Word Around the Ward...

Magoun Square discussions are heating up, once again, on the legislative level as Alderman Sean O'Donovan delivered a passionate plea for the business district here (33:07 Mark) during January 12th's Board of Alderman meeting. The following meeting (26th) saw a submission requesting that the Executive Director of the Office of Strategic Planning and Community Development update this Board on any and all initiatives to rectify the lack of economic growth in the Magoun Square area. This request was sent to the Committee on Housing and Community Development, but a meeting time has yet to be scheduled.

Speaking of Magoun Square, Mimi's Nails is the latest window featuring a For Rent sign and the first business with plans to leave in 2012. 2011 alone saw close to a half dozen businesses leave including Basil Tree and Lil' Vinny's Ristorante.

Also leaving the Ward 5 area is the Chocolate Tarte located on Highland Avenue and recent participant in Somerville Local First's Harvest Fest. 

Ward 5 homey and former candidate for Alderman at Large, Todd Easton, was recommended for appointment to the Somerville Recreation and Youth Commission. This appointment will move on to the Committee on the Confirmation of Appointments which includes Bruce M. Desmond, Chair, William M. Roche, Vice Chair, Robert C. Trane, Ward Seven Alderman, Sean T. O’Donovan, Ward Five Alderman and Tony Lafuente, Ward 4 Alderman for approval.

The Café at the Armory is now open on Sundays from 10-5pm! Do stop in for a great coffee drink and free Wifi.

Maxwell's Green is moving along quickly as they already have structures and roads in place for the 184 unit development.

Be sure to make attending city meetings one of your goals for 2012! You can check out meeting times, information, videos and meeting minutes at the City's Meeting Portal. Navigate around to find everything from the members of Subcommittees and their attendance records. As always, this will periodically be posted on Ward 5 Online for readers' reference.

Have a note for Word Around The Ward? Be sure to email me!