The end of the legislative session is a time when bills that are not controversial can still make it across the finish line. There were five bills that I was particularly pleased to help over the finish line in the waning days of the session. Governor Patrick signed all of these bills, so they are now law.
Parcel 13 Next Steps
After a full process, Mass DOT awarded the Parcel 13 contract to Peebles Corp. The Peebles bid was most consistent with existing zoning and also, I understand, favorable financially. Just a quick note on the procedure from here, from an outline provided by MassDOT.
No More Robo Calls
As a politician, I have not been above the occasional robo call, but as a consumer, I get how annoying they are. The Boston Globe recently did a story on a service offered through nomorobo.com which causes robo calls not to ring through to your house. We’ve signed up for it at our house and it seems to work well.
Protesters Who Block Major Highways
Protesters who are arrested, charged and convicted of blocking highways should be responsible for repaying the cost of police and fire fighters who respond to the situation, just for starters. Additionally, if any person suffers injury due to inability or delay in accessing appropriate medical attention, protesters should be held criminally and civilly liable.
Trapelo Road Snapshot
Strom drain work in Cushing Square has been congesting traffic. That is the work that has been congesting traffic and disrupting bus service lately. It should get better as the work moves beyond the center of the intersection in Cushing Square.
State Sen. William Brownsberger receives Beacon of Justice Award
As reported by the Belmont Citizen-Herald, “The Equal Justice Coalition and the Massachusetts Legal Assistance Corporation hosted a reception for members of the 2015-16 legislature at the State House Jan. 12. During the reception, the Equal Justice Coalition honored State Sen. William Brownsberger, D-Belmont, with a Beacon of Justice Award.”