Applications now being accepted for one open position

The Somerville Fair Housing Commission (FHC) is actively seeking a new member, and we invite all Somerville residents to consider applying.

Life in the Ville by Jimmy Del Ponte

When you walk into most retail stores these days, every single item has one of those plastic anti-theft devices attached to it. It is virtually impossible to shoplift in a store where these devices are visible on the merchandise. Some clothing items have the anti-theft device sewn into the product.

Former Alderman Bob McWatters wishes everyone a healthy and Happy New Year! Bob spent his holiday visiting family in Greenville, South Carolina. Seen here with his cousin Mary Cronin.

By Larry Bohan

This is a group of primarily Somerville residents who have gotten together every year on a Saturday afternoon after Christmas/New Year’s.

By The Times Staff

The past year was an issues-oriented one for many in the city. A citywide election took place, culminating in the selection of a new mayor. The city took on a number of matters concerning the development and sustenance of both new and existing projects. Protests over immigration enforcement took focus for a time, as did many other demonstrations in support of human rights and equality. The following events highlight some of the top stories of 2025:

Somerville Mayor Jake Wilson laid out his vision of the new administration at last week’s Inauguration Ceremony. — Photo courtesy of Devon Moos Photography

By Harry Kane

A new chapter in Somerville’s history started with Mayor Jake Wilson’s inaugural address, which outlined a vision for the new administration’s open-door policy and increased transparency strategy for solving complex city challenges. From fixing roads and aging infrastructure to combating discrimination and creating more affordable housing, the Wilson administration promises action, compassion, and accountability.

(The opinions and views expressed in the commentaries and letters to the Editor of The Somerville Times belong solely to the authors and do not reflect the views or opinions of The Somerville Times, its staff or publishers)

By David Dahlbacka

In July, the Somerville Planning Board unanimously approved a new Assembly Square Neighborhood Plan, proposing to rezone the district.

The Neighborhood Plan talks about balancing commercial development with housing, but gives the nod to “market demands” for high-end housing. For the last twenty years, developers have cited regional demand to justify building expensive housing units near the Assembly Square riverfront. However, according to the Neighborhood Plan, “… the units are largely rented by single occupants who only live in them during the workweek.”

Somerville’s Office of Immigrant Affairs, in collaboration with Saint Benedict Church, invites community members to a festive Three Kings Day celebration. This event will be held on Sunday, January 11, at the Prospect Hill Charter School cafeteria (17 Franklin St.) from 12 noon to 3 p.m. Learn more at somervillema.gov/calendar.

Residents should please note that motor vehicle excise tax bills for 2026 are being sent one month earlier this year.  Bills will issue on January 26, 2026, and are due February 25, 2026.