Mayor Katjana Ballantyne, the City of Somerville Health and Human Services (HHS) Department, and the Cambridge Fuel Assistance Program invite Somerville and Cambridge community members to learn more about financial assistance available to help with home heating costs this winter.  

As high-risk fire weather continues, Fire Chief Charles Breen reminds residents to be extremely cautious and follow all outdoor fire regulations.

“The Somerville Fire Department encourages residents to be very cautious with outdoor activities as recent weather conditions have left outdoor fuel sources extremely dry, heightening the risk of fire,” Chief Breen said. “Any outdoor fire is likely to spread quickly and become difficult to control due to recent dry conditions. In Somerville, those fires can easily spread to homes and other properties.”

Mayor Katjana Ballantyne and the City’s Public Space and Urban Forestry (PSUF) Division, is announcing the release of the Civic Space Design Guide, that provides a framework for developers and municipalities to collaborate to create Privately Owned Public Spaces (POPS) that serve and welcome all Somerville residents and visitors.

In a resounding show of community spirit and vision, Somerville residents have voted to double the Community Preservation Act (CPA) surcharge from 1.5% to 3%. This landmark decision will increase funding for vital projects, helping to create a more affordable, greener, and culturally rich Somerville.