Netflix "Don't Look Up" To Be Filmed At Artists For Humanity

In case you missed the film crews around Melcher St, Netflix Productions will be continuing to film scenes for their feature film, DON'T LOOK UP, in the neighborhood. This time filming will take place in Artists For Humanity at 100 West 2nd Street.  

Filming is scheduled to take place on Monday, January 4th and Tuesday, January 5th.

There will be parking restrictions in effect starting Monday, December 28th through Friday, January 8th for prep, shooting and wrap. Equipment trucks will be parking on the following streets:

Monday, December 28 to Saturday, January 2 & Wednesday, January 6 to Friday, January 8

• W. 2nd Street @ Bolton St

Monday, December 28 to Friday, January 8

• W. First Street (A St to Medallion)
• Medallion Ave (W. 1st to Richards)

Sunday, January 3 @ 4pm through Tuesday, January 5 @ 11pm

• W. 3rd Street @ A Street
• W. 2nd St (A St. to B St.)
•  A Street (Iron to Mt. Washington Way)

PLEASE BE AWARE OF THE “NO PARKING” SIGNS WILL BE POSTED IN THESE AREAS & THE CORRESPONDING TIMES.

If you have any questions or concerns (deliveries, construction, etc.) please feel free to email dlulocations@gmail.com or call us at 781-269-1573 (leaving your name and contact info). 

On behalf of the crew, we would like to thank you for your consideration, and we look forward to filming in your neighborhood.

-  “Netflix Productions” Locations Department

5 & 15 Necco Ground Floor Uses: New Chapter 91 License 12/3 Meeting

updated 12/21/20: Reminder the public comment deadline is Wednesday, December 23, 2020. Details below. 

The Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) Waterway Regulations Program (Chapter 91) will be holding a new virtual hearing regarding the Chapter 91 license for 5 & 15 Necco on:

Thursday, December 3, 2020

3:30 pm
View Revised Chapter 91 Application

The November 23, 2020 public  notice will start a new 30 day comment period ending December 23, 2020.

Previous Application Submissions

View June Waterways License Application File No. W20-5841

View 10/19/20 Supplement to Application

The applicants, ARE-MA Region No. 74, LLC and ARE-MA Region No. 72, LLC (Alexandria Real Estate Equities and National Development), are seeking a Consolidated Written Determination to reauthorize the uses of two (2) 6-story existing office buildings at 5 Necco Street; construction and maintenance of a 12-story new office building at 15 Necco Street; and associated open spaces and public amenities located on filled tidelands of the Fort Point Channel at 5 and 15 Necco Street, Boston, Suffolk County. Additionally, the Applicant seeks an extended license term pursuant to 310 CMR 9.15(b). The proposed project has been determined to be Nonwater-Dependent.

NEW Public Comments Deadline: December 23, 2020
Written comments should be addressed to: Susan You via email. If you do not have access to email, hard copy documents may be mailed to: MassDEP Waterways Regulation Program c/o Susan You, One Winter St, 5th Floor, Boston, MA 02108.

Failure of any aggrieved person or group of ten (10) citizens or more to submit written comments to the Waterways Regulation Program by the Public Comments Deadline will result in the waiver of any right to an adjudicatory hearing in accordance with 310 CMR 9.13(4)(c). The group of citizens must include at least five (5) citizens who are residents of the municipality in which the proposed project is located.

Toys To Give. Toys to Receive. 'Tis The Season

updated 12/16/20: This just in from the North Pole- Santa will be arriving Tuesday, December 22, 2020.  The toy drive continues this weekend online and at BCEC.

Santa Claus is coming to town next week and there will be toys to receive plus a Toy Drive for local children. 

 SANTA CLAUS VISITS
Tuesday, December 22, 2020 (new date)
4:00-6:00 pm
101 W Broadway, BPD C-6

Santa will be up on BPD's balcony & sending toys down his slide to the kids below. Kids will receive a gift bag from  Mayor Walsh plus a toy and other treats. 

PAW PATROL'S CHASE, TROLLS POPPY, SPONGEBOB, THE GRINCH AND others will be there to say 'hi'  while you wait in line.

There will be both a drive up & walk up option to see Santa.  If you'd like to drive up to receive the gift, please pull in front of the station and someone will bring your gift over to your car. There will be a socially distanced line on the sidewalk for walk ups. 

State Representative David Biele invites you to join him this weekend for a

DRIVE THRU & REMOTE TOY DRIVE

Saturday, December 19, 2020 

Sunday, December 20, 2020

10 am - 2 pm

Unwrapped toys for girls and boys (0 to 15 years old) can be dropped off at Boston Civic and Exhibition Center (BCEC) loading Dock. Enter via the West Gate entrance off of Cyher Street. Containers will be on site for contactless drop-off. 

Toys will stay in the neighborhood and go to children at West Broadway.

Looking for gift ideas or prefer to shop from your sofa, click here.

Any questions?  Email Neighbort2NeighborToyDrive@gmail.com. 

originally published 12.09.20

Be A Snow Angel

Become a Snow Angel

The Laboure Center is looking for volunteers to help shovel out seniors & persons with disabilities in South Boston.

“Snow removal can be daunting for many of our elderly and disabled loved ones. When there are large snowfalls, seniors who cannot shovel themselves out can face isolation and immobility.  With this volunteer program, we are hoping to make a real impact in people’s lives, while giving people yet another way to feel connected to their neighbors and their community.”” said Director Jake Bombard.

Anyone interested in shoveling out their elderly or disabled neighbors, please sign up  or email Jake Bombard.

Mayor Walsh Lifts Snow Emergency & Parking Ban Friday 7am

Mayor Martin J. Walsh this evening announced the declared snow emergency and parking ban will be lifted at 7 a.m. on Friday, December 18. Residents parked in participating discounted lots or garages have until 9 a.m. to move their cars before regular rates resume.

Property owners must fully clear snow, sleet and ice from sidewalks and curb ramps abutting the property by 10:00 a.m. tomorrow. Failure to comply can result in fines. More details & safety tips.

Become a Snow Angel

The Laboure Center is looking for volunteers to help shovel out seniors & persons with disabilities in South Boston.

“Snow removal can be daunting for many of our elderly and disabled loved ones. When there are large snowfalls, seniors who cannot shovel themselves out can face isolation and immobility.  With this volunteer program, we are hoping to make a real impact in people’s lives, while giving people yet another way to feel connected to their neighbors and their community.”” said Director Jake Bombard.

Anyone interested in shoveling out their elderly/disabled neighbors, please sign up.

Mayor Walsh Declares Snow Emergency. Parking Ban Starts at 6PM

 MAYOR WALSH DECLARES SNOW EMERGENCY
PARKING BAN IN EFFECT TODAY AT 6 P.M.

Total snow accumulations may range between 9 to 13 inches, with the potential to up to 15 inches in some areas, and winds as high as 45 mph are expected. Residents are advised that a parking ban is in effect starting at 6:00 p.m., when vehicles parked on the street will start to be towed. The City is urging residents to abide by snow regulations and all commuters to utilize caution when traveling during the Thursday commutes. Dry weather paired with colder temperatures and wind chill are anticipated on Thursday and Friday following the storm. 

"Boston hasn't seen a sizable snowstorm since March of 2019 -- over 21 months ago. I am urging everyone to be ready and prepared," said Mayor Walsh. "I ask all our residents and workers to be alert and remain cautious on our roads and sidewalks. Our Public Works Department (PWD) will be working hard to pre-treat and clean our roads during this snowfall, and I thank them for their hard work. We are asking residents and businesses to do their part by staying safe, shoveling their sidewalks, walkways, catch basins, and fire hydrants, and looking out for one another as neighbors. The City of Boston will continue to share updates throughout the storm."

A snow emergency has been declared. A parking ban is in effect starting today, Wednesday, December 16 at 6:00 p.m. All vehicles parked on a posted snow emergency artery will be towed beginning at 6:00 p.m. today. 

Snow Emergency Artery / Parking Restricted: Fort Point & Seaport

A Street
Boston Wharf Rd
Congress Street
D Street
Northern Avenue
Seaport Blvd
Summer Street

Residents can find a complete list of city streets and discounted garages here and begin parking at participating garages starting at 4:00 p.m. today. 

Participating South Boston Garages

THE ALYX GARAGE
59 EAST SERVICE ROAD
$10.00 PER DAY-EACH NEW DAY STARTS AT 5AM. 
No restrictions, rate available to all parkers. 

CHANNEL CENTER GARAGE
116 WEST FIRST STREET
617-269-1830
$10 FOR EACH 24-HOUR PERIOD
Please bring a valid driver’s license with a City of Boston address to the garage office.

BPDA/EDIC GARAGE
12 DRYDOCK AVENUE
617-482-2487
$1 FOR EACH NIGHT
The discount is only for South Boston residents. You need to have a South Boston resident sticker on your vehicle.
The garage only allows snow emergency parking on the fourth floor.

MUNICIPAL LOT #018
450 WEST BROADWAY: NO CHARGE

MUNICIPAL LOT #021
650-652 EAST BROADWAY: NO CHARGE

• Trash and Recycling pick-up is cancelled citywide on Thursday, December 17. Neighborhoods with a Thursday and Friday pick-up schedule will be delayed by one day. Residents are encouraged to download the Trash Day App.  

• Starting at midnight, Street Sweeping is cancelled until further notice. 

• All Boston Public Schools (BPS) school buildings will be closed. All students, including students who were scheduled to report for in-person learning, will attend classes online for a partial day that will end 2.5 hours earlier than the regularly scheduled dismissal time. There will be no in-person learning on Thursday.   

• As indicated in signage posted in BPS school parking lots, parking is not allowed during snowstorms. Vehicles may be towed if they are parked in BPS parking lots this evening.

• All BPS meal distribution sites will be open today Wednesday, December 16 until 6:00 p.m. instead of Thursday, December 17. Other meal sites in the City will also be closed on Thursday, December 17. They will be open today to distribute extra meals. Residents are encouraged to check with their meal site for hours. 

• The City-sponsored mobile COVID-19 testing sites at Washington Park Mall and 1432 Hyde Park Avenue will be closed on Thursday. For other updates on testing site availability and closures, please check hours of operation here.  

Boston City Hall and all City departments will be closed on Thursday, December 17. Boston Public Library locations will be closed, including BPL To Go services. Residents with appointments scheduled on Thursday, December 17 will be contacted by City departments to reschedule. All Boston Centers for Youth & Families are closed and in person programming is cancelled.  

The Public Works Department will have equipment to pre-treat Boston's roads prior to the snowfall starting and has the ability to put over 600 pieces of equipment on City streets. The Public Works Department currently has 44,000 tons of salt on hand.

The Office of Emergency Management (OEM) is in constant contact with the National Weather Service to receive detailed forecasts for the City of Boston and ensure City departments have plans in place to handle the forecast. Residents can sign up to receive AlertBoston notifications by phone, text, or email. Residents can call 311 for non-emergency related issues. 

Rules on clearing snow:

• Property owners must fully clear snow, sleet and ice from sidewalks and curb ramps abutting the property within three hours after the snowfall ends or three hours after sunrise if the snow ends overnight. Curb and pedestrian ramps to the street should be cleared fully and continually over the duration of the storm to ensure accessibility for individuals with disabilities. If a storm will last over an extended period of time, property owners are asked to continually check ramps abutting their property for compliance. 

• Removal of snow, ice from a private property to the street or sidewalk is prohibited. 

• Failure to comply with the rules can result in fines issued by PWD's Code Enforcement Division. Fines associated with improper removal of snow can be found here. 

Caring for vulnerable populations:

• If you see homeless and vulnerable individuals out in the cold who appear immobile, disoriented or underdressed for the cold, please call 911.

• The Boston Public Health Commission (BPHC) coordinates a city-wide network of emergency shelters, outreach providers, city agencies and first responders to assist those in need of shelter.

• Boston's emergency shelters are open 24 hours and will accept any person in need. Men can access shelter at the 112 Southampton Street Shelter, and women should go to the Woods-Mullen Shelter at 794 Massachusetts Ave. BPHC and the City work closely with shelter providers in the city to ensure that no client is without shelter, food, resources, and a warm respite from the cold.

• The City brought over 200 beds for the winter spread throughout sites in Brighton, Mission Hill and downtown. Additionally, the City worked with the State to add additional capacity in locations surrounding and outside of Boston.

• The BPHC Engagement Center is open from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. In addition to providing an indoor heated space, it offers a range of basic amenities and comfort items, such as clean bathroom facilities, water, coffee, and light snacks.

• During extreme cold weather, street outreach teams operate with extended hours and provide mobile outreach vans on the streets in the evening and throughout the day.

Boston City Council Looks At Participatory Budgeting, Affirmative Fair Housing, COVID Vaccines, BPS & More

City Councilor-At-Large Michelle Wu publishes notes from Boston City Council meetings. Below are a few highlights from December 2 and December 9, 2020. 

VOTES 

Ending Family Homelessness: The Council voted to pass Councilor Essaibi-George’s ordinance to create the Special Commission on Ending Family Homelessness. This commission will emphasize the crisis of family homelessness in Boston. The language emphasizes that the issue is solvable and preventable with a concrete, actionable plan that would coordinate all necessary City resources. 

Boston City Charter: The Council voted 10-3 (Councilors Baker, Flaherty, Flynn opposed) to advance Councilor Edwards’ order initiating an amendment to the Boston City Charter, which would boost the City Council’s authority to make line-item adjustments to the City Budget, as well as require a portion of the budget to be set aside for participatory budgeting. Currently, the City Council may only reduce or cut budgeted amounts, but may not reallocate funding or increase line items. In accordance with the procedures outlined in state law to change a municipal charter, the proposed order requires a public hearing within four months and a vote by the Council within six months. Then the amendment would require approval by the Mayor to advance to a public referendum at the next municipal election, pending review by the Attorney General to ensure no conflict with state laws and the MA constitution. 

Affirmative Fair Housing in Zoning: The Council voted unanimously to pass Councilor Edwards’ order for a zoning code text amendment regarding Affirmatively Furthering Fair Housing. Title VIII of the Civil Rights Act of 1968, the Fair Housing Act, outlawed discrimination in sale, rental, and financing of housing. The City of Boston has committed to the elimination of discrimination, within Chapters 10-3 and 12-9 of the Boston Municipal Code and elsewhere through policy and executive action, and has conducted listening sessions relative to fair housing, but the City’s zoning code and development review procedures lack affirmative measures to further fair housing. The matter will be submitted to the Boston Zoning Commission for consideration.

NEW FILES 

COVID-19 Rates & Reduce Transmission: Councilor Arroyo called for a hearing to discuss COVID-19 rates by neighborhoods and strategies to reduce transmission. Epidemiologists at the Harvard Global Health Institute have stated that low risk of community transmission of COVID-19 is more likely when the percent of positive cases remains below 3%, and that it is important to conduct contact tracing and targeted testing in areas that have higher localized rates. The City of Boston needs to focus on reducing transmission rates in our most vulnerable neighborhoods, increase testing accessibility, and implement targeted and holistic interventions to address the rising number of COVID cases. This matter was assigned to the Committee on Public Health. 

Boston School Committee Student Member: Councilor Essaibi-George filed a home-rule petition regarding enfranchising the Boston School Committee Student Member. Since the creation of the Boston School Committee in 1991, the Student Member has played a critical part of the Committee, ensuring that the student voice is well represented and heard when school matters are decided. Since the creation of the Boston School Committee in 1991, the Student Member has played a critical part of the Committee, ensuring that the student voice is well represented and heard when school matters are decided. While the Massachusetts Board of Elementary and Secondary Education includes a Student Member who has full voting rights, the Boston School Committee Student Member remains disenfranchised. The matter was assigned to the Committee on Government Operations.

COVID-19 Vaccines: Councilor Campbell called for a hearing on COVID-19 vaccines. She noted that effective and equitable distribution of a COVID-19 vaccine to a large portion of the population is critical to ending the pandemic, and historically, medical racism against Black people, including denied treatment and purposeful mistreatment, has led to distrust of medical institutions among communities of color. The City should convene conversations to plan for access and outreach. The matter was assigned to the Committee on Public Health.

UPCOMING HEARINGS (Streaming online at: https://www.boston.gov/departments/city-council/watch-boston-city-council-tv)

• Our next City Council meeting will be on Wednesday, December 9th, at 12PM.

• Monday, December 14th at 5PM: Hearing to discuss issues relating to water and sewer infrastructure (City & Neighborhood Services)

• Tuesday, December 15th at 9AM: Hearing regarding a City-Level Conservation Corps for Boston (Environment, Resiliency & Parks)

• Tuesday, December 15th at 12PM: Hearing regarding various public safety grants (Public Safety & Criminal Justice)

• Tuesday, December 15th at 1PM: Hearing to explore and recommend diversity initiatives for City of Boston public safety agencies (Public Safety & Criminal Justice)

For complete notes of Boston City Council meetings, visit MichelleForBoston.com to sign up to receive Council Notes automatically.

Fort Point Landmarks December 2020 Meeting

The FORT POINT CHANNEL LANDMARK DISTRICT COMMISSION will hold a public hearing on:

Thursday, December 10, 2020

6:00 PM

This hearing will be held virtually and NOT in person. 

You can participate in this hearing by going to our Zoom meeting link 

or by calling 929-205-6099 and entering meeting id  852 6220 0538 # 

You can also submit written comments or questions to FortPointLDC@boston.gov 

or via Twitter @bostonlandmarks.

I.  DESIGN REVIEW HEARING

APP # 21.0235 FPC 300 A STREET Continued from the 10/8/2020 FPCLDC Public Hearing

Applicant: Channelside Acquisitions, LLC

Proposed Work: At the ground level windows along A Street and Necco Court install vinyl window graphics. 

II: Ratification of 11/12/20 Public Hearing Minutes

III. Staff Updates

Projected adjournment: 6:30 pm

FORT POINT CHANNEL LANDMARK DISTRICT COMMISSION

David Berarducci, Susan Goganian, John Karoff, Lynn Smiledge, Vacancy

Alternates: Thomas Rodde, Vacancy

Netflix Filming "Don't Look Up". Do Move Your Car.

updated 11/27/20: Filming rescheduled to Saturday, December 5, 2020 with parking restrictions in effect December 4th, December 5th and December 7th. There will be no work occurring on Sunday. 

A new Netflix feature film titled DON'T LOOK UP (directed by Adam McKay and starring Leonardo DiCaprio and Jennifer Lawrence) is filming in the neighborhood. At Bastille Kitchen on Melcher Street to be exact. 

There will be parking restrictions in effect from Friday, December 4th, Saturday, December 5th and Monday, December 7th on Melcher Street, A Street and Summer Street to cover prep, shooting and the wrap. The filming will take place on December 1st.    

PLEASE BE AWARE OF THE “NO PARKING” SIGNS THAT WILL BE POSTED IN THIS AREA & CORRESPONDING TIMES

Filming Location: Bastille Kitchen at 49 Melcher St.

24 Hour Parking Restrictions for Prep, Film, Wrap (12/4, 12/5 and 12/7):

• Melcher St - South side only (A Street to Necco St)
• A Street- (Melcher St to Necco St)

24 Hour Parking Restrictions for Filming date Saturday, December 5:

• Melcher St - North side (meters in front of Blue Dragon)
• Melcher St - South side (Necco St to #27 Summer St)
• Summer St- South side (#273 to #287 Summer St)
• A Street - West side only (meters Binford St to Iron St)

Please Note: Netflix Productions is offering Displaced Resident Parking at the Necco St Garage at 10 Necco St for any Fort Point resident that has a valid South Boston Resident Sticker. Please email dlulocations@gmail.com with your name and contact information and they will get back to you. 

Furthermore, if you have any questions or concerns (deliveries, construction, etc.) please feel free to email dlulocations@gmail.com or call  781-269-1573 (leaving your name and contact info). 

On behalf of the crew we would like to thank you for your consideration as we look forward to filming in your neighborhood.- The “Don’t Look Up” Locations Dept. 

Show No Bounds Call For Artists

The Friends of Fort Point Channel (The Friends) is seeking proposals for a temporary art installation along the Boston Harborwalk at 15 Necco Street. The public art project will be a series of pieces that will be on view from March to May of 2021.

“Show No Bounds" centers around the themes of “breaking barriers, inclusivity and harmony”. The location, adjacent to the HarborWalk, is frequently visited by residents, employees and customers of abutting businesses and anyone visiting the Fort Point Channel in the South Boston Waterfront.

Each artist who is selected will be awarded a stipend of $1,000 for participation in this collaboration mural. A diversely qualified selection committee will choose the 5 artists, position each piece in a sequence, and then assign dates/times when each artist can come paint their portion of the “scrim wall”. Each artist will be given a designated 10ft by 6ft section of the scrim wall for their painting. There will be an additional 5ft between each piece with signage about the artist, project, etc.

Submit to The Friends by December 18, 2020 at 6:00 pm. 

"Show No Bounds" call for artists is presented by The Friends in partnership with Fort Points Art Community (FPAC), National Development and Alexandria Real Estate Equities. Click here for more details. 

T'is The Season To Give...Give Blood In The Neighborhood That Is

At a time when there are so many things we can't control, there IS something we can. We can ensure that there is a healthy, adequate blood supply. We can ensure that patients will get the treatments they need. We can give blood!

Once again Morrison Mahoney LLP is hosting a Blood Drive in our neighborhood. 

Monday, November 30, 2020

8:30 am - 2 pm 

Morrison Mahoney 

250 Summer St.

Limited Slots Available

Sign Up For An Appointment Today

http://bit.ly/1130MGH or email mghblooddonorcenter@partners.org

The Blood Mobile will park on Summer Street.  Registration and refreshments will occur inside the first floor of 250 Summer Street – just follow the signs.  Only your medical screen (history, temp, iron check, BP) is done, the actual donation will take place on the Blood Mobile.  While the process is always clean and safe, MGH has added even additional safety protocols (between every donor they sanitize pens, clipboards, BP cuffs, etc.).

The blood supply is critically low right now. The average donation time is between 30 and 40 minutes. Appointments are necessary so everyone can be physically distanced. If you can give blood, please use the link above to make your appointment today.

Boston City Council Looks at MBTA Service Cuts, Minority Business Enterprises, Conservation Corps & More

City Councilor-At-Large Michelle Wu publishes notes from Boston City Council meetings. Below are a few highlights from November 18 and November 4, 2020. You can find the notes missed sending out over the last weeks on Michelle Wu's Facebook Page. Going forward, Council Notes will continue to be sent out via email only! For complete notes of Boston City Council meetings, visit MichelleForBoston.com to sign up to receive these notes automatically.

VOTES 

Roslindale Wetlands Urban Wild Resolution: The Council voted to adopt the resolution filed by Councilors O'Malley & Arroyo in support of inclusion and preservation of 108 Walter Street, a private parcel that is up for sale within the Roslindale Wetlands Urban Wild. The LAND Program was established in 1961 to assist municipal conservation commissions in acquiring land for natural resources protection and passive outdoor recreation purposes. The City of Boston applied for a LAND grant on July 15, 2020 for the purchase of land to be part of the Roslindale Wetlands Urban Wild area. 

Boston Black Hospitality Coalition Resolution: The Council voted to adopt the resolution filed by Councilors Janey & Mejia highlighting the Boston Black Hospitality Coalition's work to help impact black business throughout the Covid-19 pandemic. This coalition, founded by Nia Grace of Darryl’s Corner Bar & Restaurant and Royal C. Smith of District 7 Tavern, has magnified and amplified the need for resources to ensure that black-owned restaurants can stay afloat during the pandemic and beyond. 

Homeless Youth Awareness Month Resolution: The Council voted to adopt the resolution filed by Councilor Essaibi-George recognizing November as National Homeless Youth Awareness Month. 

NEW FILES

Gender Inclusivity on City Forms: Councilor Breadon & I filed an ordinance requiring language on City Forms to be inclusive of all gender identities and families, following the experience of constituents having been confronted with forms and applications without a non-binary or gender non-conforming designation at City Hall. The LGBTQIA+ community continues to face marginalization, discrimination, and violence, especially toward trans and non-binary community members. This matter was assigned to the Committee on Government Operations.

Conservation Corps: Councilor Bok called for a hearing on a city-level Conservation Corps for Boston, which could allow Boston to complete more capital projects that are environmentally focused, including retrofits of municipal buildings to reduce emissions and construction and installation of green infrastructure, as well as employ and train Boston residents, and allow Boston to meet its sustainability goals. The matter was assigned to the Committee on Environment, Sustainability & Parks. 

FY 2021 Tax Classification: Councilor Bok filed an order for Boston’s annual approval of a residential property exemption at the maximum level of savings for homeowners, 35%. This action must be taken prior to certification of the tax rate by the Department of Revenue. The matter was assigned to the Committee on Ways & Means.

Resolution Opposing MBTA Service Cuts: The Council voted to adopt the resolution I filed to officially oppose MBTA service cuts and urge implementation of essential public health and safety measures during the COVID-19 pandemic. Through the period of the first surge of COVID-19 cases in Massachusetts, the MBTA implemented rear-door boarding and suspended fare collection to ensure safety and health for drivers and all riders commuting during the public health crisis, but the agency rescinded these measures after case counts decreased. COVID-19 positivity rates are now accelerating as a second surge, but the agency has proposed cutting service, which would increase the risk of infection for riders and drivers. Given the potential for new federal resources starting in 2021, the MBTA should not enact permanent service cuts in 2020.

Flu Clinics: Councilor O'Malley called for a hearing to discuss access to the flu vaccine in the City of Boston. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, reducing the spread of respiratory illnesses, such as the flu is urgently important. The matter was assigned to the Committee on Public Health.

Access for Minority Business Enterprises to High-Volume Commercial Centers: Councilor Mejia called for a hearing to discuss addressing commercial segregation through focusing on access for MBEs to the high-volume commercial centers such as the Seaport, Newbury Street, and Faneuil Hall marketplace. The matter was assigned to the Committee on Small Business & Workforce Development.

BPD Gang Database: Councilors Campbell and Arroyo called for a hearing regarding the Boston Police Department's Gang Database. The Boston Regional Intelligence Center (BRIC) of the Boston Police Department (BPD) maintains a database of suspected gang involved persons in the City of Boston. The sponsors noted the lack of transparency and accountability with regards to publicly available data, the inability to request personal information from BRIC, information sharing with other law enforcement agencies, and the need to separate federal, state, and local law enforcement. Council President Kim Janey noted the alignment between this hearing order and the motivation behind the Community Control of Surveillance Ordinance that she, Councilor Arroyo, and I have filed. This matter was assigned to the Committee on Public Safety & Criminal Justice.

Restaurant renewal fees: Councilor Flynn called for a hearing to discuss waiving restaurant renewal fees for various permits and licenses given the tremendous financial stress on restaurants during the COVID-19 pandemic. The matter was assigned to the Committee on Small Business & Workforce Development.

 GRANTS 

• $457,671.85 FY21 State 911 Training Grant, awarded by the MA Executive Office of Public Safety and Security to be administered by the Police Department to fund the training and certification of Enhanced 911 telecommunications. This matter was referred to the Committee on Public Safety & Criminal Justice

• $9,781,393 CDBG FY20-Cares Supplemental grant, awarded by the United States Department of Housing & Urban Development to be administered by the Department of Neighborhood Development to fund programs to help alleviate housing and economic crisis conditions caused by COVID-19. (Passed)

• $182,841,467 for the purpose of paying costs of designing, constructing, equipping, and furnishing a new six story Josiah Quincy Upper School building at 900 Washington Street in the City of Boston; and $8,550,000 for the purpose of paying cost of designing, constructing, equipping, and furnishing a new six story Josiah Quincy Upper School building at 900 Washington Street in the City of Boston including the payment of costs incidental or related thereto. (Passed)

APPOINTMENTS

• Boston Landmarks Commission: Diana Parcon, David Berarducci, John Amodeo, Justine Orlando and Felicia Jacques confirmed as members 

• Beacon Hill Architectural Commission: Joel Pierce and PT Vineburgh confirmed as members

• Zoning Board of Appeals: Eric Robinson confirmed as a member & Hansy Better Barazza confirmed as an alternate member; Sherry Dong nominated as a member & Bethany Patten nominated as an alternate, pending Council confirmation

 UPCOMING HEARINGS (Streaming online)

• Our next City Council meeting will be on Wednesday, December 2nd, at 12PM.

• Tuesday, November 24th at 4:30PM: Hearing to review the Melnea Cass Blvd Design Project (Planning, Development & Transportation)

• Monday, November 30th at 10:30AM: Hearing on Grants to fund various Transportation Projects in the City of Boston (Planning, Development & Transportation)

• Tuesday, December 1st at 12:30PM: Working session regarding an ordinance establishing a Civilian Review Board in Boston (Government Operations)

244 - 284 A St @ Boston Civic Design Commission Tuesday

Boston Civic Design Commission invites you to a meeting on 244 - 284 A Street (former Gillette parking lot site) on:

Tuesday, November 24, 2020
5 pm

Register in advance for this Zoom meeting: bit.ly/BCDCNov24 or participate by calling 833 568 8864 (Toll Free) with Meeting ID: 160 198 9859.

5:00 PM: 244-284 A Street, South Boston

6:00 PM: Dorchester Bay City, Dorchester

The Boston Civic Design Commission (BCDC) provides a forum for the general public and professional design community to participate in the shaping of the city's physical form and natural environment. BCDC is charged with critiquing the aesthetics of proposed development projects and ensuring that the projects have a positive impact on the city's public realm.

Your South Boston Newsletter Highlights

An update on events going on in South Boston and around the City from Haley Dillon, our Mayor's Office of Neighborhood Services liaison. 

One addition, on Tuesday, November 24, 2020 244-284 A Street (former Gillette parking lot site) will be in front of the Boston Civic Design Commission (details under Events below).

Sign up for the South Boston Newsletter (scroll down Boston.gov page to Stay Connected section) 

Follow the South Boston Facebook Page (Facebook.com/SouthieONS) Our community meetings have moved to an online platform and all meeting links will be posted on our Facebook page. You do not need to have a Facebook to access the page and the information. Just type “Facebook.com/SouthieONS” into your browser and you can see information on all upcoming meetings in the South Boston area. Click here! ‘Moakley Talks’ Planning Discussions "Moakley Talks" is a series of discussions on key aspects of the Moakley Park planning process. We hope you’ll join in on the conversation! What to expect: Update on our initiatives since the 2018 Vision Plan Open House Hear the feedback we received Overview of current design  Upcoming outreach events Next Discussion: Moakley Talks: Public Health and Environment Tuesday, November 24, 2020, 6 - 7 p.m. | Join the November 24 meeting. More information here. Kick off 4 Kids Peloton Raffle   Kick off 4 Kids annual flag football tournament raises money to provide South Boston families and non-profits with funds to help families in need, especially during the holiday season. Due to COVID-19 they are unable to host their Annual Kickoff 4 Kids Tournament this Fall, but it’s vital to continue our important mission and tradition of donating toys and gifts to countless needy children and families this Holiday Season! Please consider taking a chance and please spread the word! Starting now, we are raffling off an amazing Peloton Bike! Venmo: Kickoff4Kids 1 for $20 (Field Goal)  3 for $50 (Touchdown)  8 for $100 (Game Winner)  Good luck all! We’ll see you in the Spring! For more information email allisonmbaker8@gmail.com.

Events 604-608 E Broadway What: Updates from last meeting. When: Monday, November 23, 5:30 PM Where: Join Webex Meeting Meeting number (access code): 173 102 5014 Meeting password: 604e 8 Lilly Street What: Proposed three story addition. When: Monday, November 23, 6:30 PM Where: Join Webex Meeting Meeting number (access code): 173 454 7702 Meeting password: lilly 753 E Broadway  What: Change of use from office space and bagel shop to bagel shop and 4 dwelling units. When: Monday, November 23, 7:30 PM Where: Join Webex Meeting Meeting number (access code): 173 452 0642 Meeting password: 753e 244-284 A Street (former Gillette parking lot site) What: Boston Civic Design Commission (urban design & public realm) When: Tuesday, November 24, 5:00 PM Where: Register Virtual Table Talk on the Boston Student College Experience What: The Office of Public Service & Community Outreach is hosting its second Virtual Table Talk regarding the Boston Student College Experience.  When: Friday, November 20, 4:30 PM.  Where: To register for the virtual meeting, please click here. Mayor’s Office of Public Service and Community Outreach Giving Thanks Contest The ‘Giving Thanks’ contest is a fun, creative, and safe way to celebrate Thanksgiving. Show OPS how you give thanks to your loved ones. Email your thank you notes, pictures, or videos to publicservice@boston.gov to enter for a chance to win a prize. The deadline for submissions is Friday, December 4. Reimagine Boston's Main Streets Join Mayor Martin Walsh and the Department of Economic Development on Monday, November 23 at 6:00 PM for the public launch to Reimagine Boston's Main Streets. All are invited! Register at https://live.remo.co/e/re-imagining-main-streets-2/register. City Announcements Mayor Walsh Announces Construction Completion of Key Healthy Streets Projects Mayor Martin J. Walsh today announced the completion of several Healthy Streets projects in Downtown, Mattapan, and Roslindale, to support transportation safety and reliability. These projects originate in  Go Boston 2030, the City's long-term transportation action plan, and were accelerated during the COVID-19 pandemic. Mayor Walsh announced these projects earlier this fall as part of the second phase of the Healthy Streets transformation. Read more. Good Neighbors Program Has Fulfilled More Than 4500 Requests During Covid-19 Mayor Martin J. Walsh today announced the Good Neighbors program, a partnership with Nesterly that connects older, at-risk individuals with volunteers to help with basic needs, has fulfilled more than 4,500 requests for food delivery and friendly check-ins since its creation at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. Food deliveries and check-ins continue to serve residents who are at highest risk for severe illness from COVID-19 and homebound. Read more. Mayor Walsh Releases Boston’s Zero-emission Vehicle Roadmap and Cuts Ribbon on Public Neighborhood Ev Chargers Mayor Martin J. Walsh today announced the City of Boston has released its Zero-Emission Vehicle (ZEV) Roadmap, a long-term strategy to accelerate the adoption of electric vehicles and other zero-emission transportation, with specific actions to be taken by the City. In tandem, the Boston Transportation Department is installing publicly accessible electric vehicle (EV) charging stations in its neighborhood municipal lots.  Read more. New Covid-19 Relief Funds Available to Small Businesses Mayor Martin J. Walsh today announced the launch of three new funds totaling $6.3 million that will support small businesses within the City of Boston that have been affected by COVID-19, focusing on commercial rent relief, supporting certified women, minority, and veteran owned small businesses, and restaurant payroll and rental relief. Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, the City of Boston has allocated more than $15 million toward direct grants to small businesses.  Read more. Mayor to File Ordinance to Create Office of Police Accountability and Transparency In keeping with his commitment to taking swift action on police reform, Mayor Martin J. Walsh today announced he will file an ordinance with the Boston City Council to create the Office of Police Accountability and Transparency to enact the Boston Police Reform Task Force recommendations. Mayor Walsh today also signed two executive orders to create Boston’s first-ever Civilian Review Board, and to create a stronger Internal Affairs Oversight Panel, both as recommended by the Task Force.  Read more. City of Boston Offering Expanded Recycling Resources for Residents Following through with recommendations made in the City of Boston's first ever Zero Waste Plan, the Boston Public Works Department (PWD) in partnership with northeast-based textile recycling company, Helpsy, began delivering dropboxes for residents to dispose of their textiles to municipal parking lots across Boston. These dropboxes are part of the City of Boston's work to expand recycling services citywide, creating a healthier and greener environment for generations to come.  Read more. Thanksgiving Guidance The City is asking people to spend Thanksgiving in person with only their current household. A big area of virus transmission is private gatherings. If you feel you must be with your family:  Keep it small and limit the number of guests.  In Boston, indoor gatherings should be 10 people or less. There are no exceptions.  Everyone should wear a mask when they are not eating or drinking, and everyone should stay 6 feet apart when possible. Look at how much space you have, and how many people can safely maintain distance.  Look at your ventilation and open windows if needed.  Consider spending time outdoors, weather permitting.  Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces and items between use. We have a range of guidelines for how to serve food safely that you can check out at boston.gov/coronavirus.  And if you travel out of state, follow the state guidelines on quarantine and testing when you return.  In fact: everyone should get tested before Thanksgiving and after Thanksgiving. The City is also asking our colleges and universities to tell students that  if they go home for Thanksgiving, they should not be returning to Boston this semester. Emerson College and Suffolk University simplified this issue by going fully remote after Thanksgiving, and Boston University and Harvard let students know they should not return in person if they go home.  We are asking all our colleges and universities to take similar steps. Read more.