吳弭市長指派Adrian Jordan接掌緊急準備長

MAYOR MICHELLE WU APPOINTS ADRIAN JORDAN CHIEF OF EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS Matthew Kearney will serve as Deputy Chief; City outlines new tools to mitigate heat impacts for residents

BOSTON - Wednesday, June 5, 2024 - Mayor Michelle Wu today announced the appointment of Adrian Jordan as the City’s new Chief of Emergency Preparedness. With 27 years of experience at the Boston Fire Department (BFD), in this new role, Jordan will lead emergency planning and preparedness as well as communication and coordination during emergency response. The pandemic, increasing cyber-security threats, projected sea level rise, and the accelerating extremes in Boston’s weather and natural disasters have highlighted the need for thoughtful, comprehensive planning in advance of an emergency and clear coordination and communication during an emergency to help Boston and its people manage any emergency or large scale event. Jordan started June 3. “As the world becomes more unpredictable with weather emergencies and intense climate events, Boston must continue to plan and prepare for every scenario,” said Mayor Michelle Wu. “Adrian’s experience and leadership will help our city build an even safer Boston for all residents and communities.” Responsive to more extreme heat earlier in the season, this role and the department has an increasing emphasis on planning for and coordinating the response and recovery to extreme weather events including high heat, severe rain, and major coastal flooding. The office, previously known as the Office of Emergency Management, is being renamed as the Office of Emergency Preparedness to reflect this shifting focus. Chief Jordan will be responsible for developing plans, ensuring their implementation, and leading coordination during extreme weather events.  During his 27 years at Boston Fire, Jordan has gained expertise in technical rescue disciplines. He has worked in hazardous materials, technical rescue, safety divisions within BFD. Additionally, he has served as an instructor for programming run by Metro Boston Homeland Security Region. A Dorchester resident, Jordan migrated to Boston from Barbados with his parents in the 1990s. He is an avid golfer. “I am so grateful to take on this new role as Chief of Emergency Preparedness, helping to advance the Mayor’s commitment to protecting Boston residents from the impacts of climate change. Working across city departments, we are taking an all-of-government approach to climate action,” said Chief of Emergency Preparedness Adrian Jordan. “Former Chief Benford has left big shoes to fill, but I’m eager to get to work to ensure in any emergency event, our residents and businesses are safe.” Central to this role is ensuring that the City has developed thoughtful emergency plans, manages the response to those emergencies, and aids the City, its constituents, and the region in its recovery from emergencies. The Chief works across all City departments to develop comprehensive plans for potential emergencies that Boston may face. This includes ensuring the continuity of operations plans by departments, leading trainings and table-top exercises to test the plans that have been developed, and coaching leaders on how to manage during emergencies. The Chief works with City departments to ensure that residents, businesses and community partners have the tools they need to weather emergencies that may impact the city. This includes managing the City’s emergency notification system, coordinating standards for deployment of flood barriers on private property, and training residents on what to do in emergencies. This also includes developing programs and policies, in coordination with other departments, that help constituents and businesses recover after an emergency. The Chief plays a central role in ensuring that there is coordination across City departments and supporting lead agencies in the execution of critical tasks. The Chief also plays a leadership role in coordinating the Metro Boston Homeland Security Region, a consortium of municipal and state agencies in Greater Boston focused on homeland security and disaster preparedness. As Chief, he will oversee management of the UASI grant and facilitate the Metro Boston Homeland Security Region monthly meetings.  Mayor Wu also announced Matthew Kearney will serve as Deputy Chief with a focus on both operations and resilience. Kearney is a lifelong Boston resident and product of Boston Public Schools, having grown up in West Roxbury and graduating from Boston Latin Academy. He has been with the Office of Emergency Preparedness for over five years holding positions in logistics, planning, and as the Director of Operations. He served for eight years in the Massachusetts Army National Guard, commissioning as a Field Artillery Officer through Army ROTC where he saw the parallels to emergency management and became interested in the field. Kearney is a Certified Emergency Manager (CEM) through the International Association of Emergency Managers (IAEM), holds a bachelor's degree from Bridgewater State University, a master's in Emergency Management from Northeastern University and a master's in Business Administration from Boston University. “I am extremely excited to take on this new role with OEP,” said Deputy Chief Matthew Kearney. “I am humbled to be fortunate of this opportunity to work for the City I grew up in and feel so passionately about.” In preparation for more frequently intense heat, Mayor Wu is taking an all-of-government approach to address extreme heat. Multiple departments are working together to implement a variety of immediate and long-term heat mitigation strategies. This summer, the City will deploy a number of innovative new cooling approaches throughout our neighborhoods to help residents and visitors stay safe and enjoy the summer. This year’s offerings include outdoor misting towers to be deployed at fire stations and parks during heat emergencies and advisories and be set up at Open Streets events. Additionally, the Office of Emergency Preparedness will distribute Pop-Up Cooling Kits with misting tents during heat emergencies and at outdoor events hosted by departments and community organizations and will provide personal cooling kits to residents. The City will install three new “cool spots” at BCYFs Menino in Roslindale, Tobin in Mission Hill and Gallivan in Mattapan, expanding the pilot program to nine locations. These additions will complement the City’s existing network of pools and spray pads found across Boston.  The City of Boston’s Tree Alliance program has also awarded $116,000 in funding to five non-profit partners: Boston Food Forest Coalition, South Boston NDC, Speak for the Trees, Tree Eastie, and WE Tree Boston. These organizations will plant over 170 trees starting in the spring of 2024. The City will also be expanding green infrastructure to support cooling work throughout Boston neighborhoods. This includes the development of cool roofs over certain MBTA bus shelters and retrofitting stamped brick and paved intersections to become planted areas and rain gardens. This work is included in the broader strategy to mitigate extreme heat in Boston as laid out in Mayor Wu’s Heat Resilience Solutions for Boston report. The Heat Plan provides a citywide framework to prepare Boston for hotter summers and more intense heat events. The Heat Plan presents 26 strategies that will help build a more just, equitable, and resilient Boston.  Visit boston.gov/heat regularly to learn more about the latest strategies for staying cool and access the most up-to-date resources available. Each individual, family, and community’s plan may look different: from visiting a cooling center, to accessing one of Boston’s public pools or parks, or requesting a pop-up cooling kit for use at an outdoor event. In all extreme heat situations, please look out for your community, specifically heat-sensitive residents like elders, children, or unhoused people.

僑聲音樂劇社慶85週年 「夢斷香銷」大戲座無虛席

僑聲音樂劇攝四十週年大合照。(黃定國攝)

             

「夢斷香銷四十年」演員謝幕。(黃定國攝)

(Boston Orange 周菊子波士頓報導) 波士頓僑聲音樂劇社6月1日在愛默生學院 (Emerson)派拉蒙劇院推出慶祝八十五週年社慶大戲，「夢斷香銷四十年」。已許久未看過粉墨登場大戲的僑胞們，這天攜家帶眷出席，擠滿全場，興奮之情溢於言表。

中華公所主席雷國輝(左二)代表波士頓市議員Ed Flynn頒發賀狀，恭喜僑聲音樂劇社
85週年慶。社長李伍碧香(左一)和黃國威(右二)代表接受。又一為愛默生
學院政府及社區關係副總裁Margaret Ann Ings。(黃定國攝)

             僑聲社長黃國威，李伍碧香和司儀李盧蓮馨這天，盛裝出席，依序一人負責前台接待，招呼到場觀眾，二人上台致詞歡迎，介紹劇情概要，為大戲拉開序幕。

             「夢斷香銷四十年」是一齣十分受歡迎的粵劇，1953年名為「釵頭鳳」，1978年名為「再進沈園」，1984才改為現名，講述南宋愛國詩人陸游和表妹唐琬哀怨愛情故事。僑聲音樂劇社這天搬演的版本，有5段戲，包括「鸞鳳分飛」、「怨迪雙吹」、「沈園題壁」、「殘夜泣箋」、「再進沈園」。

僑生音樂劇社社長李伍碧香(右)和司儀李盧蓮馨(左)做開場介紹。
(周菊子攝)

                 故事主要內容來自浙江沈園牆壁上的兩首詞「釵頭鳳」，描述自幼父母雙亡的唐琬和姑媽的兒子陸游，青梅竹馬，陸家遂以鳳釵為信物，訂下婚事。怎料婚後唐琬三年未孕，陸母誤信讒言，逼唐出家，命陸游另娶王氏，唐琬因此尋短，卻遇趙士程相救，隨之相嫁。三年後，唐趙兩對夫婦在沈園相遇，陸游感慨題詞「釵頭鳳」後離去。唐琬獨到，情商病倒，和詞一手後鬱鬱而終，四十年後陸游再進沈園，懷想當年，唏噓不已。

「夢斷香銷四十年」中的第一段。(周菊子攝)  

                       全劇共有11名演員，男女主角依序分飾陸游及唐琬的紐約伍國榮，波士頓雷玉霞，。其餘角色由波士頓僑聲音樂劇社演出的有陳豔珠飾妙師，黃偉健飾家院，陳翠秀飾夏荷，陳秀娥飾秋蘭，黃綺玲飾王春娥，以及來自紐約的陳少聲飾鄧歌，靚筱聲飾趙仕程，燕無雙飾鄧嫂，雷國電飾趙仁。

僑聲音樂劇攝社長黃國威(左)在前台發票，何遠光也來幫忙。
(周菊子攝)

             為這齣大戲做現場伴奏的樂師們，包括擊樂趙從斌，莫偉軍，梁宛虹，以及音樂拍和的李美花，黃天佐，王元思，黃煥樓，陳大超，陳大牆，黃琴石，司徒石，甄若茅，伍超平，黃薪文，以及擔任音響，後台，佈景，化妝，幕後，衣廂，攝影，錄影等工作的人，全都印在海報上以示尊重。

             觀眾們許久未看現場演出，這天十分投入。在轉場換佈景時，看著司儀李盧蓮馨穿出一套套亮麗禮服，舌燦蓮花的侃侃而談，幽默比喻，更是不時爆笑，氣氛十足。

             僑聲資深社長黃國威指出，該社往年總在有上千個座位的John Hancock禮堂演出，這次選用的場地只有500

中華公所主席雷國輝 (右起)，財政陳余寶愛，中文書記翁宇才都應邀出席看戲。
(周菊子攝)

多座位，以致票源緊張，許多人向踽，他也很無奈。不過愛默生學院派拉蒙劇院座位更舒適，內部裝潢更精緻，相信出席觀眾都很開心，能在這麼美麗的場地，免費欣賞一齣那麼棒的粵劇，該社斥巨資4萬餘元，的確值得。

李伍綺蓮(左)、曹李秀萍(右)這天都來看大戲。(周菊子攝)

             共同社長李伍碧香衷心感謝樂師們對僑聲劇社的不離不棄，唱家班努力排練，整個劇社有如大家庭，愉快合作的一路走過85年，確實不容易，最重要的是僑團對該社的愛戴和支持。她為自己有機會擔任這個團體的社長，感到很榮幸。

雷玉霞(左)、伍國榮(右)分飾唐琬、陸游。(周菊子攝)

             當晚表演落幕後，中華公所主席雷國輝代表波士頓市議員愛德華費連，頒發市議會議長Ruthzee Louijeune發的賀狀，給僑聲音樂劇社，由社長黃國威、李伍碧香代表領取。僑聲音樂劇社也送上一份表揚狀給愛默生學院政府及社區關係副總裁Margaret Ann Ings。(更新版)

愛默生學院的派拉蒙劇院內部裝潢精緻。(周菊子攝)

僑聲音樂劇攝粉墨登場的演出「夢斷香銷四十年」，觀眾座無虛席。(黃定國攝)

「夢斷香銷四十年」第二段「怨笛雙吹」中的一幕。(周菊子攝)

麻州政府新獲7000萬元聯邦經費 約60萬學童今夏營養無憂

Healey-Driscoll Administration Launches New Massachusetts Summer Child Nutrition Program   

Federal program will bring $70 million to Massachusetts, ensuring 600,000 students and their families have access to food during summer months  

BOSTON – The Healey-Driscoll administration announced today that Massachusetts has received federal approval for its summer child nutrition program. Following the ending of Summer Pandemic EBT (P-EBT), this new child nutrition program will help feed an estimated 600,000 students while schools are closed for the summer. Low-income Massachusetts families with school-aged children will be eligible to receive financial assistance to buy groceries, bringing more than $70 million in federal funds to the state’s economy. 

“In Massachusetts, we are not leaving federal dollars on the table that could support children and families’ food security. In partnership with our State Legislature, we made universal free school meals permanent. And with this new program, we are working to ensure children and families have access to healthy food all year long,” said Governor Maura Healey. “I want to thank the Biden-Harris Administration and Congress for permanently establishing this child nutrition program. Massachusetts is proud to be utilizing all tools available so kids can focus on learning and play, not where their next meal is coming from.”   

“This child nutrition program is a big win because it makes sure children have access to healthy meals through the summer months, when we know families’ food costs increase. It also supports our local businesses, grocery stores, corner stores, and farmers,” said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. “This program is a win-win for everyone in Massachusetts and we can’t wait to hit the ground running.”  

“Contrary to popular belief, hunger is often worst during the summer months—when kids aren’t in school and don’t have access to school meals,” said Congressman Jim McGovern. “In Congress, I was proud to lead the fight to pass enhanced summer food benefits for kids to give families a little extra help over the summer months. I’m grateful to the Healey-Driscoll administration for working tirelessly to quickly implement this program and helping to ensure that every child in our Commonwealth has access to healthy, nutritious food over the summer.”  

The program, known as Summer EBT, will be administered by the Department of Transitional Assistance (DTA) in collaboration with the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) and local school districts. This new program will complement the Summer Eats program, which provides free meals to all kids and teens, ages 18 and under, at locations across Massachusetts during the summer months. Some students’ families will also continue receiving regular SNAP (federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits. These programs build on the Healey-Driscoll administration and Massachusetts’ food security initiatives for children, including Universal Free School Meals, Food Security Infrastructure Grants, and the MA FRESH (Massachusetts Farming Reinforces Education and Student Health) grant program. 

 “Many students rely on the breakfasts and lunches they receive at school to provide them with nourishment and energy,” said Health and Human Services Secretary Kate Walsh. “This new child nutrition program ensures every child across Massachusetts has access to nutritious food year-round, even when they are on summer break.” 

 “Students cannot learn or play when their hierarchy of needs is not met – when they don’t have food to eat or stable housing. As a former superintendent, I know how important Summer P-EBT was for supporting Massachusetts children and families in the summer months. I want to thank Congress and the Biden-Harris Administration for establishing this as a permanent child nutrition program, which in combination with our Summer Eats program will help children and families access healthy food this summer and for summers to come,” said Secretary of Education Dr. Patrick Tutwiler. 

 Eligible families will receive one payment of $120 per child between July and September, corresponding to $40 per month. Families already enrolled in SNAP, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF; known in Massachusetts as Transitional Aid to Families with Dependent Children, or TAFDC), or some MassHealth plans will be automatically enrolled in the summer child nutrition program and do not need to take any action. Families who are not automatically enrolled can apply for the program directly on DTA Connect between June 15 and September 7, 2024. 

 “When school is out for summer break, hundreds of thousands of students across Massachusetts lose access to regular breakfast and lunch programs, putting them at a higher risk of food insecurity,” said DTA Commissioner Jeff McCue. “Summer EBT will serve as a vital resource for our youngest residents, supplying them with the nutrition they need to learn and grow.” 

 “This child nutrition program continues Massachusetts’ commitment to supporting school-aged children,” said DESE Acting Commissioner Russell D. Johnston. “In combination with Summer Eats, this program will help keep students healthy and ready to play and learn, even while school is out.”   

 More information on the program can be found online at Mass.gov/SummerEBT. 

麻州長提名3人出任地區法院副法官

Governor Healey Nominates Frederick DeCubellis, Gregory Teran and Amanda Ward to District Court  

BOSTON – Governor Maura T. Healey today nominated Frederick DeCubellis, Gregory Teran and Amanda Ward as Associate Justices to the District Court. The nominees will now be considered by the Governor’s Council for confirmation.  

“I’m proud to nominate these three highly experienced attorneys who will make excellent additions to the District Court,” said Governor Healey. “We’re grateful to the Governor’s Council for their careful review of their nominations.” 

"We’re grateful that these three nominees are ready and eager to continue their service to Massachusetts,” said Lieutenant Governor Driscoll. “I am excited to work with the Governor’s Council as they consider these terrific nominees.” 

The District Court Department hears a wide range of criminal, civil, housing, juvenile, mental health, and other types of cases. District Court criminal jurisdiction extends to all felonies punishable by a sentence up to five years, and many other specific felonies with greater potential penalties, all misdemeanors, and all violations of city and town ordinances and by-laws. In civil matters, the District Court hears cases in which the damages are not likely to be more than $50,000 and small claims cases up to $7,000. The District Court is located in 62 courts across the state. 

Governor Healey previously appointed Leo Fama, Francis V. Kenneally, Courtney C. Linnehan and Marjorie P. Tynes to serve as Associate Justices of the District Court. She has also nominated Sarah Kennedy and Edward Krippendorf, who are currently before the Governor’s Council. For more information about the District Court, visit theirhomepage. 

About the Nominees: 

Frederick DeCubellis currently serves as an Assistant Clerk Magistrate in the New Bedford District Court. Prior to that, he ran a successful solo practice in New Bedford for twenty-two years, handling a wide range of civil and criminal matters, and practicing extensively in the District Court. He holds an Associate's Degree from the Community College of Rhode Island, a Bachelor of Arts from Rhode Island College, and a Juris Doctorate from Southern New England School of Law. 

Gregory Teran is currently a public defender with the Mental Health Litigation Division at the Committee for Public Counsel Services, where he represents indigent clients facing commitment, involuntary medication, and guardianship proceedings. He also serves as a Trustee of the Massachusetts Guardianship Association, an entity providing resources and support for professionals and families on guardianship-related topics. Prior to becoming a public defender, Attorney Teran spent fifteen years as an Associate and Senior Partner at WilmerHale, where he litigated complex civil cases in federal courts around the United States. While at WilmerHale he represented Guantanamo detainees in federal habeas proceedings from 2008-2010 and served as an Assistant District Attorney in Malden in 2004-2005. Attorney Teran served as a law clerk to the Honorable George A. O'Toole Jr. in the United States District Court for the District of Massachusetts and is a proud veteran of the United States Air Force, where he served as an officer from 1992-1996. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and a Juris Doctorate from Harvard Law School. 

Amanda Ward is currently an Assistant Clerk Magistrate in the Dorchester Division of the Boston Municipal Court. She previously served as an Assistant Clerk Magistrate in the Middlesex Superior Court. Prior to that, Attorney Ward spent ten years as a public defender at the Committee for Public Counsel Services, providing criminal defense to indigent people. She has also served as an Adjunct Professor at Boston College Law School and a faculty advisor and coach for their National Mock Trial team. Early in her career, Ward served as a Victim Witness Advocate at the Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office. She holds a Bachelor of Arts from American University and a Juris Doctorate from Northeastern University School of Law.  

MAYOR WU, BOSTON CELTICS, & TD GARDEN SHARE WATCH PARTY PLANS, SAFETY PREPARATIONS FOR NBA FINALS

MAYOR WU, BOSTON CELTICS, & TD GARDEN SHARE WATCH PARTY PLANS, SAFETY PREPARATIONS FOR NBA FINALS TD Garden & City of Boston to host first ever watch party at TD Garden

by Chutze Chou BOSTON - Tuesday, June 4, 2024 - Today, Mayor Michelle Wu joined Governor Maura Healey, Boston Police Commissioner Michael Cox, Celtics & TD Garden leadership, and Celtics legend Cedric Maxwell to announce watch party plans and public safety preparations for the upcoming NBA Finals. The Celtics will face the Dallas Mavericks in the NBA Finals starting in Boston on June 6. Mayor Wu and TD Garden President Glen Thornborough announced TD Garden will host its first ever watch party for two Boston Celtics away games: Game 3 on Wednesday, June 12, and Game 4 on Friday, June 14. The full game broadcast will be played in the TD Garden arena. Tickets for the family-friendly events will be $18 (to mark the Celtics’ fight for their 18th banner) and discounted food and parking will be available. Pre-sale tickets will go on sale tomorrow, with general sale happening on Thursday. “This is an exciting time in our city to gather together and cheer on the Celtics. The Celtics watch parties at the Garden will be a memorable and unique way for families and fans to catch the away games and show our community spirit,” said Mayor Michelle Wu. “I’m grateful to our partners at TD Garden and the Celtics, public safety officials, and all working to ensure a fun fan experience.” "We're thrilled to have the Celtics back in the finals where they belong! We're excited to be having home games starting this Thursday night, as well as watch parties at TD Garden for away games,” said Governor Maura Healey. “Our administration is working with our partners at the City and Celtics to make sure this is a wonderful, safe experience for all. Let’s add another banner to the rafters, and another generation of great memories for our state. Let’s Go Celtics!"  “Celtics fans are unrivaled when it comes to their passion and dedication, so we are excited for them to have a space to cheer from Boston while the team is on the road during the NBA Finals,” said Boston Celtics Team President Rich Gotham. “We extend our thanks to TD Garden and the City of Boston for providing this opportunity to bring the community together while supporting worthy organizations.” "We are excited to bring fans together to celebrate and support the Boston Celtics during the NBA Finals," said Glen Thornborough, President of TD Garden and COO of the Boston Bruins. "This is an incredible opportunity for the community to come together at watch parties for Games 3 & 4 and experience the thrill of NBA Finals at TD Garden.” The arena setup for the two watch parties will mirror a live NBA game experience, with Celtics entertainment, merchandise, and concessions. TD Garden’s food concession stands will be open with value items available for purchase. Bar service will also be open. There is no watch party planned for a potential Game 6. More details on the watch parties and ticket sales can be found here.  In addition to the watch parties, Mayor Wu announced Canal Street will be a Finals Hub for the first four games. The Mayor previously announced Canal Street as an outdoor gathering place for fans for the playoffs. It will now be closed again to vehicular traffic for the first two home and first two away games (on June 6, 9, 12, and June 14). This expansion for the NBA Finals games is free and open to the public and allows bars and restaurants to extend their capacity on to the street. As part of the Finals Hub, the Celtics in partnership with Dick’s Sporting Goods will bring the Hoopbus to Canal Street. “As the City Councilor for historic TD Garden and an eccentric Celtics fan, I'm proud that the City of Boston is working in partnership with TD Garden to deliver an incredible experience for residents, where their passion and fandom can come to life while our team is on the road for games 3 & 4,” said District 8 City Councilor Sharon Durkan.  “Many people don’t get the opportunity to experience going to a game at TD Garden, especially during the NBA Finals,” said John Borders IV, Boston’s Director of Tourism, Sports, and Entertainment. “For Mayor Wu and TD Garden to make this opportunity affordable and accessible, the watch parties mark an exciting moment to bring fans together in a unique way.” Boston Police Commissioner Michael Cox shared BPD’s preparations ahead of the NBA Finals to ensure a safe and fun environment.  "As our Celtics lead us into the NBA Finals again, we remind our residents and visitors that Boston celebrates responsibly. We will have additional officers onhand to assist with public safety and traffic congestion. For the first two home games, street closures and times will be similar to other TD Garden events. For the first four games of the series, Canal Street will be closed from 4:00 p.m. to midnight," said Commissioner Michael A. Cox, Boston Police Department. "As far as tickets, we know everyone is excited and would love to watch the game firsthand, but we suggest fans buy from authorized vendors. Secondary sources can be risky and tickets could potentially be invalid or counterfeit."  Attendees are encouraged to take public transportation utilizing the Commuter Rail, the Green Line, and Orange Line diversion shuttle buses to get to TD Garden when possible. The MBTA will have portions of the Orange Line shut down for maintenance work.

DPU Issues Order on Low-Income Solar Access

 DPU Issues Order on Low-Income Solar Access

 The new order provides equitable access to solar energy and affordability to low-income and environmental justice populations 

 

BOSTON — Today, the Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities (DPU) issued an order on the Phase II regulations for the state’s Solar Massachusetts Renewable Target (SMART) Program. The order updates the SMART Program to bolster the state’s ability to reach its 2030 and 2050 Clean Energy and Climate Plan Goals, and, most importantly, increases access to SMART for low-income and environmental justice populations through new community solar programs.  

The announcement of the DPU’s new order comes after the Healey-Driscoll Administration was awarded $156 million for Massachusetts Solar for All program, which will deploy 125 megawatts of solar capacity and provide a 20 percent reduction in energy costs to more than 31,000 low-income and disadvantaged households.  

This order approves several mechanisms that improve low-income customers’ ability to benefit from the SMART Program, including Low-Income Community Shared Solar (LICSS) programs offered by utilities and through approved municipal aggregation plans. The SMART Program, which was implemented by DOER in 2018 and is still overseen by the agency, is the state’s primary program to establish and support the development of solar energy in Massachusetts.  

“With the issuance of the SMART Phase II order, Massachusetts can continue to serve as a leader on solar while keeping equity at the forefront,” said Chair James Van Nostrand. “LICSS is a revolutionary program that provides the tangible benefits of clean renewable energy at lower costs for communities that bear a disproportionate impact from climate change.”   

“The changes to the SMART Program outlined in the Department’s Order are important to advancing the Commonwealth’s clean energy goals.” said Commissioner Cecile Fraser. “With this order, more low-income customers will be able to share in solar’s benefits as we drive down emissions and improve reliability.”  

"The SMART Program changes approved in this order should help low-income customers benefit from community shared solar programs and support further growth for the Massachusetts solar industry,” said Commissioner Staci Rubin. “The Department’s directives to electric distribution companies regarding the cashout rate for solar generation should also demonstrate the important value of solar generation for Massachusetts residents and workers.”  

Barriers affecting low-income customers from participating in the SMART Program include lack of capital or the ability to qualify for financing to directly invest in a renewable energy project, perceived credit risks of serving low-income customers, and challenges developers face in identifying low-income households to participate, including higher customer acquisition costs.  

Many low-income customers are residents of environmental justice areas that have limited access to renewable energy resources while bearing the brunt of health impacts from emissions. DOER analyzed its existing data and found that those who qualified for low-income eligible rates made-up only 2.5 percent of the entire SMART capacity.    

With the greenlighting of LICSS programs to operate throughout Massachusetts, low-income customer participation in generating renewable energy can substantially increase and in the process help lower electricity bills.   

Low-Income Community Shared Solar (LICSS) 

Eversource customers are able to take advantage of the utility’s LICSS program approved by the DPU in this order. The Eversource Community Solar Access Program (ECSAP) includes a simplified billing offering at no cost and an easy enrollment plan to encourage more low-income customer participation. In its filings, Eversource detailed that the ECSAP includes a target of $420 in annual bill savings for each low-income customer enrolled, which totals more than $300 million in direct benefits to low-income customers over the lifetime of the program.  

The Department reviewed National Grid’s LICSS, the Solar Access Initiative (SAI), during the SMART II proceeding and found areas that the EDC could further improve its plan. The order directs the utility to revise its SAI plan to incorporate streamlined and simplified billing, credit, and enrollment structures that will be evaluated in a new proceeding. National Grid’s success in implementing a similar LICSS in New York demonstrates the EDC is well-positioned to implement a successful LICSS program for its service territory for Massachusetts.    

Municipal Aggregation and LICSS 

Direct benefits for low-income customers are now more obtainable. The updated SMART regulations allow new alternative programs for LICSS and community shared solar within municipal aggregation plans, providing more benefits to low-income customers by granting a discounted rate or credit on their energy bills. Previously, communities that had DPU-approved municipal aggregation programs could not offer LICSS or community shared solar programs.

Several municipalities indicated their desire to append their municipal aggregation plans to establish LICSS programs for constituents. The Department will review LICSS program designs for Boston, Chelsea, Newton, and the municipalities operating collectively as Cape Light Compact, and other communities who seek to offer LICSS in a different docket, with the goal of further providing equitable access to clean energy and affordability for low-income communities. In its investigation to establish municipal aggregation guidelines, docket#23-67,the DPU will approach the approval and implementation of LICSS within municipal aggregation plans.  

Customers opting into a LICSS under a municipal aggregation plan will save $5-10 each month on the program. These alternative LICSS programs are also eligible to receive funding through SMART.   

Customers interested in applying to SMART are able to sign up for more than one LICSS program providing more flexibility and rewards.  

Further Updates to SMART 

The new DPU order addresses the of Alternative On-Bill Credit (AOBC) used between solar facility owners and the EDCs. Any solar generation unit that was in operation on or after January 1, 2021, is able to receive a cash out for unused alternative on-bill credits. There are currently 323 solar facilities under SMART that will now be able to receive this cashout. The cashout rate will be consistent with the rate in which the credits were generated.   

Additionally, the order approves rebates for solar developers wishing to use pollinator adders. Pollinator-friendly solar developments help to expand and enhance the pollinator habitats across the state, improving the health of both residents and our crucial pollinator population. Pollinating animals, like bees and butterflies, help sustain our ecosystems and produce our natural resources, but their numbers declined in recent years. The approval for the use of pollinator-friendly facilities will help to provide renewable energy with additional benefits to Massachusetts residents and promote efforts to increase pollinator populations.   

To enhance the development and deployment of energy storage systems (ESS) in Massachusetts, the DPU chose not to limit the charging periods for solar facilities with ESS. The use of solar-ESS facilities is a significant tool that can maximize the direct and indirect benefits to ratepayers while getting Massachusetts closer to its energy and climate goals. The Energy Storage Initiative, which was launched in 2015, is the state’s program to advance ESS by attracting, supporting and promoting storage companies and the development of commercial storage technologies throughout the Commonwealth. Massachusetts has a current ESS goal of 1,000 MWh by December 31, 2025. As of February 15, 2024, the EDCs reported 569 MWh of installed energy storage with an additional 8,806 MWh of storage under development. 

MAYOR WU AND AGE STRONG COMMISSION ANNOUNCE RECIPIENTS OF “EXPANDING ENGAGEMENT” GRANT

MAYOR WU AND AGE STRONG COMMISSION ANNOUNCE RECIPIENTS OF “EXPANDING ENGAGEMENT” GRANT  Thirty-seven community nonprofits will receive $546,403 in total to strengthen social connections and community for Boston’s older adults

BOSTON – Tuesday, June 4, 2024 – Mayor Michelle Wu and the Age Strong Commission today announced the recipients of its Expanding Engagement grant, a city grant program designed to provide funding to nonprofit community organizations to create new or expand current programs inviting older adults to engage more for better physical and mental health. The City is awarding $546,403 in funding to 37 nonprofit community organizations across Boston neighborhoods. This grant is funded by the City’s FY24 Operating Budget and external funds from the Council on Aging.  “Connecting our older residents with more opportunities to build community is crucial to their physical and mental health,” said Mayor Michelle Wu. “It's clear that since the pandemic our older adults face challenges as they try to stay engaged and connected. These investments will help build community for older adults and support our local organizations as they work to expand and build opportunities for our older adults to engage.” This grant program leverages funds to expand social engagement programming for older adults in underserved communities; to serve new consumers who are not already being served by an existing social engagement program offered by the applicant’s organization; and to support recently-started or new social engagement programs. Grantee’s programs will run from now into 2025. "We are grateful for all the partners that work alongside the Age Strong Commission to deliver high quality programming to Boston’s older adults,” said Chief of Human Services José F. Massó. “We know that spending time with others is key to staying healthy and we are fortunate to be able to offer so much variety to our residents." “We’re thrilled to have received so many applications,” said Emily K. Shea, Commissioner of Boston’s Age Strong Commission. “There’s nothing like the benefits of in-person human connection–which is valuable to all people, not just older adults.”  The Expanding Engagement grants announced today range in size from $5,000 to $50,000 and will be awarded to the following organizations: 2Life Communities Action for Boston Community Development ASAP (After School Arts Program) Boston By Foot Boston Project Ministries Boston Public Housing Corporation Buddhist Tzu Chi Foundation Cape Verdean Association of Boston Castle Square Tenants Organization Central Boston Elder Services Dominican Development Center Family Nurturing Center of Massachusetts Fenway Community Center at Viridian Franklin Park AARP Chapter  FriendshipWorks Hebrew SeniorLife La Alianza Hispana LGBTQ Senior Housing Little Brothers–Friends of the Elderly Maverick Landing Community Services Mission Hill Health Movement Nigerian American Multi-Service Association (NAMSA) North End Community Health Committee  Operation P.E.A.C.E. Northeast OutstandingLife Rogerson Communities South Boston Neighborhood House Ethos Temple Israel The Goldenaires of Freedom House The Home for Little Wanderers Kroc Community Center Tunefoolery Music Urban Edge Urbanity Dance Wakullah Street Community Garden Wally's Cafe Student to Student Music Project and Jam Session "The Age Strong Commission's Expanding Engagement grants have made it possible for LBFE Boston to build at city-wide arts program for older adults living in public housing, Creative Connections,” said Cynthia Wilkerson, Executive Director for Little Brothers - Friends of the Elderly. “Program participants explore their creativity and build community with their neighbors through the arts."  "We thank the Age Strong Commission for prioritizing the engagement of our city's older adults and for funding initiatives that foster meaningful connections, such as the conversational ESL program at the Fenway Community Center,” said Mallory Rohrig, Executive Director of the Fenway Community Center. “The Commission's commitment to enhancing the lives of older adults through these vital community programs is truly commendable." The grantee cohort includes organizations specializing in aging, community development, housing, the faith community, and immigrant advancement.  About Boston’s Age Strong Commission For us, strength comes in many forms. Strength of community. Of cultures. Of experiences. Strength to embrace new chapters and opportunities. We believe that Bostonians who are 55+ make our city strong and vibrant. Our mission is to enhance older adults’ lives with meaningful programs, resources, and connections so we can live and age strong in Boston together. For more than 50 years as a Commission, Council on Aging, and Area Agency on Aging, Age Strong provides programs and services to Boston’s older adults, including information and referrals, help with housing, nutrition, health insurance, transportation, volunteering opportunities, events/activities, and more. Age Strong publishes Boston Seniority Magazine, a free monthly publication distributed to over 350 locations.