People, Power, and Politics

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Over the next 18 months, a state working group will examine options to succeed the 74-year-old bridge that connects Chelsea and Boston's Charlestown neighborhood. Its scope is broad, and will focus on threads such as how to balance vehicular traffic with public transit and the best way to minimize upheaval during construction. The eventual project is all but certain to be enormously disruptive, given the tens of thousands of vehicles -- 87,000 per typical weekday last year -- that rely on the bridge that carries Route 1 over the Mystic River. But changes are also years away: the planning study alone will not be complete until the summer of 2026.


TOWN
OF FRANKLIN

Mon.
Nov. 1
8

Planning
Board Meeting

7:00pm

Tues.,
Nov. 1
9

Franklin
Public Schools Community Relations Sub Committee Meeting

5:30pm

Friends
of Franklin Library Meeting

7:00pm

Weds.
Nov.
20

Economic
Development Subcommittee

5:45pm

Town
Council Meeting

7:00pm

Thurs.
Nov.
21

Senior
Coffee Hour w/ State & Local Officials

8:30am

Town
Council Office Hours at the Sr. Center

8:30am

ZBA
Meeting

7:30pm

TOWN
OF MEDWAY

Mon.
Nov.
1
8

Board
of Registrars Meeting

10:00am

School
Committee Budget Subcommittee

3:30pm

Board
of Health Meeting

6:00pm

Select
Board Meeting - FY25 Tax Classification Public Hearing

7:00pm

Design
Review Committee Meeting

7:00pm

Tues.
Nov. 1
9

Medway
Middle School Council

3:05pm

Medway
Redevelopment Authority

6:00pm

Cultural
Council Meeting

7:00pm

Planning
& Economic Development Board Meeting

7:00pm

Weds.
Nov.
20

Historical
Commission Meeting

7:00pm

Energy
& Sustainability Committee Meeting

7:00pm

Conservation
Commission Meeting

7:30pm

Zoning
Board of Appeals Meeting-CANCELLED

7:30pm

Thurs.
Nov. 21

Economic
Development Committee meeting-CANCELLED

7:00pm

Capital
Improvement Planning Committee Meeting

7:00pm

Conservation
Commission Meeting-CANCELLED

7:30pm

STATE
HOUSE AND BEYOND

Gov. Maura Healey has been clamoring for the Legislature to pass major economic development and clean energy bills, and she now has a chance to sign the sweeping proposals into law to complement the housing bond bill she inked in August. The House and Senate held rare post-election formal sessions Thursday to approve the two bills (H 5100 and S 2967). While the House was meeting, Rep. Marjorie Decker announced that she's leading a group of House Democrats on a weeklong trip to Cuba. The delegation includes Speaker Ron Mariano and Ways and Means Chair Aaron Michlewitz, who won't be around if Healey elects to sign the bills next week. Michlewitz is the House point person on a spending bill to close the books on fiscal 2024, which ended June 30. It's just the latest in a string of key bills that Democrats haven't been able to finish in a timely manner. State budget chief Matt Gorzkowicz this week said he thought a compromise supplemental budget might emerge soon, so perhaps Michlewitz could agree to it remotely since there's no need to sign a conference committee jacket on that one. House and Senate Democrats have proudly pointed to agreements they've reached on key bills since formal sessions ended Aug. 1, but six-member conference committees still haven't delivered for their branches on proposals to address hospital oversight, prescription drug prices and access, and substance use disorder. Rep. John Lawn is the lead House negotiator on the hospital and drug bills. He, too, will spend next week far south of the border learning more about another country, according to Congressman James McGovern, who says he's long believed that "it's time to rethink America's failed, cold-war approach to dealing with Cuba."

Storylines in Progress

... Vineyard Wind still isn't generating power months after a turbine blade failed, but company leaders will gather with New Bedford officials for a "significant economic development announcement" Monday that's sure to generate some pushback from newly empowered wind opponents ... Immigration issues moved voters in both national and local elections this month and a commission is set Tuesday to finalize its recommendations for dealing with an explosion in demand and spending on emergency family shelter accommodations. An influx of migrants has driven system costs up to roughly $1 billion a year and there's little evidence yet that the state has been able to significantly control or slow those costs, adding a major budgetary pressure at a time when non-surtax tax collections have slowed ... The revised Boston property tax-shift bill is up for a Revenue Committee hearing Wednesday. Mayor Wu will be hoping for prompt action: she's said the measure needs to become state law in November to prevent residents from facing a sharp spike in their January 2025 property tax bills ... Temporary closures for track repairs are winding down, and the MBTA board meets Thursday. One area of discussion might be the agency's impending budget shortfall of hundreds of millions of dollars, a topic that could also come up at a Metropolitan Area Planning Council webinar about transportation funding on the same day ... And Friday, the Mass. Municipal Association continues its fall conference ...

Sunday, Nov. 17, 2024

EMERGENCY EXERCISE: MBTA conducts an emergency response exercise involving a commuter rail train in the area of 32 Cobble Hill in Somerville. The exercise will include "a scenario in which a Commuter Rail train experiences an unexpected incident ... designed to establish a learning environment for transportation and public safety officials to exercise emergency response plans, policies, and procedures as they pertain to a mass casualty event on an MBTA Commuter Rail train." Media should RSVP in advance for access. (Sunday, 10 a.m., 32 Cobble Hill, Somerville)

"ON THE RECORD" | Boston Mayor Michelle Wu is the guest on WCVB's "On The Record" program. (Sunday, 11 am., WCVB Channel 5)

"CITYLINE" | The incoming Trump administration's promises of immigration law enforcement and deportations of undocumented immigrants will get attention during a "CityLine" program featuring Sarah Sherman-Stokes of Boston University School of Law and Claudia Green, Executive Director at English for New Bostonians. (Sunday, 12 p.m., WCVB Channel 5)

KEOHAN & IDOWU ON @ISSUE: Political consultant Chris Keohan and Boston Chief of Economic Opportunity & Inclusion Segun Idowu discuss the results of the Massachusetts ballot questions are guests on NBC Boston’s “@Issue” with hosts Sue O’Connell and Cory Smith. (Sunday, 11:30 a.m., NBC 10 Boston)

CRASH VICTIMS REMEMBRANCE: Road safety advocates mark World Day of Remembrance, an international movement meant to recognize victims of traffic crashes. So far in 2024, organizers said, 300 people have died on Massachusetts roadways, including 58 pedestrians and 8 bicyclists. Among groups coordinating events are WalkMassachusetts, LivableStreets Alliance, Massachusetts Bicycle Coalition and Sidney Mae Olson Rainbow Fund. Visit Vision Zero Coalition for more info. (Sunday)

Monday, Nov. 18, 2024

CLEAN ENERGY TRANSITION: Lt. Gov. Driscoll and other administration officials announce a "Clean Energy & Environmental Legacy Transition (CELT) Initiative," which will bring together higher education, business leaders and state agencies "to enhance equity in clean energy initiatives, support geothermal workforce training and develop municipal capacity through a student fellowship program." The governor's office described the new program as a result of the governor's trade trip to Ireland in 2023. Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary Tepper, DOER Commissioner Mahony, UMass President Meehan, UMass Lowell Chancellor Chen, Boston University Provost Waters and others join. Press required to RSVP to isabella.lanata@mass.gov. (Monday, 9 a.m., UMass Club, One Beacon St., Boston)

NORTH STATION BRIDGE: MBTA holds an industry forum focused on the North Station Draw One Bridge replacement project, which recently secured $472 million in federal funding. Minority- and women-owned businesses, as well as disadvantaged business enterprises and veteran-owned businesses are invited to attend to learn more about the project and give feedback. The forum features a project overview and site tour. "As we rebuild our infrastructure, maintaining a strong partnership with industry is essential," MBTA General Manager Phil Eng said. "This forum is just the beginning of that engagement for the North Station Draw One Bridge replacement. Not only will we replace the aging movable bridge, but we will replace the control tower, modernize signals, and improve our rail infrastructure giving us the necessary operational flexibility to improve service for our riders today and for future generations to come." (Monday, 9 a.m., Transportation Building, 10 Park Plaza, Boston | Register)

APPRENTICESHIP WEEK KICK-OFF: Labor and Workforce Development Secretary Jones, Undersecretary Cutler, Apprenticeship Council Chair Rick Carter and others participate in the 2024 Apprenticeship Week kickoff event and Apprenticeship Council meeting. Events begins with a tour and a meeting with apprentices. Media RSVP to matthew.kitsos2@mass.gov. (Monday, 9:30 a.m., Local 12, 1240 Massachusetts Ave., Boston)

LYNCH WITH CHAMBER: Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce hosts a Government Affairs Forum with Congressman Stephen Lynch, who will share his policy priorities in an address to the business community. Jim Rooney, the chamber's president and CEO, will give opening remarks and later moderate a Q&A session with Lynch. Media RSVP to cbaines@bostonchamber.com. (Monday, 9:45 a.m., InterContinental Boston, 510 Atlantic Ave., Boston | Register)

FIREFIGHTERS OF THE YEAR: Gov. Healey, Secretary of Public Safety and Security Reidy, State Fire Marshal Davine and other officials recognize acts of heroism and service during the 35th annual Firefighter of the Year Awards. More than 100 firefighters from the departments of Amesbury, Attleboro, Barnstable, Brockton, Chicopee, Cotuit, Dartmouth Fire District 1, Falmouth, Hyannis, Lawrence, Lowell, New Bedford, Newton, North Attleborough, Orange, Plymouth, Salisbury, Springfield, Westborough, Whitman, Woburn and Worcester will be recognized as individuals and in groups. (Monday, 10 a.m., Mechanics Hall, 321 Main St., Worcester)

ICE BUILDING RETROFIT: Bristol County Sheriff's Office hosts a press conference and public grand opening for the new facilities within the building that used to be home to the C. Carlos Carreiro Immigration Detention Center, where immigrant detainees were held by the sheriff's office in coordination with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Sheriff Paul Heroux's office said the "former ICE building has been retrofitted by BCSO staff to be a training academy, new office for the K9 unit, and new office for the Special Response Team." The facility will be available for use by other law enforcement agencies upon request. Heroux said the project was completed by his office's staff for $100,000, paid out of existing revenues. Had he sought a vendor to do the work, the sheriff said, it would have cost $500,000 and required a state appropriation. (Monday, 10 a.m., Faunce Corner Road, Dartmouth)

HOUSE: House meets in an informal session. (Monday, 11 a.m., House Chamber | Livestream)

SENATE: Senate meets without a calendar. (Monday, 11 a.m., Senate Chamber | Livestream)

PANDEMIC GRANTS: Boston Mayor Wu and the Office of Economic Opportunity and Inclusion announce the 32 awardees in the third round of Boston's SPACE (Supporting Pandemic Affected Community Enterprises) Grant program. The program supports diverse, small business owners who were affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, providing them an opportunity to open their new or next storefront location in major commercial districts. (Monday, 11 a.m., Dani’s Queer Bar, 909 Boylston St., Back Bay)

DISABILITIES COMMISSION: Legislative and Budget Subcommittee of the Commission on the Status of Persons with Disabilities meets virtually. Agenda includes a discussion about the structure of the subcommittee and renaming it. (Monday, 11 a.m. | Agenda and Livestream)

VETERAN SUPPORT: Joined by veterans and elected officials, Massachusetts unions hold an event highlighting their $51,000 donation to a career pathways program called Helmets to Hardhats. The apprenticeship program helps military personnel transition to careers in the building trades. (Monday, 11 a.m., Grand Staircase)

HOMELESS ID BRIEFING: Rep. O'Day and the Mass. Coalition for the Homeless host a legislative briefing to discuss bills (H 3388, H 3360 and S 2251) that would help individuals experiencing homelessness acquire IDs with fewer obstacles. The Senate approved a version of the bill in July 2023, and it's pending before the House Ways and Means Committee. "This bill is very important, as obtaining a state identification card is a critical first step for youth and adults experiencing homelessness to accomplish typical life tasks and access opportunities," organizers say. (Monday, 11 a.m., House Members Lounge)

LUDLOW MILLS: Housing and Livable Communities Secretary Augustus, Sen. Oliveira and Rep. Saunders speak at the ribbon-cutting for the Residences at Mill 8, a mixed-income development with 95 mixed-income apartments for adults 55 and older and ground-level retail. (Monday, 11 a.m., 50 State St., Ludlow)

SURGEON GENERAL AT SALEM STATE: Dr. Antonia Novello, the first woman and first Hispanic person to serve as surgeon general of the U.S. (1990-1993), visits Salem State University for a fireside chat on her journey and career. Event coincides with the release of her memoir. (Monday, 11 a.m., Ellison Campus Center, Veterans Hall B, 1 Meier Dr., Salem | More Info)

PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES: Legislative and Budget Subcommittee of the Commission on the Status of Persons with Disabilities meets. Agenda includes discussion of the subcommittee's name and structure. (Monday, 11 a.m., Zoom)

AG SPEAKS TO ABL: Attorney General Campbell is the featured speaker at the Alliance for Business Leadership's latest Luncheon and Roundtable event. Andrea Silbert, president of EOS Foundation, moderates. Event is for members only. (CLOSED PRESS) (Monday, 11:30 a.m., UMass Club, 1 Beacon St., Boston)

CAPE BRIDGES OPEN HOUSE: MassDOT staff host the first of two Monday open house events to discuss the massive project to replace the Bourne and Sagamore bridges spanning the Cape Cod Canal. (Monday, 12 p.m., Bourne Veteran's Memorial Community Center, 239 Main St., Buzzards Bay | More Info)

HELMETS TO HARDHATS: Labor and Workforce Development Secretary Jones attends an event hosted by Helmets to Hardhats, a national program that connects transitioning active-duty military, National Guard and Reserve members with career training and opportunities in the union construction industry. (Monday, 12 p.m., State House)

DISABILITY EMPLOYMENT: Disability Employment Subcommittee of the Commission on the Status of Persons with Disabilities meets virtually. Agenda includes a discussion about goals for fiscal 2025, such as taking on a leadership role in the "benefits cliff" conversation happening across state agencies. (Monday, 12 p.m. | Agenda and Livestream)

CLEAN PEAK STANDARD: Department of Energy Resources holds a virtual public hearing on emergency rulemaking related to changes to the state's clean peak energy standard. As part of the rulemaking, DOER established the required staggered procurement schedule for the issuance of requests for proposals for clean peak certificates. That schedule calls for an RFP to be issued by July 31, 2025 and then every two years thereafter. DOER said the emergency rulemaking intends "to address market conditions that hinder the deployment and therefore the realization of economic and environmental benefits from energy storage for the Commonwealth, which includes a ~4,000 MW portfolio of distribution and transmission-connected projects." (Monday, 1 p.m., Register | More Info)

BERKSHIRE FED FUNDS Q&A: The Federal Funds and Infrastructure Office hosts a discussion and question and answer session for local officials in Berkshire County to learn how the state can help them compete for federal funding opportunities. FFIO, under Federal Funds and Infrastructure Director Quentin Palfrey, runs the state's strategy to access federal funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, Inflation Reduction Act and CHIPS and Science Act. (Monday, 1 p.m., the Berkshire Innovation Center, Pittsfield, 45 Woodlawn Ave., Pittsfield)

WIND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT: New Bedford and Vineyard Wind hold a press conference to "make a significant economic development announcement." Mayor Mitchell, New Bedford Ocean Cluster Executive Director Downing, New Bedford Economic Development Council Executive Director Santos, officials from Vineyard Wind and Avangrid, and other city officials will participate. (Monday, 1 p.m., Quest Center for Innovation, Third Floor, 1213 Purchase St., New Bedford)

BREAST CANCER: Gov. Healey holds a ceremony in connection with a breast cancer law she signed Nov. 14 that will allow patients to gain access to more rigorous follow-up screenings and exams. Supporters of the bill say it will save lives, especially among patients who have dense breast tissue or have abnormal results on their initial mammograms. (Monday, 1 p.m., Room 157)

REVERE TEACHERS RALLY: Revere Teachers Association hosts a community rally ahead of their next bargaining session. Revere teachers have been working under an expired contract while in negotiations with the district for 11 months. (Monday, 3:30 p.m., Revere City Hall)

CAPE BRIDGES OPEN HOUSE: MassDOT staff host the second of two Monday open house events to discuss efforts to replace the Bourne and Sagamore bridges spanning the Cape Cod Canal. (Monday, 5 p.m., Bourne Veteran's Memorial Community Center, 239 Main St., Buzzards Bay | More Info)

BESE VOC-TECH MEETING: The Board of Elementary and Secondary Education holds the third of three special meetings on career technical education admissions. The board has been reexamining the admissions process for vocational technical high schools, three years after they overhauled their regulations to promote more "equitable access" to the career-oriented schools. Demand at the state's vocational schools far outpaces available space, and the meetings are meant to address: "What impact has the most recent regulation change had on addressing equitable access to [career technical education] admissions?" and the information discussed at the meetings "will contribute to any further changes to state regulations," according to the agenda. In the third study session, the board will hear from stakeholders about their experience in implementing the 2021 regulations. (Monday, 5 p.m., Livestream | Agenda)

WALDEN POND ACCESSIBILITY: Department of Conservation and Recreation holds a public meeting about accessibility improvements at the Walden Pond Main Beach, including to the beach ramp and bathhouse. (Monday, 6 p.m. | Zoom)

Tuesday, Nov. 19, 2024

TROUBLE IN TOYLAND: MASSPIRG Education Fund releases its annual report on the potential dangers facing children this holiday season. The "Trouble in Toyland" report "looks at the growing threat of unsafe toys from overseas; toys that have been recalled but are still for sale; and other unsafe toys," and offers tips for parents and caregivers on avoiding unsafe toys. (Tuesday, 3 a.m., More Info)

PERAC TRAINING: Public Employee Retirement Administration Commission holds a training session for new board administrators and staff with less than five years of experience. It will cover the basics of running a retirement system. (Tuesday, 8 a.m. | Register)

HIGHER ED SUMMIT: Higher education nonprofit OneGoal hosts the Massachusetts Partnership Summit to discuss "equitable access to and success in postsecondary education." Speakers include Higher Education Commissioner Noe Ortega, UMass Boston Chancellor Marcelo Suárez-Orozco, Executive Director of Early College Phylitia Jamerson, Rep. Manny Cruz, The Education Trust Assistant Director Chanthy Lopes Toro, and OneGoal representatives. Speakers will discuss recent investments in free community college, the MASSGrant Plus expansion, and the changing secondary-to-postsecondary pipeline. (Tuesday, 8 a.m., UMass Boston, Campus Center, 100 Morrissey Boulevard, Boston)

CONSTRUCTION CAREER FAIR: Massachusetts Girls in Trade holds a career fair designed to connect high school women with opportunities in the union construction trades. Attendees include Secretary of Labor and Workforce Development Lauren Jones, Holyoke Mayor Josh Garcia, and Massachusetts Building Trades Unions President Frank Callahan. (Tuesday, 9 a.m., Dean Tech Regional Vocational School, 1045 Main St., Holyoke)

APPRENTICESHIP GRADUATION: Director of the Division of Apprentice Standards Lara Thomas attends the Mass Bankers apprenticeship graduation ceremony. (Tuesday, 9 a.m., Sorelle Bar & Grill, 1400 Bedford St., Abington)

COMMUTER RAIL: CommonWealth Beacon and Keolis Commuter Services hold a forum about the future of Massachusetts's commuter rail system. (Tuesday, 9 a.m., NonProfit Center, 89 South St., Boston)

GIRLS IN TRADE: Labor and Workforce Development Secretary Jones attends a Girls in Trade Holyoke event. (Tuesday, 9:20 a.m., Dean Technical High School, 1045 Main St., Holyoke)

BOARD OF ED: The Board of Elementary and Secondary Education meets. The board will discuss a transition plan for Holyoke Public Schools, which will be released from state receivership next summer. The board will also provide an update on the search for a new commissioner, after former Commissioner Jeff Riley stepped down last spring. Other agenda items include a discussion of a fiscal year 2026 budget proposal and an initial discussion of funding for virtual schools. (Tuesday, 9:30 a.m., Auditorium of Holyoke High School, 500 Beech St., Holyoke | The department plans to livestream the meeting, but link not yet available. A recording will be posted online when available)

PRIM AUDIT COMMITTEE: Pension Reserves Investment Management Administration and Audit Committee meets remotely. Treasurer Goldberg attends. (Tuesday, 9:30 a.m., Email adminauditmeeting@mapension.com for conference call access | Agenda)

EARLY ED REPORT: The Massachusetts Taxpayers Foundation releases a new report tracking "the state's progress in creating a more affordable, accessible early education and care system for all children." The report builds upon a similar study from 2023 that examined the child care subsidy system and offered recommendations to optimize the system. In the time since, the state has significantly expanded its subsidies and created a permanent grant system for early education and care centers. The new report is called "Building Blocks: The Status of Child Care Reform in Massachusetts and What Comes Next." Early Education Commission Amy Kershaw will give opening remarks at the event, hosted by MTF and the Boston Foundation. Researchers and early educators will discuss the report's findings. (Tuesday, 10 a.m., The Edgerley Center for Civic Leadership at the Boston Foundation, 75 Arlington St,, 3rd Floor, Boston | Register | Livestream)

PARK CITY WIND: Energy Facilities Siting Board holds an evidentiary hearing about a zoning petition from Park City Wind LLC. The company is seeking zoning exemptions to build and operate a road in Barnstable that would provide access to a substation at 8 Shootflying Hill Road. The board has already approved construction and operation of the substation. (Tuesday, 10 a.m. |More Info and Zoom)

SHERIFF'S AWARD CEREMONY: The Massachusetts Sheriff's Association hosts the Annual Law Enforcement and Corrections Awards Ceremony. (Tuesday, 10:30 a.m., The Great Hall)

ENERGY REPORT: Several policy organizations host a press conference on a new energy report that concludes that if every New England state maintains their green energy mandates, it will double electric rates and cause rolling blackouts in the region. The Massachusetts Fiscal alliance, Maine Policy Institute, Josiah Bartlett Center for Public Policy, Always On Energy Research, Rhode Island Center for Freedom and Prosperity, Vermont-based Ethan Allen Institute, Connecticut-based Yankee Institute and Americans for Prosperity Foundation are behind the report, and will have speakers at the press conference. "The cost of reducing carbon dioxide emissions under these plans exceeds the benefits of doing so, meaning the New England states are imposing a net harm on their economies after accounting for the financial impacts of climate change," says a press release about the event. Green energy supporters say transitioning from fossil fuels will contribute to efforts to counter global warming and climate change and create a new sector of energy-related jobs here. (Tuesday, 10:30 a.m. | RSVP to Paul Gangi for access)

WOMEN ENTREPRENEURS AWARD: Center for Women & Enterprise present Senate President Spilka and Rep. Ferrante with the inaugural Economic Empowerment Leadership Award, and honor 40 women entrepreneurs as 2024 CWE Women Entrepreneurs Who Lift Up Massachusetts. The event, on National Entrepreneurship Day, will feature remarks from Economic Development Secretary Hao and CWE leadership. According to the SBA, Massachusetts is home to approximately 243,200 women-owned small businesses, accounting for 480,000 jobs, or about 15 percent of all jobs across the state. (Tuesday, 11 a.m., Room 428)

ANTISEMITISM COMMISSION: Special Commission on Combatting Antisemitism meets. Chairs Sen. Velis and Rep. Cataldo give opening remarks. Members will hear testimony from invited Massachusetts students on their experiences with antisemitism. The group, created through a state budget amendment, is tasked with submitting a report to the Legislature by the end of November. A Senate spending bill that still needs to be reconciled with the House would give the commission a one-year extension. (Tuesday, 11 a.m., Room A-2 | Agenda and Livestream)

PRIM COMPENSATION COMMITTEE: Pension Reserves Investment Management Compensation Committee meets remotely. Treasurer Goldberg attends. (Tuesday, 11:30 a.m., Email compensationmeeting@mapension.com for conference call access | Agenda)

ORAL HEALTH: Special Commission on Oral Health meets remotely. Members will review steps for the "oral health needs assessment development" and provide an overview of subcommittees. (Tuesday, 11:30 a.m. | Agenda and Access)

ARMED FORCES BRIEFING: American Red Cross of Massachusetts hosts a briefing to highlight their support for service members, veterans and their families "from the day of their enlistment, through their time in service, and into their reintegration into civilian life." Attendees will be encouraged to sign holiday cards that will be delivered to veterans statewide, which will also be available outside of Sen. Velis's State House office through the end of November. (Tuesday, 1 p.m., Room 428)

THERMAL ENERGY: Vicinity Energy, a decarbonization company with the largest portfolio of district energy systems in the country, cuts the ribbon on what it said will be the nation's first "carbon-free thermal energy solution." The Kendall Square plant recently installed an electric boiler that will enable Vicinity to deliver its trademarked carbon-free thermal energy product, eSteam, to customers like Emerson College and IQHQ starting this heating season. President & CEO Kevin Hagerty and Cambridge Mayor Denise Simmons speak. (Tuesday, 1 p.m., 21 Athenaeum St., Cambridge)

METRICA APPRENTICESHIP: Labor and Workforce Development Secretary Jones tours the apprenticeship program at the Metrica millwork shop. (Tuesday, 1 p.m., 209 Earle St., Northampton)

ELECTRICAL CODE: Massachusetts Electrical Code Interpretation Committee meets. Members will cover seven requests for interpretation. (Tuesday, 1 p.m. | Agenda and Access)

FAMILY SHELTER COMMISSION: Special Commission on Emergency Housing Assistance Programs meets virtually and votes on a report that outlines broad recommendations for managing the state's overwhelmed family shelter system. Draft recommendations include reducing the state's reliance on hotels and motels for emergency shelters, investing in rental assistance and rehousing support, and more clearly communicating EA shelter policies and expectations. The draft does not outline concrete actions the Healey administration may pursue to handle demand for EA shelter, or detail cost savings that could result from the recommendations. Shelter costs are expected to top $1 billion annually through fiscal year 2027, according to estimates that Administration and Finance Secretary Gorzkowicz provided to the commission. Gorzkowicz said money for the shelter system will likely run out in January and that the administration plans to file a supplemental budget seeking more than $400 million in additional funding. (Tuesday, 2 p.m. | Agenda and Livestream)

PRE-THANKSGIVING LUNCH: A pre-Thanksgiving lunch at Pine Street is hosted by Ironworkers Local 7's Next Committee, a group of young ironworkers. Pie and beverages will be served during a bingo game. (Tuesday, 3 p.m., Pine Street Inn, 444 Harrison Ave., Boston)

HEALTH CARE FORUM: Association for Corporate Growth Boston holds its annual health care forum, which brings together investors and advisors focused on innovation and growth. The keynote speaker is Barbara Guidi Kohler, CEO of Fletcher Spaght Inc., a consulting firm for health care and life science companies. There will also be a panel discussion about the "tightening regulatory environment" that's affecting private equity investments in health care. (Tuesday, 3 p.m., Hyatt Place Boston Seaport District, 295 Northern Ave, Boston | Register)

APPRENTICESHIP FAIR: Boston's Office of Workforce Development holds its annual apprenticeship fair in honor of National Apprenticeship Week. Organizations on hand represent hospitality, health care, life sciences, construction and more. Members of the state's Division of Apprentice Standards attend. (Tuesday, 3:30 p.m., Roxbury Branch of the Boston Public Library, 149 Dudley St., Boston | Register)

COMMUNITY COLLEGE "FUNDING CRISIS": Mass. Community College Council members, students and supporters host a Zoom webinar to discuss a "funding crisis" for the state's 15 community colleges and the "urgent need" for more state funding. The state this year launched a new program covering unmet tuition for many community college students, but event attendees plan to argue that the program's success now depends on more investment in faculty and staff. Speakers include MCCC President Claudine Barnes, MCCC Vice President Joseph Nardoni, Rep. Gentile and several students and faculty members. (Tuesday, 4:30 p.m., Zoom)

BLUE HILL AVE. PLAN: MBTA hosts an open house to discuss a project alongside the City of Boston to redesign Blue Hill Avenue between Warren Street and River Street. (Tuesday, 5:30 p.m., Sportsmen's Tennis and Enrichment Center, 950 Blue Hill Ave., Dorchester | More Info)

HARBORWALK FORUM: Boston Harbor Now holds a forum celebrating the 40th anniversary of the Boston Harborwalk. The event features Lorraine Downey, a founding figure of the Harborwalk. Attendees can learn about the start of the development, how it's evolved, and future challenges due to climate change. (Tuesday, 6 p.m., Fort Point Room at Atlantic Wharf, 290 Congress St., Boston | Register)

WESTON BRIDGE MEETING: MassDOT hosts a virtual public meeting to discuss a project to replace the Merriam Street bridge over MBTA tracks in Weston. (Tuesday, 7 p.m., More Info)

OPEN MEETING LAW: Public Employee Retirement Administration Commission holds a webinar about the Massachusetts Opening Meeting Law with the Attorney General's Office. (Tuesday, 7 p.m. | Register)

Wednesday, Nov. 20, 2024

HAVERHILL CHAMBER: Rep. Vargas is the featured speaker at a Greater Haverhill Chamber of Commerce breakfast focused on housing and child care. Breakfast starts at 7:30 a.m., followed by the program at 8 a.m. (Wednesday, 7:30 a.m., 2 Merrimack St., Haverhill | Register)

APPRENTICESHIP CELEBRATION: Massachusetts Apprentice Network hosts a celebration for National Apprenticeship Week. Speakers include Secretary of Labor and Workforce Development Lauren Jones, Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce CEO Jim Rooney, and Suffolk University President Marisa Kelly. Attendees will learn how the apprenticeship model can create "diverse, sustainable, and scalable talent pipelines." (Wednesday, 9 a.m., Suffolk University, 120 Tremont St., Boston | Register)

CONSTRUCTION OPPORTUNITIES: Division of Capital Asset Management and Maintenance holds an event about upcoming construction projects, bidding laws, certification and other topics. Officials say projects feature "significant" opportunity for minority-owned, women-owned and veteran-owned businesses to participate. (Wednesday, 10 a.m. | Register)

UMASS TRUSTEES: UMass Board of Trustees' Committee on Academic and Student Affairs meets remotely. Agenda includes a report from President Marty Meehan and a discussion about early college across the UMass system. The committee will also go into executive session to discuss tenure appointments and honorary degrees. (Wednesday, 10 a.m. | Agenda and Zoom)

BOSTON PROPERTY TAX: Joint Committee on Revenue holds a hearing on Boston's updated home rule petition to shift more of the city's property tax burden onto commercial owners for up to three years. An earlier version of the home rule petition cleared the House but got stuck in the Senate, and the updated proposal reflects a compromise that Boston Mayor Wu reached with business leaders. Wu says she needs the legislation to be finalized this month as the city prepares its January 2025 tax bills. Without Beacon Hill's stamp of approval, homeowners in Boston could be hit with a roughly $500 increase in their bills. The Rep. Consalvo bill (H 5099) was filed on Nov. 4. Lawmakers will also hear testimony on a Rep. Kassner bill for a senior tax deferral program in Ipswich. (Wednesday, 11 a.m., Room A-2 | Agenda and Livestream)

PANCREATIC CANCER: Sen. Comerford and Reps. Kane and Gentile participate in a virtual legislative briefing on pancreatic cancer, hosted by the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network and Pancreatic Cancer Action Network. Speakers with experience treating and caring for people with pancreatic cancer will offer their thoughts and advocates will provide an overview of legislation intended to address the impacts of pancreatic cancer in Massachusetts. Pancreatic cancer is estimated to be the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in Massachusetts in 2024, organizers said. Nov. 21 is recognized nationally as Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Day. (Wednesday, 11 a.m., Zoom)

CHARITABLE DEDUCTION HEARING: Department of Revenue holds a public hearing on proposed regulatory changes related to the deduction allowed for certain charitable contributions. (Wednesday, 11 a.m., More Info and Access)

MASSHEALTH REPORT: Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts Foundation holds a webinar on an updated edition of its report, "MassHealth: The Basics -- Facts and Trends." It includes an overview of MassHealth's latest reform efforts, which include initiatives to advance health equity, to expand services and coverage to certain groups, and to improve timely access to behavioral health care, according to Blue Cross Blue Shield. The webinar will review the facts and data about MassHealth eligibility, benefits, delivery systems and costs. (Wednesday, 12 p.m. | Register)

RETAILERS ANNUAL MEETING: Gov. Healey is the keynote speaker at the 106th annual meeting of the Retailers Association of Massachusetts, which features the RAM Awards of Excellence honoring successful small employers from the state's retail sector. Five stores and restaurants will be honored. The meeting also features the release of RAM's holiday sales projection, based on survey results from the group's 4,000 members. Press can register by email to ashea@retailersma.org. (Wednesday, 12 p.m., Bentley University, La Cava Building, 3rd Floor, 175 Forest St., Waltham)

MASSDOT BOARD: Department of Transportation Board of Directors meets. (Wednesday, 12 p.m., 10 Park Plaza, Boston | Agenda and Access Info)

WOMEN VETERANS: Massachusetts Women Veterans Network holds a "Wednesday wellness" workshop about creating calmness in stressful times. (Wednesday, 12 p.m. | Register)

RAM ANNUAL MEETING: Gov. Healey delivers the keynote address at the Retailers Association of Massachusetts's annual meeting. RAM will give away their Awards of Excellence honoring five stores and restaurants. The association traditionally releases the results of their holiday sales projection at the event, based upon survey results from their 4,000 members. (Wednesday, 12 p.m., Bentley University, La Cava Building, 3rd Floor, Waltham | Press RSVP to Andrea Shea)

ENERGY EFFICIENCY: Energy Efficiency Advisory Council meets. Agenda includes an overview of the 2025-2027 Three-Year Plan for energy efficiency and decarbonization efforts that has been submitted to the Department of Public Utilities. Members will also discuss priorities for 2025. (Wednesday, 1 p.m. | Agenda and Zoom)

LIFE SCIENCES INVESTMENT COMMITTEE: Mass. Life Sciences Center Investment Committee meets virtually. The agenda calls for approving several funding "challenges" and an internship program. (Wednesday, 2 p.m., Agenda and Access Info)

HEALEY, GOLDBERG MEET: Gov. Healey and Treasurer Goldberg meet privately. (Wednesday, 2 p.m., Room 227)

GROW GRANTS: Labor and Workforce Development Secretary Jones, Undersecretary Cutler and other officials host a GROW Grants announcement as part of Apprenticeship Week. (Wednesday, 2 p.m., Benjamin Franklin Cummings Institute of Technology, 41 Berkeley St., Boston)

YOUTH RESOURCE FAIR: Members of the state's Division of Apprentice Standards attend the Rep Your Org - Youth Resource fair as part of Apprenticeship Week. The event is closed to press. (Wednesday, 3 p.m., Brockton High School, Red Building, 470 Forest Ave., Brockton)

MASSBIOED APPRENTICESHIP: Officials from the Division of Apprentice Standards attend the MassBioEd life sciences apprenticeship program graduation ceremony. (CLOSED PRESS) (Wednesday, 4:30 p.m., Pfizer, 610 Main St., Cambridge)

METROWEST CHAMBER: MetroWest Chamber of Commerce annual meeting and gala. Senate President Spilka attends and presents awards. (Wednesday, 5 p.m., Sheraton Framingham Hotel & Conference Center, 1657 Worcester Rd., Framingham)

ROUTE 114 IMPROVEMENTS: MassDOT hosts a virtual public meeting to discuss a long-term improvements study for Route 114 in Danvers and Peabody. (Wednesday, 6 p.m., More Info)

BOSTON ADU FAIR: Boston Home Center ADU fair will help residents who are considering adding an accessory dwelling unit to their home. Attendees will learn about financial assistance resources. There will be panels featuring ADU owners and construction loan lenders. (Wednesday, 6 p.m., Mattapan Community Center, 100 Hebron St., Boston | Register)

WOMEN'S HEALTH: Commission on the Status of Women and its partners host a virtual public hearing focused on the impacts of issues relating to health and health care in Massachusetts. "We're asking anyone interested in healthcare issues impacting women, children, and families to testify and share their experiences to learn from one another and create change, together," the commission said, adding that testimony will inform its policy priorities. (Wednesday, 6 p.m., Register)

TOBIN BRIDGE STUDY: MassDOT and the team conducting a planning study to consider options for replacing the Tobin Bridge host a public informational meeting. The study is weighing an eventual replacement of the span connecting Chelsea to Charlestown. (Wednesday, 6:30 p.m., La Colaborativa, 63 6th St., Chelsea | Virtual Access)

Thursday, Nov. 21, 2024

QUALITY, PATIENT SAFETY: Quality and Patient Safety Committee of the Board of Registration in Medicine meets. Agenda includes votes on the committee's credentialing policy and charter. Members are slated to go into executive session at 7:15 a.m. to discuss "peer-review protected information." (Thursday, 7 a.m. | Agenda and Access)

MUNI MANAGEMENT: Massachusetts Municipal Management Association holds its fall conference. There will be sessions about building public trust, plus a hotel reception. (Thursday, 8:15 a.m., The Hotel Northampton, 36 King St., Northampton | Register)

GROUP INSURANCE: Group Insurance Commission meets. (Thursday, 8:30 a.m. | More Info)

MASSPORT BOARD: Massport Board meets. (Thursday, 9 a.m. | More Info)

ALLIED HEALTH: Board of Registration of Allied Health Professions meets. Board business includes harm reduction services in health care settings for people who use drugs. (Thursday, 9 a.m. | Agenda and Access)

MASSHIRE: Labor and Workforce Development Secretary Jones, Undersecretary Ordway, Undersecretary Cutler, and officials from the Division of Apprentice Standards attend a MassHire State Workforce board meeting. (Thursday, 9:30 a.m., Sheet Metal Workers Local 17, 1181 Adams St., Dorchester)

STATE RETIREMENT BOARD: Mass. State Retirement Board meets remotely. (Thursday, 10 a.m., Email MSRBCommunications@tre.state.ma.us for access | Agenda)

CROWDSTRIKE OUTAGE: Massachusetts Health and Hospital Association holds a webinar about the CrowdStrike outage that disrupted 8.5 million Windows computers across the globe in July, including 45,000 devices at the Mass General Brigham system. MGB had to cancel ambulatory visits and non-essential surgical procedures on the first day but was back to normal operations within 24 hours. The webinar will discuss MGB's response, as well as how health care systems can pursue best practices for cybersecurity preparedness, disaster recovery planning, emergency management planning and business continuity planning. (Thursday, 12 p.m. | Register)

MBTA BOARD: MBTA Board of Directors meets. (Thursday, 12 p.m., State Transportation Building, 10 Park Plaza, Boston | Agenda and Access Info)

AUTISM COMMISSION: Housing Subcommittee of the Autism Commission meets. (Thursday, 1 p.m. | Zoom)

GMGI CONFERENCE: Labor and Workforce Development Secretary Jones gives the keynote at the GMGI Education and Workforce Development Conference. (Thursday, 1:30 p.m., 417 Main St., Gloucester)

TRANSPORTATION FUNDING: Metropolitan Area Planning Council holds a webinar about transportation funding solutions. The conversation will explore how Massachusetts can "generate new financial resources to support the statewide transportation system we need." (Thursday, 2 p.m. | Register)

TEN-YEAR OPIOID TRENDS: Northwestern DA Sullivan and the Opioid Task Force of Franklin County and the North Quabbin Region host an event to take a 10-year look at opioid-related fatalities and trends in the area. (Thursday, 2 p.m., Zoom)

CELTICS AT WHITE HOUSE: Boston Celtics visit the White House to celebrate their 2024 championship, according to Treasurer Goldberg, whose office announced she will be in attendance. (Thursday, 4:30 p.m., White House, 1600 Pennsylvania Ave. N.W., Washington, D.C.)

BLUE HILL AVE. PLAN: MBTA hosts an open house to discuss a project alongside the City of Boston to redesign Blue Hill Avenue between Warren Street and River Street. (Thursday, 5:30 p.m., Boston Public Library Grove Hall Branch, 41 Geneva Ave., Dorchester | More Info)

RIDERS' ACCESS: Riders' Transportation Access Group, which advises the T on transportation issues for older adults and people with disabilities, meets virtually. (Thursday, 5:30 p.m., More Info)

MORRISSEY BOULEVARD COMMISSION: Morrissey Boulevard Commission, tasked with studying infrastructure needs on the major thoroughfare of the same name, meets to discuss draft findings and recommendations. (Thursday, 6 p.m., Holiday Inn Express Boston, 69 Boston St., Boston | More Info)

COMERFORD TOWN HALL: Sen. Comerford holds a virtual town hall for her constituents in the Hampshire, Franklin and Worcester District. Attendees can ask questions, plus share ideas and feedback. (Thursday, 6 p.m. | Register)

NORTH MAIN STREET BRIDGE: MassDOT hosts virtual public meeting to discuss a bridge replacement project at the interchange of Routes 27 and 9 in Natick. (Thursday, 6:30 p.m., More Info)

GAMING COMMISSION: Mass. Gaming Commission is expected to hold a business meeting. (Thursday, Details TBA)

Friday, Nov. 22, 2024

MUNI MANAGEMENT: The fall conference of the Massachusetts Municipal Management Association continues for a second day. Roundtable discussions will focus on capital planning, collective bargaining, zoning and community engagement. Massachusetts Municipal Association Executive Director Adam Chapdelaine also gives an update. (Friday, 8 a.m., The Hotel Northampton, 36 King St., Northampton | Register)

APPRENTICESHIP ANNOUNCEMENT: Acting Education Commissioner Johnston, Undersecretary Cutler and Assistant Secretary for Career Education LePage participate in a DESE announcement related to apprenticeships. (Friday, 8:45 a.m., Durfee High School, 460 Elsbree St., Fall River)

HABITAT HOUSEWARMING: Stone Living Lab, UMass Boston, Boston Harbor Now and other partners host a media tour and "habitat housewarming" for first-ever North American installation of "living seawalls," which are meant to provide a habitat for intertidal marine life like snails and mussels. Speakers include UMass Boston Chancellor Marcelo Suárez-Orozco, Undersecretary of Decarbonization & Resilience Katherine Antos, Boston Director of the Office of Climate Resilience Christopher Osgood, and Boston Harbor Now CEO Kathy Abbott. Media encouraged to RSVP to press@stonelivinglab.org. (Friday, 10 a.m., Condor Street Urban Wild, 300 Condor St., East Boston)


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