Government Health & Environment

Governor Signs “Green Ticket” Bill Into Law

Posted on Author Matt ContiComments Off on Governor Signs “Green Ticket” Bill Into Law
Governor Deval Patrick signed the Green Ticket bill into law bringing new trash disposal compliance mechanisms closer to reality. Currently, if the city wants to issue a citation to property owner for a trash violation they have no authority to collect on the fines they hand out. With the ‘Green Ticket Bill’ these unpaid citations are added to the violator’s property tax bill at the end of the year. Boston is expected to “opt-in” to the program once procedures for issuance and appeals are determined.
State Representative Aaron Michlewitz said, “This provision will be an effective tool in keeping our streets clean.” Rep. Michlewitz made the bill the subject of his maiden speechin the State House of Representatives. District 1 City Councilor Sal LaMattina also strongly supported the effort.
 
NEWRA’s Clean Streets committee believes the passage will improve the cleanliness of the streets of the North End. Their letter supporting the bill contends, “Trash violations are a constant problem in the neighborhood and they have numerous repercussions ranging from odor and rat infestation to germs, blight, and to the creation of an unlivable environment. If a property owner violates city ordinances and contributes to the blight of a neighborhood, they should be held accountable. This legislation helps improve the quality of life of residents.”

It is estimated that only 45% of current green tickets have been paid, leaving more than $5 million of revenue due to the State since 2006

Ross Levanto blogs from Beacon Hill about the signing of the bill.

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North End Cleanliness Tip Sheet

Posted on Author Matt Conti

The Clean Streets Committee has released an updated version of the North End Cleanliness Tip Sheet, a guide for residents on Street Sweeping, Residential Trash, Recycling, Daily Cleanliness and Snow Removal. Click the image below to enlarge or view the PDF version. View the PDF version of the Cleanliness Tip Sheet.
Government Schools

Michlewitz Votes In Favor of House Education Legislation

Posted on Author Matt Conti

From the office of State Representative Aaron Michlewitz:

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                            
Contact: Blake Webber 617-722-2488

January 8, 2010                                                                                                  

House Passes Landmark Education Legislation

Targets achievement gap; strengthens Commonwealth’s application for Race to the Top Funds

(BOSTON) – Third Suffolk State Representative Aaron Michlewitz joined his colleagues in the Massachusetts House of Representatives in passing crucial legislation focused on eliminating the achievement gap in schools across the Commonwealth. The bill – entitled An Act Relative to the Achievement Gap – strengthens the state’s application for $250 million in federal “Race to the Top” funding, allows stronger intervention authority for the state in underperforming districts, lifts the cap on charter schools in the lowest performing school districts and helps to facilitate innovation and excellence in schools throughout Massachusetts.

 “We are one step closer to providing every child with a real opportunity for a well-rounded and positive educational experience in the City of Boston.” said State Representative Michlewitz. “This bill should place the Commonwealth and the City at the front of the line with the $250 million in the Race To The Top funding by the Obama Administration.”
Government Photos & Videos

Photo Gallery: Reception for State Rep. Aaron Michlewitz

Posted on Author NorthEndWaterfront.com

The local political scene came alive at a reception for State Representative Aaron Michlewitz, held March 27th at Ward 8. Photographer Michele Morgan was on hand to capture these people photos from the event.