Massachusetts Senate Schedules Debate on Local Tax Relief Bills

 Massachusetts Senate Schedules Debate on Local Tax Relief Bills 

Senate Ways and Means Committee also advances campaign finance transparency initiative and measure to honor fallen law enforcement officers 

 

(BOSTON—01/08/2026) The Massachusetts Senate’s Committee on Ways and Means voted today to advance a bipartisan suite of four tax relief measures together with a bill to shine transparency on the financial backing of ballot question campaigns. The committee also advanced legislation to create a memorial license plate for families of law enforcement officers killed in the line of duty. 

 

The tax relief bills would give additional and enhanced options to local communities to ease the property tax burdens felt by lower- and middle-income homeowners, seniors on fixed incomes, and other vulnerable populations. 

 

“The Senate is hitting the ground running this January to support vulnerable taxpayers with strong affordability measures,” said Senate President Karen E. Spilka (D-Ashland). “This package of legislation puts more tools into the toolboxes of municipalities across the state to give a break to the taxpayers most in need.” 

 

“These local options have real impact on increasing affordability for everyday Bay Staters,” said Senator Michael J. Rodrigues (D-Westport), Chair of the Senate Committee on Ways and Means. “I am proud that the Senate is prioritizing these common-sense measures in our first major act of the new year, particularly as the cost of living, home values, and household expenses continue to skyrocket.” 

 

During its session this afternoon, the Senate voted to schedule all six bills for floor debate on Thursday, January 15 and to give Senators until 3:30 P.M. on Monday, January 12 to propose amendments for debate. 

 

An Act to prevent property tax bill shocks, S.2899, gives cities and towns the ability to shield their most vulnerable taxpayers from the shock of an extraordinarily high tax bill in a year when the community’s residential property tax levy is rising by more than 10 per cent. The legislation was filed by Senator William N. Brownsberger (D-Belmont) and is cosponsored by Senator Nick Collins (D-South Boston) and Senate Minority Leader Bruce E. Tarr (R-Gloucester). The Senate Committee on Ways and Means solicited written testimony on the bill from December 11 to December 29, 2025. 

 

An Act relative to municipal tax relief, S.2900, allows cities and towns to provide enhanced relief in the form of a rebate to lower- and middle-income taxpayers who already receive the residential tax exemption. The legislation was filed by Senator Nick Collins (D-South Boston) and cosponsored by Senate Minority Leader Bruce E. Tarr (R-Gloucester). The Senate Committee on Ways and Means sought written testimony from December 11 to December 29, 2025. 

 

An Act relative to senior property tax deferral, S.2901, expands eligibility for the Senior Tax Deferral program to keep more money in seniors’ pockets at a time when property values and tax bills are steadily climbing. The bill was reported out of the Joint Committee on Revenue on a 5-0 vote on November 7, 2025, based on legislation originally filed by Senator Patricia D. Jehlen (D-Somerville) and the late Senator Edward J. Kennedy (D-Lowell). The underlying legislation was subject to public hearings scheduled for April 8 and June 16, 2025. 

 

An Act authorizing the establishment of a mean tested senior citizen property tax exemption, S.2902, makes it easier for municipalities to offer local property tax exemptions to seniors on a fixed budget, building on the success of the recently-increased Senior Circuit Breaker. Originally filed by Senator Jason M. Lewis (D-Winchester), the legislation was cosponsored by Senator Barry R. Finegold (D-Andover). It was advanced by a 5-0 vote of the Joint Committee on Revenue on November 7, 2025, following a public hearing scheduled for June 16, 2025. 

 

An Act improving campaign finance reporting by state ballot question committees, S.2898, gives the public access to transparent data about the individuals and entities that are financially backing ballot question campaigns. By closing a current eight-month gap in financial reporting requirements, the bill holds ballot question campaign committees to the same standard of public disclosure met by candidates for office. Filed by Senator Sal N. DiDomenico (D-Everett), the legislation has been cosponsored by members of both parties in both chambers of the Legislature. After soliciting public input at a hearing on October 21, 2025, the Joint Committee on Election Laws advanced the bill on a 5-0 vote on November 12, 2025. 

 

An Act honoring Blue Star Families, S.2903, recognizes law enforcement officers across Massachusetts who have made the ultimate sacrifice by creating a special Blue Star Family license plate available to their surviving parents, spouses, and children. The measure was included in legislation filed by Senator Paul W. Mark (D-Becket). The Joint Committee on Public Safety and Homeland Security held a public hearing on May 7, 2025, then advanced the bill on a 6-0 vote on December 3, 2025. 

 

All votes taken by the Senate Committee on Ways and Means are publicly posted on the Legislature’s website. 

Healey-Driscoll Administration Awards $3.6 Million to Support Higher Education Students with Disabilities

 

Healey-Driscoll Administration Awards $3.6 Million to Support Higher Education Students with Disabilities    BOSTON — The Healey-Driscoll Administration announced today that they have awarded $3.6 million across Massachusetts’ public colleges and universities to support students with disabilities participating in Massachusetts Inclusive Postsecondary Education (MAIPSE) programs. MAIPSE enables certain students with severe disabilities to take part in undergraduate academic courses, extracurricular activities, internships, work experiences, and on- campus student life activities. This includes students with intellectual disabilities, severe autism spectrum disorder, and severe developmental disabilities.      Bunker Hill Community College, Massachusetts Maritime Academy, Mount Wachusett Community College, and the University of Massachusetts – Lowell are all receiving planning grants to develop MAIPSE programs on their campuses.     “We’re lifting barriers for students across our public higher education system,” said Governor Maura Healey. “These grants open doors to the college experience for students with disabilities, so that they can grow their knowledge, skills, and workforce readiness through engagement in classes and campus life.”     “Our entire state benefits when higher education opportunities are as inclusive as possible,” said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. “I’m proud that Massachusetts has prioritized giving students with disabilities access to the many benefits of higher education.”     In April, the Board of Higher Education unanimously approved the administration’s proposed regulations that established the MAIPSE program. These regulations stem from the state’s fiscal year 2023 budget that required all Massachusetts public undergraduate colleges and universities to be prepared to offer opportunities for those students 18 and over with severe disabilities who are otherwise not able to achieve the underlying requirements needed to secure a high school diploma. Under the 2023 law and these implementing regulations, such students can participate in courses as non-matriculating students with their nondisabled peers and engage in other aspects of campus life. Prior to 2022, these opportunities were limited to students ages 18-22.      “Students, regardless of ability, deserve opportunities to engage in the critical thinking and skill development that comes from going to college,” said Secretary of Higher Education Patrick Tutwiler. “These grants will grow and strengthen inclusive enrollment programs that are crucial to higher education equity.”     “I’m grateful to the Healey-Driscoll Administration for supporting inclusive enrollment, and to our colleges and universities for prioritizing serving all students well,” said Commissioner of Higher Education Noe Ortega. “These grants build on momentum after the state adopted strong and well-informed regulations to guide MAIPSE programs, and we’re heading in the right direction on having a public higher education system that is accessible to all.”   “This funding continues to increase opportunities for people living with disabilities to access higher education, community inclusion and other critical skills to achieve their maximum potential and have meaningful connections and contributions to their communities,” said Commissioner of the Department of Developmental Services Sarah Peterson. “This is another example of the Healey-Driscoll Administration helping make Massachusetts a leader in higher education for all students, and we thank Higher Education for their partnership and commitment to this vital program.”    The continued grant funding issued to 16 public college and universities continues operations for those with existing MAIPSE programs. The planning and implementation grants assist campuses that are in the process of building or expanding MAIPSE programs.    “Massachusetts succeeds when residents living with disabilities are empowered to live life on their own terms,” said Senate President Karen E. Spilka (D-Ashland). “The Legislature's investment in the MAIPSE program at Framingham State University advances that principle for residents across MetroWest, as it does for each community and institution that receives these resources. I applaud the Healey-Driscoll Administration for making this program a priority and for expeditiously distributing these funds.”    "I’m proud of the House’s longstanding commitment to this program, which ensures that all students have access to higher education opportunities,” said House Speaker Ronald J. Mariano (D-Quincy). “Expanding inclusive access to college enables students to grow, contribute, and succeed. I want to thank the Healey-Driscoll Administration for awarding this critical funding.”    “True inclusivity and accessibility in higher education means ensuring that all students have meaningful opportunities to learn, grow, and thrive on our public campuses,” said Senator Jo Comerford (D-Northampton), Senate Chair of the Joint Committee on Higher Education. “I am grateful to the Healey-Driscoll Administration for its continued investment in Massachusetts Inclusive Postsecondary Education (MAIPSE) programs across the Commonwealth. I am especially glad that Greenfield Community College and UMass Amherst will be receiving grant awards, and I look forward to seeing how this funding expands access and strengthens inclusive pathways to higher education in our region.”    “Every student deserves the opportunity to experience the richness of campus life,” said Representative Dave Rogers (D-Cambridge), House Chair of the Joint Committee on Higher Education. “The MAIPSE program reflects the House’s ongoing commitment to academic inclusion.”    "Chapter 126 of the Acts of 2022 of the Massachusetts General Law enshrines that students with intellectual disabilities and/or autism be given the opportunity to attend public colleges and universities. This groundbreaking law made us the first state in the country to offer such an opportunity," said Representative Sean Garballey (D-Arlington). "I am grateful to the Healey-Driscoll Administration, the Department of Higher Education, and my colleagues in the Legislature, especially Chairs Michlewitz and Rodrigues, for investing this critical funding to support students across the Commonwealth.”    Dr. Linda Thompson, Chair of the Massachusetts State Universities Council of Presidents, and President of Westfield State University, said: “Public higher education has a responsibility to ensure meaningful access for all members of the Commonwealth. The MAIPSE program removes longstanding barriers for students with intellectual disabilities, empowering them to develop academic, employment, and life skills that lead to greater independence and a higher quality of life. We are proud to work with local school districts to continue this inclusive program on our campus, and we are grateful for the continued investment from the Massachusetts Department of Higher Education to sustain and grow opportunities that make higher education truly accessible for all residents.”      President William Heineman, North Shore Community College & Chair, Community College Council of Presidents, said: “The Massachusetts Community Colleges are committed to providing open access education for all and the MAIPSE program helps us fulfill that commitment. These new grants, along with the continuation of existing grants on many of our campuses, will help our schools create inclusive learning environments where all students can participate fully in campus life, develop valuable skills, and gain real-world work experience to prepare them for the future. We are grateful to the Healey-Driscoll Administration for their continued investments in our students.”    FY26 Planning and Implementation Grants  Greenfield Community College: $148,860  Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts: $103,235  UMass Lowell: $150,207  Bunker Hill Community College: $160,000  Massachusetts Maritime Academy: $111,468  Mount Wachusett Community College: $132,335    FY26 Continuation Grants  Bridgewater State University – Day: $137,610  Bridgewater State University – Residence Life: $239,251  Bristol Community College: $187,050  Cape Cod Community College: $185,800  Fitchburg State University: $225,019  Framingham State University: $159,945  Holyoke Community College: $76,740  Massachusetts College of Art & Design: $128,343  Massasoit Community College: $157,949  Middlesex Community College: $148,312  Northern Essex Community College: $180,000  Quinsigamond Community College: $148,993  Salem State University – Day: $159,974  Salem State University – Residence Life: $186,313  UMass Amherst: $180,000  UMass Boston: $176,032  Westfield State University: $266,579  Worcester State University: $160,000

Statement from Senate President Karen E. Spilka on the Murder of Renee Nicole Good

 Statement from Senate President Karen E. Spilka on the Murder of Renee Nicole Good

(BOSTON — 1/8/2026) Today, Massachusetts Senate President Karen E. Spilka made the following statement regarding the murder of Renee Nicole Good by ICE agents in Minnesota.

"The murder of Renee Nicole Good by ICE agents in Minnesota is more than a tragic injustice — it is the direct result of the Trump Administration's dangerous, inhumane and anti-American policies. My heart is with Renee's family and friends as they deal with the loss of their loved one.

Americans deserve to feel safe in their communities. They also deserve honesty and accountability from the person they elect to the highest office in the country. This Administration has failed completely on both counts. 

To our neighbors in Minnesota: we share your grief and your demands for justice."

Governor Healey Demands Private Airlines Stop Providing Deportation Flights to ICE at Expense of Taxpayers

Governor Healey Demands Private Airlines Stop Providing Deportation Flights to ICE at Expense of Taxpayers  

BOSTON – Today, Governor Maura Healey is demanding that two private airline companies stop providing flights for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to quickly remove residents who have been detained, a significant majority of whom have no criminal convictions or charges. This comes after Governor Healey demanded that ICE stop these flights out of Hanscom Field airport, asserting that they are intended to sever Massachusetts residents from their family, friends and legal counsel and obstruct their access to due process. 

In her letter to the top executives of GlobalX Airlines and Eastern Air Express, Governor Healey also raised concerns about how much the Trump Administration’s use of private jets for ICE activity is costing the taxpayers, while private airlines are raking in huge profits. Avelo Airlines, which previously was chartering flights for ICE in Massachusetts, recently announced that they have cut ties. 

Governor Healey wrote in part: 

“On behalf of American taxpayers, I also find it incomprehensible that the Trump Administration is choosing to spend hundreds of millions of dollars on private jets to obstruct people’s due process at a time when they are denying hunger benefits, cutting health care access, and raising costs on everyone through costly tariffs. Flying these residents out of state—often within hours of arrest—is intentionally cruel and purposely obstructs the due process and legal representation they are entitled to. By contracting with ICE to execute these flights, you are profiting off these anti-American tactics and facilitating the obstruction of due process.” 

The full letter can be read here. 

州市議員支持華埠居民反對成人店搬到大街上 僑聲音樂社2/7演出折子戲

 

波士頓華埠居民會共同主席黃國威（左）預告僑聲音樂社2/7演出折子戲。（周菊子攝）

                 （Boston Orange周菊子波士頓報導）波士頓華埠居民會（CRA）2026年的新年第一場月例會，議程簡單到只有警察報告罪案，社區活動預告2項，份量卻重到竟然有麻州參議員Nick Collins和波士頓市議員愛德華費連（Ed Flynn） 2名政要聯袂出席。

波士頓市議員Ed Flynn強調他曾在波士頓Don Bosco就讀，深知公共安全對華埠多重要。
（周菊子攝）

                  波士頓居民會共同主席黃國威提醒居民，僑聲音樂社訂今年2月7日在昆士高中禮堂演唱粵曲，演出折子戲，入場免費。該社將在各個老人屋派發門票，居民想要看戲的，也可找他索取門票。

                  Nick Collins和Ed Flynn的出席，有新年伊始，出席致賀的意味。

麻州參議員Nick Collins強調他為華埠居民爭取權益。（周菊子攝）

                  Ed Flynn感謝波士頓華埠居民會邀請他出席會議，還很週到的感謝昆士小學出借場地，波士頓警察局和緊急救護局（EMS）的出席與居民交流。他說自己和Nick Collins在波士頓市議會和麻州參議會代表華埠和南端（South End）的居民。他們尊重大家的文化傳統，將會努力為居民們服務，爭取權益。他指出，關鍵在以尊重態度對待居民，他和麻州參議員Nick Collins都將繼續這麼做。

                  Nick Collins表示，麻州議會今年將恢復舉辦農曆新年慶祝會，待日期確定後，將邀請居民們到州政府一同慶祝馬年新春。

                  Nick Collins

波士頓市議員Ed Flynn非常高興又見到華人前進會組織員礦寶蓮。（周菊子攝）

接著闡述，他非常努力的為社區爭取重大福利，但有些財務福利，尤其是老人福利，目前有些社區並未得到。如今物價高漲，生活成本大增，他們希望確定社區居民可以得到這些福利。他說州議會數年前通過了法案，凡是有固定收入，申報了稅單，即使不需繳稅，也可獲得反饋。他們也和華埠居民會，或者ABCD等非牟利機構合作，協助民眾報稅，獲得這些福利。他強調居民有需要，他們會幫忙。

波士頓警察局Ａ-1區警察黃天輝（左）和Sean Wallace(右）報告治安。（周菊子攝）

                  鄺寶連接著代表居民詢問成人夜店計劃搬遷案的目前狀況。

波士頓急救服務局（EMS) 的Tayshana K Lewis提醒民眾注射流感疫苗。（周菊子攝）

愛德華費連市議員表示他將堅定反對「中央大頁 （CentralFolds）」這家脫衣舞俱樂部從拉格朗（Lagrange）街搬到史都華街（Stuart）的德國餐廳Jacob Wirth Co. 旁邊。很不幸的，他知道市議會內有些人支持這提案。

愛德華費連表示，這是公共安全，生活品質與尊重人民意願的事。1983到1987年間，他在Don Bosco上學，也就是華埠王氏青年會目前的所在地。他很清楚記得整個華埠地區，販毒，流鶯，以及暴力犯罪橫行的情況。他說，重要的是，華埠居民經歷過那樣的生活，沒人想要回到過去那些不好的日子，所以他竭力教育波士頓市政府的每一個人來反對這提案。

麻州參議員Nick Collins表示，他一直使用塔芙茨醫療中心的服務，知道公共安全在這社區的重要性，他支持居民們的反對意見。

黃國威遊說新居民為社區服務。（周菊子攝）

波士頓警察局的黃天輝（Frank Wong）和Sean Wallace出席會議。黃天輝表示這個月要報告的只有2宗案件。一是1月5日晚上10點，受害者表示，早上11點51分左右，她不在家的時候，有包裹送到，但是當他12點半到家時，卻發現包裹被偷了。她還說這是第她3次包裹被偷了，包裹內物品價值約110元。他已把物品清單附在報案紀錄上了。

波士頓市議員Ed Flynn和老人家們打招呼。（周菊子攝）

另一宗案件是2025年12月11日晚上6點40分左右，在必珠街（Beach） 60號那兒，有輛黑色電動滑板車被偷。受害者稱他在當晚大約5點半時，把電動滑板所在前述地址的一根柱子上，就離開了。當他6點回來時，電動滑板不見了。他說鎖沒壞，但滑板不見了。

黃天輝還提醒居民，冬天的天氣太冷，有人看到無家可歸者需要幫助時，請撥打911電話，警方會派人照顧。

昆士小學校長司徒玉英(Cynthia Soo Hoo)請市議員關注雙語教育。（周菊子攝）

            波士頓急救服務局（EMS) 的Tayshana K Lewis這天也報告，最近流感盛行，他們收到很多感染個案，兒童之外，也有很多60歲老人，請大家注意保護個人安全，勤洗手，不舒服就留在家裡，波士頓市有很多地方提供疫苗注射，6個月大以上就可注射，不需要攜帶證件。

昆士小學校長司徒玉英(Cynthia Soo Hoo)請市議員關注雙語教育。（周菊子攝）

出席華埠居民會的民眾，開會結束後，有麵包可領。（周菊子攝）

IUPAT DISTRICT COUNCIL 35 ENDORSES DAN KOH

IUPAT DISTRICT COUNCIL 35 ENDORSES DAN KOH

 

 

 “He will fight to lower costs for working families — allowing communities 

across the Sixth to thrive,” says Brennan.

 

 

Andover, MA – Today, the International Union of Painters and Allied Trades (IUPAT) District Council 35 announced their endorsement of Dan Koh in the Massachusetts’ 6th Congressional District primary. IUPAT District Council 35 represents over four thousand proud painters and building trade workers who develop and improve our region while prioritizing collective bargaining rights, fair wages and benefits, and safe working conditions. 

 

“IUPAT DC 35 proudly endorses Dan Koh for Congress. Dan stands shoulder to shoulder with local unions and working families. He will fight to lower costs for working families — allowing communities across the Sixth to thrive,” says Chris Brennan, Business Manager/Secretary-Treasurer of IUPAT DC 35. 

 

Koh expressed his gratitude for the endorsement, emphasizing the shared vision his campaign and IUPAT DC 35 have for a more equitable Massachusetts that supports all families. 

 

"I am honored by the endorsement from IUPAT," Koh commented. “This movement is all about making the Sixth District a more affordable place for people to live and raise their families. Local unions play a huge role in fighting for workers to receive access to basic necessities – like healthcare, childcare, and housing. I’m proud to stand with the thousands of painters and trade workers who work diligently every day to develop and improve our region.”

 

Koh’s campaign has gained critical momentum thanks to the support of over a dozen local community leaders, over ten union locals, and Vice President Kamala Harris, while raising a record-breaking $2M+ in its first fundraising quarter, a record for an MA House campaign

Governor Healey Nominates Six Attorneys to Serve as Administrative Judges at the Department of Industrial Accidents

Governor Healey Nominates Six Attorneys to Serve as Administrative Judges at the Department of Industrial Accidents 

 

BOSTON – Today, Governor Maura Healey nominated Maureen Counihan to serve as an Administrative Judge at the Department of Industrial Accidents (DIA). The Governor also renominated Omar Hernández, Douglas A. Bean, Thomas P. Daniels, Matthew F. King and Michael Williams to serve an additional term as Administrative Judges at the DIA. These nominees will now be considered by the Governor’s Council for confirmation.   

 

“All six of these nominees bring deep experience and expertise to the Department of Industrial Accidents,” said Governor Maura Healey. “Their leadership helps ensure that injured workers and employers can navigate our workers’ compensation system fairly and efficiently.” 

 

“I am excited to work closely with the Governor’s Council to confirm these six excellent nominees and am excited to see the important work they do,” said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll.  

 

The Department of Industrial Accidents oversees the Massachusetts workers compensation system, working to ensure that those involved have the resources needed to participate by assisting injured workers, employers, insurers, attorneys, and health care providers in following the Massachusetts workers’ compensation laws and regulations. For more information about the Department of Industrial Accidents, please visit there homepage.  

 

About the Nominees: 

Omar Hernández is currently the Senior Judge at the Department of Industrial Accidents and has served on the bench since 2003, when he became the first Hispanic-American to be appointed as an Administrative Judge. Over the past two decades, Judge Hernández has been responsible for overseeing the operations of the court. He previously served as Deputy General Counsel of the Massachusetts Human Resources Division, where he advised state government on labor and employment matters, including civil service, employee benefits, civil rights, collective bargaining, and statewide human resources policies. Additionally, Judge Hernández served as a Staff Attorney for the Massachusetts Workers’ Compensation Litigation Unit, representing state agencies in workers’ compensation matters. Judge Hernández received his Bachelor of Arts from Cornell University in 1985 and his Juris Doctor from Suffolk University Law School in 1989. 

  

Douglas A. Bean is currently an Administrative Judge at the Department of Industrial Accidents and has served on the bench since 1992. Over the course of his tenure, Judge Bean has written more than 1,600 decisions and has resolved over 15,000 cases. Earlier in his career, Judge Bean practiced law in the private sector, where he handled more than 1,200 cases in District Court. He received his Bachelor of Arts from the University of Massachusetts Amherst and his Juris Doctor from Boston University School of Law in 1987. 

  

Thomas B. Daniels is currently an Administrative Judge at the Department of Industrial Accidents and has served in this role for nearly a decade. Prior to his appointment, Judge Daniels practiced law for more than 25 years as an insurance defense attorney at the Law Office of Steven B. Stein. Judge Daniels received his Bachelor of Arts from Dickinson College and his Juris Doctor from Western New England Law School. 

  

Matthew F. King has served as an Administrative Judge at the Department of Industrial Accidents since 2019, presiding over hearings, conferences, and mediations. Prior to his appointment, Judge King practiced as a workers’ compensation attorney for 25 years, serving as an in-house staff attorney at Kemper National Insurance Company and later working at two private law firms, where he represented both insurers and injured workers. Earlier in his career, Judge King worked as a prosecutor in both District and Superior Court. He received his Bachelor of Arts from Boston College in 1979 and his Juris Doctor from Suffolk University Law School. 

  

Michael Williams has served as an Administrative Judge at the Department of Industrial Accidents since 2012, presiding over hearings, conferences, and mediations. Prior to his judicial service, Judge Williams was Director of Labor Relations at the Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development, where he oversaw labor relations matters, including collective bargaining agreements. He previously served as a staff attorney for the National Association of Government Employees and the International Brotherhood of Police Officers. Judge Williams received his Bachelor of Arts from Boston College and his Juris Doctor from Boston College Law School. 

Maureen Counihan is currently an attorney operating her own solo practice, For more than 35 years, she has handled complex multi-party litigation in both state and federal court. Attorney Counihan also represents injured workers at the Department of Industrial Accidents. She is currently an Adjunct Professor at Suffolk University Law School, where she teaches Interviewing and Counseling. Attorney Counihan has spent several years as a member of the Massachusetts Academy of Trial Attorneys, including serving on its Board of Governors from 2017 to 2021. Prior to opening her own practice, she was a litigation associate at the firms of Greene & Hoffman, P.C., and the Law Offices of Martin Kantrovitz. Attorney Counihan received her Bachelor of Arts from SUNY Albany and her Juris Doctor from Boston University School of Law. 

昆士市議會破天荒女性成多數 袁自強、Ｍaggie McKee 共2名亞裔議員

昆士市華裔議員繼任有人，梁秀婷離，袁自強上。（周菊子攝）

             （Boston Orange 周菊子麻州昆士市綜合報導）有著「總統之城」美譽的麻州昆士市（Quincy），1月5日晚舉行市議員就職典禮，由於本屆的市議會議員組成，出現有史以來首次的女多於男，有2名亞裔，6名新人，情況，出席觀禮人數也破紀錄，甚至擠得站到了禮堂之外。

越南裔的Maggie McKee讚許麻州稽核長Diana DiZioglio的議會公開透明呼籲，
邀她做昆士市議員就職演講嘉賓。（周菊子攝）

            根據2024年7月最新人口估算，昆士市是個有103,434人，依人口數在麻州排名第7的大城市。白人仍佔多數，約54%到56%，亞裔則已增長至29%至31%，其中約20％為華人，換言之，有大約2萬到22,000人為華裔。

麻州參議員John Kenan（左）恭喜梁錦輝（右）當選學校委員會委員。（周菊子攝）

            不過，儘管亞裔、華裔人數激增，昆士市內的政治圈，亞裔聲音卻一直很弱。今年已算是突破很大的一年，不單只有來自中國大陸，具博士學歷的華人袁自強當選為不分區市議員，還有父親是越南裔，母親為愛爾蘭人，曾任科學版新聞從業人員的Maggie McKee當選為第5區市議員。學校委員會也有梁錦輝（Tom Leung）當選為委員。

昆士市市長柯奇（Tom Koch）和他的連襟，麻州參議員John Keenan (右）。（周菊子攝）

            去年11月選舉結果出來時，昆士居民就已經炸開來了，因為總共只有9人的市議會，竟然有5名女性市議員，6名新人，2名亞裔，締造出前所未有的多元化局面。5 日晚當選為市議會議長的Ann M. Mahony雖然曾經當選過昆士市市議員，這次卻是離任後，捲土重來，把在位的Scott Campbell從不分區市議員席位上擠了下來。

            袁自強則是在梁秀婷（Nina Liang）未競選連任後，接續成為昆士市唯一的華裔不分區市議員。

麻州眾議員陳德基（左起）和范文南在典禮結束後討論。（周菊子攝）

            其餘的新議員有打敗在位者，當選為昆士市新屆市議員的人有第1區的David Jacobs，第4區的Virginia Ryan，第5區的Maggie McKee，以及第6區的Deborah Riley。因在位者離任出缺而當選的第3區市議員Walter Hubley。

            唯二的2名連任市議員為不分區的Noel T. DiBona，以及在無人競爭中同額當選連任的第2區市議員Richard C. Ash。

昆士市第84屆市議會議員就職典禮有逾百人參加。（周菊子攝）

            這場就職典禮很傳統，有北昆市高中預備役軍校生的儀仗隊表演，女童軍領事，牧師祝禱，也照例有市長柯奇（Tom P. Koch）主持。應邀出席致詞的嘉賓是麻州審計長（Auditor）Diana DiZoglio。

            代表昆士市的麻州參議員John Keenan，麻州眾議員陳德基（Tacky Chan），昆士市前市長費蘭（William Phelan），昆市亞協服務中心執行長(QARI)莊建浩，曾任麻州經濟發展廳商務發展及貿易助理廳長和越助中心（VieAid）行政主任的范文南（Nam Pham），參選昆士市不分區市議員，以及少票數之差落選的安迪（Andy Pham）等人都夾雜在觀禮人群中。（訂正版）

昆士市街頭的聖誕燈飾十分美麗。（周菊子攝）

昆士市議會大樓和對面有“總統教堂”支撐的第一校區聯合教堂中間，
也有一顆聖誕樹。（周菊子攝）

昆市市政府大樓前，還有一顆聖誕樹。（周菊子攝）

麻州長下令降半旗 向執勤遇難的Uxbridge警察致意

 Governor Healey Orders Flags at Half-Staff in Honor of Uxbridge Police Officer Stephen LaPorta  

BOSTON – Today, Governor Maura Healey ordered flags to be flown at half-staff at all state buildings in honor of Uxbridge Police Officer Stephen LaPorta, who was killed early this morning in the line of duty.  

“I am heartbroken over the news of Officer Stephen LaPorta’s passing. He knew he was headed into a dangerous situation when he responded to the scene of a multi-vehicle crash, but like all of our officers do day in and day out, he put the public’s safety first – and he tragically made the ultimate sacrifice. My prayers are with his loved ones, the Uxbridge Police Department, and our brave law enforcement and public safety officials all across the state. I ask Massachusetts residents to take a moment today to reflect on the bravery of Officer LaPorta and thank members of law enforcement for all that they do to keep us safe.” 

FORMER U.S. SECRETARY OF LABOR MARTY WALSH ENDORSES DAN KOH

 FORMER U.S. SECRETARY OF LABOR MARTY WALSH ENDORSES DAN KOH

“Dan’s the get-it-done leader that we need in Congress,” says Walsh.

 

 

Andover, MA – In a surprising turn of events that will utterly shock the Massachusetts political scene, former U.S. Secretary of Labor and former Mayor of Boston Marty Walsh announced his endorsement of Dan Koh in the Massachusetts 6th Congressional District primary. 

 

"I’ve been in the fights that count — labor battles, city budgets, standing up to those who think they can hurt our democracy. Dan Koh has been with me through it all, from Boston City Hall to the Department of Labor. Dan is the real deal. When he worked for me, I saw firsthand how he fights — for working families, for fairness, for a government that actually shows up for people instead of selling them out. Dan’s the get-it-done leader that we need in Congress," Secretary Walsh said.

 

As a dad raising his two children in Andover, Dan’s fight for Massachusetts families is personal. He admires Secretary Walsh’s long career providing for communities across the Commonwealth and across the nation.

 

 

“I am just so grateful for the endorsement from my friend, Secretary Walsh,” Koh said. “We worked closely together for many years. So much of what I know about strong leadership and public service, I learned from the Secretary. Through it all, from the streets of Boston, to the hallways of the Department of Labor, to union halls and neighborhoods across the country, his confidence in me has never wavered. We’re so fortunate to have his support in this race.”

 

Koh’s campaign has gained critical momentum thanks to the support of over a dozen local community leaders, over ten union locals, and Vice President Kamala Harris, while raising a record-breaking $2M+ in its first fundraising quarter, a record for an MA House campaign.

Governor Healey Modernizes Seaport Economic Council to Strengthen Massachusetts’ Maritime Economy

Governor Healey Modernizes Seaport Economic Council to Strengthen Massachusetts’ Maritime Economy 

Executive order updates Council mission and membership; new members announced alongside more than $16 million in Seaport Economic Council grants 

BOSTON — Today, Governor Maura Healey announced a series of actions to strengthen Massachusetts’ maritime economy and support the long-term vitality of the state’s waterfronts and harbors. Governor Healey signed an Executive Order reconstituting the Seaport Economic Council, updating the Council’s mission and membership to better support economic growth, coastal resilience and working waterfronts across the state’s 78 coastal communities. During a meeting of the Council at the Menino Convention Center during the New England Boat Show in Boston today, Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll, Chair of the Council, also swore in new Council members and celebrated $16.7 million in FY26 Seaport Economic Council grant recommendations. 

The 2024 Mass Leads Act included a $100 million reauthorization of the Seaport Economic Council. Together, these actions reinforce the Administration’s commitment to a strong, resilient blue economy that supports local jobs, tourism and ecosystem health while positioning Massachusetts to meet its climate resiliency goals. From commercial fishing and marine transportation to port infrastructure, coastal tourism, and emerging maritime industries, these investments help modernize supply chains, strengthen local economies, and ensure coastal communities are prepared for the impacts of climate change and sea-level rise. 

“Massachusetts is a maritime state, and our ports, harbors and working waterfronts are essential to our economy and our communities,” said Governor Maura Healey. “That’s why we’re taking action to ensure the Seaport Economic Council is positioned to meet today’s challenges—supporting good jobs, modernizing coastal infrastructure and helping our coastal communities grow while planning for climate resilience and long-term sustainability.” 

“Coastal communities are on the front lines of economic opportunity and climate change,” said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll, Chair of the Seaport Economic Council. “By updating the Council’s mission and bringing in new voices from across the maritime economy, we’re strengthening our partnership with local leaders and ensuring state investments reflect the real needs of our ports, waterfronts, and coastal towns.” 

“The reconstituted Council brings together the right mix of local, industry, and technical expertise to help us make smart, coordinated investments,” said Economic Development Secretary Eric Paley, Vice Chair of the Seaport Economic Council. “This structure allows us to better align state programs, capital funding, and regulations with the economic realities of coastal communities and the businesses that rely on our maritime infrastructure.” 

Updated Council Membership 

The Executive Order adds new positions to the Council and streamlines membership to ensure focused, sector-specific expertise that reflects key pillars of the maritime economy, including recreational boating, tourism, fisheries, and transportation.  

Under the Executive Order, the reconstituted Council will advise the Governor and Lieutenant Governor on strategies to coordinate coastal planning and investment, stimulate sustainable economic development and job creation, protect and enhance coastal assets, and better align state programs, regulations, and capital investments with the needs of coastal communities. The Council’s work will also integrate climate resilience and sea-level-rise planning into every investment decision. 

The Council members are: 

• Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll, Chair 

• Economic Development Secretary Eric Paley, Vice Chair 

• David Perry, Designee of the Secretary of Transportation 

• Alison Brizius, Designee of the Secretary of Energy & Environmental Affairs 

• Bran Shim, Designee of the Secretary of Administration & Finance 

• Lauren Gleason, Designee of the Massport CEO 

• Rebecca Tomasovic, Designee of the Mayor of Boston 

• Paul Lundberg, Mayor of Gloucester 

• Randall Lyons, Recreational Boating Trade Association 

• Katy Acheson, Coastal Tourism Trade Association 

• Jonathan Mitchell, Mayor of New Bedford 

• Dominick Pangallo, Mayor of Salem 

• Paul Coogan, Mayor of Fall River 

• Edward Barrett, Fisheries Trade Association 

• Elizabeth B. Simmons, Maritime Transportation Trade Association  

FY26 Seaport Economic Council Grant Recommendations 

In addition to the Executive Order and new membership, the Administration announced FY26 Seaport Economic Council grant recommendations for 21 projects totaling $16,711,204. These investments support communities across the Massachusetts coast through maritime economic development planning projects, port and terminal infrastructure improvements, and enhancements to recreational boating and coastal tourism assets that strengthen local economies. The funding also advances critical dredging design and permitting work to improve navigation, public safety, and long-term coastal resilience. 

The funded projects include:  

• Barnstable: Hyannis Inner Harbor Infrastructure Improvements, $379,000 

• Beverly: Commercial Fishing Hoist Pier Reconstruction, $550,000 

• Boston: Boston Harbor Shipyard Pier 1 Rehabilitation (East Boston Waterfront), $2,400,000 

• Chatham: Boathouse Repurpose: Lifesaving to Learning, $857,049 

• Dennis: Sesuit Harbor Improvements, $1,500,000 

• Fairhaven: Union Wharf Bulkhead Upgrade (NE Wall – Phase 6), $1,000,000 

• Fall River Redevelopment Authority: Northfield Point Improvement Project (City Pier), $964,925 

• Falmouth: Marina Park Upgrades, $160,000 

• Gloucester: St. Peter’s Landing and Marina Improvement Project, $2,600,000 

• Hull: Pemberton Pier Commuter Float Replacement Project, $278,400 

• Manchester-by-the-Sea: Fisherman’s Facility Floating Dock & Pier Repairs, $452,300 

• Newburyport: Boardwalk Rehabilitation Project, $1,492,500 

• Plymouth: Plymouth Town Wharf Improvements, $1,500,000 

• Quincy: Town River Marina Dock Replacement, $200,000 

• Rockport: Old Harbor Dredge Design and Permitting, $250,000 

• Salem Harbor Port Authority: Ferry Terminal Building Design Phase Project, $1,405,670 

• Swansea: Cole River Dredge Design and Permitting, $88,000 

• Truro: Pamet Harbor 10-Year Comprehensive Dredging Permit, $111,500 

• Wareham: Wareham Harbor Plan Update, $112,000 

• Wellfleet: Harbor Maintenance Dredging Permitting Project, $168,960 

• Weymouth: Back River Dredge Permitting and Design, $240,000 

About the Seaport Economic Council The Seaport Economic Council advances the Healey-Driscoll Administration’s support for all 78 of Massachusetts’ coastal communities and residents across the state by leveraging unique economic assets to drive sustainable regional growth. The Council’s capital grant program supports working waterfronts, local tourism, coastal resiliency, and maritime innovation, from the North Shore to Cape Cod and the South Coast. Since August 2015, the Seaport Economic Council has invested more than $116 million in the state's coastal communities.