Happy May!

Monday was International Firefighters Day.

That morning the community gathered for the groundbreaking of the Framingham Firefighters Memorial at Framingham Fire Department headquarters.

The memorial will remember those who paid the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty and those who lost their lives due to occupational illness.

As a sat there this morning, I was thinking about my Grampy, who died of cancer after a 40 year career with the Boston Fire Department. And I thought of my Grammy, who took care of him for years. She became a widow when she was 64 - which as a 10 year old I had no concept of how young she really was at the time.

I've seen first hand the toll occupational illness takes on families. But I've also seen the pride for the job and dedication to community found in every firefighter.

Thank you to firefighters past and present for your service. And may we never forget those who died due to their service.

If you would like to contribute to the Memorial, the Framingham Firefighters Memorial Foundation is selling bricks or you can make a monetary donation. Please visit the foundation website for more information and how to contribute.

Council Updates

Let’s talk about this week's meeting.

The Council voted 9–1 to send the Mayor’s proposed FY27 budget back for revisions.

That is highly unusual for the Framingham Council. I voted in favor of doing that, and here is why.

The proposed budget is about $402 million. It requires a 4.5% tax increase and uses $14 million in free cash to close a structural deficit. Free cash is basically our savings. It is one-time money. It should be used for one-time expenses — not to prop up recurring costs in the annual operating budget.

Framingham currently has about $21 million in free cash. Using $14 million would leave about $7 million. We already had to dip into free cash this year for snow removal and energy costs. We do not know what other unexpected costs may come up.

That is not a position I am comfortable with.

And honestly, this is bigger than one budget cycle.

What last Tuesday really highlighted for me is how much Framingham still struggles with long-term planning.

We have been talking about strategic planning for years. But we have not fully embraced it. And when you do not have a long-term plan, you end up reacting instead of leading.

That is how we got here.

It becomes harder to make thoughtful decisions about economic development, schools, capital projects, climate resilience, and the investments that shape the kind of city we want to be.

I said this a few weeks ago, and I still believe it: we need to get serious about growing revenue and expanding our tax base. Other communities are taking advantage of new business growth. Framingham needs to be having that conversation in a much more serious way. The city must be more friendly and welcoming to businesses.

As Chair of the Strategic Initiatives and Financial Oversight Committee, I worked with colleagues and the Charter Review Committee to strengthen expectations around strategic planning. One of the ideas included in the Charter update was the Strategic Blueprint — a roadmap for what we want to accomplish as a city. SIFOC came to our Council meeting, as well, to share their annual report with us.

As a former chair, nothing in their report surprised me for all the reasons above - and we cannot afford to keep ignoring it. One of their recommendations is to put out a Request for Proposals for an outside vendor to help SIFOC and the city with planning.

When thinking about our city, I keep coming back to one question.

What kind of community do we want to live in?

Budgets should reflect our values. Right now, I do not think we have done enough work to clearly define them. And strategic planning must be community based and community focused. Without your input and support, the plan won’t be as strong as it would be with you.

Here is what I want to see in the coming weeks:

A revised budget that reduces the structural deficit and relies less heavily on free cash, and includes a innovative ways of operating
Issuing an RFP for an outside partner to help lead a public process that creates a citywide vision and strategic priorities.
And beginning the work of building the Strategic Blueprint outlined in the Charter.

Tuesday’s vote was not about stopping the process. It was about asking for a better one.

Welcoming Ordinance, Immigration and Flock Cameras

The Rules, Ethics, and Ordinances Subcommittee - of which I am a member - is currently reviewing Framingham’s Welcoming Ordinance to ensure there is absolute clarity regarding the boundaries between local police and federal immigration enforcement.

To be clear: due to the ruling Commonwealth vs Lund, Framingham Police do not hold an individual in custody beyond their lawful release time based solely on their federal civil immigration detainer, as ICE civil detainers are not judicial warrants. FPD's policy states it isn't their mission to enforce federal immigration statutes.

A major focus of our recent discussions has been increasing transparency through robust, quarterly reporting on police statistics and demographics to better understand enforcement trends across our community. We are also closely examining the city’s use of Flock Safety traffic cameras. While these tools are used to solve crimes, we are addressing valid privacy concerns and reviewing data-sharing protections. A full draft of these ordinance revisions is expected by May 18, which is our next meeting, as we continue working to balance effective public safety with the trust and security of all our residents.

Around District 3

Our New Youth Councilor

Say hello to District 3’s Youth Councilor - Ziva Thomas!

Ziva is a sophomore at Framingham High School. Ziva is very involved in her school and church communities, and even runs a non-profit with her friends focused on teen mental health.

The Youth Council met for the first time a few weeks ago and I the pleasure of attending. It was great to watch them organize themselves and discuss what they want to achieve this session.

I look forward to their work this session.

Unexpectedly, Ziva’s seat in the Blumer Room is also where I sit! So, clearly that spot is the D3 seat.

Congrats Ziva!

Recent Proclamations

Two months ago the Council and Mayor Sisitsky proclaimed March as Sudden Unexplained Death in Childhood Awareness Month.

The proclamation request came from District 3 resident Madison Mancini.

Madison is a teen ambassador for the SUDC Foundation. This cause is very dear to her because her brother Ryan passed away when he was 2 years old.

We declared this month, not only to raise awareness about SUDC, but to remember and honor those, like Ryan, who lost their lives too soon.

Additionally, this week we declared May Framingham Bike Month. I put together this proclamation with the Bicycle, Pedestrian and Trails Committee. They have a few upcoming events to celebrate the month - see below.

Welcome to Nobscot, Brass Tap!

Have you checked out the new restaurant in Nobscot?

The Brass Tap opened its doors on March 30. It is a big hit in the village! I've been a few times - and always see someone I know! The Brass Tap is quickly becoming our Cheers and a fun local place to hang out. You'll find it in the new Fox Howe building next to CVS.

Play Ball! Softball Opening Day in D3!

Framingham Youth Softball kicked off their season on a beautiful Sunday in April right here in D3!

Thank you to Framingham Youth Softball for inviting me to throw out the first pitch at one of the opening day games!

I look forward to seeing the renovations to the Walsh Dunning Field Complex thanks to the Community Preservation Funding in the years to come. Have a great season!

Office Hours and Neighborhood Meetings

Important: I am not holding office hours tonight at the McAuliffe Library. I have a conflict and will reschedule office hours for later in the month.

Community News

Women, Children & Families Commission Survey

The Framingham Women, Children, and Families Commission is asking residents to weigh in on city priorities for the coming fiscal year. The survey is anonymous and open to all residents. The Commission is hoping to hear from at least 500 people.

Take the survey at this link.

Volunteers Needed To Place Flags on Veterans Graves

Framingham Veterans Services and the Framingham Cemetery Trustees are seeking volunteers to assist in placing flags on the graves of veterans in observance of Memorial Day.

On Saturday, May 16, 2026, at 9 a.m. volunteers are needed to assist in placing approximately 2,500 flags at Edgell Grove Cemetery.

Volunteers should meet at the cemetery office to get their flags and assignment.

Armed Forces Day

Join the Framingham Veterans Council in commemorating Armed Forces Day on Saturday, May 16. The event takes place at Cushing Memorial Chapel (60 Dudley Road) at 11:00am

After the commemoration, attend a picnic at the park with food and a concert from the FHS band. All invited. Questions? Email Nick Paganella.

Flag Day Parade

Local sports teams and organizations are invited to march in the City of Framingham Veterans Council’s Flag Day Parade on Sunday, June 14, 2026. The parade kicks off at 10 a.m. at Cushing Memorial Park.

Teams interested in participating should RSVP by May 15 by emailing vetchair@framinghamMA.gov

ART on the CRT

Join the Framingham Cultural Council and the Friends of Framingham Trails at this unique outdoor art exhibit will feature eight pieces by local artists along the Cochituate Rail Trail between School Street and Old Connecticut Path.

The works explore the theme of “Moving,” which reflects both physical motion and emotional impact. Just as the trail provides a path for walking, biking, or connecting with friends, these pieces invite viewers to think about movement in everyday life and the feelings it can inspire.

Featured artists include Pam Bonaguide, Chelsea Bradway, Molly Dee, Catherine Gruetzke-Blais, Chuck Matzker, and Felicia Tuttle.

Art will be installed on May 1, 2026, and will remain on the trail through September 1, 2026.

An opening celebration will be held on Saturday, May 9, at 1 PM at the School Street entrance, with entertainment, refreshments, and a chance to meet the artists.

This project is funded by a Creative Experiences grant from the Massachusetts Cultural Council.

Leadership MetroWest Academy: Applications Open for Class of 2027

Know someone who should be shaping this region’s future? Is that you?

Applications for the Leadership MetroWest Academy Class of 2027 are open now through June 1.

The Leadership Academy is a year-long program designed to develop community-focused, skilled leaders across MetroWest. Here’s what the year looks like:

A two-day September retreat for team-building and goal-setting
Monthly deep dives into public policy and community issues
A Positive Leadership, Equity Anchor & Anti-Racism curriculum
Site visits to community organizations across MetroWest
Community service projects and real-world experience
Access to a network of 1,000+ alumni actively shaping this region

The Academy kicks off in September — but seats fill fast. Apply online today.

Note: I am a graduate of the Class of 2023 and a member of the Board of Directors. I am more than happy to answer any questions about LMW.

Framingham History Center 2026 House Tour

Join the Framingham History Center for their annual House Tour on Sunday, May 17 from 12:00–5:00 PM, one of their most anticipated events of the year. This special event offers a rare opportunity to step inside several private historic homes and notable buildings across Framingham.

Each location on the tour has been carefully selected to highlight the architecture, history, and character of Framingham’s built landscape. Visitors will see how historic homes have been preserved and cared for, while continuing to serve as vibrant living spaces. Along the way, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship, stories, and people connected to these remarkable places.

Purchase your tickets online today - this event will sell out! Tickets: $35 (Members get $5 off)

Free Bike Rodeo Saturday, May 9

The Bicycle, Pedestrian & Trails Committee (BPTC) invites families to a fun and educational Kids Bike Rodeo designed to help young riders build confidence, improve safety skills, and enjoy cycling.

The free community event is Saturday, May 9 from 10:00 am to noon at the parking lot at Dr. Harvey Cushing Way & Dudley Road.

This free community event will give children the opportunity to learn and practice essential biking skills in a safe, supportive environment.

Activities include a skill-building obstacle course, helmet fit checks, and instruction on proper bike locking techniques. Volunteers will also be available to help younger riders learn how to ride.

All participants are encouraged to bring their bicycles and helmets. Helmets are required for participation.

Also to celebrate Framingham Bike Month, the BPTC will be hosting family bike ride event on May 30 at the Cochituate Rail Trail.

Openings on Boards and Commissions

The City of Framingham is accepting applications for dozens of volunteer positions on its boards, committees, and commissions and the deadline is May 15, 2026.

Local government doesn’t run on elected officials alone. The real work of shaping Framingham’s future, from its zoning decisions, parks, cultural funding, sustainability goals, and more, happens at these volunteer bodies. Here’s a quick rundown of what’s open and what each one does:

2030 Advisory Council — Guides Framingham’s long-range strategic planning and vision through 2030.
Agricultural Advisory Committee — Advises on agricultural land use and farming-related issues in the city.
Bicycle, Pedestrian, and Trails Committee — Champions safe streets, trail development, and non-motorized transportation improvements.
Board of Assessors — Oversees property valuation for tax purposes.
Board of Licensing Commissioners — Reviews and issues licenses for alcohol, entertainment, and certain businesses.
Cable Advisory Committee — Advises on cable television services and related public access programming.
Community Development Committee — Reviews use of federal Community Development Block Grant funds for housing and community programs.
Community Preservation Committee — Recommends how the city’s Community Preservation Act funds are spent on open space, historic preservation, recreation, and affordable housing.
Conservation Commission — Protects wetlands and natural resources; reviews development near protected lands.
Council on Aging — Advises on programs and services for Framingham’s senior residents.
Cultural Council — Distributes state and local arts funding to community arts and cultural programs.
Cushing Memorial Advisory Committee — Advises on the care and use of Cushing Memorial Park.
Disability Commission — Advocates for accessibility and the rights of residents with disabilities.
Elderly and Disabled Tax Fund Committee — Manages a fund to provide property tax relief to eligible seniors and disabled residents.
Economic Development Corporation — Works to attract and retain businesses and support economic growth in Framingham.
Fair Housing Committee — Promotes equal housing opportunity and addresses discrimination in housing.
Framingham Historical Commission — Identifies and protects historically significant properties and resources in the city.
Historic District Commission — Reviews changes to properties within designated historic districts to protect their character.
Human Relations Commission — Promotes harmony and equal treatment among Framingham’s diverse communities.
Loring Arena Advisory Committee — Advises on operations and programming at Loring Arena, the city’s public ice rink.
Park and Recreation Commission — Oversees the city’s parks, playgrounds, recreational facilities, and programs.
Planning Board — Reviews development proposals, subdivisions, and long-range land use planning.
Police Advisory Committee — Provides community input on policing policies and practices.
South Middlesex Regional Vocational Committee (Keefe Tech) — Represents Framingham’s interests on the regional school committee overseeing Keefe Technical High School.
Strategic Initiatives and Financial Oversight Committee — Monitors the city’s long-term financial health and strategic priorities.
Sustainability Committee — Advises on environmental sustainability, climate action, and green initiatives.
Team Framingham Steering Committee — Supports coordination of citywide initiatives and community partnerships.
Traffic Commission — Reviews traffic flow, safety, and signage issues across the city.
Veteran’s Council — Advocates for and honors Framingham’s veteran community.
Women, Children, and Families Commission — Advocates for the well-being of women, children, and families; advises the Mayor on issues affecting these residents.
Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) — Hears requests for variances and special permits from the city’s zoning ordinance.