People, Power, and Politics

A promising type of cancer care that's largely been available only in Boston is coming to central Massachusetts. The state Public Health Council on Wednesday unanimously approved UMass Memorial Health Care's application to buy a proton beam, and expand UMass Memorial's Cancer Center at Marlborough Hospital in order to offer proton therapy services. The project is expected to cost nearly $54 million.

FRANKLIN
New Town Website Does Not Support “Cut and Paste” of calendar entries. Go to https://franklinma.gov/Calendar.aspx to view directly. Steve Sherlock from Franklin Matters has kindly compiled and and shared the below information. Thanks Steve!
Tis the season to wrap things up… literally.

Many meetings this week are the last of the calendar year with the Christmas and New Year’s holidays coming over the next 2 weeks. Some subcommittees are active this week, especially as the 250th Celebration planning gets underway.

The Town Council meeting Wednesday (6 PM) has a potpourri of an agenda. Recognitions, alcohol license renewals, snow update, Town Charter change process presentation, among others in a full agenda.

Town officials hold their office hours at the Senior Center Thursday morning (8:30 AM). There is a ZBA meeting Thursday evening but the 444 East Central project will be the topic for their meeting on Tuesday the 23rd.

For all the meetings and cultural events, check out the calendar at Franklin.news where each day, that day's events are posted on the top of the page, the TV and radio schedules are on the bottom, and all the other goodness falls in-between.

*** Meeting schedule and agendas as of Town page 12/12/25, 8:00 PM ***

Franklin Public Schools Community Relations Sub Committee Meeting
Monday, December 15 Time: 6:00 PM
https://ma-franklin.civicplus.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_1215202…

250th Anniversary Celebration Committee
Monday, December 15 Time: 7:00 PM
https://ma-franklin.civicplus.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_1215202…

Planning Board Meeting
Monday, December 15 Time: 7:00 PM
https://ma-franklin.civicplus.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_1215202…

250th Anniversary Celebration Committee (Branding and Communications subcommittee)
Tuesday, December 16 Time: 5:30 PM
https://ma-franklin.civicplus.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_1216202…

Design Review Meeting
Tuesday, December 16 Time: 7:00 PM
https://ma-franklin.civicplus.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_1216202…

Town Council Meeting
Wednesday, December 17 Time: 6:00 PM
https://ma-franklin.civicplus.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_1217202…

Town Council Office Hours
Thursday, December 18 Time: 8:30 AM

ZBA Meeting
Thursday, December 18 Time: 7:30 PM
https://ma-franklin.civicplus.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_1218202…

FOFE Meeting
Friday, December 19 Time: 9:30 AM

Council on Aging Meeting
Friday, December 19 Time: 1:30 PM

*** Looking back at the week that was ***

The Franklin School Committee met for their only December session on Tuesday, December 9. The Volleyball team was recognized, the capital budget request was reviewed and approved, Student Services presented on all that they do. The recap, video and audio links are available https://www.franklinmatters.org/2025/12/school-committee-recognizes_030…

The Finance Committee finally got their ‘deep dive’ into Technology. It took multiple reschedules but it happened. It is highly recommended spending the time to watch the video replay. To fully & properly fund technology for the required licenses, hardware, software and staffing to keep it all running would be an additional $1.5M per year. Food for thought and consideration https://www.franklinmatters.org/2025/12/finance-committee-gets-answer-o…

The Conservation Commission met on Thursday. The video replay is available
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lzxvaqPNXiQ

For all the meetings and cultural events, check out the calendar at Franklin.news where each day, that day's events are posted on the top of the page, the TV and radio schedules are on the bottom, and all the other goodness falls in-between.

Town calendar -> https://www.franklinma.gov/Calendar.aspx

Community calendar -> https://bit.ly/FranklinCommunityCalendar

Subscribe for the daily dose of information -> https://www.franklinmatters.org/p/welcome.html

Subscribe for the weekly dose of information -> https://www.franklinmattersweekly.org/p/subscribe-for-email.html

--
Stephen Sherlock
Community Information Director (volunteer) for Franklin Matters/Franklin Public Radio
https://linktr.ee/franklinmatters

MEDWAY
Medway’s new website, likewise, does not readily support cut and paste. Go to medwayma.gov.

STATE HOUSE and BEYOND

In between menorah lightings, holiday parties and a "North Pole Express" train ride loaded with public officials, executive and legislative branch officials also plan to squeeze in some work next week. The job at hand: peering into the future and guessing how much tax revenue the state can reliably count on to support state spending beginning six months from now and running through June 2027. "There’s a big storm coming for state budgets," National Conference of State Legislatures CEO Tim Storey predicted this week. "The radar is clear. It’s going to hit almost every state. They know it’s coming and they’ve got, really, a couple years to prepare for this storm, to put the wood on the windows." Storey added, "It’s still a couple years away, but what I’ve heard from talking to legislators, they’re starting to prepare now in a whole lot of ways.” Storey explained that state budgets are being hit by multiple factors, including the end of COVID-19 recovery funds, fewer federal dollars to spend per the One Big Beautiful Bill Act and three-to-four years of state-level tax cuts. Gov. Maura Healey in July asked the Legislature to expand her ability to make unilateral budget cuts but lawmakers have not delivered that additional power to the state's chief executive and as the fiscal 2026 budget year nears its midpoint Healey has not found it necessary to trim this year's budget at all. Legislative and executive branch budget writers need to come up with a consensus tax revenue figure by Jan. 15, and Healey's fourth annual spending bill (and first reelection year budget proposal) is due to be released by Jan. 22. Also in the week ahead, a task force faces a Monday deadline to submit a report on establishing a primary care spending target.

Property taxes are a going concern as 2025 winds down. Boston is grappling with falling commercial property values, elevated commercial vacancy rates and a lack of new growth that's putting more pressure on residential property taxes. The Massachusetts Municipal Association meanwhile is now calling on the Legislature to enable larger property tax increases and to deliver more state aid to keep up with local government spending demands. Within the Legislature, there's no consensus on a path forward but two senators who opposed Boston's bid to temporarily shift more taxes on to commercial owners have put forward bills that would apply statewide. The Senate Ways and Means Committee is accepting written public comment through Dec. 29 on the Sen. Brownsberger (S 1933) bill and the Sen. Collins (S 1935) bills. Brownsberger's bill would create a "tax shock prevention credit," providing relief to residents when property tax bills jump by more than 10% in the third quarter. Municipalities could opt in during "tax-shock years" and choose to insulate eligible groups including seniors, residents eligible for MassHealth and unemployed taxpayers. The Collins bill would enable uniform rebates for households that received the residential exemption in the prior fiscal year.

Sunday, Dec. 14, 2025

SHORTSLEEVE ON KELLER: WBZ-TV runs an encore edition of political analyst Jon Keller's "Keller at Large" with GOP candidate for governor Brian Shortsleeve. (Sunday, 8:30 a.m., WBZ-TV)

HEALEY ON NBC: Gov. Healey joins NBC 10 reporter Matt Prichard for the station's weekly "@ Issue Sit Down." (Sunday, 9:30 a.m., NBC 10)

CLARK ON THE RECORD: U.S. Rep. Katherine Clark joins WCVB's weekly political talk show "On the Record." (Sunday, 11 a.m., WCVB)

FIRST NIGHT OF CHANUKAH CELEBRATION: The Latke Factory welcomes residents to bring menorahs for a candle-lighting with Rabbah Riqi. There will also be crafts, Chanukah songs led by Lux Onigman, dreidel games and fresh latkes. The event is supported by the Harold Grinspoon Foundation Family grant. The event is free to attend and attendees are encouraged to register in advance. After the Latke Factory, guests are invited to listen to the Little Roots perform and authors of the picture book “We Celebrate the Light” read in the Sanctuary at 4:30 p.m. (Sunday, 3 p.m., BOMBYX Center For Arts & Equity 130 Pine St., Florence | More Info and Registration)

MENORAH LIGHTING: Chabad of Downtown Boston holds its annual menorah lighting on the first night of Hanukkah. The 22-foot-menorah is one of the tallest in New England. Mayor Wu attends, along with Jewish leaders and other elected officials. (Sunday, 4 p.m., Boston Common, near Brewer Foundation and Park Street station)

Monday, Dec. 15, 2025

TEACHERS' RETIREMENT SYSTEM: Massachusetts Teachers' Retirement System holds a public hearing on a proposed regulatory change for handling interest on "delayed corrections." The update looks to clarify and uphold state law that calls for a "nondiscretionary and an immediate payment" to correct an error. A failure or delay among members making payments "affects the calculation of the benefit to which they are correctly entitled and impairs the prudent administration of the retirement system," according to the hearing notice. (Monday, 10 a.m., 500 Rutherford Ave., Suite 210, Charlestown | More Info)

AUTISM AND MENTAL HEALTH PANEL: The Boston Foundation and Association for Autism and Neurodiversity hold a Zoom webinar focused on the intersection of autism and mental health. The event will begin with brief remarks from Dr. Megan Anna Neff, clinical psychologist and founder of Nerodivergent Insights. Then, Neff will join a panel of those with Autism sharing their lived experiences. The panel discussion will be moderated by Becca Lory Hector, director of training for the association. (Monday, 10 a.m. | More Info and Access)

SPECIAL COLA COMMISSION: Public Employee Retirement Administration Commission's Special Cost of Living Adjustment Commission meets. Agenda includes a possible vote on adopting recommendations. (Monday, 11 a.m. | Agenda and Zoom

MAYNARD HIGH SCHOOL: Students from Maynard High School perform as part of Secretary of State Galvin's Holiday Concert Series. (Monday, 11 a.m., Grand Staircase)

HOUSE: The House meets in an informal session. (Monday, 11 a.m., House Chambers)

SENATE: The Senate meets in an informal session. (Monday, 11 a.m., Senate Chambers)

CHILD CARE HEALTH AND SAFETY: Department of Public Health hosts a virtual meeting to get feedback on its updated child care health and safety website, which provides resources to early educators. (Monday, 12 p.m. | Access)

RGGI BOARD OF DIRECTORS: Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative Board of Directors holds a virtual meeting. The agenda includes approval of the RGGI budget, executive committee elections, and an update on RGGI Inc. milestones. RGGI's board includes heads of energy and environmental regulatory agencies in Connecticut, Delaware, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Rhode Island and Vermont. Members of the public are asked to register before the meeting. (Monday, 4 p.m. | Registration)

DOWNTOWN BOSTON ALLIANCE ANNUAL MEETING: Downtown Boston Alliance holds its annual meeting. The event is meant to reflect on 2025 and preview what’s ahead next year. Downtown Boston Alliance is a nonprofit focused on improving the experience for those who live, work, visit or go to school in the area. A cocktail reception will follow the business portion of the meeting. There will be drinks and hors d’oeuvres. Tickets are free. (Monday, 4 p.m., 125 Summer St. | Register)

MASS DEMS HOLIDAY RECEPTION: Massachusetts Democratic Party hosts a holiday reception and fundraiser. Gov. Maura Healey and Lt. Gov. Kim Driscoll are scheduled to attend. Attendees are asked to RSVP to meredith@mlmstrategiesllc.com.(Monday, 5:30 p.m., Alcott Junior Ballroom, Omni Parker House, 60 School St., Boston)

CHICOPEE BRIDGE REPLACEMENT: MassDOT holds a public hearing on a project to replace the Vietnam Veterans’ Memorial Bridge in the Williamsett neighborhood of Chicopee. The bridge carries I-391 over Route 116 – locally known as Chicopee Street — and while still safe for users, "has reached the end of its useful lifespan," according to the agency. MassDOT says its proposal includes replacing the existing structure with a new bridge that has a 75-year design life span. (Monday, 6 p.m., Chicopee Public Library, 449 Front Street, Chicopee | More Info)

DIVISION OF MARINE FISHERIES: Division of Marine Fisheries holds a public hearing on proposed regulations for handling fishing gear. New definitions would clarify which fishing gear is subject to private property rights and which fishing gear debris can be disposed of, according to the notice. The division would gain the authority at any time to remove, possess and dispose of the debris. The regulations also aim to ensure that all aquaculture gear is tagged and identifiable to a permit holder, which would enable municipal authorities to handle the recovery of "derelict" gear. (Monday, 6 p.m. | More Info and Access)

SOMERVILLE MENORAH LIGHTING: Somerville Mayor Katjana Ballantyne and city officials host the annual Menorah lighting. There will be music, treats and gifts for children. (Monday, 6 p.m., City Hall Concourse 93 Highland Ave., Somerville)

SOMERVILLE CHECK CASHER: Division of Banks opens the public comment period on a petition from Brazil Starr, Inc. to operate as a check casher at 29 Bow St. in Somerville. Public comment must be submitted by Dec. 29 to Aimee.Desai@mass.gov. (Monday | More Info)

PRIMARY CARE: Primary Care Access, Delivery and Payment Task Force faces a Monday deadline to submit a report on establishing a primary care spending target. At a meeting earlier this month, task force members debated a draft recommendation calling on the Legislature to set a target to double the share of primary care spending as a percentage of total health spending or reach 15%, whichever is greater, within five years. (Monday)

Tuesday, Dec. 16, 2025

BOARD OF BUILDING REGULATIONS AND STANDARDS ENERGY MEETING: State Board of Building Regulations and Standard’s Energy Advisory subcommittee holds a remote meeting. The agenda includes a review of three Department of Energy Resources proposals and comparison of the 2024 and 2021 International Energy Conservation Codes, or IECC, as well as the state’s building code. IECC is a code for energy efficiency in residential and commercial buildings. (Tuesday, 10 a.m. | Remote Access)

GIFT WRAPPING DAY: Lowell Association for the Blind holds a gift wrapping day where people can bring gifts to have them wrapped and help getting organized for the holiday. Snacks and beverages will also be available. (Tuesday, 10 a.m., Lowell Association for the Blind 169 Merrimack St., Lowell)

ADAPTIVE ICE SKATING: Universal Access Program and All Out Adventures hold an accessible ice skating event at Charles J. Buffone Rink. Attendees can use their wheelchair, ice sled, a skate walker, ice grippers or conventional skates on the ice. There will be pucks, races and obstacle courses. Pre-registration is required by noon two days before the program. To register email DCR.UniversalAccess@mass.gov or call 413-461-7126. Entry and equipment are free of charge.(Tuesday, 10 a.m., 284 Lake Ave., Worcester)

ASK DLS LAW: Division of Local Services hosts “Ask DLS Law” over Zoom where local officials can ask the bureau’s legal counsel about municipal finance law issues. The call is free and each one should not exceed 10 minutes. (Tuesday, 10:30 a.m. |Zoom Access)

MASSACHUSETTS GAMING COMMISSION: Massachusetts Gaming Commission holds a remote adjudicatory hearing related to Brian Gullbrants, former president of Encore Boston Harbor and current North America chief operating officer of the casino’s parent company, Wynn Resorts. In his current position, Gullbrants is responsible for all operations in Las Vegas and Boston, according to Wynn Resorts’ website. Gullbrants’ role designates him as an individual qualifier for Encore Boston Harbor and the commission’s hearing is required to determine his suitability, according to a commission spokesperson Thomas Mills. The commission also plans to discuss Gullbrants’ suitability in private and issue a “written determination at a later date,” Mills said. (Tuesday, 11 a.m. | Livestream)

MA HEALTH CONNECTOR ENROLLMENT PRESSER: Massachusetts Health Connector holds a press conference where local and state health care and community leaders will discuss the Dec. 23 deadline for January 2026 health insurance enrollment. They will also address the availability of financial aid for coverage. Speakers plan to discuss the expected loss of $425 million in federal tax credits starting in January 2026, a change the Connector says could raise premiums for more than 337,000 Massachusetts residents. Speakers will also speak about “spam plans” and cheaper alternatives that fall outside of state licensed coverage requirements. (Tuesday, 11 a.m., Brazilian-American Center 560 Waverly St., Framingham)

CURTIS MIDDLE SCHOOL: Students from Curtis Middle School in Sudbury perform as part of Secretary of State Galvin's Holiday Concert Series. (Tuesday, 11 a.m., Grand Staircase)

REVENUE FORECAST HEARING: State budget writers convene their annual hearing as they try to come up with a tax revenue estimate to serve as the foundation for the fiscal 2027 state budget. The invite-only hearing is hosted by House Ways and Means Aaron Michlewitz, Senate Ways and Means Chair Michael Rodrigues and Administration and Finance Secretary Matt Gorzkowicz. The trio last year agreed on a $43.6 billion tax revenue estimate. Gorzkowicz in October decided against marking down that figure even after Revenue Commissioner Geoffrey Snyder revealed in September that revenues were expected to drop by $650 million due to federal tax code changes. Massachusetts has also yet to experience the full impact of the federal One Big Beautiful Bill Act. "The agreed-upon revenue estimate will serve as the foundation on which to build a fiscally responsible budget, while exploring steps we can take in FY27 to prioritize affordability and ease the financial heartburn that many of our residents and our communities are facing," Rodrigues said in a recent statement. Michlewitz said he looks forward to "working together to determine a reasonable revenue estimate that will allow us to keep the Commonwealth’s fiscal outlook strong while at the same time making historic investments into areas that need it most." Tax collections five months into fiscal 2026 total about $15.572 billion, which is $657 million or 4.4% more than collections in the same period of fiscal 2025, and $188 million or 1.2% above the year-to-date benchmark. Confirmed speakers include Snyder, Treasurer Goldberg, Massachusetts Taxpayers Foundation President Doug Howgate, Tufts University professor and Director of the Center for State Policy Analysis Evan Horowitz, and Northeastern University professor Alan Clayton-Matthews. The livestreamed hearing is the first official step in the budget process for the fiscal year that begins on July 1, 2026. The budget chairs and secretary will have to agree on a state tax revenue estimate by Jan. 15, 2026. That serves as a key building block for budget proposals that Gov. Healey will unveil that month, followed by a House budget proposal in April and a Senate plan in May. Most officials on Beacon Hill expect fiscal 2027 will be something of a challenging budget year, as non-surtax collections have softened and spending demands mount. (Tuesday, 12 p.m., Gardner Auditorium | link text)

SHEBA CONTRACT PROTEST: Massachusetts Peace Action and Alliance for Water Justice host a “die in” to protest Gov. Maura Healey’s plans to sign a contract with Israel’s Sheba Medical Center. Organizers say contracting with Sheba would allow Israel to present itself as invested in boosting delivery of health care services. Organizers are also calling on Healey to reject any involvement with the Israeli government, which they say has ruined Gaza’s health care system. Sheba Medical Center, the Middle East’s largest hospital located outside Tel Aviv, is planning to establish an “ARC Accelerator” facility in Greater Boston focused on digital and AI health care innovations. The accelerator is expected to open in January. Dr. Yishtak Kreiss, director general of Sheba, has noted the accelerator could be a tool for addressing antisemitism, which has spiked in Massachusetts in recent years. (Tuesday, 1 p.m., General Hooker Entrance)

MORRISSEY BLVD BRIDGE REPLACEMENT: MassDOT holds a public informational meeting to discuss the proposed bridge replacement project of Morrissey Boulevard over Dorchester Bay. (Tuesday, 6 p.m., Boston College High School, Cadigan Lecture Hall, 150 Morrissey Boulevard, Boston | More Info)

CAPE COD BRIDGES PUBLIC MEETING: MassDOT holds a public meeting to discuss the draft environmental impact statement for the proposed replacement of the Cape Cod Bridges. The state opened a public review of the replacements for the Bourne and Sagamore Bridges in early December, kicking off an environmental assessment for the project. MassDOT plans to officially authorize a contractor by late 2027 for the Sagamore Bridge, on which it expects construction to begin in 2028. It plans to later replace the Bourne Bridge. Comments on the environmental review are due by Jan. 5, 2026. (Tuesday, 6 p.m., Admiral's Hall at Mass Maritime Academy, 101 Academy Drive, Buzzards Bay | More Info)

Wednesday, Dec. 17, 2025

OLLIE’S LAW ADVISORY COMMITTEE: Ollie’s Law Advisory Committee meets. The agenda includes a discussion on a bill (HD 5356) that would further regulate dogs and kennels. The bill was referred to the committee on Municipalities and Regional Government. Ollie’s Law, formally known as an Act to Increase Kennel Safety, was signed in September 2024. The act updates dog kennel licensing laws after a labradoodle named Ollie was severely mauled, and eventually died from injuries he suffered from other dogs at a boarding facility. The act also gives the state Department of Agricultural Resources the ability to work with an advisory committee to create standards and regulations for commercial boarding and training kennels. (Wednesday, 9 a.m. | Access and More Info)

BOARD OF BUILDING REGULATIONS AND STANDARDS FIRE PROTECTION/PREVENTION: State Board of Building Regulations and Standards’ Fire Protection/Fire Prevention subcommittee holds a remote meeting. The agenda includes a discussion on presentation of code proposals on A2; refrigerants.(Wednesday, 9:30 a.m., | Remote Access)

WATER SUPPLY: Water Supply Protection Trust meets. Agenda includes an update on fiscal 2026 spending and a preliminary report on an infrared drone deer density study at the Quabbin. (Wednesday, 10 a.m. | Agenda and Livestream)

ASK DLS LAW: Division of Local Services hosts “Ask DLS Law” over Zoom where local officials can ask the bureau’s legal counsel about municipal finance law issues. The call is free and each one should not exceed 10 minutes. (Wednesday, 10 a.m. |Zoom Access)

REPORT ON CDC AND NATURALLY OCCURRING AFFORDABLE HOUSING: Massachusetts Association of Community Development Corporations’ Acquisition Strategies Initiative releases a new report “Here Today, Here Tomorrow: CDC Acquisition of Naturally Occurring Affordable Housing.” The report was supported by The Boston Foundation, which says naturally occurring affordable housing is a “vital stock” of unsubsidized homes that offer some measure of affordable rental housing. Naturally occurring affordable housing is housing with rents low enough to be affordable for lower income households but usually there is no public subsidy. A 2024 report from MassINC Policy Center found most of the state’s naturally occurring affordable housing units are in Gateway Cities, which are mid-sized urban centers that serve as economic hubs for the surrounding area. Naturally occurring affordable housing has mostly disappeared in gateway cities near Boston, but makes up more than half of the apartments in Fall River, Pittsfield, New Bedford and Westfield, according to the report. The Boston Foundation says acquiring these kinds of properties can help prevent evictions and displacement for residents and Community Development Corporations, or CDCs, can play an important role in acquisitions. Don Bianchi, director of Housing for Massachusetts Association of Community Development Corporations, will give a presentation followed by a panel discussion and audience Q&A moderated by Soni Gupta, associate vice president of community wealth for The Boston Foundation. (Wednesday, 10:30 a.m. | More Info and Access)

SOLOMON SCHECTER DAY SCHOOL: Students from Solomon Schechter Day School in Newton perform as part of Secretary of State Galvin's Holiday Concert Series. (Wednesday, 10:30 a.m., Grand Staircase)

INNOVATIVE HOUSING: Arc of Massachusetts holds a webinar about "innovative housing" for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and autism. Speakers include Anne-Marie Bajwa of the Charles River Center, Marynell Henry of SAIL Home and Dotty Foley of Branching Tree. (Wednesday, 12 p.m. | Register)

HEALTH CONNECTOR FOR BUSINESS: Massachusetts Health Connector holds a webinar on coverage options for small businesses with up to 50 full-time employees. Attendees can also learn about options for sole proprietors and owner-only groups. (Wednesday, 12 p.m. | Register)

LOCAL PUBLIC HEALTH: Massachusetts Municipal Association holds a members-only webinar with the Department of Public Health about implementing the State Action for Public Health Excellence program. Dubbed SAPHE 2.0, the program is intended to bolster the capabilities of local public health departments. Speakers include Rachael Cain, deputy director of DPH's Office of Local and Regional Health, and Aimee Petrosky, the officer's director of performance standards and data systems. (Wednesday, 12 p.m. | Register)

ENERGY EFFICIENCY: Energy Efficiency Advisory Council meets. (Wednesday, 1 p.m. | Zoom

GOLDBERG-HEALEY MEETING: Treasurer Goldberg and Gov. Healey have their monthly meeting. (Wednesday, 2 p.m., Governor's Office)

RUTLAND MUNI AGGREGATION: Department of Public Utilities holds a public hearing on Rutland's municipal aggregation plan. (Wednesday, 2 p.m. | Agenda and Zoom)

EARLY ED, CARE HEARING: Department of Early Education and Care holds a public hearing on proposed regulations dealing with licensing and approving residential programs serving children and teen parents. The regulations include expanded professional development requirements for trauma-informed care, working with LGBTQ+ populations, sexual abuse and grooming, and missing or absent children. Other proposed child safety policies address the use of surveillance cameras and seclusion practices. Residential programs, which provide care for children up to age 18 or 22 for those with disabilities, must also submit more information to their boards to bolster accountability and transparency. "These long-overdue updates represent an important step forward in ensuring that Massachusetts' residential programs reflect the best knowledge and practices available to support children, youth, and the staff who care for them," Early Education and Care Commissioner Amy Kershaw said last month. "By modernizing language, promoting inclusivity, and embedding a trauma-informed approach, we are positioning our system to better meet the needs of children and their families." The public comment period ends on Jan. 12. (Wednesday, 3 p.m. | More Info and Access)

CENTRAL MASS. METROPOLITAN PLANNING ORGANIZATION: Central Massachusetts Metropolitan Planning Organization holds a virtual meeting. The agenda includes a presentation on Safe Streets for All and potential action on proposed new rural and urban freight corridors. (Wednesday, 4 p.m. | Zoom)

STATE HOUSE MENORAH LIGHTING: The annual State House menorah lighting celebrates the fourth night of Hanukkah. The event also includes music and a dinner buffet. Gov. Healey and Senate President Spilka attend. (Wednesday, 4:30 p.m., Grand Staircase)

READING ROAD IMPROVEMENTS: MassDOT holds a virtual public hearing on a project meant to improve safety and accessibility for multimodal users accessing Reading Memorial High School and Arthur W. Coolidge Middle School via Oakland Road in Reading. According to MassDOT, "The project aims to encourage walking and biking to school and provide accessible connections to surrounding neighborhoods." (Wednesday, 6 p.m. | Register | More Info)

MBTA MATTAPAN LINE PROGRAM MEETING. The MBTA and Mattapan Line Program host a virtual meeting with updates on the program and a Q&A session. The program is an MBTA project focused on improving the Mattapan Line for transit riders in Dorchester, Mattapan and Milton, including by introducing Type 9 light rail vehicles. The line serves 6,600 riders each day and runs on 2.6 miles of track between the Red Line’s Ashmont station and Mattapan station, according to the MBTA. During public meetings, residents are welcome to discuss thoughts on accessibility, safety and reliability of the Mattapan Line. Registration is required to attend the meeting. (Wednesday, 6 p.m. | Registration)

PLYMOUTH MONUMENT: Department of Conservation and Recreation holds a public meeting on the recently finished conservation work at the National Monument to the Forefathers in Plymouth. Staff will also discuss upcoming landscape work. (Wednesday, 6 p.m. |More Info and Access)

ATTLEBORO SAFETY IMPROVEMENTS: MassDOT holds a public hearing on a project to improve safety along South Avenue (Route 123) from Lathrop Road to Snell Street in Attleboro. (Wednesday, 6:30 p.m., Peter Thatcher Elementary School Auditorium, 160 James Street, Attleboro | More Info)

TYRINGHAM BRIDGE REPLACEMENT: MassDOT holds a public hearing on a project proposal to replace an existing bridge structure that carries Jerusalem Road over Hop Brook in the Historic Tyringham Village. Known as the "Library Bridge" and built in 1960, according to MassDOT, the structure is "nearing its estimated lifespan due to daily wear and tear." (Wednesday, 6:30 p.m., Tyringham Town Offices, 116 Main Road, Tyringham | More Info)

Thursday, Dec. 18, 2025

GROUP INSURANCE COMMISSION: Group Insurance Commission meets. Dozens of municipal entities are considering joining state GIC coverage as they grapple with rising health care costs. (Thursday, 8:30 a.m. | More Info and Livestream)

PANEL ON BOSTON HOMICIDE RESPONSE PROTOCOL: Louis D. Brown Peace Institute and The Boston Foundation co-host a panel about what they call a “unique” homicide response protocol that has led to Boston being recognized as “America’s safest city.” Organizers say city agencies, community organizations and multi-faith leaders have built durable partnerships to ensure all people affected by murder can access responses needed to break cycles of violence and trauma. Panelists include: Lee Pelton, CEO and president of The Boston Foundation; Chaplain Clementina Chery, CEO and president of Peace Institute; Dr. Thea James, associate chief medical officer and vice president of mission at Boston Medical Center; and Paul McLaughlin, superintendent of Boston Police Department’s Bureau of Investigative Services. A light breakfast will be available. Attendees need to RSVP by Dec. 15. (Thursday, 8:30 a.m., The Boston Foundation 75 Arlington St., Boston | RSVP and More Info)

BOARD OF BUILDING REGULATIONS AND STANDARDS: State Board of Building Regulations and Standards’ Residential Code subcommittee holds a remote meeting. The agenda includes review of several chapters within the state’s building code and a review and possible vote on short-term rentals. (Thursday, 9 a.m.,| Remote Access)

DECARBONIZING NEW CONSTRUCTION PANEL DISCUSSION: A Better City holds the third in a series of panel discussions focused on strategies to decarbonize new construction. “Built to Lead: Lessons in Building Decarbonization - New Technologies and Opportunities” focuses on artificial intelligence envelope evaluation, thermal energy potential of water sources and using geothermal energy and hybrid electrification. Panelists include John Fernandez, professor in MIT’s department of architecture and co-founder of Lamaar.AI; Zeyneb Magavi, executive director of HEET; John Kastrinos, lead hydrologist for Haley & Aldrich; Jacob Knowles, principal and chief sustainability officer for BR+A; and Colin Schless, director of client decarbonization services for Turner Construction. Attendees are asked to register. Press interested in covering the event should contact Anusha Mookherjee at amookherjee@denterlein.com or 617-947-2269. (Thursday, 10 a.m., Fort Point Room 290 Congress St., Boston | Registration)

RETIREMENT BOARD: State Retirement Board meets. Treasurer Goldberg chairs the meeting. (Thursday, 10 a.m., For access email MSRBCommunications@tre.state.ma.us)

CHRISTMAS CAROLS: Lowell Association for the Blind welcomes people to hear Christmas carols. The event is free to attend. (Thursday, 10 a.m., Lowell Association for the Blind 169 Merrimack St., Lowell)

MBTA BOARD: The MBTA Board of Directors meets.(Thursday, 10 a.m., State Transportation Building, 2nd Floor, 10 Park Plaza, Boston | More Info)

ADAPTIVE ICE SKATING: Universal Access Program and All Out Adventures hold an accessible ice skating event at Foote Vietnam Veterans Memorial Rink. Attendees can use their wheelchair, ice sled, a skate walker, ice grippers or conventional skates on the ice. There will be pucks, races and obstacle courses. Pre-registration is required by noon the day before the program. To register, visit All Out Adventure’s website, email programs@alloutadventures.org or call 413-584-2052. (Thursday, 11 a.m., 1267 South Church St. North Adams, MA | Registration and More Info)

BYAM ELEMENTARY SCHOOL: Students from Byam Elementary School in Chelmsford perform as part of Secretary of State Galvin's Holiday Concert Series. (Thursday, 11 a.m., Grand Staircase)

SENATE: The Senate meets in an informal session. (Thursday, 11 a.m., Senate Chambers)

STATE SOFTWARE CONTRACT: Operational Services Division holds a bidders' conference on the statewide contract for software and services. (Thursday, 11 a.m. |Register)

THREE-YEAR EFFICIENCY PLANS: Department of Public Utilities holds a virtual public hearing to seek comment on the 2022-2024 Three-Year Efficiency Plan Term Reports from Berkshire Gas, Eversource, Unitil, Liberty, National Grid and Cape Light Compact. DPU is evaluating whether the programs were implemented in ways that regulators previously approved. (Thursday 2, p.m. | More Info and Zoom)

GOLD STAR FAMILIES TREE DEDICATION: The annual Massachusetts Gold Star Families Tree dedication ceremony is held. The tree honors service members who died in the line of duty, and ornaments from loved ones will be displayed. Gov. Healey and First Lady Lydgate attend. (Thursday, 2 p.m., Memorial Hall)

MUNICIPALITIES AND REGIONAL GOVERNMENT: Deadline for testimony to be submitted to the Joint Committee on Municipalities and Regional Government on H 4784, which would provide Hopedale with a town administrator, and H 4795 amending Groton’s town charter. Written testimony is accepted through 4 p.m. (Thursday, 4 p.m. | More Info)

HANUKKAH AT QUINCY MARKET: Chabad of Downtown Boston and Faneuil Hall Marketplace host a menorah lighting ceremony for the fifth night of Hanukkah. There will be live music, a gelt drop and Hanukkah treats. (Thursday, 4 p.m., Quincy Market)

PRESS ASSOCIATION PARTY: State House Press Association holds its annual holiday party, with legislative offices, elected officials and others welcome after 4:30 p.m. (Thursday, Press Gallery, Room 456)

MBTA WEST BROADWAY BUS STOP: MBTA’s West Broadway Bus Stop and Safety Improvements project team hosts an informational meeting to discuss planned safety and accessibility upgrades along West Broadway in South Boston. There will be a presentation on proposed design, project goals and construction timeline. Attendees will have the opportunity to share feedback and ask questions. Registration is required in advance. (Thursday, 6 p.m., Boston Public Library (South Boston Branch) 646 E Broadway, South Boston | Registration)

MASSGOP CHRISTMAS PARTY: MassGOP holds its annual Christmas party, featuring a straw poll for governor. The host committee includes MassGOP Chair Amy Carnevale, Vice Chair Judy Crocker, National Committeeman Brad Wyatt and U.S. Senate candidate John Deaton. (Thursday, 7 p.m., West End Johnnie's, 138 Portland St., Boston)

Friday, Dec. 19, 2025

HERSTORY: VOLUME III: The “HERstory: Volume III” exhibit opens for public viewing in Senate President Karen Spilka’s ceremonial office. The exhibit covers the photos of 91 former Senate Presidents, who were mostly men, with photos of notable women from Massachusetts. (Friday, 9:30 a.m., Senate President’s Ceremonial Office)

MALDEN HIGH SCHOOL: Students from Malden High School perform as part of Secretary of State Galvin's Holiday Concert Series. (Friday, 11 a.m., Grand Staircase)

CELTICS LOTTERY CHALLENGE: The Lottery hosts a "Banner 18 Challenge" prize event during a Celtics home game. The "Celtics Banner 18" instant ticket game offers "scratch and win" cash prizes and second chance prizes, meant to celebrate the Celtics' 18th NBA Championship. Treasurer Goldberg will attend. (Friday, 7 p.m., 100 Legends Way, Boston)