People, Power, and Politics

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Supporters of Question 3, which would give workers who drive for companies like Uber and Lyft the option to join a union, celebrate at an election night party on Nov. 5, 2024 at 32BJ SEIU in Boston.

Sam Drysdale/SHNS

TOWN
OF FRANKLIN

Mon.
Nov.
11

Veterans
Day

Tues.,
Nov. 12

Municipal
Affordable Housing Trust Meeting

10:00am

Policy
Subcommittee agenda

6:00pm

Design
Review Meeting Agenda

7:00pm

Franklin
School Committee Meeting

7:00pm

Weds.
Nov.
13

School
Comm. Contractual Negotiations agenda

5:30pm

Economic
Development Subcommittee Meeting

5:45pm

Teen
Advisory Board

6:30pm

Town
Council Meeting

7:00pm

Thurs.
Nov.
14

Board
of Assessors Meeting

9:00am

Charles
River Pollution Control District

3:30pm

Police
Station Building Committee Meeting

6:00pm

Master
Plan Final Draft Presentation

6:30pm

Conservation
Commission Meeting

7:00pm

Cultural
District Committee Meeting

7:00pm

Cultural
District Committee Meeting

7:00pm

Benjamin
Franklin Classical Charter School agenda

7:00pm

Fri.
Nov.
15

COA
Meeting

1:30pm to 2:30pm

TOWN
OF MEDWAY

Mon.
Nov.
11

Select
Board at Veterans Day Ceremony

10:30am

Veteran's
Day Ceremony at the VFW

11:00am to 12:00pm

Tues.
Nov.
12

November
Council on Aging Board Meeting

2:00pm

Capital
Improvement Planning Committee Meeting

6:00pm

11/12/2024
Finance Committee

6:30pm to 7:00pm

Select
Board Pre-Fall Town Meeting

6:30pm

Planning
and Economic Development Board meeting

6:30pm

Fall
Town Meeting, Tuesday, November 12, 2024

7:00pm to 9:00pm

Weds.
Nov.
13

Housing
Authority

12:30pm to 1:30pm

McGovern
School Site Council (SSC) Meeting

3:20pm

Administrative
Site Plan Review Team Meeting-315 Village St

3:30pm

AHT/AHC
Meeting

6:30pm

11/13/2024
Finance Committee

7:00pm to 9:00pm

Thurs.
Nov.
14

Charles
River Pollution Control District Meeting

3:00pm

School
Council Meeting MHS

3:00pm

School
Committee Policy Subcommittee

5:00pm

School
Committee Meeting

6:00pm

Capital
Improvement Planning Committee Meeting

7:00pm

STATE
HOUSE AND BEYOND

The coming second Trump presidency will continue to command the top of the news, but before he returns to the White House, both Congress and the Legislature here in Massachusetts need to complete lame-duck sessions. Economic development and clean energy bills are on the immediate to-do lists of lawmakers in the coming week. Once Democrats unveil their plan to circumvent rules designed to discourage major legislating before and after elections, they plan to send both bills to Gov. Maura Healey, who is expected to sign them, perhaps as soon as Thursday. Beacon Hill is full of Democrats disappointed in the presidential race outcome. Instead of looking forward to the policies, spending, and potential job opportunities that a Kamala Harris administration would have presented, they are instead devising plans to both coexist with a Trump administration and defend Massachusetts from any of the president's plans that they do not believe are in the state's best interests. It's the type of situation where Democrats in the past have named working groups or new committees to prepare for the future. Legislative leaders are also newly wrestling with a pair of voter directives. After the passage of Question 1 this week, Auditor Diana DiZoglio renewed her quest for information to complete her audit of the General Court. And the approval of Question 2 caused Healey to suggest guidance is coming soon from the state, now that passing the MCAS is no longer a high school graduation requirement. Education system stakeholders are already talking about developing a new statewide graduation requirement now that the old one has been scrubbed.

Storylines In Progress

... State education officials hold several meetings to gather information as they search for the next K-12 education commissioner ... The commission examining the emergency family shelter system meets Tuesday, and has only weeks to agree on recommendations ... The latest exchange over state-local relations is on tap for a Tuesday meeting that will include the Healey administration's budget chief ... Federal officials have an update planned for Tuesday on efforts to address the Lower Neponset River Superfund Site ... An informational presentation about the public health hospital system is on the Public Health Council's agenda on Wednesday ... The cost, pricing and affordability trends in health care have been moving in the wrong direction lately, and the Health Policy Commission plans to look at the situation from many different angles at an annual hearing on Thursday ... The costs electric distribution companies incurred from upgrading their energy storage systems are the subject of several upcoming hearings ... A revised operating policy for emergency water supply withdrawals is on the MWRA's agenda Wednesday ... State government leaders headline the annual investor conference Thursday, the same day that the Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce holds an economic outlook event ... Friday brings a critical deadline for election recounts, an annual conference of health insurers, and new jobs and unemployment data.

Sunday, Nov. 10, 2024

ELECTION RESULTS: Kelly Garrity of Politico is on "Keller At Large" analyzing local election results. (Sunday, 8:30 a.m., WBZ-TV Ch. 4)

DiZOGLIO ON 5: Auditor DiZoglio is on "On The Record" talking about the success of Question 1 and the road ahead for her desired audit of the Legislature. (Sunday, 11 a.m., WCVB-TV Ch. 5)

AUCHINCLOSS ON 10: Congressman Auchincloss is a guest on "At Issue" joined by Veterans' Services Secretary Santiago, UMass Boston professor Luis Jimenez, and Republican strategist Ozzie Palomo. (Sunday, 11:30 a.m., WBTS-TV Ch. 10)

JEWISH CEMETERY ANNIVERSARY: The Jewish Cemetery Association of Massachusetts has its 40th anniversary celebration. Rep. Madaro and Initiative for a Competitive Inner City CEO Steve Grossman will offer keynote addresses. They will also both receive awards, as well as Sen. Creem. (Sunday, Nov. 10, 4 p.m., Temple Emanuel, Newton)

SANTIAGO IN SOUTH KOREA: Veterans' Services Secretary Santiago represents the United States at the 2024 International Conference on Veterans Affairs in Seoul, South Korea. As the only representative of a state-level veterans department at the global event hosted by South Korea's Ministry of Patriots and Veterans Affairs, Santiago will be representing both Massachusetts and the country, his office said. Along with Assistant Secretary for Engagement and Outreach Cory Ahonen, Santiago will give a presentation on the reforms in Massachusetts veterans' services spearheaded by the Healey-Driscoll administration. (Sunday through Thursday, South Korea)

Monday, Nov. 11, 2024

METHUEN VETERANS: The Methuen Veterans Day Parade. Participating groups will gather at the American Legion Post at 9:30 a.m. ahead of the parade starting at 10 a.m. Auditor DiZoglio, a Methuen Democrat, marches. (Monday, 9:30 a.m., American Legion Post 122, 200 Broadway, Methuen | More Info)

NATICK VETERANS: Senate President Spilka attends the Veterans Day ceremony in Natick. (Monday, 10 a.m., Morse Institute Library, 14 East Central St., Natick)

QUINCY VETERANS PARADE: Quincy hosts its annual Veterans Day Parade. Colonel James Croall will give the keynote. Croall is a retired US Army Special Forces Officer (Green Beret) who served for 30 years with the Army and Army National Guard before retiring in 2008. (Monday, 10:30 a.m., Quincy High School, Quincy)

VETERANS DAY CEREMONY: Gov. Healey, Lt. Gov. Driscoll, and Veterans Services' Deputy Secretary Andrea Gayle-Bennett participate in the annual Veterans Day ceremony. (Monday, 11 a.m., Great Hall)

MEDWAY VETERANS: Senate President Spilka attends the Medway VFW Veterans Day ceremony. (Monday, 11 a.m., Veterans of Foreign Wars, 123 Holliston St., Medway)

NEW BEDFORD VETERANS PARADE: New Bedford hosts its annual Veterans Day Parade. This year’s parade Grand Marshall is Rick Martin, who joined the Air Force in 1971 as a field maintenance airman. He eventually joined the Navy and obtained the rank of Captain in the Naval Reserves. (Monday, 11 a.m., Rockdale Avenue and Union Street, New Bedford)

VETS TOWN HALL: Congressman Seth Moulton, who served in the Marines, hosts his 10th annual Vets Town Hall. "A Vets Town Hall is a platform for veterans to share their stories of service and sacrifice with their communities," his office said. Non-veterans are encouraged to attend, listen and connect with veterans. (Monday, 1 p.m., Abbot Hall, 188 Washington St., Marblehead)

VETERANS SMALL BIZ: National Veterans Small Business Week is hosted by the U.S. Small Business Administration. Virtual and in-person events will highlight the SBA, resources and local organizations to support veteran and military spouse small business owners. "With nearly two million veteran-owned businesses in the United States, the SBA's support helps these establishments innovate, create jobs, and strengthen communities – empowering them to continue to serve our democracy by advancing our economy," SBA Administrator Isabel Casillas Guzman said. "Our annual National Veterans Small Business Week is a time for communities across the nation to join us and our partners as we uplift and empower veteran-owned businesses with specialized trainings and celebrations." (Monday-Friday | More Info)

VETERANS DAY: State House offices are closed in recognition of Veterans Day. (Monday)

Tuesday, Nov. 12, 2024

MUNI COUNCILLORS: Massachusetts Municipal Councillors' Association Board meets. (Tuesday, 8:45 a.m. | More Info)

PRIM INVESTMENT COMMITTEE: MassPRIM's Investment Committee meets. Treasurer Goldberg chairs the meeting. They will discuss a public markets performance summary, portfolio completion strategies performance strategy, and vote on issuing a request for proposals for private equity advisory services. (Tuesday, 9:30 a.m., Remote | More Info / Access)

MASSCEC AUDIT COMMITTEE: Audit Committee of the MassCEC Board of Directors meets. Agenda items include review of annual audited financials for fiscal 2024, presentation of required communications by independent external auditors, and a recommendation to the board to approve MassCEC's audited fiscal 2024 financial statements. Email mbeadle@masscec.com for virtual access. (Tuesday, 10 a.m., 294 Washington St., Suite 1150, Boston | Agenda)

ENERGY STORAGE TARIFF: Department of Public Utilities holds an evidentiary hearing focused on implementing the 2022 clean energy law, which required electric distribution companies to file an electric rate tariff that "addressed operational parameters to apply to energy storage systems ("ESS") interconnected within their distribution network." Companies must identify the costs to upgrade their electric power systems. (Tuesday, 10 a.m. | More Info and Zoom)

BOSTON AFFORDABLE HOUSING: Ribbon-cutting ceremony is held to celebrate the rehabilitation and preservation of 146 affordable housing units at the West Newton and Rutland Apartments in Boston's South End. The event is hosted by Inquilinos Boricuas en Acción, a community development corporation focused on affordable housing and supportive programming. The apartments were previously owned by the Boston Housing Authority. Mayor Wu speaks about the impact of the project. (Tuesday, 10 a.m., 70 W. Newton St., Boston)

SHELTER COMMISSION: The Special Commission on Emergency Housing Assistance Program meets. Lt. Gov. Driscoll chairs the meeting. The commission is tasked with reconceiving the structure and sustainability of the state's beleaguered emergency family shelter system, and is up against a quickly approaching deadline. Members have to turn in a report by Dec. 1 with their recommendations to improve the Emergency Assistance (EA) program, review safety practices at overflow sites, lay out how to best support and ensure the long-term sufficiency of those seeking shelter, and create a region-based response to support families in need of shelter. The commission was established in a supplemental budget passed in April that also injected $251 million more into the shelter system and established new time limits on how long families can stay in the state-supported housing. As of their last meeting, there was still broad disagreement among members as to what the future of right-to-shelter in the state looked like. (Tuesday, 10 a.m., Room 157 | Agenda and Zoom)

MMA BOARD: Massachusetts Municipal Association Board of Directors meets virtually. (Tuesday, 10 a.m. | More Info)

PODIATRY BOARD: Board of Registration in Podiatry meets. Members will discuss recommendations for a voluntary program for health care workers recovering from substance use disorder and other mental health problems. (Tuesday, 10 a.m. | Agenda and Livestream

HOUSE SESSION: House holds an informal session. Conferees negotiating an economic development package said Nov. 7 they had reached a deal in principle, and that they planned to file it "soon" in order to take it up this week. Tuesday's session could shed light on how the House plans to hold a formal session, which is not permitted at this time of year under joint legislative rules, and a recorded vote in order to vote on the bonding measure. (Tuesday, 11 a.m., House Chamber | Livestream)

SENATE SESSION: Senate meets without a calendar. (Tuesday, 11 a.m., Senate Chamber | Livestream | Tentative Agenda)

RESTORATIVE JUSTICE: Restorative Justice Advisory Council meets. Agenda includes an update on advocacy for a state office of restorative justice, a presentation about standards in other states, and the 2024 annual report. (Tuesday, 11 a.m. | Agenda and Livestream)

TECHNICAL RESCUE: Massachusetts Technical Rescue Membership and Training subcommittees of the Massachusetts Technical Rescue Coordinating Council meet. Agenda includes a review and discussion of a membership application form. (Tuesday, 1 p.m. | Agenda and Livestream)

LGAC: Local Government Advisory Commission meets virtually. Lt. Gov. Driscoll delivers welcome remarks at 1 p.m. Administration and Finance Secretary Gorzkowicz provides an update on revenue collections and a budget outlook at around 1:10 p.m. Deputy Climate Chief Jonathan Schrag gives an update about the Office of Climate Innovation and Resilience at 1:30 p.m. Federal Funds Director Quentin Palfrey gives an update on a new law designed to help Massachusetts compete for federal dollars. (Tuesday, 1 p.m. | Zoom)

250TH ANNIVERSARY: Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Accessibility Subcommittee of the Special Commission on the 250th Anniversary Celebration of the American Revolution meets virtually. Agenda includes co-chair remarks and a discussion about founding legislation for the commission. (Tuesday, 3 p.m. | Livestream)

DESE COMMISSIONER: Education officials hold their second public feedback session as they search for a new commissioner of the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education. "One of the priorities of this search is the need for robust community engagement," Board of Elementary and Secondary Education Chair Katherine Craven said. "We want to make sure the public is involved in this process." (Tuesday, 3:30 p.m., Bunker Hill Community College, Room C-202, 250 Rutherford Ave., Charlestown | More Info)

NEPONSET SUPERFUND SITE: The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency holds a public meeting to update the community on the current status of the Lower Neponset River Superfund Site and short-term cleanup actions. The EPA will discuss work that occurred in 2024, plans for 2025, and the Community Advisory Group established for the site. The agency will also update the community on the status of an Engineering Evaluation and Cost Analysis (EE/CA) for the Site. The Lower Neponset River Superfund Site is a 3.7-mile section of the Neponset River that runs between the Hyde Park, Mattapan and Dorchester neighborhoods of Boston, down to the town of Milton. (Tuesday, 6 p.m., Mattapan Branch of the Boston Public Library, 1350 Blue Hill Ave., Mattapan)

Wednesday, Nov. 13, 2024

AFFORDABLE HOUSING ASSOCIATION: The New England Affordable Housing Management Association holds its annual conference. Housing Secretary Augustus delivers the keynote address. "NEAHMA’s mission is to facilitate communication between affordable housing management agents and their agency partners and to be a leader in providing ongoing education and trainings for its membership," according to Augustus's office. (Wednesday, 9 a.m., Gillette Stadium, Club Level, 1 Patriot Pl., Foxborough)

WORKERS COMP: Workers' Compensation Advisory Council meets. Agenda includes a judicial update; vital statistics including cases filed, enforcement and compliance, and the workers' compensation trust fund; and the 2024 annual report. (Wednesday, 9 a.m. | Agenda and Livestream)

MASSDOT FINANCE COMMITTEE: Department of Transportation Board of Directors Finance and Audit Committee meets virtually. (Wednesday, 9 a.m., Agenda and Livestream)

PUBLIC HEALTH: Public Health Council meets virtually. Agenda includes updates from Department of Public Health Commissioner Robbie Goldstein, a vote on a determination of need request by Weymouth Endoscopy, and an informational presentation about the public health hospital system. (Wednesday, 9 a.m. | Agenda and Livestream)

PRIM REAL ESTATE: MassPRIM's Real Estate and Timberland Committee meets. Treasurer Goldberg chairs the meeting. Agenda items include a performance review and market summary, real estate request for proposals for U.S. REIT investment management services recommendation, and an investment policy statement update. (Wednesday, 9:30 a.m., Remote | More Info)

DISCLOSING DISABILITIES: Massachusetts Office on Disability holds a workshop about deciding to disclose disabilities during different stages of the employment process. Attendees will learn how to weigh the advantages and disadvantages of disclosing, how to describe their limitations, and how to handle specific employment situations. (Wednesday, 9:30 a.m. | Register)

SPRINKLER APPEALS: Automatic Sprinkler Appeals Board of the Fire Safety Commission holds hearings on two appeals cases in New Bedford. (Wednesday, 9:30 a.m. | Agenda and Livestream

ENERGY STORAGE: Department of Public Utilities holds another evidentiary hearing focused on implementing the 2022 clean energy law, specifically on the costs electric distribution companies incurred from upgrading their energy storage systems. (Wednesday, 10 a.m. | More Info and Zoom)

GAMING AGENDA-SETTING: Mass. Gaming Commission meets to select the topics it will dive into in greater depth during upcoming business meetings. (Wednesday, 10 a.m., Agenda and Access Info)

GOVERNOR'S COUNCIL - GLORIA TAN: Governor's Council interviews Judge Gloria Tan, first justice of the Middlesex County Juvenile Court, whom Gov. Healey nominated to a seat on the Appeals Court. Tan was appointed to the Juvenile Court by Gov. Patrick in 2013. (Wednesday, 10:30 a.m., Council Chamber | Livestream)

MASSDOT CAPITAL PROGRAMS COMMITTEE: Department of Transportation Board of Directors Capital Programs Committee meets virtually. (Wednesday, 10:30 a.m., Agenda and Livestream)

"BREAKFAST OF CHAMPIONS" | The Association of Developmental Disabilities Providers and Rep. Livingstone, chair of the Committee on Children, Families and Persons with Disabilities, hosts a "Breakfast of Champions" to recognize seven departing legislators for their years of service. ADDP members from each honoree’s district will attend to honor the impact these lawmakers have made in supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and people with brain injuries. Those who will be honored include: Reps. Balser, Cassidy, Garlick, Khan, S. Moran, Peake and Pignatelli. Gov. Healey and Lt. Gov. Driscoll were also invited. (Wednesday, 10:30 a.m., Room 350)

HOUSE: House plans to meet in an informal session. (Wednesday, 11 a.m., House Chamber)

EMPLOYMENT ACCOMMODATIONS: Massachusetts Office on Disability hosts a workshop about requesting reasonable accommodations in employment. Attendees will learn how to describe their limitations, review job descriptions to identify essential job functions, and draft an accommodation request. (Wednesday, 11 a.m. | Register)

PUBLIC EMPLOYEE RETIREMENT: Public Employee Retirement Administration Commission meets.(Wednesday, 11 a.m., 5 Middlesex Ave., Suite 304, Somerville | More Info)

MASS. CULTURAL COUNCIL: Mass Cultural Council meets at the New England Botanic Garden. Agenda topics include a report from Executive Director Michael Bobbitt, discussion about fiscal 2025 grants, and designation of new cultural districts. The meeting will be in-person only and not livestreamed. (Wednesday, 12 p.m., New England Botanic Garden at Tower Hill, 11 French Drive, Boylston | Agenda)

TRANSPO FUNDING PANEL: Transportation For Massachusetts holds a panel: "Minding the Gap: Funding Transportation Outside of Greater Boston." The panel will discuss transportation gaps throughout the state and possible funding models. The panel includes: Jen Healy, rural transit program manager of Quaboag Valley Community Development Corporation; Corinn Williams, executive director of the Community Economic Development Center of Southeastern Massachusetts; Noah Berger, administrator of Merrimack Valley Transit; and Gwynne Guzzeau, executive director of Helping Our Women. (Wednesday, 12 p.m. | Register)

WOMEN VETERANS: Massachusetts Women Veterans Network holds a lunch and learn focused on financial wellness. (Wednesday, 12 p.m., Bedford VA Medical Center, Building 9, 200 Springs Road, Bedford | Register)

GOVERNOR'S COUNCIL: Governor's Council meets, and could vote on the judicial nominations of Lauren Reznick (Land Court), Stuart Hurowitz (District Court), and Chauncey Brainerd Wood (Appeals Court). The results of the general election must be certified by the governor in the presence of the Governor's Council, but that will likely not occur until Nov. 27 or Dec. 4, potential council meeting dates that fall after the Nov. 20 deadline for municipal clerks to certify results at the local level. After the Executive Branch signs off on the results, the state's electors can cast their votes for president in the State House on the day the Electoral College meets -- Tuesday, Dec. 17. (Wednesday, 12 p.m., Council Chamber | Livestream)

MWRA BOARD: Mass. Water Resources Authority Board meets. The agenda includes approval of a revised MWRA operating policy for emergency water supply withdrawals, audit and financial reports, a contract amendment with Delta Dental of Massachusetts, and informational items on lead and copper rule compliance, watershed land acquisition and community water interconnections. (Wednesday, 1 p.m., MWRA Administration Facility, Conference Rooms 2C and 2D, 2 Griffin Way, Chelsea)

EARLY ED BOARD: The Board of Early Education and Care meets. The board plans to vote on their budget priorities, and discuss Literacy Launch, the governor's $20 million early childhood literacy program. Dr. Jeffrey Liebman, director of the Rappaport Institute and Robert W. Scrivner Professor of Social Policy at the Harvard Kennedy School of Government, will also give a presentation on an economic analysis of the child care and early education market in Massachusetts. (Wednesday, 1 p.m., 50 Milk St., 5th Floor, Livestream | Agenda)

GOVERNOR'S COUNCIL - CARA KRYSIL: Governor's Council holds hearing on the District Court nomination of attorney Cara Krysil, who works as counsel for the New England division of the U.S. Department of Justice's Drug Enforcement Administration. Krysil previously worked as chief prosecutor of the Lowell Superior Court Region under Middlesex County DA Gerard Leone. (Wednesday, 1 p.m., Council Chamber | Livestream)

TOBIN BRIDGE WORKING GROUP: The Department of Transportation hosts the first meeting of the advisory working group for the Maurice J. Tobin Memorial Bridge Long-Term Strategic Planning Study. The conceptual planning study will develop and evaluate long-term replacement options for the bridge connecting Chelsea and Boston. In addition to exploring alternatives for the bridge, the study will focus on ways to reconnect surrounding communities in Chelsea and Charlestown. (Wednesday, 2 p.m., Chelsea Public Library, 569 Broadway, Chelsea | More Info & Zoom)

DISABILITY DISCRIMINATION: Massachusetts Office on Disability holds a workshop focused on disability discrimination in employment. Attendees will learn how to recognize interactions that may constitute discrimination and how to prevent and address discrimination. (Wednesday, 2:30 p.m. | Register)

ABIGAIL ADAMS AWARDS: The Massachusetts Women's Political Caucus hosts the annual Abigail Adams Awards. The event will honor "Reproductive Justice Champions" Gov. Healey and her administration, Speaker Mariano, and Senate President Spilka. Shirley Leung, Boston Globe Columnist and "Say More" podcast host, will emcee the event. (Wednesday, 5:30 p.m., Fairmont Copley Plaza, 138 St. James Ave., Boston)

NEW BEDFORD TRANSFER STATION: The Department of Environmental Protection hosts a meeting to hear community concerns with the trash transfer station proposed for the New Bedford Business Park. MassDEP is reviewing the proposal for site suitability and will issue a decision soon. (Wednesday, 6 p.m., Pulaski Elementary School, 1097 Braley Road, New Bedford)

LOWELL YOUTH: Lowell Youth Leadership Program holds its annual fall celebration. The program looks to empower and build life skills among Lowell youth ages 10 through 16, including by hosting a free summer day camp. Auditor DiZoglio attends. (Wednesday, 6 p.m., 35 Warren St. | Tickets)

QUABOAG RIVER MEETING: MassDOT hosts a virtual public hearing to discuss the replacement of the State Avenue bridge over the Quaboag River in Monson and Palmer. (Wednesday, 6:30 p.m., More Info)

MILL POND DAM BRIDGE: MassDOT hosts a virtual public hearing to discuss replacement of the Mill Pond Dam Bridge in Wareham. (Wednesday, 6:30 p.m., More Info)

Thursday, Nov. 14, 2024

INVESTOR CONFERENCE: The annual Massachusetts Investor Conference features presentations on the state economy and panel discussions tied to the state's credit. Deputy Treasurer Sue Perez kicks off the conference at 8:40 a.m. Administration and Finance Secretary Gorzkowicz speaks during an update about the MBTA alongside agency officials Lynsey Heffernan and Karen Antion. Housing Secretary Augustus gives an update at 9:20 a.m. Economic Development Secretary Hao is up at 9:40 a.m., and she's joined by Patrick Larkin of the Massachusetts Technology Collaborative and Emily Reichert of the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center. Treasurer Goldberg speaks at 10:40 a.m., followed by Gov. Healey at 10:55 a.m. A discussion on municipal engagement at 11:30 includes Healey's federal funds director Quentin Palfrey and rural affairs director Anne Gobi. (Thursday, 8 a.m., Boston Convention & Exhibition Center, 415 Summer St., Boston | More Info)

HPC COST TRENDS: Health Policy Commission holds the annual cost trends hearing with a focus on the "considerable harm" caused by Steward Health Care, which closed two hospitals in its bankruptcy and transitioned six others to new owners. Gov. Healey and Attorney General Campbell deliver opening remarks at 9:15 a.m. The new operators of Steward's hospitals and physician network participate in a panel at 10 a.m., including Dr. Abha Agrawal of Lawrence General Hospital, Dr. Alastair Bell of Boston Medical Center Health System, John Fernandez of Brown University Health, and Benson Sloan of Revere Medical. The panel at 11 a.m. will spotlight impacted providers, workers and communities, including Dr. Guy Fish of Codman Square Health Center, Susan Joss of Brockton Neighborhood Health Center, Caridad Medina of 1199SEIU United Healthcare Workers East, Boston Public Health Commissioner Dr. Bisola Ojikutu, and Julie Pinkham of the Massachusetts Nurses Association. Threats and opportunities to the health care system are the focus of a 1 p.m. panel; speakers include Eileen Auen of Point32Health, Dr. Eric Dickson of UMass Memorial Health, Sarah Iselin of Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts, and Dr. Anne Klibanski of Mass General Brigham. The final panel at 2 p.m. will explore building consensus to "achieve health care affordability, accessibility, and equity for all"; the speakers are Michael Curry of the Mass. League of Community Health Centers, Lora Pellegrini of the Mass. Association of Health Plans, Amy Rosenthal of Health Care For All, and Steve Walsh of the Mass. Health and Hospital Association. (Thursday, 8:30 a.m., Suffolk University Law School, 120 Tremont St., Boston | Agenda

HEALTHCARE LEADERSHIP SUMMIT: A health care leadership summit hosted by the Massachusetts Health & Hospital Association and Massachusetts Medical Society looks to address burnout, boost resilience, build a "culture of wellbeing," and create a more sustainable workforce. Panelists will explore burnout across roles and career stages, data-driven approaches to well being, designing and implementing well-being programs, and leadership strategies. (Thursday, 9 a.m., MHA Conference Center, 500 District Ave., Burlington | More Info and Register)

ECONOMIC OUTLOOK: Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce holds its annual Economic Outlook event, with speakers talking about technological advancements, the evolving workforce, industry trends and global geopolitical implications. Speakers include Grace Lee of M&T Bank, Egon Zakrajšek of Federal Reserve Bank of Boston, Stephen Spinelli Jr. of Babson College, Caitlin Reimers Brumme of MassChallenge, and Carol Meyer of Glasswing Ventures. (Thursday, 9 a.m., Winthrop Center, 115 Federal St., Boston | Register)

BOSTON MARATHON ECONOMIC IMPACT: Boston Athletic Association and Meet Boston host a press conference to discuss the economic impact of the 2024 Boston Marathon. The UMass Donahue Institute of Economic and Public Policy Research examined the popular race's impacts on the economy, tourism and other areas. Participants include BAA President Jack Fleming, Meet Boston President Martha Sheridan and UMass Donahue Institute Assistant Director Rod Motamedi. (Thursday, 9:30 a.m., Boston Athletic Association, 699 Boylston St., Suite 800, Boston | Press RSVP to amookherjee@denterlein.com by Nov. 11)

CANNABIS COMMISSION: Cannabis Control Commission meets. (Thursday, 10 a.m. Worcester Union Station, 2 Washington Sq., Worcester | Agenda and Access Info)

ENERGY STORAGE: Department of Public Utilities holds another evidentiary hearing focused on implementing the 2022 clean energy law, specifically on the costs electric distribution companies incurred from upgrading their energy storage systems. (Thursday, 10 a.m. | More Info and Zoom)

CAREER FAIR: Boston Mayor's Office of Returning Citizens holds a career fair. Attendees can network with employers and learn about community resources. The event ends at 2:30 p.m. (Thursday, 10:30 a.m., Mattapan Branch of the Boston Public Library, 1350 Blue Hill Ave., Mattapan | Register)

HOUSE: House members were told to prepare for a "potential full formal," with the time of roll call votes left TBA by the speaker's office. (Thursday, Time TBA)

SENATE: Senate plans to hold a session. (Thursday, 11 a.m., Senate Chamber)

OFFSHORE WIND AND FISH: The Nature Conservancy holds a webinar about the interactions between fish, fish habitats and offshore wind. The event is the latest in a series about the offshore wind industry. (Thursday, 12 p.m. | Register)

CON-CON: Legislature gavels back into its joint Constitutional Convention session after a seven-month recess. (Thursday, 12 p.m., House Chamber | Joint Session Calendar | Livestream)

SUPPORTIVE SERVICES: Massachusetts Appleseed Center for Law and Justice hosts a briefing with Rep. Khan and Sen. Gomez about a bill (H 4394) that would allow certain homeless youth to consent to shelter and supportive services. The bill has been in the House Ways and Means Committee since Feb. 15. (Thursday, 1 p.m., Room 428)

MASSINC GATEWAY CITIES SUMMIT: MassINC hosts its 12th annual Gateway Cities Innovation Summit, and unveils its inaugural Gateway Cities Housing Monitor, a comprehensive study on housing issues in the Bay State's post-industrial minority-majority and low-income cities. The event will feature discussions on the intersection of housing with education, transportation and economic development. Housing Secretary Augustus will accept the "Gateway Cities Champion Award" and deliver remarks. (Thursday, 1 p.m., College of the Holy Cross, Hogan Campus Center Ballroom, 1 College St., Worcester)

OPERATIONAL SERVICES: Operational Services Division holds a webinar about what's required in the bidding process for a new statewide contract dealing with clothing, uniforms, footwear, accessories, personal care products and bedding. (Thursday, 1 p.m. | Register)

BOSTON INSPECTOR GENERAL: Boston City Council's Committee on Government Operations holds a virtual working session on an ordinance to create the Office of Inspector General. There will be no public comment period. (Thursday, 2 p.m. | More Info and Access)

MCCA RETIREMENT LIABILITY: Massachusetts Convention Center Authority Retirement Liability Trustees meet. They plan to discuss a quarterly investment performance update, and an OPEB valuation consult contract. (Thursday, 2 p.m. | Agenda & Remote Access)

CONVENTION AUTHORITY RETIREES: Retirement Liability Trustees of the Massachusetts Convention Center Authority meet virtually. Agenda includes a quarterly investment performance update. (Thursday, 2 p.m. | Agenda and Access)

DTA NORTH SHORE: North Shore Advisory Board, housed within the Department of Transitional Assistance, meets. (Thursday, 2 p.m. | Agenda and Access)

FRANKLIN CUMMINGS TECH: A topping-off ceremony is held as local leaders and community members celebrate the Benjamin Franklin Cummings Institute of Technology's new campus building in Roxbury's Nubian Square. A "significant" financial gift from the Yawkey Foundation will be announced. The 68,000-square foot campus is slated to open next year. (Thursday, 3:15 p.m., 1110 Harrison Ave., Boston)

HALL-WHITAKER DRAWBRIDGE: MassDOT hosts a public meeting to discuss temporary replacement of the Hall-Whitaker Drawbridge. (Thursday, 6 p.m., Beverly High School Auditorium, 100 Sohier Road, Beverly | More Info)

HOME BUILDERS BANQUET: The Home Builders and Remodelers Association holds its annual banquet. Housing Secretary Augustus will deliver remarks and accept the "Defender of Housing Award." (Thursday, 6 p.m., American Heritage Museum, 568 Main St., Hudson)

MERRIMACK VALLEY YMCA: Merrimack Valley YMCA holds its annual meeting. Socratic Inc., a youth empowerment organization, will be honored as the community partner of the year. Auditor DiZoglio attends. (Thursday, 6 p.m., The Vault, 238 Essex St., Lawrence | Register)

BOURNE RAIL TRAIL: MassDOT hosts a public meeting to discuss Phase 2 of the Bourne Rail Trail Project. (Thursday, 6 p.m., Pocasset Village Association Building, 314 Barlow's Landing Road, Pocasset | More Info)

MILTON INTERSECTION IMPROVEMENTS: MassDOT hosts a virtual public meeting to discuss intersection improvements at Randolph Avenue and Chickatawbut Road in Milton. (Thursday, 6:30 p.m., More Info)

MBTA SERVICE DELIVERY: MBTA staff host a virtual public hearing about proposed changes to the service delivery policy, including new definitions for accessible bus stops, new ways of measuring trip time performance, and an effort to penalize dropped bus trips. (Thursday, 6:30 p.m., More Info)

DESE COMMISSIONER: Education officials hold a virtual public feedback session as part of their search for a new commissioner of the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education. (Thursday, 7 p.m. | More Info)

Friday, Nov. 15, 2024

HEALTH PLANS CONFERENCE: Massachusetts Association of Health Plans holds its annual conference, called "Health Care Affordability at a Crossroads - Federal and State Solutions for Change." Lora Pellegrini, CEO of MAHP, delivers opening remarks at 8:10 a.m. Chuck Todd, chief political analyst at NBC News, gives a closed-to-press keynote address about the election and what the presidency means for health care at 8:30 a.m. Gov. Healey speaks at 10:30 a.m. David Auerbach of the Health Policy Commission gives a presentation about cost trends data at 11:30 a.m., and Executive Director David Seltz speaks about health care cost containment. Secretary of Health and Human Services Kate Walsh speaks at 12:45 p.m. Health care leaders participate in a panel at 1:15 p.m., including Dr. Abha Agrawal of Lawrence General Hospital, Juan Fernando Lopera of the Health Equity Compact, Eileen McAnneny of the Employer Coalition on Health, Paul Hattis of the Lown Institute, and Matthew Veno of the Group Insurance Commission. The conference wraps up at 2:30 p.m. (Friday, 7:30 a.m., John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum, Columbia Point, Boston | More Info)

AAPI ARTS AND CULTURE: Asian Community Fund at the Boston Foundation, AAPI Arts & Culture Collaborative, the City of Boston, the Barr Foundation and Mass Cultural Council host the 2nd annual AAPI Arts & Culture Summit. Economic Development Secretary Hao participates in a panel discussion on advocacy and funding. (Friday, 10 a.m., Edward M. Kennedy Institute, 210 Morrissey Blvd., Boston)

RECOUNT DEADLINE: Candidates who want to pursue a recount following the Nov. 5 elections have until the end of the day Friday to submit petitions to local clerks. At least one candidate, Republican Christopher Thrasher of Westport, signaled plans to pursue a recount after a narrow loss to Democrat Steve Ouellette. (Friday, 5 p.m.)

WORCESTER SENIOR CONNECTION: Senior Connection, formerly the Central Massachusetts Agency on Aging, celebrates 50 years of serving older adults. Lt. Gov. Driscoll, Auditor DiZoglio and Attorney General Campbell will be honored. (Friday, 5:30 p.m., Polar Park, 100 Madison St., Worcester | More Info and Register)

MULTIMEDIA AWARDS: INE Multimedia, a nonprofit organization that supports groups focused on the South Asian Community, hosts the New England Choice Awards Gala. Individuals and organizations will be recognized for their contributions in areas like academia, arts and culture, business or entrepreneurship, and community service. Auditor DiZoglio attends at 8 p.m. (Friday, 6 p.m. Burlington Marriott, 1 Burlington Mall Road, Burlington | Tickets)

UNEMPLOYMENT, JOBS NUMBERS: Labor officials publish Massachusetts unemployment and jobs numbers for October. The statewide unemployment rate inched upward in September to 3.8 percent, half a percentage point higher than the same month a year ago. (Friday)


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