Mayor Katjana Ballantyne of Somerville, joined by fellow Massachusetts elected officials, is calling for the immediate release of Tufts University student Rümeysa Öztürk, currently being held in federal immigration detention.

The City of Somerville is now accepting applications for the 2025 Mayor’s Summer Jobs Program, a six-week paid career readiness initiative for Somerville youth ages 14 through the summer of high school graduation.

This program offers teens the chance to explore potential career paths, build workplace and interpersonal skills, and connect with their community. Participants will work up to 20 hours per week from July 7 through August 15 in a variety of roles across more than 20 City departments and local organizations.

The City of Somerville has installed the nation’s first outdoor dual sharps disposal kiosk at Seven Hills Park, further advancing its harm reduction and public safety initiatives. Located behind the Davis Square MBTA station, the kiosk is accessible by foot, bike, and car, with nearby access from Meacham Road. 

Mayor Katjana Ballantyne signed a proclamation declaring April 2 as “Start by Believing Day” in the City of Somerville, affirming the City’s commitment to supporting survivors of sexual violence and fostering a community where everyone feels safe, heard, and believed. The proclamation marks the launch of Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM) in Somerville.

View video of the signing here: youtu.be/4dgiAGfuC7I

April is Fair Housing Month, and Mayor Katjana Ballantyne is inviting residents to learn about housing rights, discrimination, and how we build a more inclusive community at two free events hosted by the Fair Housing Commission and the Department of Racial and Social Justice. Both events are free, open to all, and include food and refreshments. 

Fair Housing Film Screening & Panel Discussion

Mayor Katjana Ballantyne is proud to announce the introduction of a new eight-week paid family medical leave (PFML) benefit for eligible City employees. This significant enhancement to employee benefits aims to lower the financial risks to employees taking qualifying parental or family medical leave, reducing the likelihood of unpaid leave when welcoming a new child or facing illness.