Governor Baker Declares March “Massachusetts Maple Month”

Governor Baker Declares March “Massachusetts Maple Month”

WESTHAMPTON – March 3, 2017 – Governor Charlie Baker today declared March as “Massachusetts Maple Month” in an effort to support the Commonwealth’s many maple producers and encourage Massachusetts residents to purchase locally-produced maple products. To kick off Maple Month, Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources (MDAR) Commissioner John Lebeaux joined local and agricultural officials at Steve’s Sugar Shack in Westhampton for a ceremonial sugar maple tree tapping. 

“I am proud to recognize Massachusetts’ long-standing tradition of declaring March ‘Maple Month,’ and encourage all residents and visitors to support our local maple syrup producers by purchasing Massachusetts maple products from one of the Commonwealth’s 300 maple producers,” said Governor Charlie Baker.

“Producers throughout the Commonwealth represent an important maple sugaring industry that also supplements the income of many dairy farmers,” said Lieutenant Governor Karyn Polito.  “‘Massachusetts Maple Month’ helps connect consumers with their local maple producers, sustain the industry, and encourages important local economic activity.”

Massachusetts is home to approximately 300 maple syrup producers, including many who are open to the public throughout the sugaring season.  Last year more than 77,000 gallons of maple syrup was produced and Massachusetts maple producers’ sales each year contribute more than $6 million to the Commonwealth’s economy.  The maple industry employs over 1,000 workers and Massachusetts sugar makers steward more than 15,000 acres of woodland.

“Producing maple syrup is a sustainable Massachusetts tradition, as maple producers are good stewards of the land,” said Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) Secretary Matthew Beaton.  “The Baker-Polito Administration supports maple syrup producers throughout the year with state grants, including through the Farm Energy Grant Program and the Farm Viability Program, which have helped maple producers purchase state-of-the-art equipment and technology to advance the production of this natural agricultural product.”

“Visiting a Massachusetts maple operation is a great agri-tourism activity that the whole family can enjoy,” said Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources (MDAR) Commissioner Lebeaux.  “Many sugarhouses serve a delicious breakfast featuring the ‘Taste of Spring’ as well as sell maple products including maple syrup, maple candy and other maple items.  Many also offer sugarhouse open houses and tours. 

“A sure sign of Spring is when the sugar houses are at their busiest producing Massachusetts maple syrup that is second to none,” said State Senator Anne Gobi (D-Spencer), Senate Chair of the Joint Committee on Environment, Natural Resources and Agriculture. “I appreciate the hard working men and women who keep this important agricultural industry going and to all who support them by purchasing maple syrup products.”

“It's always great to have Commissioner Lebeaux come out to Western Massachusetts to highlight our great farms and food producers,” said State Representative Peter Kocot (D-Northampton). “I'm a big fan of maple products and my district produces some of the best maple syrup in the country.”

“Recognizing March as Massachusetts Maple Month is a wonderful reason to get out and visit a local sugarhouse, farm stand, farmers market or buy local shop,” said State Senator Adam G. Hinds (D- Pittsfield), Senate Chair of the Joint Committee on Tourism, Arts & Cultural Development. “Agri-tourism is a growing, vibrant and important sector of our cultural and farm-based economies. There are almost 70 locations statewide open and available that carry local maple products. This recognition supports their efforts.” 

While March has earned the distinction of Maple Month, tapping in Massachusetts can start as early as late January and continue through April. For the best sugaring, nights must be below freezing and days must be above freezing. Everything from the weather, soil, and genetics of the tree can affect maple syrup flavor.   

The Massachusetts Maple Producers Association (MMPA) will hold its 4^th Annual Maple Weekend March 18 and 19, and will feature open house events at sugarhouses throughout central and western Massachusetts.

Go to the MassGrown website and click on maple for a complete listing of maple sugar houses.

Northeastern University's Center for STEM Education to Host Nearly 400 BPS Students for the 71st Annual Citywide/MA Region Vl Science Fair

Northeastern University's Center for STEM Education to Host Nearly 400 BPS Students for the 71st Annual Citywide/MA Region Vl Science Fair

Boston, MA - Friday, March 3, 2017 - Tomorrow, Saturday, March 4, 2017, Boston Public Schools (BPS) will host the 71st annual Citywide/MA Region Vl Science Fair in coordination with Northeastern University's Center for STEM Education. Nearly 400 students from 21 schools will convene at Northeastern University's Cabot Center at 400 Huntington Avenue in Boston to showcase their STEM (Science, Technology Engineering, and Math) projects between 1:30 and 3:00 p.m. "Opportunities with our valued, local university partners like Northeastern University provide an invaluable experience that helps ensure our students are prepared for the jobs of tomorrow," said Mayor Martin J. Walsh. "It is incredible to see students gain education from their research, while also pursuing the opportunity to enhance their interpersonal and presentation skills." Middle and high school students will represent approximately 300 exhibits, as they learn important science and engineering concepts and also how scientists and engineers investigate and make sense of the world. "The Committee is proud of our students for their participation in the citywide science fair," said School Committee Chairperson Michael O'Neill. "Each year, we continue to see fascinating projects that truly show our students' full potential." After competing in their school level fairs, students share their top-rated exhibits at the BPS Citywide/MA Region VI Science Fair, at which they demonstrate and celebrate their accomplishments in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math). "Our students are connecting their creativity and innovation with exhibits that make science relevant to their lives," said Superintendent Tommy Chang. "The science fair is key to providing students an opportunity to showcase their work and be celebrated for their dedication." Competing students set up their exhibits on Friday, March 3rd and go through the safety-check process. The public is invited to the Cabot Center to view the exhibits on Saturday, March 4, 2017, from 1:30 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. "I am always amazed to see the creative projects and questions that students propose," said John Tobin, vice pres­ident of city and com­mu­nity affairs for Northeastern University. "The Citywide Science Fair will be the step some students need to advance their potential and find their passion." At the 2016 Intel International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) in Phoenix, AZ, James Magnasco, from East Boston High School, received the third-place award of $1,000 in biomedical engineering for his research titled: Utilizing Artificial Muscles to Enhance the Human Body. "The Science Fair has a great environment that allows participants to get a glimpse of what it's really like to be a scientist and have a curious mind," said last year's Citywide Science Fair winner, Chelsey Skeete. "Science is a collaborative effort and I highly recommend students pursue that experience through the Fair." Another student, Nadine Han, was one of the 15 young women nationwide, and the only middle school student selected from all of Massachusetts, to compete in the Broadcom MASTERS (Math, Applied Science, Technology and Engineering for Rising Stars) Competition in Washington, DC. The Science Fair awards ceremony will take place on Thursday, March 9th, 2016 at 6:00 p.m. at the Bruce C. Bolling Building in the School Committee Chambers, located at 2300 Washington Street in Roxbury. Light refreshments will be provided beginning at 5:30 p.m. Award winners and their families are invited to attend.

BPDA Board Approves Planning Study Guidelines to Prevent Displacement, Promote Affordable Housing in JP/Rox

BPDA Board Approves Planning Study Guidelines to Prevent Displacement, Promote Affordable Housing in JP/Rox

Over 234 affordable residential units; Downtown Waterfront District Municipal Harbor Plan approved

BOSTON -  Friday, March 3, 2017 - The Boston Planning & Development Agency’s (BPDA) board of directors approved PLAN: JP/Rox, the Downtown Waterfront District Municipal Waterfront Harbor Plan and four development projects at the re-scheduled February meeting. In total the development projects represent 1,713 residential units, 234 of which are affordable, and are valued at $968 million. During construction, these projects will put 2,985 trades people to work and will create 980 direct jobs when construction is complete.

The projects include Tremont Crossing, a $500 million mixed-use project on vacant BPDA-owned land in Roxbury that will bring needed jobs and affordable housing and create a cultural and entertainment destination, including a new home for the Museum of the National Center for African American Artists (NCAAA).  

PLAN: JP/Rox sets new precedent for preventing displacement, creating affordable housing

The approval of the PLAN: JP/Rox guidelines set a new precedent for a collaborative approach to community-based planning. The guidelines approved create a plan to double the existing affordable housing stock in the study area, meaning 40 percent of future development is slated to be affordable. PLAN: JP/Rox has included 40 community meetings, 10 workshops, 13 Advisory Group meetings, and collaboration from a wide range of city departments.

PLAN: JP/Rox was launched in July 2015 in response to calls from the community to study the area covering Forest Hills, Egleston Square and Jackson Square, generally bounded by Washington Street, Columbus Avenue and Amory Street - an area approximately 250 acres in size with over 6,000 residents. With transportation access, parks, a diverse population and culture, the JP/Rox corridor is an attractive place to live and is experiencing significant market pressure for development.

The guidelines lay out a set of strategies to prevent displacement and promote affordable housing, including increased assistance through the City’s newly created Office of Housing Stability, and expanded protections for tenants facing evictions. PLAN: JP/Rox will protect existing businesses and create opportunities for new ones, create guidelines for urban design, and provide suggestions for improvements to transportation, connections, open space, sustainability, and the public realm for the Washington Street and Columbus Avenue corridors.

The Walsh Administration has made nearly $100 million in funding available to create affordable housing. Nearly 20 percent of Boston's housing stock is deed-restricted affordable housing (30% for the study area), which is among the highest shares in the nation. The guidelines approved Thursday represent one of the most progressive planning documents in the country. Over the next several months, the process will begin to codify the guidelines into zoning. PLAN: JP/Rox will be a living document that will need the continued engagement of the community to track progress towards desired goals.

Municipal Harbor Plan for the Downtown Waterfront District will enhance public access, use of waterfront

The approval of the Downtown Waterfront District Municipal Harbor Plan (MHP) sets forth a plan for future development to enhance public access and use of the waterfront, support water dependent uses, as well as to protect and activate the Rose Kennedy Greenway.

The comprehensive, community-based planning process started in March 2013, and has included 40 public meetings and two working sessions, walking tours and community workshops, and two public comment periods. Public comments shaped the final plan.

This MHP includes flexible development standards for two key parcels: (1) the Harbor Garage site, where a new structure up to 600 feet tall and with 50 percent of the project site as open space replaces the existing 70-foot high structured parking garage that provides virtually no open space; and (2) The Hook Wharf site, where the temporary home of the James Hook Lobster Company will be replaced with a new structure up to 305 feet tall, with 30 percent of the lot coverage as open space.

Projects in the Downtown waterfront planning area will contribute over $11.5 million for offsite investments in public realm and watersheet activation infrastructure. The projects will also support a $500,000 design and use planning process that will provide guidance for new and enhanced public realm including conversion of the Chart House parking lot to open space and coordinating with the New England Aquarium’s “Blue Way”.

The projects will also lead to better public access via Harborwalk and improved views and connectivity of the Rose Kennedy Greenway to Boston Harbor. Furthermore, Chapter 91 license fees will be used to fund programming and maintenance of open space and to support water transportation throughout the inner harbor and to the Harbor Islands. The MHP will now go to the Massachusetts Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs for approval.

Development Projects

Years in the making, Tremont Crossing (Parcel P-3) project moves forward with BPDA approval

Live: 727 total units of housing, 102 affordable units with a range of affordability, workforce housing, and Section 8 townhomes
Work: 1,519 permanent jobs, 650 office jobs, 799 retail jobs including destination retail and Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) opportunities, and 2,000+ construction jobs
Connect: 436,000 square feet of cultural, retail, and entertainment space including the expanded National Center of African American Artists, a mix of destination and neighborhood retail, and a new pedestrian plaza

After nearly two decades of thoughtful and productive community process alongside the Roxbury Strategic Master Plan Oversight Committee (RSMPOC), the Tremont Crossing project was approved by the BPDA board. Located along the south side of Tremont Street, just west of Ruggles Street, the proposed project is set to include office space, the National Center of African American Artists museum, retail space, a parking garage, two residential towers, and townhomes. Once complete, the project will not exceed a total of 2,235,272 square feet.

The Tremont Crossing project will generate 727 total units of housing, 102 of which will be designated as affordable with a range of affordability. The BPDA board voted to approve that the affordable units must be comparable in size, design, and quality to the project’s market rate units. Meaning that the affordable units cannot be stacked or concentrated on the same floors and that these units must be consistent in bedroom count with the project as a whole.

This project will also generate a number of public benefits in addition to the vast housing opportunities and construction of the National Center of African American Artists museum, including: the rehabilitation of the Good Shepherd Church, job training programs, community meeting space, a 20 year commitment to funding for the Alice Taylor Housing development and Whittier Apartments, rent contribution for local entrepreneurs for 15 years, approximately $3,252,417 to the Neighborhood Housing Trust and approximately $651,263 to the Neighborhood Jobs Trust.

The construction of the Tremont Crossing project is estimated to generate 2,000 construction jobs over a 30 month period. Once complete, the project is estimated to create 1,519 permanent jobs made up of 650 office jobs, 799 retail jobs, 10 residential management jobs, 10 museum jobs, and 50 jobs directly related to the project site.

Harrison Albany Block approval to revitalize vacant South End buildings; yield cultural and office space, housing

Live: 65 affordable units, $13 million payment to the Inclusionary Development Policy Fund
Work: 1,350 construction jobs, 290 permanent jobs, 80,000 square feet of office space, 2,600 square feet designated as Affordable Cultural Space
Connect: LEED Silver certifiable, installation of up to two Hubway Stations, 485 bike storage spaces

The Harrison Albany Block project site is located in the South End within a quarter mile of several MBTA bus stops, multiple bus routes, and within one mile of the MBTA Red Line, Orange Line and Commuter Rail service. The project site is currently inhabited by five buildings, four of which are vacant, as well as a large surface parking lot.

The proposed design for the project is based on four main buildings, each containing a mix of uses. Two of the buildings will include 600 residential rental units with the potential for a portion of these units to be used as artist live/work units. These buildings will also include 8,600 square feet of ground floor retail and affordable cultural space with a two-level parking garage constructed beneath. Two of the existing buildings will be renovated to create new office, medical, and retail space, along with 50 residential rental units.

In addition to the renovation of underutilized buildings and the creation of new cultural space, this project will also yield $500,000 for short and long term transportation infrastructure improvements for the South End neighborhood.

370-380 Harrison Avenue approval brings $400K toward transportation infrastructure improvements

Live: 251 market rate units, 63 affordable units, publicly accessible new mid-block connector
Work: 400 construction jobs, 40 retail jobs, 425 square feet designated as Affordable Cultural Space
Connect: LEED Silver certifiable, $400,000 toward transportation infrastructure improvements, creation of a public benefits fund

The 370-380 Harrison project will sit on the former Quinzani’s Bakery site and the former Ho Kong Bean Sprout Co. site. The project will include the construction of a 356,500 square foot, 14-story mixed use building facing Harrison Avenue and extending between Traveler and East Berkeley Street.

Once complete, the project will include up to 314 residential units with a mix of 218 rental and 96 condominium units, up to 8,500 square feet of ground floor retail space, and up to 180 off-street parking spaces in a below grade parking garage.

Through collaboration with the Boston Transportation Department (BTD), BPDA staff have established that this project will provide $400,000 for transportation infrastructure improvements planned for the South End neighborhood. In addition, a $250,000 public benefits fund will be established through the BPDA.

317 Belgrade Avenue approval brings housing, retail to Roslindale

Live: 18 market rate units, three affordable units
Work: 24 construction jobs, nine retail and property management jobs
Connect: $7.5 million of investment, two minute walk to Bellevue train station

The 317 Belgrade Avenue project will be located on approximately 9,633 square feet of land in the Roslindale neighborhood. The project was presented to the BPDA board as a four story, 34,224 square foot, mixed use building consisting of 21 residential rental units, 5,980 square feet of ground floor retail, and 24 below grade parking spaces.

The residential units will consist of 18 two-bedrooms, and three one-bedroom units. Three of the units will be designated as affordable units, satisfying the project’s Inclusionary Development Policy (IDP) requirements.

Baker-Polito Administration Presents Green Communities Designation Awards to Northeast Massachusetts Municipalities

Baker-Polito Administration Presents Green Communities Designation Awards to Northeast Massachusetts Municipalities

Three Communities Receive $478,755 for Clean Energy Projects

NORTH ANDOVER – March 3, 2017 – The Baker-Polito Administration today awarded Green Communities designation grants totaling $478,755 to North Andover, Rockport and Salisbury. The awards announced today will fund clean energy projects and they were presented by Lieutenant Governor Karyn Polito in a ceremony at North Andover Town Hall.

In February, 30 Massachusetts cities and towns were designated by the Department of Energy Resources (DOER) as Green Communities, committing to an ambitious renewable energy agenda to reduce energy consumption and emissions. Over half of the Commonwealth’s municipalities have earned their Green Communities designation and 64 percent of residents live in a Green Community. Since the program began in 2010, DOER’s Green Communities division has awarded over $65 million in grant funding to the Commonwealth’s cities and towns through designation and competitive grant rounds.

“The Green Communities program is an excellent example of how state and local governments can work together to save taxpayer money and promote responsible energy policies,” said Governor Charlie Baker. “Our newest Green Communities will now have additional resources to invest in energy efficiency and renewable energy, locking in energy savings for residents and reducing their carbon footprints.”

“Our municipal partners continue to help us lead the way on renewable energy by adopting practices that allow them to reduce energy consumption, while saving money that can be directed to vital municipal functions, like public safety and education,” said Lieutenant Governor Karyn Polito. “We look forward to continuing to provide cities and towns across the Commonwealth the tools they need to reduce energy costs, usage and emissions.”

The Commonwealth’s 185 Green Communities range from the Berkshires to Cape Cod and are home to 64 percent of Massachusetts’ population in municipalities as large as Boston and as small as Rowe. Under the Green Communities Act, cities and towns must meet five criteria to be designated a Green Community and receive funding, including reducing municipal energy consumption by 20 percent over five years. The 30 newly designated Green Communities have committed to reducing their energy consumption amounting to savings of $6,241,862 of energy costs and 2,234,090 MMBtu in five years, energy use equivalent to heating and powering nearly 2,718 homes, and reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 27,641 metric tons, equivalent to taking 5,819 cars off the roads. 

“When Massachusetts’ cities and towns invest in renewable energy and energy efficiency programs everyone wins, from taxpayers savings to a statewide reduction in emissions,” said Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary Beaton. “With these designations, DOER’s Green Communities program continues to prove an effective tool in building a clean, renewable energy future for the Commonwealth.”

“DOER is proud to work with cities and towns across Massachusetts as they take important steps in embracing renewable energy and energy efficiency at the local level,” said Department of Energy Resources Commissioner Judson. “These designations are simply the beginning of an important relationship between the Commonwealth and our municipal partners as we work towards our shared clean energy goals.”

DOER awarded funding for projects in these newly designated Green Communities include:

Municipality                        Award

North Andover                    $169,390

Rockport                              $148,670

Salisbury                              $160,695

A full list of projects funded by the Green Communities program can be found here.

“Leadership and action at the municipal level are essential to our state's success in conserving resources and capturing renewable energy,” said Senate Minority Leader Bruce E. Tarr (R-Gloucester). “Rockport and North Andover are making an important commitment to our future by becoming Green Communities, and receiving significant grant funding to propel initiatives that work for people in each town and will make a difference for our Commonwealth.”

“Congratulations to North Andover and Salisbury on being designated as Green Communities by the State's Department of Energy Resources,” said State Senator Kathleen O'Connor Ives (D-Newburyport). “Both communities have taken important steps in maximizing energy efficiency in their municipal vehicle purchases and in implementing energy conservation requirements for commercial construction, and have committed to further energy use reductions. Their efforts are to be commended.”

“This is fantastic news for the Town of Salisbury” said State Representative James Kelcourse (R-Amesbury). “Salisbury is taking an important step towards a more sustainable future and this grant will enable the town to continue investing in the environment.”

“I am pleased that the Administration is continuing its commitment to establishing Green Communities and has awarded funding to Rockport for its efforts,” said State Representative Ann-Margaret Ferrante (D-Gloucester). “I recognize the importance of this partnership with municipalities as they move toward their goals of clean energy and environmental protection.”

“North Andover's designation as a Green Community is a testament to the town’s unwavering commitment to reducing energy use and initiating projects that will lead to a clean and affordable energy future,” said State Representative Diana DiZoglio (D-Methuen).

Under the Green Communities Act, DOER’s Green Communities Designation and Grant Program can provide up to $20 million annually to qualified cities and towns.  The goal of the Designation Grant Program is support communities’ investments in energy efficiency and renewable energy projects that further the clean energy goals determined by the designated communities.  Initial Designation Grants are based on a $125,000 base for each designated Green Community, plus additional amounts tied to per capita income and population, and for municipalities that provide as-of-right siting for renewable energy generation.

“The Green Communities Program is an outstanding example of the strong partnership that the Baker-Polito Administration and the Legislature have forged with cities and towns,” said Geoffrey C. Beckwith, the Executive Director of the Massachusetts Municipal Association. “Communities all across the state will use these grant funds for innovative programs to reduce energy usage and invest in renewable energy projects, and the benefits will flow to taxpayers and the environment.”

Funding for these grants is available through proceeds from carbon allowance auctions under the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI) and Alternative Compliance Payments (ACP) paid by retail electric suppliers that do not meet their Renewable Portfolio Standard compliance obligations through the purchase of Renewable Energy Certificates. 

MASSACHUSETTS DEMOCRATIC PARTY STATEMENT ON GOVERNOR BAKER'S REVERSAL ON WOMEN'S HEALTH FUNDING

MASSACHUSETTS DEMOCRATIC PARTY STATEMENT ON GOVERNOR BAKER'S REVERSAL ON WOMEN'S HEALTH FUNDING

BOSTON - The Massachusetts Democratic Party released the following statement in response to Governor Baker's pledge to support state funding for Planned Parenthood if the organization sees its federal funding slashed:

“Just because the Governor finally took a stand in support of women's health in Massachusetts doesn't excuse the fact that he already cut over $180,000 from family planning services in December," said Emily Fitzmaurice, Director of Communications. 

“Tomorrow, residents from all over the state will meet on Boston Common to rally in support of Planned Parenthood and the vital healthcare they provide to women and men throughout Massachusetts," continued Fitzmaurice. "Clearly, the Governor reversed his stance today because his operatives know he cannot afford another 'Where's Charlie?' moment after he missed the historic Women's March in January. The grassroots activism we are seeing across the state is making a difference." 

Baker-Polito Administration Awards $11.8 Million in Workforce Skills Capital Grants

Baker-Polito Administration Awards $11.8 Million in Workforce Skills Capital Grants

20 educational institutions receiving first-time awards for equipment upgrades, expanded career and skill-building programs

LOWELL – The Baker-Polito Administration today awarded $11.8 million in Workforce Skills Capital Grants to 32 vocational schools, community colleges, and traditional public high schools, which will use the funds to purchase vocational technical equipment and expand skills training programs for careers in growing industries. Twenty institutions are first-time recipients of the Workforce Skills Capital Grants.

“These investments have a major impact for the educational institutions training our workforce and the students who stand to benefit from enhanced skills and career paths,” said Governor Charlie Baker. “Strengthening relationships between educational institutions and local industry as this program seeks to do is crucial to the success of our communities and Commonwealth as a whole.”

The Workforce Skills Capital Grants program was created by the Baker-Polito Administration last year to assist educational institutions in demonstrating partnerships with industry and aligning curriculum and credentials with local businesses’ demand, maximizing planning objectives and hiring or internship opportunities regionally.

“We are pleased these investments are already benefitting students and adult learners across our Commonwealth,” said Lt. Governor Karyn Polito. “The training students receive on the most up-to-date equipment purchased with these grants makes all the difference to them when they go into the workplace.” 

To date, the Baker-Polito Administration has awarded more than $24 million in Workforce Skills Capital Grants to 63 different institutions, improving programs that impact more than 7,100 students per year. The economic development bill signed by Governor Baker last year includes $45 million for the awards over the next three years to increase the capacity and quality of vocational educational programs.

Governor Baker today visited Greater Lowell Technical High School to announce the latest round of grant awardees. Greater Lowell Technical received $466,000 to create an Agile Digital Fabrication/Maker Space where high school and adult education students will engage in technological experimentation, hardware development, and idea prototyping.

The Governor was joined by the Workforce Skills Cabinet he established shortly after taking office, consisting of Labor and Workforce Development Secretary Ronald L. Walker, II, Education Secretary James Peyser, and Housing and Economic Development Secretary Jay Ash. The Cabinet, which seeks to align education, workforce and economic development strategies and improve job opportunities, worked to establish the Workforce Skills Capital Grant Program.

“In the Workforce Skills Cabinet, we are focused on making sure residents have access to education and training that aligns with industry demand so all Massachusetts residents have an opportunity to be successful,” said Labor and Workforce Development Secretary Ronald L. Walker, II. “These grants enable educational institutions to partner with local businesses to give their students a jump-start on careers.”

“The goal of these grants is to update capital equipment, expand capacity, and launch new programs at educational institutions in order to create high-quality career pathways for more people across the Commonwealth,” said Education Secretary James Peyser. “These grants give students and adult learners more opportunities to be successful through training, education and experience in fields that are growing and in-demand.”

“The best way to support our local and regional economies, and to grow our companies, is to foster a workforce that is ready for the jobs of today and tomorrow,” said Housing and Economic Development Secretary Jay Ash. “These grants will help us to continue training the nation’s most competitive workforce, by training students on industry-standard equipment and processes, and creating new employment opportunities for students and adult learners throughout the Commonwealth.”

Workforce Skills Capital Grant Awardees:

Blackstone Valley Vocational Regional School District: $500,000 - The school will upgrade equipment used in 12 programs, including health services, manufacturing, and multi-media communications.

Brockton High School: $495,674 – The school will purchase equipment for computer aided design, 3-D printing, robotics, and artificial intelligence.

Bunker Hill Community College: $386,540 - The College will create a new laboratory dedicated solely to engineering.  The new laboratory will make it possible to expand the program’s academic offerings, including the Engineering Transfer Option Associates degree program. 

Cape Cod Community College: $350,059 – Cape Cod Community College will expand the Nursing and Allied Health Learning Center in partnership with Cape Cod Health Care, including $1.15 million in a private match funding.

Center for Manufacturing Technology: $167,296 - The Center for Manufacturing Technology will purchase a new milling machine and add upgrades to existing equipment.  The new machinery will provide capacity to increase enrollment and will ensure students gain experience with state-of-the-art equipment during training.

Dighton-Rehoboth Regional High School: $492,519 - The school will expand a “green” lab instructional space. This lab space will contain a variety of “energy” centers that allow students to manipulate interior and exterior climate environments, and these relationships, to a variety of building materials, surfaces and outdoor environments.

Essex Technical High School: $244,219 - The school will provide capacity to expand enrollments in the EMT/CPR day and evening programs.  The equipment will support students to obtain industry recognized certifications that prepare them for jobs as nursing assistants, dental assistants, as well as post-secondary educational opportunities.

Franklin County Technical School: $55,000 - The school will upgrade its welding program to industry standard by purchasing digitalized readout and gauges, safety technologies, and instructional equipment.  The funds will be matched dollar-for-dollar by the schools’ member towns.

Gloucester High School: $499,634 – Gloucester High School will revamp its machine technology program by updating equipment to industry standards. The equipment will also be integrated into computer science, CAD, robotics, and engineering classes.

Greater Lowell Technical High School: $466,000 – The school will create an Agile Digital Fabrication/Maker Space where high school and adult education students will engage in technological experimentation, hardware development, and idea prototyping. This space will provide high production, finish level, and product design 3D printing capability.

Greenfield Community College: $496,113 – The college will upgrade its Manufacturing and Engineering Science, Engineering Technology, and Computer Science and Networking programs. New equipment will be purchased for the advanced manufacturing computer lab, acoustic engineering lab, as well as a coordinate measuring machine, electrical controls, materials testing, and CNC simulation and 3D printing equipment.

Lower Pioneer Valley Educational Collaborative: $410,230 - The educational collaborative will  integrate the Graphics and Visual Design programs, allowing students to explore and understand the entire industry continuum from design to press and online production.

Lynn Vocational Technical Institute: $333,293 – The school will modernize its current Advanced Manufacturing-Machine Technology program, as well as create a new Information Technology program. These new high-level skills training programs will be offered to high schools students and adult learners. Additionally, the programs will serve as a resource to introduce younger students in middle school to career pathways.

MassBay Community College: $318,547 – Mass Bay Community College will purchase equipment to train students in engineering, advanced manufacturing, nursing, emergency medical services, and automotive technology career fields. Students in these programs represent not only traditional college-aged students, but are also unemployed and underemployed adult workers, career-changers, and others seeking new skill sets.

Massasoit Community College: $500,000 - The College will purchase equipment for an updated engineering lab that supports four engineering degree options: chemical, civil, electrical and mechanical program tracks.

McCann Technical School: $131,976- The school will upgrade equipment for the carpentry, electrical, and machine programs.  The equipment will support students to prepare to take the MACWIC Level I certification examinations.

Medford Technical High School: $500,000 – The school will expand the existing Culinary Arts, Engineering, Robotics, and Metal Fabrication programs and add a Hospitality program. As part of this expansion, the Culinary Arts and Hospitality program will double the size of its space and add a full-service dining room, executive conference center, café, and commercial kitchen.

Middlesex Community College: $489,750 – The College will increase capacity and improve equipment in computer science, engineering, and engineering tech/CAD programs. Students prepare for Certified Computer Examiner (CCE) exams, and graduates may transfer to bachelor degree programs.

Minuteman High School: $500,000 – The high school will increase machining and ancillary training simulator capacity used to teach Advanced Manufacturing.  The new equipment will support student instruction in bio-manufacturing, digital fabrication, precision measurement, and quality control.

Montachusett Regional Vocational Technical School: $435,857 – The school will build upon its existing machine technology program capacity by adding two certificates, outfit a quality control lab, and offer evening courses. The equipment will support the school in becoming one of the first NC3 Manufacturing Certification Centers in Massachusetts.

Mount Wachusett Community College: $340,781 – The College will purchase equipment needed for a simulated veterinary technician training laboratory. Students will benefit from simulator-based instruction, and the discipline of a sterile classroom environment focused on animal anatomy and physiology prior to interacting with live animals during their clinical and internship rotations.

Nashoba Valley Technical High School: $500,000 – The school will create an innovative training environment with a specific focus on collaborative robots (collabots) for students in the Robotics & Automation program.  Equipment will also serve as an instructional resource for students in the Engineering, Biotechnology, and Manufacturing programs.  New equipment will provide capacity for students to become certified in the Manufacturing Skills Standards Council production technician program as well as Fanuc’s collaborative robot system.

North Shore Community College: $111,455 - The College will purchase equipment to create a health care technical education program, including a universal health lab at the Lynn campus. The lab will be used for various degree, and workforce training health care certification programs, such as Certified Nurse Assistant/Home Health Aide, Dental Assistant, EKG Technician, and Phlebotomy.

Northern Essex Community College: $500,000 – The College will launch a new Advanced Manufacturing program in Mechatronics and a new Culinary Arts program.  NECC has developed a partnership with Whittier Regional Vocational Technical High School in manufacturing and with Endicott College to offer a hospitality and culinary arts career pathway. 

Old Colony Regional Vocational Technical High School District: $362,860 - The school district will upgrade both the Machine & Tool Technology and House & Mill Carpentry programs.  The equipment includes both in classroom and portable equipment for use on remote job sites. 

Pathfinder Regional Vocational Technical High School: $235,000 - The school will purchase new equipment for the Machine Technology program, and will offer a new evening training program to provide instruction to the unemployed and underemployed individuals in three countries. The evening classes will prepare students to take the MACWIC Level 1 certification exam.

Plymouth Public Schools: $52,844 – The school district will purchase medical assisting and health assisting instructional equipment including a 'Nursing Anne' patient simulator.  With the equipment, the school will be able to provide instruction to award eight types of industry credentials.

Quincy Public Schools: $74,712 - The school district will establish a new Information Technology Program.  New equipment will help train students for entry-level computer repair, technical and help desk support, and network associate careers.  Students will be prepared to pass the CompTia A+ Certification Edam, OSHA General Safety, and CISCO CCENT industry certification exams. 

The Shawsheen Valley Regional Vocational Technical: $500,000 - The school is conducting a major modernization of its Machine Technology program.  The equipment includes 3D printers, and vertical machining centers each equipped with simulators. 

South Regional Technical School District-Keefe Technical High School: $397,150 - Keefe Regional Technical School will roll out a new Dental Assisting Program, purchasing dental chairs, panoramic X-ray technology, including development capability, Sterilizers and autoclaves.

Whitter Regional Vocational Technical High School: $500,000 -  The school will transform its current Machine and Tool program into an Advanced Manufacturing program to better support regional workforce needs. The school is partnering with Northern Essex Community College, and with the Northeast Advanced Manufacturing Consortium, for evening adult programs.

Housing advocates drop banners across Boston to set the stage for landmark City Council hearing

Housing advocates drop banners across Boston to set the stage for landmark City Council hearing

Boston residents to flood City Hall hearing demanding passage of eviction protections

  
​

Friday, March 3rd, 2017: From the JP/Rox redevelopment zone to the Allston/Brighton neighborhood, housing justice advocates dropped large-scale banners Friday morning, a few days in advance of Boston City Council’s hearing on the Jim Brooks Community Stabilization Act. Banners unfurled from windows and rooftops, and some were displayed at street-level to passing traffic. “Stop Displacement: Pass the Jim Brooks Act” and “Don’t Displace Boston Residents” were a few of the banners’ statements. Banners were displayed on Storrow Drive, Morrissey Boulevard, Brookside Avenue, and other sites across Boston.

  
​
The banner-drops concluded a week of intense debate and fierce battle over affordable housing in Boston's quickly-gentrifying neighborhoods. At the Monday, March 6th City Council hearing on the Jim Brooks Act (formerly known as the “Just Cause” ordinance), homeowners, tenants, and community activists are expected to flood the City Council Chamber to demand the Act’s passage. The Act, named in honor of the late housing justice and disability rights organizer Jim Brooks, is an emergency protection bill sponsored by Mayor Marty Walsh.

​

The Jim Brooks Community Stabilization Act is intended to protect residential tenants against arbitrary, unreasonable, and retaliatory evictions, and to ensure tenants are aware of their legal rights and the available resources to help preserve their tenancies.  

Darnell Johnson, Coordinator of the Right to Remain Coalition including over 40 local community-based organizations, said, "In a city with 67% renters, high foreign interest and outrageous speculation, Bostonians are taking back their city and City Council must act."

A final banner-display is scheduled for Friday afternoon, March 3rd, at the corner of Dorchester Avenue and Hancock Street in Dorchester from 3:30pm to 5:30pm.

WHO is the Right to Remain Coalition?

Right 2 Remain Coalition and partners: anchored by Right to the City Boston in partnership with Boston Tenant Coalition: ABDC, Action for Regional Equity, Allston Brighton CDC, Alternative for Community and Environment, Asian American Resource Workshop, Asian Community Development Corp, Black Economic Justice Institute, Boston Homeless Solidarity Coalition, Boston Jobs Coalition, Boston Workers Alliance, Brazilian Worker Center, Castle Square Tenants Organization, Chelsea Collaborative, Chinese Progressive Association, Chinatown Resident Association, City Life, Codman Square NDC, Community Labor United, Dominican Development Center, Dorchester Bay EDC, Dorchester People for Peace, Dudley Street Neighborhood Initiative, 100% Egleston, Fair Housing Center of Greater Boston, Fairmount Indigo Line CDC Collaborative, Fenway Community Development Corp., Greater Boston Labor Council, Greater Bowdoin/Geneva Neighborhood Association, Greater Four Corners Action, Homes for Families, JP Neighborhood Council, JP Neighborhood Development Corp, Jamaica Plain Progressives, Jobs with Justice, MA CDC, Mass Vote, Matahari, Mattapan United, Neighbors United for a Better East Boston, New England United for Justice, Progressive Communicators Network, Progressive Mass, Reclaim Roxbury, 1199SEIU United Healthcare Workers East, SEIU 32BJ (District 615), Union of Minority Neighborhoods (from Right to Remain Coalition)

WHY the Jim Brooks Community Stabilization Act?

On Monday March 6, the Boston City Council will hear testimony on the Jim Brooks Community Stabilization Act: An Emergency Protection Bill sponsored by Boston Mayor Marty Walsh. Now, renters in privately owned housing can be evicted for no reason when their lease expires, or any time if they have no lease. Under this new law, large landlords and banks would have to give a legitimate reason for eviction. The law would let the City track eviction notices and provide tenants with information and resources to stay in their homes.

Displacement in Boston is widespread -- from Chinatown to Dorchester, East Boston to Roxbury, and Mattapan to Jamaica Plain. Corporate, non-resident and speculator landlords are purchasing homes in these communities, evicting current residents and raising rents to attract wealthier tenants. Cuts in government spending for housing has added pressure to the private rental market. The Boston Housing Authority has a waitlist of 40,000 households for 15,000 units while budget cuts eliminated 1,500 rental subsidies last year.

"The city is in crisis,” stated Kathy Brown, coordinator of the Boston Tenants Coalition, “Currently 35,000 renters have housing costs exceeding 50% of their household income. Almost all, 92%, of these rent-burdened households are very low-income. The crisis is especially severe in immigrant neighborhoods and communities of color.”

Profit-driven development has taken place without regard to those who currently call Boston home. For example, in East Boston, the Boston Redevelopment Authority has approved over 1,000 units of luxury development. The resulting pressures cause rent increases at an average of 30 percent per year. At this rate, only one in 10 current residents in East Boston, the majority of whom are Latino, will be able to stay in this largely Latino immigrant neighborhood.

“As the crisis deepens for renters, low-income homeowners and homeless families, we’re beginning to see the resurgence of a mass movement of renters standing up to say enough is enough,” says Rachel LaForest of the Right To The City Alliance. “At every level of government, from local city councils to the president, the ability of renters and working families to thrive needs to be a central economic justice issue of our time.”  

According to the Joint Center for Housing Studies of Harvard University, 1 in 2 renters now pay more than 30% of their income on rent and 1 in 4 pay more than 50%.  

While renters of all socioeconomic and racial backgrounds are being impacted at historic levels by this crisis, communities of color, women and families with children are being displaced and targeted at disproportionate levels. One in five Black women report being evicted at some time in their life, compared to 1 in 15 white women and 1 in 14 renters overall, according to Matthew Desmond, author of Evicted. Further according the report “Evicting Children” published by Harvard University, nationally the “probability of a household with children to receive an eviction judgment is about .17 higher” than those without children.”

Exposing the escalating rate of evictions and displacement happening in Boston’s poor and working-class neighborhoods, thousands of residents and community leaders from across the city took part in Right to Remain actions all year long to bring this to the attention of Boston City Council.

The Jim Brooks Community Stabilization Act Hearing follows a series of 3 prior hearings - 1) Corporate Landlords and Displacement, and introduction of JCE in Oct 2014, 2.) part 1 April 2015 and 3) part 2 March 2016 both of which were sponsored by Councilor Jackson and presided over by Councilor Baker (as head of the housing committee) then by Councilor Baker with Zakim presiding (new housing chair). Part I examined displacement associated with increasing corporate landlord ownership and luxury development in Boston. The Council had opportunity to explore and understand how the housing crisis has developed from one of foreclosure & blight, to one of rental speculation & gentrification. The focus was on testimony by community members directly affected by displacement as the best experts on the problem.  This hearing featured the example of a particularly egregious corporate landlord, City Reality, who has profited off the foreclosure crisis and was causing widespread displacement.  Part II progressed to examine community-generated solutions to the problem of displacement, and the response of the City to both the problems presented in Part I and the solutions presented in Part II. Grounded in the lived experiences of directly-affected residents, the people of Boston demanded that the City shift focus to concrete proposals on stopping displacement. Advocates presented, City officials testified, and a representative of the real estate industry spoke. Part III focused specifically on Just Cause Eviction and was space for both sides to present to the Council reasons for this bill.   

After a year of lobbying efforts and community meeting and assemblies, late in December 2016 Mayor Walsh stepped up and out as sole and lead sponsor filing a re-tooled and  renamed JCE "Petition for a Special Law Re: The Jim Brooks Community Stabilization Act."

In Jan 2017 Mayor Walsh was required to refile the bill due to inactivity with City Council. Advocates pushed the council and March 6, 2017 Boston City Council will finally hold a hearing on the bill presided over by Councilor Flaherty (as head of the government operations committee).

AG HEALEY REMINDS PUBLIC SCHOOLS ABOUT LAWS REQUIRING EQUAL ACCESS TO EDUCATION REGARDLESS OF IMMIGRATION STATUS

(45 k)

AG HEALEY REMINDS PUBLIC SCHOOLS ABOUT LAWS REQUIRING EQUAL ACCESS TO EDUCATION REGARDLESS OF IMMIGRATION STATUS

AG HEALEY REMINDS PUBLIC SCHOOLS ABOUT LAWS REQUIRING EQUAL ACCESS TO EDUCATION REGARDLESS OF IMMIGRATION STATUS

AG Issues Advisory to Local School Districts that will be Distributed by the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education

BOSTON – Attorney General Maura Healey today issued an advisory reminding local public school districts of their obligation under state and federal law to provide all students with equal access to primary and secondary education, irrespective of citizenship or immigration status.

            The advisory has been posted on the AG’s website and will be distributed by the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education to school officials this week.

“In Massachusetts and across this country, we open our schools to all children because that is how we build a productive, educated, and safe society,” said AG Healey. “In light of the current climate around matters of immigration, parents should not be afraid to send their children to school. I am glad to partner with our local schools to ensure that all children receive an education free from discrimination.”

“I am proud of our educators’ commitment to providing all students with a safe learning environment. Educating and supporting all students strengthens our communities and our Commonwealth as a whole,” said Massachusetts Elementary and Secondary Education Commissioner Mitchell Chester. “I am happy to work with the Attorney General to share this guidance.”

Under state and federal law, state educational agencies and local school districts must provide all elementary and secondary students with equal access to public education—irrespective of race, color, sex, gender identity, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, disability, or immigration status. Those laws include the Massachusetts Student Anti-Discrimination Act, the Massachusetts Anti-Bullying Law, and Title IV and Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.

Enrollment practices that single out students based on their actual or perceived citizenship or immigration status (or that of their parents or guardians) violate state and federal law. Equal access to public education means not only the right to enroll in school, but also the right to an education free from unlawful discrimination and harassment.         

In addition to the various applicable state and federal laws, in the case Plyler v. Doe, the U.S. Supreme Court held that public elementary and secondary schools may not deny any child residing in the applicable jurisdiction access to public education—whether the child is present in the country legally or not. This case made clear that a child’s immigration or citizenship status is not relevant to the child’s right to a public education.