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Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey announced plans to eliminate broker's fees for renters, shifting the financial burden to landlords. The decision, part of the Fiscal Year 2026 budget, aims to alleviate high housing costs in the state, where such fees can reach up to $10,000.
A former Boston police officer, Christopher Cunniff, faces felony charges of aggravated assault and battery for allegedly beating an intoxicated man after the St. Patrick's Day parade. The incident occurred on March 16, and Cunniff has a history of disciplinary actions related to misconduct. His arraignment is now scheduled for July 10.
A Roxbury mother expressed feelings of betrayal after Boston canceled a memorial event for her son, who was killed in a shooting five years ago. Mayor Michelle Wu clarified that the cancellation stemmed from neighborhood concerns and offered to help the family find a new location for the event.
A rare roll cloud formation surprised beachgoers along Portugal's coast amid a record heat wave, with temperatures soaring to 116 degrees Fahrenheit. Experts attribute the phenomenon to a combination of cold, moist air meeting warm, dry air fueled by extreme heat conditions. While visually striking, climatologists indicate that roll clouds may become more common due to climate change.
A Massachusetts jury acquitted Karen Read of murder and manslaughter charges in the death of her boyfriend, John O’Keefe, but a wrongful death lawsuit remains pending against her. The O’Keefe family claims Read drove under the influence and caused his death, mirroring allegations from her criminal trial. The lawsuit also targets the bars that allegedly served her alcohol that night.
Officials in Provincetown investigate a series of recent incidents targeting the LGBTQ+ community, including a reported hate crime. Town Manager Alex Morse emphasized the importance of reporting such incidents and noted that additional police presence will be deployed during the Fourth of July weekend.
Mayor Michelle Wu, along with state and federal leaders, broke ground on the redevelopment of Boston's oldest public housing community, Mary Ellen McCormack. The first phase will include a 112,000-square-foot building with 94 modern apartments for low-income families, set to be completed by fall 2026. This redevelopment aims to provide affordable housing while ensuring current residents have a right to return.
Boston's July programming focuses on community health and wellness, encouraging residents to engage in fitness activities and self-care. The initiative highlights the importance of meaningful experiences to enhance social well-being.
Mayor Michelle Wu announced the continuation of Boston's city-wide participatory budgeting initiative for its second year, allowing residents to directly influence budget allocation. The program aims to enhance community engagement and improve transparency in city spending.
Mayor Michelle Wu appointed Jonathan Garland and David Nagahiro to the Boston Civic Design Commission, enhancing the body with diverse expertise. The appointments align with the Commission's biennial review to incorporate new voices while preserving institutional knowledge. Garland and Nagahiro will contribute insights on significant development projects in Boston.