Environmental Justice, Resiliency & Parks holds a public hearing on stormwater management and flood hazard mitigation in the city. Councilor Breadon's order calling for the hearing says most city residents are unaware of flood risks and calls it "crucial that the City of Boston adequately identify and proactively respond to flood risks and consider establishing programs that provide financial and technical assistance to mitigate the risk of flooding." (Monday, 10 a.m., Iannella Council Chamber, 5th Floor, 1 City Hall Square, Boston | More Info)
MCGOVERN IN UXBRIDGE: Congressman McGovern visits Uxbridge High School to become "principal for the day." October is National Principals Month. (Monday, 10 a.m., Uxbridge High School, 300 Quaker Hwy, Uxbridge)
GOLDA MEIR HOUSE: Senior housing nonprofit 2Life Communities hosts a ribbon cutting for the expansion of its Golda Meir House in Auburndale, which adds 68 new apartments to the affordable senior living community. U.S. Rep. Jake Auchincloss, Rep. Kay Khan and Newton Mayor Ruthanne Fuller attend. (Monday, 10 a.m., Golda Meir House Campus, 160 Stanton Ave., Newton)
FINANCIAL SERVICES COMMITTEE: Joint Committee on Financial Services holds a public hearing on bills affecting children's health insurance and mandated benefits. Mental health parity, coverage for hearing aids, special education health care costs, emergency insulin access, and access to epinephrine for minors are among the topics of bills on the agenda. (Monday, 10 a.m., Room A-2 | Agenda and Access Info)
TOURISM, ARTS COMMITTEE: Tourism, Arts and Cultural Development Committee holds a public hearing on bills addressing access to electronic books and digital audiobooks, protecting against attempts to ban or restrict library access to materials (Sen. Oliveira), and "ensuring freedom to read" in Massachusetts. The agenda also included a Sen. Kennedy bill defining agritourism. (Monday, 10 a.m., Room A-1 | Agenda and Access Info)
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT AND SMALL BIZ COMMITTEE: Community Development and Small Business Committee holds a public hearing on about a dozen bills affecting small businesses. Most of the bills are geared toward growing small businesses and the agenda features a Sen. Lewis bill establishing an Office of Massachusetts Main Streets. (Monday, 10 a.m., Room B-2 | Agenda and Access Info)
HOUSE: House holds an informal session. (Monday, 11 a.m., House Chamber | Livestream)
SENATE: Senate meets without a calendar. Senate leadership on Monday could appoint a negotiating team to work out the details of a wage transparency bill with the House. Both branches passed their own versions of the bill in October, aimed at addressing pay disparities by requiring employers with 25 or more workers to share salary or pay range info when posting a job opening or offering certain promotions or internal transfers. While the House and Senate texts (H 4109 / S 2468) are similar, the House opted to move the matter into private conference negotiations on Oct. 26 and appointed Reps. Cutler, Fluker Oakley, and Jones to the conference committee. One area where the branches differ: the House-approved language specifically exempts state and local government entities that already make pay range or salary data publicly available. (Monday, 11 a.m., Senate Chamber | Livestream)
LAWN POLLUTION REPORT: MASSPIRGEducation Fund releases a report that shows "alarming pollution from gas-powered leaf blowers, lawn mowers in Massachusetts." The report, "Lawn Care Goes Electric: Why it’s time to switch to a new generation of clean, quiet electric lawn equipment," includes an analysis of U.S. Environmental Protection Agency data detailing pollution statistics broken down by state and county. (Monday, 11 a.m.)
MENTAL HEALTH COMMITTEE: Joint Committee on Mental Health, Substance Use and Recovery holds hybrid public hearing on bills dealing with carceral behavioral health, involuntary treatment and patient rights. Two bills aim to "strengthen emergency restraint" for individuals suffering dangerous or violent mental illness. Middlesex DA Ryan will testify in support. A Sen. Creem bill would transfer Bridgewater State Hospital from the Department of Corrections to the Department of Mental Health. Other bills deal with frequently discussed policy topics like inpatient mental health care, boarding patients in hospital emergency rooms, treatment of substance use disorder, and the quality of mental health services in state correctional facilities. (Monday, 12 p.m., Room B-1, Agenda and Access Info)
FLORIDA REP AT TUFTS: U.S. Rep. Maxwell Frost, a Florida Democrat who is the first Gen Z member of Congress, speaks at Tufts University’s Jonathan M. Tisch College of Civic Life to discuss his legislative priorities, the power of youth activism, and his experience representing a new generation in Congress. Media should contact robin.smyton@tufts.edu. (Monday, 12 p.m., Distler Performance Hall, Granoff Music Center, Tufts University, 20 Talbot Ave., Medford)
TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE: Transportation Committee holds a public hearing on a lengthy list of bills addressing infractions and penalties, roadway maintenance, streetscapes and parking, and transportation governance. A Rep. Cusack bill seeks to audit and investigate the commuter rail operating agreement. Rep. DeCoste has a bill designed to prevent road rage. And Chairman William Straus has three of his own bills on the agenda dealing with the MBTA and MassDOT. Middlesex DA Ryan will testify in support of tow road safety bills. (Monday, 1 p.m., Room A-1 | Agenda and Access Info)
EDUCATION COMMITTEE: Joint Commission on Education holds a public hearing on bills related to college and career readiness, technology and data, transportation, and regional districts and schools. Among the legislation before the committee is a Rep. Blais and Sen. Comerford bill to boost funding for rural school districts. Rural schools in Massachusetts face a unique set of challenges, as an aging population has meant enrollment decline, and transportation and special education costs have strained districts' budgets. The bill would implement the findings of a Special Commission on Rural Schools, providing $60 million for rural school aid, fully funding non-resident pupil transportation and special education transportation costs for these districts, and some additional cost-saving policies. The fiscal year 2024 budget included $15 million for rural school aid, a nearly $10 million increase over fiscal 2023. There are several other bills related to the high-costs of student transportation for school districts, as well as proposals to expand high school student access to earning industry-recognized credentials and to establish a state-run "education-to-career" database. (Monday, 1 p.m., Room A-2 | More Info and Livestream)
CULTURAL GRANT CELEBRATION: Mass Cultural Council and MassDevelopment host press event to celebrate new Cultural Facilities Fund grant awards. Confirmed attendees include the council's Michael Bobbitt, Dan Rivera from MassDevelopment, Sen. Paul Mark, Rep. Tricia Farley-Bouvier, Rep. Smitty Pignatelli, and Pittsfield Mayor Linda Tyer. (Monday, 1 p.m., Colonial Theatre, Pittsfield)
BOSTON HOUSING REPORT: Public comments are due on the draft program year 2022 Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Report (CAPER), which was issued by Boston Mayor Wu's Office of Housing. The CAPER provides a summary of how the city used the funding it received from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development to carry out housing and community development activities and what was accomplished during the program year that began on July 1, 2022 and ended on June 30, 2023. CAPER covers Community Development Block Grant (CDBG), HOME Investment Partnerships Program (HOME), Emergency Solutions Grant Program (ESG), and the Housing Opportunities for Persons With AIDS (HOPWA) Program.(Monday, 4 p.m., Report and More Info)
CAMBRIDGE CLIMATE VOTE: Cambridge City Council is expected to vote on a municipal resolution in support of S 481 / H 872 establishing a climate change superfund and promoting polluter responsibility, legislation that supporters at 350 Mass said would raise $75 billion from top greenhouse gas polluters over the next 25 years. Activists from 350 Mass plan to attend the meeting to support the resolution. (Monday, 5:30 p.m., Sullivan Chamber, 2nd Floor, City Hall, Cambridge)
GRID MODERNIZATION: Grid Modernization Advisory Council holds its first virtual public listening session as it reviews utility companies' Electric Sector Modernizations Plans, including Eversouce, National Grid and Unitil. (Monday, 6 p.m. | More Info and Registration)
DOMESTIC VIOLENCE VIGIL: Middlesex DA Ryan delivers remarks at a domestic violence candlelight vigil hosted by RESPOND Inc., the Somerville Commission for Women and Mayor Katjana Ballantyne. (Monday, 6 p.m., 15 Properzi Way, Somerville)
LAKE COCHITUATE PATH: MassDOT holds a public hearing to provide the public with the opportunity to become fully acquainted with the proposed Lake Cochituate Path Project in Natick and to receive public comment. (Monday, 6:30 p.m., Town Hall, Dlott Meeting Room, 13 East Central St., Natick)
VETERANS SMALL BIZ: U.S. Small Business Administration starts a celebration of the 10th annual National Veterans Small Business Week, which runs from Oct. 30 to Nov. 3. Throughout the week, SBA will host a series of about 100 events "to highlight the entrepreneurial journeys of veteran- and military spouse-owned small business owners and the agency’s support of this important community. Topics include transition assistance, entrepreneurial training, government contracting, disaster assistance, and access to capital." (Monday)
Tuesday, Oct. 31, 2023
INSIGHTS WITH DPH CHIEF: Mass. Health and Hospital Association hosts an "Executive Insights" event with Public Health Commissioner Dr. Robbie Goldstein, who will talk about his work, career journey, and vision for the future of the health care system with MHA President and CEO Steve Walsh. (Tuesday, 8 a.m., Register)
POLS TOUR PHARMA COMPANY: Senate President Spilka plans to join a group of senators and representatives for a tour of Sanofi pharmaceutical company's Framingham location. (Tuesday, 10 a.m., Framingham)
NEW BEDFORD CANNERY: New Bedford Mayor Jon Mitchell and other officials gather for a ribbon-cutting ceremony to announce the launch of Island Creek Cannery. "Local shellfish farmers and fishermen will have consistent access to the market while providing a shelf-stable, nutritious line of local value-added seafood products, contributing to a more diverse, sustainable, and secure aquaculture industry. The project will also address oversupply and maintain infrastructure through market fluctuations, shore up prices for farmers, reduce waste, diversify species and food, and create a range of jobs from processors to marketing experts," an advisory from the city says. (Tuesday, 10 a.m., 38 Blackmer St., New Bedford)
TELECOMMUNICATIONS, UTILITIES, ENERGY: Joint Committee on Telecommunications, Utilities and Energy holds a public hearing, which was rescheduled from July due to the State House electrical fire. The hearing on 25 bills dealing with energy efficiency matters is chaired by Rep. Roy, as House and Senate committee members remain in a stalemate over procedural issues. Proposals look to improve outdoor lighting, including for roadways and parking lots, while reducing glare and sky glow, which prevents people from seeing the natural sky at night. Energy audits would be required for public schools and colleges under legislation that aims to prioritize environmental justice communities and provide them with energy efficiency improvements or renewable energy systems. Also on the agenda is a bill to create a zero carbon renovation fund to support renovations for housing, municipal buildings, public schools, and small businesses; facilities in environmental justice communities, Gateway Cities and communities disproportionately impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic would be prioritized. (Tuesday, 10 a.m., Room A-1 | Agenda and Livestream)
PUBLIC SERVICE COMMITTEE: Joint Committee on Public Service holds a hearing on miscellaneous legislation, covering topics like sick leave buyback reform, death benefits for surviving spouses of call firefighters, cuts to certain legislative pay stipends and free tuition for students seeking a degree in criminal justice. The criminal justice tuition bill was filed by former Rep. Lenny Mirra as a holdover earlier this session while a special House committee weighed his contested election. (Tuesday, 10 a.m., Room A-2 | Agenda and Access Info)
METRO BEACHES HEARING: Metropolitan Beaches Commission holds its annual hearing. DCR Commissioner Brian Arrigo will present DCR's FY24 budget priorities for the Metropolitan Beaches, goals, and progress toward addressing recommendations of the Commission's “Breaking Barriers” Report from this spring. (Tuesday, 10 a.m., Room 222 | Agenda and Access Info)
LOTTERY COMMISSION: Treasurer Goldberg chairs a State Lottery Commission meeting. (Tuesday, 10:30 a.m., Agenda and Access Info)
RIGHT-TO-SHELTER RALLY: Massachusetts Law Reform Institute and Massachusetts Coalition for the Homeless hold a rally and press conference to "call on the Healey Administration to uphold the right to shelter and on the Legislature to immediately provide the supplemental funding needed to keep families safe and the doors to shelter open, while the state scales up homelessness prevention, housing resources, and support services for all families experiencing homelessness." The day of the rally is the last day that Gov. Healey has said the state will be able to guarantee access to Emergency Assistance shelter for eligible families, despite the state's right-to-shelter law. (Tuesday, 11 a.m., Front steps outside of the State House | More Info)
JUDICIARY COMMITTEE: Joint Commission on the Judiciary holds a public hearing on bills related to probate and families. A Rep. Gregoire bill before the committee would expand health care proxy capabilities to nurse practitioners and a Rep. Jones bill seeks to provide protections against predatory guardianship. Several bills have to do with who can make decisions at the end of a person's life. A Rep. Roy proposal would allow residents to add to their will a prohibition on accessing their digital communications after death. (Tuesday, 1 p.m., Room A-2 | More Information and Livestream)
Wednesday, Nov. 1, 2023
MENTAL HEALTH FORUM: A forum focused on the mental health and behavioral "crisis" in Western Massachusetts comes in response to surveys showing high rates of depression, anxiety and suicidality among teens and young adults. A report, titled "The Roadmap for Youth Behavioral Health in Western Massachusetts," from Brandeis University, the Public Health Institute of Western Massachusetts, and the University of Massachusetts Amherst will be discussed. There will also be a panel discussion on the report featuring Department of Public Health Commissioner Dr. Robbie Goldstein. (Wednesday, 8:30 a.m., Campus Center Auditorium, 1 Campus Center Way, UMass Amherst)
AUCHINCLOSS AT BOSTON BIZ FORUM: Congressman Auchincloss addresses the Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce government affairs forum for the first time. Citing health care, clean energy, gun violence, and building a strong middle class as his focus areas, organizers say the 4th District congressman will discuss his "strategic priorities." He serves on the committees for Transportation & Infrastructure and the Select Committee on Strategic Competition Between the United States and China. (Wednesday, 9:45 a.m., Boston Marriott Long Wharf, 296 State St., Boston)
CONCRETE ADVOCACY DAY: National Ready Mixed Concrete Association and the Build With Strength Coalition hold a legislative briefing for Concrete on the Hill Advocacy Day. It will include a presentation from Randolph Kirchain of the MIT Concrete Sustainability Hub on building materials' safety, resiliency, sustainability and cost. The advocacy day comes amidst an ongoing conversation on Beacon Hill about regulating building materials, and what should be considered safe and sustainable. There will also be educational displays set up in Nurses Hall at 11:30 a.m. (Wednesday, 10 a.m., Room 428)
CANNABIS MEDIATION: Cannabis Control Commission meets in executive session as part of its ongoing staff-commission mediation. (Wednesday, 10 a.m., Agenda)
GOVERNOR'S COUNCIL - PINEAULT HEARING: Governor's Council interviews Gov. Patrick's former deputy chief legal counsel, Michael Pineault, who Gov. Healey nominated this month for a Superior Court judgeship. Pineault departed the State House in 2009 and started a law firm with Ben Clements, Patrick's former chief legal counsel. The Wayland resident was also a federal prosecutor in Boston for a decade and now works as counsel at Anderson & Kreiger LLP, where he focuses on a range of areas from health care to professional liability. Councilor Devaney chairs. (Wednesday, 11 a.m., Council Chamber | Livestream)
GAMING DIRECTOR SEARCH: Mass. Gaming Commission's Screening Committee for the Executive Director meets as the commission searches for someone to replace Karen Wells as its executive director. General Counsel Todd Grossman has been serving as interim executive director since Wells left. (Wednesday, 11 a.m., Agenda and Access Info)
DIVERSITY IN CONSTRUCTION: An event focused on diversity in construction is hosted by the Caucus of Women Legislators, the Black and Latino Legislative Caucus and the House Asian Caucus. (Wednesday, 12 p.m, Room 428)
ISO RALLY: Members of Climate Courage, which says it is the nonviolent direct action wing of 350 Mass, plan to join with Third Act, Fix the Grid, and a spokesperson from Senator Markey’s office for "street theater" and a rally to call on grid operator ISO-New England to transition the grid away from fossil fuels and onto renewable energy. (Wednesday, 12 p.m., South Boston Maritime Park, 600 D St., Boston)
GRID MODERNIZATION: Grid Modernization Advisory Council holds its second virtual listening sessions as it reviews Electric Sector Modernizations Plans from utility companies. (Wednesday, 12 p.m. | More Info and Registration)
EXXONMOBIL CEO IN BOSTON: ExxonMobil Chairman and CEO Darren Woods is the featured speaker at the Boston College Chief Executives Club luncheon. According to the event organizers, he plans to discuss leadership, business strategy, and the energy transition in a conversation with Joseph Hooley, former chairman of State Street Corporation. Woods joined Exxon Company International in 1992 and began serving as chairman and CEO of ExxonMobil in 2017. The luncheon will begin at noon with the program starting at 1 p.m. (Wednesday, noon, Boston Harbor Hotel, Wharf Room, 70 Rowes Wharf, Boston)
SUNUNU AT MASSFISCAL FUNDER: New Hampshire Gov. Chris Sununu is the guest at a Massachusetts Fiscal Alliance fundraiser in Boston. "All proceeds from this event will go towards our vital work in educating the voters of Massachusetts and holding our state government accountable," according to event information, which says the event's location will be provided upon RSVP. It's $500 a person and $750 per couple to attend a private reception and photo opp at 12:30 p.m. and $250 per person and $400 per couple to attend a 1:30 p.m. reception and lunch. (Wednesday, 12:30 p.m., specific location unavailable)
GOVERNOR'S COUNCIL - MURILLO HEARING: Governor's Council interviews Juvenile Court judicial candidate Audrey Carr Murillo, a clinical instructor at Harvard Law School's Criminal Justice Institute. The Milton resident was previously supervising attorney at Suffolk County's private juvenile bar, and the Criminal Justice Institute said she has "extensive experience" with "crimmigration, the intersection of immigration law and criminal law." Councilor Ferreira chairs. (Wednesday, 1 p.m., Council Chamber | Livestream)
HAPPY TO CHAT: Middlesex DA Ryan hosts a ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate the implementation of “Happy to Chat” benches across Middlesex County. The initiative aims to combat the loneliness epidemic by encouraging passersby to sit and connect. (Wednesday, 1:30 p.m., Moody Elementary School, 158 Rogers St., Lowell)
CLEAN WATER TRUST: Treasurer Goldberg chairs the Massachusetts Clean Water Trust Board of Trustees meeting. (Wednesday, 1:30 p.m. | Zoom, Meeting ID: 849 1428 2886, Passcode: 537473)
HEALEY AT AMHERST: Gov. Healey talks about public service with Amherst College President Michael Elliott, part of an event titled "Democracy and the Greater Good: A Conversation with Governor Maura Healey." Elliott said, "At a time when American democracy is under fire and mistrust of public institutions is high, Governor Healey’s experience reflects her commitment to contribute to the greater societal good and demonstrates the value -- and enjoyment -- of serving the public." The event is intended for Amherst students and staff. (Wednesday, 6 p.m., Johnson Chapel, Amherst College, Amherst)
METHUEN ADA RETROFITS: MassDOT holds a public hearing to provide the public with the opportunity to become fully acquainted with the proposed "Methuen - ADA Retrofits at Various Locations" project. (Wednesday, 6 p.m., Zoom)
WILMINGTON SUPERFUND: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency hosts an open house to update residents on investigation and cleanup activities at the Olin Chemical Superfund Site in Wilmington. Mass. Department of Environmental Protection officials will also be on hand. (Wednesday, 6:30 p.m., Wilmington Middle School, Cafeteria, 25 Carter Lane, Wilmington)
CARE FOR 'COMPLEX POPULATIONS': Commonwealth Care Alliance sponsors "Putting Care at the Center" conference hosted by the Camden Coalition, a national nonprofit focused on improving care for people with complex health and social needs. Speaking programs at the three-day conference will look at issues like behavioral health needs in "complex populations," the role of community health workers, and a palliative care case study. (Wednesday through Friday, Boston | More Info)
Thursday, Nov. 2, 2023
CLEAN ENERGY FORUM: Associated Industries of Massachusetts and National Grid host a discussion about the transition to clean energy and National Grid's plan to modernize the grid. Speakers include Telecommunications, Utilities and Energy Co-chair Rep. Roy, City of Worcester Chief Development Officer Peter Dunn, Mass. Biomedical Initiatives President and CEO Jon Weaver, and Eversource Energy Vice President of System Planning Digaunto Chatterjee. Press should RSVP to cgeehern@aimnet.org. (Thursday, 8 a.m., Polar Park, 100 Madison St., Worcester)
INVESTOR CONFERENCE: Mass. Treasury hosts the 11th annual Massachusetts Investor Conference for investors to meet the various issuers in the commonwealth and for issuers to be able to meet their current and prospective investors. Gov. Healey speaks along with Treasurer Deborah Goldberg during the 12:30 p.m. lunch portion of the event. Climate Chief Melissa Hoffer speaks first at 8:45 a.m., followed by a 9 a.m. panel discussing the newly created Massachusetts Community Climate Bank. Administration and Finance Secretary Matthew Gorzkowicz, Director of Federal Funds and Infrastructure Quentin Palfrey, and Undersecretary of Economic Strategies Sarah Stanton talk about federal funding possibilities at 9:30 a.m., and Michael Goodman, professor of public policy and senior advisor to the chancellor at UMass Dartmouth, gives a presentation on the state economy at 10:45 a.m. Goldberg will give her own address at 11:15 a.m. and a Citigroup managing director gives an update from D.C. at 11:30 a.m. (Thursday, 8:30 a.m., Boston Convention and Exhibition Center, Summer St., Boston | More Info)
WOMEN LEADING GOVERNMENT: Women Leading Government, an initiative from the Massachusetts Municipal Management Association, meets. An interactive program called "Power of the Positive" will cover topics such as self-care and emotional intelligence skills "to support effective leadership." Women in appointed local government positions -- including town managers, human resource directors and staff from various departments -- are among the attendees. The registration cost is $30. (Thursday, 9 a.m., The Manor, 42 W. Boylston St., West Boylston | More Info)
MBTA AUDIT AND FINANCE COMMITTEE: MBTA Board of Directors Audit and Finance Subcommittee meets virtually. (Thursday, 9 a.m., Agenda and Livestream)
MBTA PLANNING AND WORKFORCE COMMITTEE: MBTA Board of Directors Planning, Workforce, Development and Compensation Subcommittee meets virtually. (Thursday, 10 a.m., Agenda and Livestream)
GAMING COMMISSION: Mass. Gaming Commission meets in Springfield. After an administrative update from Interim Executive Director Todd Grossman and a legislative update from Commissioner Brad Hill, the commission will consider a set of sports betting regulations, updates to house rules for Fanatics Betting & Gaming and Penn Sports Interactive, and Race Horse Development Fund benefits for drivers and jockeys. MGM Springfield will present two quarterly reports. There will also be budget and research agenda updates. (Thursday, 10 a.m., MassMutual Center – Meeting Rooms 1 & 2, 1277 Main St., Springfield | Agenda and Access Info)
SENATE: Senate plans to meet without a calendar. (Thursday, 11 a.m., Senate Chamber)
HOUSE: House plans to hold an informal session. (Thursday, 11 a.m., House Chamber)
TUTWILER ON WESTERN MASS: Education Secretary Patrick Tutwiler is the keynote speaker at an event hosted by Mass. Business Alliance for Education and the Rennie Center for Education Research and Policy. Tutwiler will discuss the state of education in Western Massachusetts. Organizers said the event will put a local focus on findings of the Rennie Center's Condition of Education in the Commonwealth report. (Thursday, 11:30 a.m., Delaney House, 3 Country Club Road, Holyoke | More Info)
COURT OF HOPE GRADUATION: A graduation ceremony is held for three participants of the Emerging Adult Court of Hope program, which supports adults ages 18 to 24 stay out of prison. Individuals who plead guilty to a crime can have their case dismissed, as well as their records expunged or sealed, by participating in a program that helps connect them to therapy, supportive housing and full-time employment. Attendees include Hampden District Attorney Anthony Gulluni, Springfield District Court First Justice Kevin Maltby and Springfield District Court Chief of Probation Daniel Delaney. (Thursday, 12 pm., Roderick L. Ireland Courthouse, 50 State St., Springfield)
RED CROSS INFO SESSION: Red Cross and Sen. John Velis host an information session on how the Red Cross supports military members, veterans, and their families across Massachusetts. Lunch is provided. (Thursday, 1 p.m., Room 428)
WOMEN VETERANS COACHING: Massachusetts Women Veterans' Network launches a series of hybrid financial coaching workshops for female service members and veterans. The first topic is about "effective saving strategies." (Thursday, 3 p.m., South Bay Center, 8 District Ave., Dorchester | Register
HEALTH CONNECTOR WEBINAR: With the MassHealth redetermination process underway, the Massachusetts Health Connector holds a free Spanish-language webinar that will outline how eligible individuals can renew their MassHealth coverage. The webinar will also explain how people who no longer qualify for MassHealth can enroll in other insurance coverage through the Health Connector. (Thursday, 4 p.m. | More Info and Registration)
MATERNAL HEALTH: Department of Public Health holds another maternal health listening session, this time focused on Brockton residents. Gov. Healey in September ordered a statewide maternal health review, focused on health equity and access to "specialized services" such as doulas, following the controversial closure of a maternity ward in Leominster. (Thursday, 6 p.m., South Middle School, 105 Keith Ave., Brockton | More Info)
MASSGOP CONCERT FOR DURANT: Massachusetts GOP hosts a concert fundraiser, featuring Scott Brown and the Diplomats, to support Rep. Durant's bid in the special Senate race to fill the vacancy left by former Sen. Gobi. Special guests for the event include former Lt. Gov. Polito, Worcester County Sheriff Lew Evangelidis, Worcester County Register of Probate Stephanie Fattman, Sen. Fattman, and Reps. Frost, Kane and Soter. One ticket costs $100, while three tickets go for $250 and six tickets go for $500. Joining the host committee reception and snagging a photo with former Sen. Brown will cost $2,500. A spokesperson for Durant said no debates are slated with Democrat opponent Rep. Zlotnik ahead of the Nov. 7 election. (Thursday, 6 p.m., Off The Rails, 90 Commercial St., Worcester | More Info)
Friday, Nov. 3, 2023
BUSINESS BREAKFAST: Charles River Regional Chamber holds its fall business breakfast, featuring a fireside chat with Rich Gotham, president of the Boston Celtics, and Michael Holley of NBC10. Dr. Rochelle Walensky, the former CDC director, will receive an award to honor her work during the COVID-19 pandemic. Tickets are $100 for members and $125 for non-members. (Friday, 7:30 a.m., Newton Marriott Ballroom, 2345 Commonwealth Ave., Newton | More Info and Registration)
PSYCHIATRIC PROVIDER RATES: Executive Office of Health and Human Services holds a virtual public hearing on proposed amendments to increase provider rates for Psychiatric Day Treatment Center services offered through MassHealth. The changes would cost about $1.5 million and take effect on March 1, according to the public hearing notice. Officials will accept written testimony through 5 p.m. (Friday, 9 a.m. | More Info and Livestream)
FALL RIVER SCHOOL GROUNDBREAKING: Developers break ground on the Greater Fall River Vocational Technical High School. Treasurer Goldberg is scheduled to attend. (Friday, 12:45 p.m., 251 Stonehaven Rd., Fall River)
VISION CARE SERVICES: MassHealth holds a virtual public hearing on proposed amendments dealing with how providers handle billing for vision care services, specifically for "fitting or dispensing" eyeglass prescriptions. The changes would take effect by mid-March at the earliest and have no fiscal impact on municipalities, according to the public hearing notice. Officials will accept written testimony through 5 p.m. (Friday, 1 p.m. | More Info and Livestream)
