SouthBoston
The Worrell Plan To Hike Taxes On Luxury Apartment Buildings Gets Developer Backlash
Councilor Brian Worrell released a plan that calls for raising the tax rate on large and/or luxury apartment buildings and lower tax bills for the “average” Boston homeowner and small landlord, as reported by Cameron Sperance in boston.com.
A Boston city councilor wants to lower the annual real estate tax for homeowners and small landlords, but homebuilders argue the plan would be a death knell for housing creation in Boston at a time when
developers are already turned off by the rising cost of doing business in New England’s largest city.
Councilor Brian Worrell released a plan late last week that calls for raising the tax rate on large apartment buildings of 30 units or more or luxury properties, the Boston Herald first reported. While the plan would raise the tax bill on large apartment building owners, Worrell said his plan would mean a lower tax bill for the “average” Boston homeowner
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When SNAP Benefits Are Cut, Neighborhoods Like South Boston Pay the Price
lies already balancing tight budgets. Nationally, food banks and pantries serve as a safety net when SNAP isn’t enough, or when it’s cut back. In Massachusetts, the Greater Boston Food Bank (GBFB) works with hundreds of partner agencies across the region to fill those gaps. (The Greater Boston Food Bank)
In South Boston, the safety net exists, but it’s already stretched and it’s vulnerable. For example:
• At the South Boston Community Health Center Food Pantry (409 West Broadway), the service is open to active patients on Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
In Massachusetts, the specter of cuts to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) isn’t a distant policy discussion, it’s a very real threat to the wellbeing of families, seniors, and neighbors here in communities like South Boston. When federal funding is
interrupted, the impact is immediate and the local ripple effects are profound. For many residents, SNAP is more than a convenience, it is a critical support. When benefits are reduced or delayed, the consequences are severe: increased food insecurity, strain on local nonprofits, and added pressure on fami-
• The Fourth Presbyterian Church Food Pantry (340 Dorchester St.) is by appointment every other Tuesday.
• The St. Monica’s Food Pantry (331 Old Colony Ave) also offers groceries by appointment, Thursday and Friday.
These pantries play a critical role yet they must operate within limited hours, and many clients must coordinate calls or appointments to access them. A cut
in SNAP benefits would likely increase demand at these services. Resources would be further stretched, fresh produce may become scarcer, and those already vulnerable may face months of additional pressure.
When SNAP benefits shrink, it’s not just individuals who feel the strain.
• Grocery stores in the area may see fewer purchases by SNAP recipients, reducing overall local economic activity.
• Food pantries and mobile markets in South Boston will likely see increased traffic, which in turn demands more donations, volunteers, and funding to keep up.
• Schools, senior centers, and community health programs may see greater need for referrals, weekend meal bags, or emergency food packs as families adjust to lower benefits.
• Families may be forced to make hard decisions— between paying rent, utilities, or buying fresh, healthy food. Food insecurity can lead to worse health outcomes and higher longterm costs in health care and social services.
Policymakers, local, state, and federal, must ensure that SNAP remains fully funded and resilient during times of political gridlock. Financial stability for the program is essential. At the same time, community partners in South Boston must be supported: volunteers, food drives, networked mobile markets, and direct outreach to help residents access both SNAP and food-pantry resources.
When SNAP is under threat, South Boston’s most vulnerable are at risk. Leaders must move past blame and focus on solutions: ensuring uninterrupted access to vital benefits and strengthening the local food-assistance network. For the rest of us, neighbors, business owners, volunteers, this is a call to action: to support our local food pantries, donate or volunteer when possible, and advocate for policy that protects food security. Because when benefits are cut, it’s not an abstract policy issue, it’s our community, our neighbors, our families who bear the burden. And in South Boston, we must not let that happen.
SBT Staff Report
AInformation Center The
s most Americans know, one of the most, if not THE most dangerous drugs being smuggled in to our country by cartels is Fentanyl. This poison is so potent and dangerous that it is said that even one small dose can kill a person. It has become the scourge of America’s streets in cities and towns and has even spread into rural area. During the reign of the previous Administration, there was so much of this drug coming in to the United States, literally hundreds of thousands of Americans; mostly young, and members of every demographic have died from it. It has destroyed families; including the poor, the middle class and the wealthy. It can be disguised in pill, powder and liquid form and even mixed with less potent illegal drugs. It can be sneaked into a can of beer, a glass of soda, a cup of coffee, tea or a bottle of a kid’s favorite sports drink. They can hide it in a muffin or a burger. It was everywhere and even now to a lesser extent, still is. But the amount making it into our country is being cut down considerably. How? Well, many leftists; some in positions of power don’t want to hear this, it’s because President Trump has all but declared war on the Cartels, the dealers and the street pushers. He has unleashed the military and given them orders to take them out. The cartels have now been declared terrorist organizations and that means the gloves are off. The statement from War Secretary Pete Hegseth couldn’t be clearer. He has warned the Cartels that “If you continue to attempt to bring dangerous drugs into our country we will treat you like we did ISIS. We will find you, map your locations, hunt you and kill you”. And bless the guy, he has
given the order to do just that and it’s happening almost daily.
Surveys regarding this, show that the overwhelming number of Americans approve of this action and in fact are cheering it on. Many are saying they take great pleasure watching the drug carrying boats as well as the cartel members driving them get blasted out of the water. Said one local reader: ‘It’s like watching a real life video game on the news only better because its real bad guys getting blown up.
Here again, for the most part, the Biden Administration did comparatively little to stop the flow of deadly drugs pouring in. Their priority was letting as many illegal migrants flow into our country. The drugs were coming in by land, sea and air accompanying the millions of illegal’s who were mostly not even being vetted or searched.
As was stated, though most Americans approve of the destruction of the drug boats, there are the usual suspects who demand it be stopped. They insist that it’s probably illegal to blow up the drug boats and kill the cartel members. They aren’t getting their ‘due process’ or had no chance to consult with an attorney. They feel for them; they are after all human beings. Oh, are they? And the best excuse for stopping the attacks is how can the military be sure that they are cartel members and the boats are carrying drugs? They might be fishermen out earning a living. Well, they are out earning a living, but they are obviously not doing so by catching Tuna. Are these political whiners so naïve that they actually believe the excuses they’re making for the smugglers? No, they’re not, not at all. It’s pretty much obvious to most Americans that it’s because President Trump
talk back to John Ciccone by email at jciccone@southbostontoday.com
is having it done. And whatever Trump does they are against. Whether you like the president or hate him, you all know it’s true.
There are literally hundreds of thousands of American families who grieve and will forever grieve the loss of loved ones gone because of Fentanyl and other deadly drugs smuggled in. Many of us take personal, the tragedy and sadness it brought down on our families and want justice brought to the offenders; including those people in power in our own country who enabled the scourge to take place. I don’t mind
admitting that I too take pleasure each time I watch the videos of those drug boats being blown to bits. And I would be lying if I denied that the thought has often crossed my mind that I would enjoy it even more if those in our own country who deliberately turned a blind eye and allowed this all to take place for political reasons were on those boats when they get obliterated. It’s called justice – legal or not and I’m grateful to President Trump for his decisive action. To quote Ted Nugent – “It’s nice to finally have a president with balls”.
Note:
SOUTH BOSTON TODAY John Ciccone
BEACON HILL ISN’T THE ONLY PLACE WITH LACK OF COMPETITION.
City and town halls see it, too Massachusetts already has a reputation for the least competitive legislative elections, as incumbents walk, rather than run, back to their seats. In some cities and towns across the Bay State, the situation isn’t any better ahead of the Nov. 4 election.
The list of cities with uncontested mayoral ballots includes Agawam, Chicopee, Fitchburg, Holyoke, Leominster, Lynn, Marlborough, Medford, Salem, Weymouth and Woburn. (Boston’s on there, too, with Josh Kraft dropping his challenge against Mayor Michelle Wu after he was thrashed in the Septem-
Window Into The State House
Window Into The State House provides our readers a synopsis of important issues of interest, past and current, that are being proposed, debated or acted upon by the Massachusetts Legislature. Many issues that are not related to local city government services are acted upon and have a direct impact on daily life. They are tax policy, transportation infrastructure, judicial appointments, social services and health, as well as higher education. We will excerpt reports from the gavel-to-gavel coverage of House and Senate sessions by news sources focused on this important aspect of our lives. These sources include a look ahead at the coming week in state government and summaries and analyses of the past week, re-caps of a range of state government activity, as well as links to other news.
ber preliminary.)
Elaine Almquist, a campaign consultant, knew anecdotally about the issue of uncontested municipal-level races, but it wasn’t until she worked with Contest Every Race, a Democratic recruitment outfit, that she saw the breadth of the problem.
It’s driven by a lack of readily available information on some city or town websites detailing who is running for which position on the ballot and when residents can vote, she said. “It’s chicken and egg. People don’t know about them, they don’t run, and when they’re not competitive, people don’t vote.”
Massachusetts municipal elections most often occur in odd-
numbered years. Some towns hold elections as early as January, and have a different set-up from cities, with select boards and town meetings. Then there are various obscure boards and panels, like the cemetery commission.
That gives you an idea of the tall task facing Almquist as she looks to create a public, searchable dashboard that would list all of the elected municipal positions and involves chasing town officials for the information. She’s calling it The Local Election Transparency Project and is in talks with Boston University to give it a boost.
Current and former elected officials say that much like with the Legislature, the uncontested races can be a sign of voter satisfaction. And they’re quick to point out instances of competitive elections.
Salem’s mayor, Dominick Pangallo, doesn’t have a challenger, “but we have a really robust set of folks running for city council,” said Lt. Gov. Kim Driscoll, who previously held his job. “I was in Needham yesterday, and they were talking about their school committee race. And so it depends on the municipality.”
Robert Hedlund, a former state senator who served as Weymouth’s mayor for nearly a decade, pointed to a variety of factors. Hedlund stepped down earlier this year, citing burnout and some health issues. Mike Molisse, a real estate agent who was serving as City Council president, stepped in as acting mayor, and now is running for the permanent job without opposition. “Mike’s very popular because he’s been visible, a councilor for 26 years,” Hedlund said. “There’s different ways to analyze the dearth of competition.”
Hedlund added that the electorate isn’t as well-informed as it used to be, and social media carries some of the blame. “The death of newspapers
is a big part of it and the misinformation on social media is a big part of it,” he said. “I think that’s driving the lack of interest.”
What municipal races are you watching on Nov. 4? Drop me a line and I’ll put it on my list: gin@massterlist.com.
FROM BEACON HILL
SNAP SUIT: Nearly two dozen attorneys general, including Andrea Campbell, are suing the U.S. Department of Agriculture, arguing the agency has illegally suspended the Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program (SNAP) and falsely blamed the federal government as the cause. – State House News Service UNIONS BACK RENT CONTROL: Five top unions have thrown their support behind a rent control measure, pledging to help gather signatures for it to appear on the 2026 ballots. The unions include SEIU Massachusetts State Council, UFCW Local 1445, UAW Region 9A, and both the Massachusetts Teachers Association and Boston Teachers Union. – Boston Globe
NEWS NEXT DOOR
SHERIFF DEFENDS SPENDING: Essex County’s Sheriff Kevin Coppinger is blaming state mandates for driving up operational costs in an attempt to defend sheriffs’ offices, which are under Beacon Hill scrutiny. – Eagle-Tribune and Contrarian Boston
BOSTON SCHOOLS: In the first annual “State of the Schools” speech, Boston Mayor Michelle Wu called for business and philanthropic groups to work with school officials to improve the system, which she said is seeing gains in MCAS scores and reductions in chronic absenteeism. –Boston Globe
RESULTS OF REVENGE: State officials have agreed to a $6.75 mil-
Councilor Flynn Respectfully Asks For Your Vote Tuesday, November 4th
It is an honor to serve as your District 2 City Councilor, and I have worked hard each and every day for our residents and community. With multiple challengers now also on the ballot with me this year, I am respectfully asking for your vote again on Tuesday, November 4th so that I may continue to focus on constituent services and advocate for quality of life issues in District 2. Over the last few years, with the help of strong neighborhood advocacy, we were able to share some key victories. These include new Boston EMS & Boston Fire Department stations in the South Boston Waterfront, a new Josiah Quincy Upper School and affordable housing developments in Chinatown, a new Thomas C. Foley Little League Field at Major Christopher Lee Playground in South Boston. We helped to secure funding for the South End Library, reconstruction to Crite Park, and improvements to several others like Titus Sparrow Park and the Peters Park Little League Field. We established the One Downtown Task Force to address public safety concerns around the Boston Common area. Moreover, we were able to preserve Sister Mary Veronica Park in South Boston, and advocate effectively against the impracticality of the bus lanes at both Summer Street and Boylston Street, with each ending over the last year. I advocated for additional Copley Library funding and continue to work with Back Bay neighbors
on public safety quality of life issues, such as the drag racing that took place last year.
Throughout my time in office, I have used my position of public trust to speak out on many important issues impacting the city. As an elected official, my focus has always remained on public safety, housing stability & affordability, social & economic justice, and quality of life issues for our residents and families.
In terms of public safety, I have been a strong advocate of pedestrian safety. I advocated for a 12 point safety plan and held hearings to advocate for traffic-calming infrastructure improvements on high traffic roads, slower speeds and increased enforcement. I’ve held hearings on many other public safety issues in the City of Boston. In addition, I have consistently called for hiring hundreds of Boston Police Department officers every year for the next ten years to address long-standing issues of forced overtime, overstretched resources, and looming retirements.
When it comes to housing, I held hearings during my time in office on affordable housing and the Inclusionary Development Policy (IDP) to help keep working families in Boston. I have held hearings and advocated for property tax relief for longtime neighbors. I also passed an ordinance previously to help our seniors who have fallen behind on their property taxes to pay with reduced interest and on more affordable terms. I continue to advocate for neighbors and civic groups when it comes to zoning and licensing matters at City Hall. Moreover, I have always stood with our working families seeking fair and living wages, affordable healthcare, safe working conditions and a secure retirement. Whether it was United Steelworkers during the National Grid lockout, Unite Here Local 26 at
Marriott Hotels, UFCW 1445 at Stop & Shop or Macy’s, my family and I have always been proud to stand with organized labor.
With accessibility and inclusion in mind, I continue to advocate for improved language access at all levels of our city government. My social media posts are translated into Spanish and Chinese, and I have several women of color on my staff who are bilingual. In addition, I have been working on the issue of digital equity and ensuring that our residents have access to affordable internet and digital resources. I also work closely with the Disability Commission on accessibility for our persons with disabilities.
I continue to advocate at City
Hall when it comes to many neighborhood and quality-of-life issues, including a dedicated Office of Pest Control to provide this public health issue the attention it deserves.
Government serves us best when it takes the legitimate concerns of its citizens seriously. I have not only listened to your concerns, but have taken the lead on issues affecting our most basic government services. I promise to continue to advocate on behalf of the people of District 2, listen to your feedback, be accessible in our community, and work hard to deliver results for all of our neighbors.
Thank you,
Ed Flynn
Boston City Councilor, District 2
and small landlord.
“This is a pro-growth and propeople proposal,” Worrell told Boston.com. “I think if Boston is not more attractive and affordable to people, then we have a bigger problem for developers.”
According to materials released by his office, Worrell’s plan would lower the annual property tax bill for the average Boston homeowner and small landlord by nearly $1,000 while recategorizing apartment buildings with 30 or more units as commercial properties.
The proposal would establish a 10 percent “housing exemption” on commercial properties to reflect the public benefit of housing and create an additional 50 percent affordablehousing exemption for large apartment buildings that keep most of the units income-restricted. The new commercial rate would be phased in for corporate owners of large buildings over three years, and the plan calls for shortening standard taxagreement terms for new construction from 15 years to seven — allowing the city to issue shorter, more
flexible tax breaks for developers.
Advocacy groups including the Massachusetts Affordable Homeownership Alliance, Dudley Street Neighborhood Initiative, and the Massachusetts Senior Action Council praised the plan as a way to stabilize neighborhoods and help longtime residents stay in their homes.
But the development community isn’t convinced that the measure will make Boston more affordable or competitive. Critics of the plan say it would effectively double the tax rate on multifamily building owners.
“Based on the phone calls, text messages, and emails that I have received in the past 24 hours, I think the industry is very confident that if the goal is to stop housing production and investment in Boston, this is the way to do it,” Tamara Small, CEO of NAIOP Massachusetts, a commercial real estate development association, said on Friday. “This would be extremely bad for a city that is facing a housing crisis right now. We need more production. We need more development. We need more investment, and there is no upside to doing this if we want to truly
tackle that problem.”
While the 30-unit threshold is easy enough to grasp, the definition of when exactly an apartment building falls under the “luxury” banner is less clear. Worrell suggested luxury could be tied to amenities like a doorman, elevator, or pool, but he acknowledged a formal definition isn’t set.
The immediate focus, he said, is the 30-unit benchmark, and his office will pair the proposal with seven-year tax agreements aimed at keeping developer interest within city limits.
Any such change would require more than a City Council vote. Because of the state’s property-tax rules under Proposition 2½ and Boston’s classified tax system, the city would need to pass a home-rule petition and win approval on Beacon Hill — the same statehouse path Boston Mayor Michelle Wu had to pursue for her own tax-shift proposal that failed last year.
What’s being debated comes at a time when the Boston Policy Institute projects the city is heading for a $1.7 billion budget shortfall amid the city’s declining office market. At the
Sen. Collins Backs Bill Expanding PAs’ Authority in Involuntary Treatment
Backs giving PAs expanded authority under Section 12 & 35 of State Public Health Law
Senator Nick Collins, a member of the Joint Committee on Mental Health, Substance Abuse and Recovery, recently submitted testimony in support of legislation that would expand the authority of physician assistants to initiate psychiatric holds and petitions under state law. His testimony emphasized the need to modernize the Commonwealth’s behavioral health system by empowering front-line clinicians and ensuring timely access to care.
The legislation, An Act enabling physician assistants to authorize psychiatric holds and ensure adequate training on their use, would expand the list of professionals permitted to initiate a psychiatric hold under Section 12 to include physician assistants (PAs). Senator Collins also urged lawmakers to extend this same authority to Section 35 of Chapter 123, allowing PAs to petition on behalf of individuals suffering from alcohol or substance use disorder.
“Physician assistants are highly trained medical professionals who are often the first to respond when someone is in crisis,” said Senator Collins. “Allowing them to initiate Section 12 and 35 petitions will save lives by reducing dangerous delays and connecting people to care when every minute matters.”
The bill also requires three hours of
end of last week, Wu reiterated a call for the Massachusetts Legislature to repeal Prop 2 ½ and do away with laws requiring municipalities to get permission from the State House to levy new taxes.
Worrell said the goal is to stabilize the city’s finances without overburdening owner-occupants and small landlords who supply naturally affordable housing. He further framed it as a long-term fix that protects homeowners from the ripple effects of falling commercial values.
Developers warn the policy would accelerate flight to the suburbs. Mike Procopio, a Greater Boston builder who increasingly avoids city projects, said it would reduce new construction because most projects “will not pass to a lender’s standards” if they’re taxed at commercial rates. He added that owners would simply raise rents to compensate and that his firm is “killing deals every day over taxes.”
“The core Boston high-rise developers are now out in the burbs,” he said. “Developers are like water. They’ll flow to where there’s the least resistance.”
specialized training for any professional authorized to initiate a psychiatric hold, a provision Senator Collins praised as an important safeguard to ensure these assessments are carried out fairly, accurately, and with proper oversight.
Collins noted that expanding this authority will help fill critical gaps in behavioral health response, particularly in emergency departments and underserved areas where access to physicians and mental health specialists remains limited.
“Our communities are facing an unprecedented mental health and addiction crisis,” Senator Collins said. “We need every qualified clinician ready and empowered to act. Expanding Section 12 and 35 to include physician assistants is a practical, compassionate step toward getting people the help they need.”
Windows continued from page 4 lion settlement, the result of a lawsuit brought by a group of prisoners at the Souza-Baranowski Correctional Center who alleged corrections officers engaged in a “weeks-long campaign” of violence and revenge against them. – MassLive
DOWNTOWN PLYMOUTH: A plan to improve walkability and climate resiliency in Plymouth is facing a delay after a state grant didn’t materialize and federal funding isn’t available, town officials said. – Plymouth Independent
FLANAGAN STABBING: Former Fall River mayor Will Flanagan said he was “inches from death” when he was stabbed last week close to the marijuana dispensary he owns. – CBS Boston
PICK-UP GAME: New Balance’s property development arm has picked up another Brighton property, this one a vacant site next to Boston Landing, where the shoemaker has its headquarters next to a MBTA commuter rail station. –Boston Business Journal
Why Your Vote Matters in South Boston
Drawing from reader feedback and resident conversations, many of you emphasizing how voting shapes our neighborhood’s future, we’ve crafted a few stories and information highlighting civic engagement while introducing you to many of the elected and candidates on the ballot next Tuesday!
Our audience in 02127 is a vibrant mix of multi generation families, seniors, long term residents, new families and young professionals, with a median age of 32.5 and over 68% holding college degrees or higher blending in with long-term residents rich with pride in this community.
These stories underscore our collective power and importance of your vote in maintaining South Boston’s spirit amid national divides. Let’s dive in and focus on who is running, the issues we are facing and the common denominators we can all agree on to keep a town that we can all agree on this is a special community!
Bridging the National Divide
Through Local Civic Duty
In an era of stark national political divisions, red versus blue, progressive versus conservative, South Boston residents can find commonality in something timeless: civic duty at the local level. Feedback from our readers, many young professionals juggling demanding careers in tech and life sciences, reveals a growing frustration with gridlock in Washington. Yet, there’s optimism in turning that energy inward,
toward ensuring city services run smoothly and quality of life remains high in 02127.
Consider the demographics: Our educated, ambitious crowd values efficiency—think seamless public transit, well-maintained parks like Marine Park or Medal of Honor Park and responsive services from pothole repairs to public safety. Voting in preliminary elections isn’t just a checkbox; it’s a direct line to influencing these essentials. We need to make sure that our younger population is as active and emotionally invested as so many of our lifetime and longtime residents are.
Recent resident feedback we’ve gathered: “National news is exhausting, but we can make a difference here by voting for councilors who prioritize our streets and schools,” shares one resident. This sentiment echoes across our community, where newcomers in the South Boston Seaport condos mingle with long-time families. Historically, South Boston’s working-class roots drove high voter turnout, but recent shifts young influxes diluting participation, highlight the need for renewed involvement. By engaging locally, we counteract polarization. Voting ensures equitable city services, like the recent South Boston Community Health Center expansion adding exam rooms for better healthcare access or Sister Mary Veronica Park staying a park for the residents.
Themes familiar to our demographics shine through: work-life balance, community wellness, and innovation. Young voters here, often in high-rises along the waterfront, prioritize green spaces and efficient infrastructure to support their active lifestyles while we are seeing more and more families up at the Point. Getting involved means advocating for buffer zones on issues like cannabis shops, preserving neighborhood character. It’s about upholding quality of life and clean beaches for weekend runs, reliable T service for com-
mutes, and vibrant local businesses for families.
Reader feedback shows many feel disconnected nationally but empowered locally. “Voting here feels tangible. I see the impact on my daily life,” reads one text from a resident. This civic re-awakening can counter low turnout trends.
Be Active! Reach out to your elected, call 311 and head to the polls this preliminary election, your vote safeguards something we can all agree on…the Southie we love.
Do you think your vote doesn’t matter?
• 1800: Thomas Jefferson was elected President by one vote in the House of Representatives after a tie in the Electoral College.
• 1824: Andrew Jackson won the popular vote but lost the presidency by one vote in the House of Representatives to John Quincy Adams following an Electoral Col -
lege deadlock.
• 1876: The presidential election between Rutherford B. Hayes and Samuel Tilden was decided by one vote in the Electoral Commission, securing Hayes’ victory.
• 1988: The Massachusetts Governor’s Council Democratic Primary was lost by Herbert L. Connolly to Robert B. Kennedy by one vote.
• 2002: The Connecticut House of Representatives race was decided by one vote, with Republican Anne Ruwet defeating Democrat John S. Kovaleski (3,236 to 3,235).
• 2010: The Massachusetts House of Representatives election initially had Peter J. Durant winning by one vote over Geraldo Alicea, though a court later ruled it a tie after counting a disputed ballot.
• 2019: Julia Mejia won her Boston City Council at-large seat by one vote after a recount (22,492 to 22,491 over Alejandra St. Guillen
Guy The Wine
Napa Valley, Part l
As the days and nights get cooler and fleece jackets come out of the closet, it’s time to take a look at more substantial, structured wines. I think any of the following will fit the bill, whether they’re had with a meal or on their own…….
Chateau Montelana Chardonnay, Napa, ($74.99).
This one is made by blending juice from several vineyards in the Napa and Sonoma AVAs, as well as Lake and Mendocino Counties. The blend has a nose of mountain flowers, lem-
on and orange zest, as well as honeysuckle. On the palate, it has a noticeable chewiness and a full mouthfeel, while the finish is extremely long for a white blend. You can pair this one with any grilled white meat, especially marinated chicken or Cornish Hen, as well as Pork loin.
As we get closer to the Thanksgiving/Christmas/New Year’s cycle, you might consider a chilled Riesling.
Jos. J. Prum, ($21.99), has a crisp, balanced sweetness that can turn tangy with Cornish Hen or Turkey. It also plays off nicely against the Cranberries and Sweet Potatoes. If your occasion is special, make
sure the wine is, too. Something bubbly usually fits the bill and the choices are many. My personal favorite is Veuve Clicquot, NV, ($55.99). Its effervescence is distinctive, but not overwhelming; the nose has notes of citrus and jasmine, while the finish is longer than many other sparklers. This is a complex, layered wine. Notes of cherries, blackberries, caramel and earth tones almost smother your palate; the finish is long and multi flavored. This one is not only good with the usual items, but especially good with grilled chicken, pork loin or Sauerbraut.
Eroica Riesling, Ch. Ste. Michelle/ Dr. Loosen, Washington, ($22.99). This Riesling, a wine whose style is an homage to Dr. Loosen, captures a great balance of sweetness and body. Notes of mountain flowers, turmeric and peppermint on the nose give way to a pleasant finish. Best with poultry and pork dishes. Faust Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa, California, ($63.99) This isn’t just another Cab. It’s full of structure, balance and distinctive notes and aromas. I’d suggest letting this one breathe for 30-45
minutes. Then just sip. Also, if it’s steaks on your grill, be sure to have a glass of this in your hand.
I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention the wonderful things that are going on in South Africa. The country’s winemakers continue to refine many varieties, especially Chenin Blanc. Beaumont Chenin Blanc,2023, ($23.99), is crisp and refreshing. Notes of orange blossoms and mountain flowers on the nose lead to a palate that’s balanced but layered. This one is especially good with any kind of salad as well as Asian cuisine. This wine is so easy drinking that you might want to pick up more than one.
While Duckhorn Vineyards are wellknown and justifiably so, the one that started it all still remains a player in the game. Duckhorn Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, California, ($72.00), is still the epitome of A-list Napa Cabs. Strong, structured and offering a long, memorable finish, it presents notes of raspberries, cocoa and a lingering tabac overtone. This is the one to have while watching Vrabel and the Pats continue their march towards the Playoffs…Go Pats!!
REP. BIELE HELPS PASS LEGISLATION TO PROTECT PUBLIC TRANSIT WORKERS FROM ASSAULT
Bill expandings current laws on assault and battery against public employees
Last week, State Representative David Biele joined his colleagues in the Massachusetts House of Representatives to pass legislation that strengthens protections for public transit workers by expanding current laws on assault and battery against public employees. The bill, entitled
An Act relative to assault and battery upon a transit worker, ensures that transit employees receive the same legal heightened protections as other public employees while performing their jobs.
Current Massachusetts law imposes heightened penalties on individuals for assault and battery against public employees including police officers, firefighters, emergency medical personnel and other government workers. This bill adds public transit workers to that list.
The bill also clarifies and broadens the definition of assault by specifically recognizing that projecting bodily fluids, such as spitting or throwing substances like urine, constitutes assault against a public
worker. Under the House bill, offenders would face a sentence ranging from a minimum of 90 days to 2.5 years in a house of correction, a fine between $500 and $5,000 or both.
“Everyone should feel safe in the workplace and this legislation establishes protections for those who provide crucial services every day across Massachusetts on our public transit systems yet have faced increased attacks and abuse in recent years,” said Rep. Biele. “I was proud to cosponsor this bill and to join my colleagues in House in passing legislation which will help those who serve our communities feel safe, supported and protected in their workplace.”
“We thank the House for
voting in favor of this important legislation to protect our MBTA train and bus operators, and all public transit employees,” said Jim Evers, President of Boston Carmen’s Union Local 589. “Protecting transit workers is essential to maintaining a safe and quality public transportation system. This bill will ensure the safety of the essential workers who keep our communities moving every day. We look forward to swift passage in the Senate so that these vital protections can be signed into state law to safeguard transit workers for generations to come.”
Having passed the House of Representatives 160-0, the bill now goes to the Senate for consideration.
6:00 PM7:30 PM
Virtual Public Meeting
391 D ST
Register: bosplans.org/391DSTPUB
Toll Free: (833) 568 - 8864 Meeting ID: 160 975 8267
This is a Public Meeting for the proposed 391 D St project, located in the South Boston neighborhood of Boston. The purpose of the meeting is to discuss the overall potential impacts. The meeting will include a presentation followed by questions and comments from the public.
Mail to:
Tyler Ross Planning Department
Close of Public Comment Period: 11/10/2025
Phone: Email:
One City Hall Square, 9th Floor Boston, MA 02201 617.918.4214 tyler.c.ross@boston.gov
BostonPlans.org
Teresa Polhemus, Executive Director/Secretary @BostonPlans
BOSTON LOGAN INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT CONSULTATION SESSION
Massport will host a hybrid (in-person and virtual) consultation session on the Boston Logan International Airport 2023/2024 Environmental Data Report (2023/2024 EDR).
A representative from the Massachusetts Environmental Policy Act (MEPA) O ce will participate.
The hybrid Consultation Session Public Meeting is scheduled for: Wednesday, November 5, 2025 at 6:00 PM
Cathy Leonard-McLean Community Room at the Logan Airport Rental Car Center* 15 Transportation Way East Boston, MA 02128
To join the meeting virtually, please visit www.massport.com/environment/boston-logan-edr-espr-data-portal
•The meeting will be streamed in both English and Spanish, with Spanish interpretation available for in-person attendees.
•Requests for additional language interpretation services must be submitted on or before Friday, October 31, 2025 to: community@massport.com
Please note that an electronic copy of the 2023/2024 EDR is available on Massport’s website at www.massport.com/environment/boston-logan-edr-espr-data-portal
Additional copies of the 2023/2024 EDR may be obtained by calling Brad Washburn, Massport, at (617) 568-3546 or emailing bwashburn@massport.com during the public comment period.
Massport has requested an extension of the public comment period, which began on October 22, 2025 (the publication date of the MEPA Environmental Monitor) and will end on January 9, 2026
Written comments may be submitted by January 9, 2026 to:
The Honorable Rebecca L. Tepper, Secretary
Executive O ce of Energy and Environmental A airs Attn: MEPA O ce Jennifer Hughes, EEA No. 3247 100 Cambridge Street, Suite 900 Boston, MA 02114
Comments may also be submitted electronically via the MEPA Public Comment Portal at: https://eeaonline.eea.state.ma.us/EEA/PublicComment/Landing/
*The Cathy Leonard-McLean Community Room is located on the lower level of the RCC at Boston-Logan International Airport. The RCC is accessible by the MBTA via Airport Station or the Silver Line, followed by a Massport Shuttle Bus. Please allow additional travel time if using the MBTA. Parking is available at the loading dock area on Porter Street and in designated visitor spaces in front of the RCC.
6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Virtual Public Meeting
460 WEST BROADWAY
Register: bosplans.org/460WestBroadwayPublicMeeting1014
Toll Free: (833) 568 - 8864
Meeting ID: 160 652 6403
PROJECT DESCRIPTION:
The City Planning Department is hosting a virtual public meeting to discuss the recently filed Small Project Review Application for 460 West Broadway in South Boston. The proposed Project includes the adaptive re-use of vacant former bank building, with a commercial addition, up to six stories; new occupancy to include courtroom and offices/support space for use by the Trial Court of Commonwealth; with 20 garage parking spaces for court and residential use. The purpose of the meeting is to provide an update to the design of the proposed project. The meeting will include a presentation followed by questions and comments from the public.
For more information about the project visit: bostonplans.org/projects/development-projects/460-west-broadway
Mail to:
Nick Carter Planning Department
Phone: Email:
One City Hall Square, 9th Floor Boston, MA 02201 617.918.5303 nick.carter@boston.gov
Teresa Polhemus, Executive Director/Secretary
Important Information About LEAD in Your Drinking Water
Boston’s drinking water is provided by the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority from the Quabbin Reservoir and is distributed lead-free to homes and businesses. However, some older properties in Boston may have a lead water service line. Exposure to lead in drinking water can cause serious health effects in all age groups.
FREE Lead Replacement Incentive Program
Boston Water and Sewer Commission (BWSC) is offering Boston property owners a free inspection - and free replacement of their building’s water service pipe if we determine it is lead.
Take advantage of the No Cost Lead Replacement Program now. Please contact BWSC’s Lead Hotline for additional program information Lead Hotline: (617) 989-7888 www.bwsc.org
Quabbin Reservoir
South Boston Celebrates Billy Baker’s Lasting Legacy
Neighbors gather at Moakley Park to honor a man who built community through youth and sports.
It was more than a dedication, it was a homecoming. Neighbors, friends, and families from across South Boston gathered at Moakley Park last Saturday to honor a man who believed that when kids come together, communities grow stronger. The newly named Billy Baker Field stands as a tribute to a lifelong neighbor whose kindness and commitment helped shape generations of young people in South Boston.
On a sunny Autumn Saturday morning, with the sound of the bagpipes echoing, dozens gathered to celebrate Billy Baker’s life and legacy. Young South Boston resident Yves Polaski opened the ceremony with a moving rendition of the National Anthem, a heartfelt nod to the tradition Billy began at every league opening. The crowd, filled with family, former players, and community leaders, listened as Jack Baker, Billy’s youngest son, shared stories that captured both the humor and heart of his father’s mission.
“My mom thought maybe 20 or 30 people would show up,” Jack said with a smile. “She was worried about parking. Clearly, that didn’t turn out to be a problem.” He spoke about the early days of the South Boston Youth Soccer League, which Billy founded in 1985, when kids showed up to play in jeans and sweatshirts on makeshift fields at M Street Park.
“That first championship was played in a torrential downpour,” Jack remembered. “The field was a mess, but no one cared. It was one of the best days ever.”
That simple joy of bringing people together through play was what mattered most to Billy. “When people asked why he started a soccer league in Southie, he’d say, ‘Because there wasn’t one,’” Jack told the crowd. “He saw a need and set it up.”
Speaker after speaker echoed the same message: Billy Baker wasn’t just about soccer, he was about community. Congressman Stephen Lynch shared his memories of watching his own daughters come through the league. “They weren’t the best athletes,” he joked, “but the friendships they made here… that’s the real gift Billy gave us.”
State Senator Nick Collins, who once played in the league himself, recalled Billy’s generosity and how he made sure every kid could take part. “If a family couldn’t afford the registration fee, Billy made sure they still played,” Collins said. He also announced that the Massachusetts Senate passed a resolution honoring Billy’s contributions, permanently recording his legacy in the state’s history.
City Councilor Ed Flynn reflected on how Billy used sports to unite a changing neighborhood. “He brought
together kids from every corner of Southie, from the projects to City Point, to play a game that wasn’t even common here back then,” Flynn said. “That’s the kind of leadership that builds community.”
State Representative David Biele, a South Boston Youth Soccer alum himself, spoke about growing up in the program. “It was a wonderful time for families,” he said. “Thank you to the Baker family for sharing your dad with us and for all the laughter, the lessons, and the sense of belonging he brought to this community.”
For more than three decades, Billy Baker quietly kept the league running from his own home pressing numbers onto jerseys by hand, organizing schedules, and collecting registration forms from a box in his front hallway. “If a kid couldn’t afford the fee, they still played,” Jack said. Beyond soccer, Billy organized youth hockey, founded the Cole Club football team in memory of his best friend who was killed in Vietnam, and even launched “Southie Day” at Farragut Park, complete with camel and elephant rides.
Week after week, he was at Moakley Park before sunrise, chalking the lines and setting up nets so kids could play. “He did it right up until COVID,” Jack said. “He never stopped giving.”
When the Billy Baker Field sign
was unveiled, Interim Parks Commissioner Kathy Baker-Eclipse reflected on the lasting importance of such an honor. “When a city names a field after someone, it’s not just about remembering the past,” she said. “It’s about inspiring the future and encouraging others to carry forward that same spirit of community.”
As the ceremony continued, the sounds of cheering players and thudding soccer balls echoed nearby, a game was underway on the very field now bearing Billy’s name. It was a fitting reminder of what he cared about most: kids out playing, families on the sidelines, and a community coming together.
In closing, Jack offered a challenge to the next generation of South Boston residents. “My father showed us what it means to give back,” he said. “You don’t need kids to get involved, volunteer, coach, help out. Living in Southie isn’t just about the restaurants or the parade. It’s about being part of something bigger and about taking care of each other.”
As neighbors lingered after the ceremony, laughter and old stories filled the air. While the field carried on with the familiar rhythm of play, one thing was clear: Billy Baker’s legacy lives on in every pass, every cheer, and every moment that brings this community together.
MAYOR MICHELLE WU ANNOUNCES NEW BOSTON ENERGY SAVER PROGRAM TO HELP BOSTON RESIDENTS UPGRADE
THEIR BUILDINGS AND LOWER ENERGY COSTS
On Wednesday, Mayor Michelle Wu announced the launch of the Boston Energy Saver program, a new City service helping Boston renters, homeowners, and small businesses upgrade their buildings and lower their energy bills. Starting today, residents can visit boston.gov/save or call 617-635-SAVE (7283) for a 1-on1 consultation about available discounts and building upgrade options to save money on energy costs. This service is available at no cost to Boston residents and small business owners. Mayor Wu first announced the Boston Energy Saver program at her 2025 State of the City address.
“As winter approaches, energy costs to keep families warm become even more of a financial burden,” said Mayor Michelle Wu. “I’m proud to launch the Boston Energy Saver Program, a one-stop shop for residents, families, and small businesses to unlock resources to lower their costs with energy efficiency upgrades. Through our partnership with Eversource and National Grid, we are cutting energy costs and reducing reliance on fossil fuels for a more affordable and resilient future.”
Currently, there are many energy programs available to consumers, but it can be difficult to understand where to start. Boston Energy Saver is a
resource developed in partnership with Eversource, National Grid, and local nonprofits to connect Boston residents with discounts and building upgrades that work best for their home or small business. These potential upgrades include rebates and low-cost financing for energy upgrades, building weatherization, heat pumps, induction stoves, energy bill check-ups to make sure residents are not being overcharged, among others. Energy bill savings will be dependent on the size of the building, its current fuel source, as well as the selected discounts and incentives. For example, residents can save up to $10,000 or more on the installation of a heat pump heating and cooling system with a Mass Save rebate. Through weatherization upgrades, residents who use oil heating could expect savings between 10 and 20 percent on their energy bill, or up to $380 annually. These savings will provide critical support to small businesses, homeowners, and renters during the current affordability crisis.
“Buildings are the source of 70% of Boston’s carbon emissions,” said Brian Swett, Chief Climate Officer for the City of Boston. “Making your home or business more energy efficient is a win-win: you stay comfortable indoors, you save money, and you are doing your part to reduce the carbon emissions that cause air pollution and global warming.”
By 2027, the City plans to deliver $300 million in total benefits through Boston Energy Saver to homes and businesses, including installing 5,000 heat pumps and weatherizing 10,000 buildings. Notably, Boston Energy Saver also provides support to renters and property owners of smaller buildings, who
have historically faced barriers to accessing energy efficiency programs. The City of Boston is also conducting targeted outreach to low-income families in partnership with communitybased organizations so that residents hit hardest by high energy bills can get assistance.
Residents and small businesses who currently use oil or electric resistance heating are strongly encouraged to contact Boston Energy Saver because there are many options to substantially reduce energy costs. For example, Boston Energy Saver’s help desk can connect residents with benefits through Mass Save® programs, which now cover 100% of the costs for approved weatherization, electrical upgrades, and heat pumps for rental buildings in Boston’s Designated Equity Community neighborhoods: Allston, Brighton, Dorchester, East Boston, Fenway, Hyde Park, Mattapan, Mission Hill, and Roxbury.
“With Boston Energy Saver, the City and our partners have built a program that’s just right for this time: trusted, accessible advice on the best energy incentives we’ve ever had in Boston,” said Oliver Sellers-Garcia, Boston’s Environment Commissioner and Green New Deal Director. “We are here to help Boston residents pick the building upgrades and cost-saving strategies that are best for them.”
“We’re proud to partner with the City of Boston to bring energy efficiency solutions within reach for more residents and businesses to help lower their bills,” said Kate Peters, Director of Energy Efficiency at Eversource. “This collaboration is about making energy solutions more accessible and affordable for customers, leveraging existing funding in the state’s three-year plan to break
down barriers and deliver real impact to our communities.”
“National Grid is proud to partner with the City of Boston on this important initiative to help educate customers and connect them with solutions to save money on energy bills,” said Bill Malee, Chief Customer Officer at National Grid.
“The City’s coordinated approach will enhance access to energy-saving resources and is especially important as we head into the winter season to help residents and small businesses manage energy costs.”
“The Boston Community Land Trust recently connected with the emerging Boston Energy Saver program, a gem of a resource for a small organization like ours committed to weatherization and energy retrofits for our portfolio of small, scattered site affordable buildings in Dorchester,” said Meridith Levy, Executive Director of the Boston Community Land Trust. “There is no way we would be able to accomplish our energy efficiency goals for our community without having access to the myriad funding programs and resources, which can be complicated to navigate. Climate resilient buildings should be accessible to people of all income levels-the Boston Energy Saver program will help us get there faster.”
The Boston Energy Saver Help Desk is available from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, in English, Spanish, Cape Verdean Creole, Chinese, Haitian Creole, and Vietnamese. Boston Energy Saver offers residents and small businesses answers and advice on a wide range of topics, and even has a technical assistance contractor to answer specialized questions about specific projects and buildings. Residents can schedule a one-on-one consultation with our Help Desk.
St. Peter Academy
St. Peter Academy Visits meets Lucky
from the Celtics
Last week, Officer Ayesha from the Boston Police Department invited Grades 4/5 to the Frugal Bookstore in Roxbury, MA. The Frugal Bookstore, TD Bank and the Boston Celtics hosted a meet and greet with Lucky the Leprechaun. Lucky
read to the students. At the end of the event, the students each choose a book from the bookstore to take home and Lucky gave out some Celtics swag, which included hats and towels. Thank you, Officer Ayesha for the invitation. Great big shout to the Frugal Bookstore,
TD Bank and the Boston Celtics for hosting this event. This was an amazing experience for our students and the teachers had fun too! Go Celtics!
St. Peter Academy is accepting applications for the current school year. St. Peter Academy is an independent, communitybased private school and serves students from ages 15 months through grade 6. SPA is currently accepting applications for the limited spaces available in the year-round toddler program (be -
ginning at age 15 months) and for students in Pre-K (School Year and Full Year Programs), Kindergarten and grades 1-6. Financial Aid Available. Two Scholarships will be offered this year for applicants for Grades 1 through 6. You may request scholarship information from the Front Office (spa@stpeteracademy.com). Appointments for individual virtual tours can be made by contacting Maria Blasi, at 617-268-0750 or by emailing spa@StPeterAcademy.com.
Halloween Magic Returns to Fort Independence CIA Style!
Last weekend, Fort Independence, affectionately known as “The Island” was once again transformed into a Halloween Magical Castle, thanks to the hard work of the Castle Island Association (CIA) volunteers and the Department of Conservation and
Recreation (DCR).
Families from near and far joined in the fun, with children and parents alike donning creative costumes as they toured the Fort’s festively decorated rooms. From Snow White to witches, clowns, pirates, and even forensic scenes, there was something
to delight and spook visitors of all ages. The Storyteller Room and Tattoo Room were big hits, drawing plenty of laughter and excitement throughout the day.
Every child left with a candy bag and a smile, as the event wrapped up another successful year of Hallow-
een fun on the Island.
A big, big shout-out to the incredible CIA volunteers! Your dedication and creativity make this community tradition truly special. The neighborhood (and all the ghosts and goblins) thank you!
See you next year!
South Boston Catholic Academy News Grade 2C News
Ms. Ciara Rushe’s Grade 2C students at South Boston Catholic Academy had a chance to make their own special lantern to celebrate Diwali which is the “Festival of Lights”. This is a multi-day Hindu festival celebrated
by millions worldwide that signifies the victory of good over evil, light over darkness, and knowledge over ignorance. A special Thank you to Keerthi Sugumaran, for coming to the Grade 2C classroom to share and explain this Hindu Tradition of the
“Festival of Lights”. She helped her child and her child’s classmates in 2C, make their very own colorful lanterns to celebrate the festival of Diwali.
2C students have, also, been busy completing their fall projects to demonstrate the skills they are working on in reading, writing and math. They created an acorn writing craft which described their favorite part of the fall season. In math, they solidified their knowledge of fact families
and put together a “fact family candy corn” project for some Halloween fun. After reading the “Leaf Thief” book as a class, students assembled a flip book that discussed story elements like: characters, setting, problem and solution. Great work 2C! New families are welcome to email our admissions team at admissions@sbcatholicadacademy.org for more info. about South Boston Catholic Academy.
Get those costumes ready and join the South Boston Chamber of Commerce and South Boston NDC for a fun, safe, and candy-filled night on Friday, Oct. 31, from 4–6 p.m.
Look for the orange and black posters at participating businesses and stop by for a sweet treat.
To keep things spooky and safe for everyone:
• Starting from West Broadway > East Broadway? Stay on the odd-numbered (southern) side.
• Starting from East Broadway > West Broadway? Stick to the even-numbered (northern) side.
The Boston Police Department will be on East and West Broadway to keep all the ghosts, goblins, witches, and trick-or-treaters safe, just as they always do!
Happy Halloween!