I have been saddened by the conflict between the business community and the City Council over the format of the July 9 zoning meeting. Seeing all the back and forth about whether it was a discussion or a presentation, who would be allowed to speak vs. submit written comments, and…
Posts published in July 2025
Our children and grandchildren cannot wait until 2050 to break free from the gas pipeline system that is pumping out dirty methane gas. Based on the docket items in the June 18 Public Facilities Committee agenda, we expected the meeting to include “a discussion of The discussion was also supposed to…
When 209 Newton residents volunteer or take to their bikes on August 2-3 for the 46th Pan-Mass Challenge (PMC), they’ll be proceeding with extraordinary momentum having already raised $1,854,322 toward their collective goal of $2,171,400. The Newton contingent represents one of the most dedicated PMC communities in Massachusetts, with riders…
There is still much to be learned about the true meaning of liberty even after this year’s Fourth of July festivities concluded. On July 13, Historic Newton, in collaboration with Newton Cultural Development, will explore Independence Day through the eyes of Frederick Douglass, who escaped slavery and was a famed…
Those who know Nancy Schön — the Newton-based artist who created the iconic Make Way for Ducklings sculpture in Boston’s Public Garden — may be surprised by her latest work, which has taken on a darker, political tone than her classic whimsical animals. The 96-year-old sculptor has not shied away…
A new splash park opened two weeks ago in Upper Falls just in time for the 100+ degree hot spell. It’s a wonderful new summertime amenity, especially if you have young kids. Stop by there any day that is not raining, and you’ll see lots of kids, laughing, splashing, grinning,…
Highlights this week… City Council City Council is not scheduled to meet this week. Land Use will on Tuesday regarding requests to: Zoning and Planning will meet on Wednesday to consider requests for discussion about: The Chair intends to defer discussion on the following and request to set a public hearing for…
As reported earlier, the City of Newton authorized the painting of double-yellow lines in the median strip on Adams Street, which was done after 10PM on June 26. The action occurred three weeks before the local St. Mary of Carmen Society’s 90th annual five-day celebration, which culminates in a procession bearing…
Land Use will meet in person (Council Chamber) and virtually (Zoom link) on Tuesday, July 8 at 7PM. The agenda includes the following requests for Special Permist/Site Plan Approvals to: Zoning and Planning will meet in person (Room 204) and virtually (Zoom link) on Wednesday, July 9 at 7PM. The…
School Committee is not scheduled to meet this week.
Auburndale Historic District Commission will meet virtually (Zoom link) on Tuesday, July 8 at 7PM. The agenda includes the following (see Staff Memo): Economic Development Commission will meet in person (Room 204) and virtually (Zoom link) on Tuesday, July 8 at 7PM. The agenda includes the following: Urban Design Commission…
Yesterday as I was walking back to my car after attending a wonderful City of Newton family Fourth of July celebration in the Newton Bowl park with my 7-year-old granddaughter and my dog, we passed an overgrown lot at 1181 Centre Street. I thought that it seemed a bit odd…