advanced search		If you would like a copy of a Research Bureau publication not available in PDF, please contact Diane Smith - dsmith@bmrb.org or 617-227-1900.               Title         Date   Two Key City Positions Filled, New Search Opens Subject: Fire Department and Retirement Board positions are filled, Inspectional Services search begins November, 2011   Boston Waiting for SJC Decision on Quinn Bill Case Subject: At stake is a liability of $18.6M and new annualized costs of $10M November, 2011   Boston Ends Fiscal 2011 With A Surplus Subject: Revenues come in $20M over budget, but spending exceeds plan by $14M November, 2011   Boston School Budget Will Be A Challenge In Fiscal 2013 Subject: BPS faces increased operational expenses and cuts in federal grants November, 2011   Boston School Committee Deadline Extended Subject: Applications for School Committee Still Being Accepted - November 28 DEADLINE November, 2011   An Opportunity to Serve on the Boston School Committee Subject: School Committee openings October, 2011   A Challenging TIme for Local Governments Subject: Moody's issues negative outlook for US local government but Boston is better positioned September, 2011   Innovation Districts Build Momentum Subject: 70 New firms have located in the Innovation District since January 2010 September, 2011   Training City of Boston Managers Subject: Management Certification Program is a promising new start to a decades old challenge September, 2011   City Council Races Set for General Election Subject: Candidates for the November 8 election have been narrowed down September, 2011   Search Underway for Two Key City Positions Subject: Fire Department and Retirement Board looking to fill key positions at critical times for both August, 2011   Boston Moves Forward with $1.7 Billion 5-Year Capital Plan Subject: Bonds August, 2011   Candidates Running for Boston City Council in 2011 Subject: An overview of the upcoming fall elections in Boston June, 2011   Boston Demographic Update Subject: Population, employment and other changes from the last decade. June, 2011   Boston Police Sworn Officer Levels Increase in 2011 Subject: The number of Boston's sworn police officers increased in June for the first time in 31/2 years. June, 2011   New Teacher Evaluation Regulations Approved by State Subject: Student achievement to be an important factor in measuring teacher effectiveness. June, 2011   Boston's Largest Private Employers Subject: BRA report highlights importance of private tax-exempt institutions to local economy May, 2011   I-Cubed Development Tool Used for Fan Pier Project Subject: Fan Pier Project will be first to use investment incentive tool. May, 2011   New BPS Schools to Open in September Subject: Enrollment in traditional BPS schools will continue to drop as schools with more flexibility grow May, 2011   House and Senate Act On Local Health Insurance Reform Subject: Health insurance plans are similiar but key differences still need to be addressed May, 2011   Boston United for Students Hosts Teacher Contract Forum Subject: BPS and BTU hold first public discussion on current contract negotiations April, 2011   Mayor Restructures Finance Team Subject: A&F structure is retained with a division of responsibilities between two leaders April, 2011   Mayor's Recommended FY12 Budget Subject: Health insurance and pensions account for 55.7% of the budget increase April, 2011   Boston's Bond Sale in 2011 Subject: Boston demonstrates its strength in a challenging market for municipalities March, 2011   The Mayor's Other Research Bureau Speech Subject: Issues of health insurance and collective bargaining in addition to the Dudley Plan were addressed by the Mayor at the Research Bureau's annual meeting March, 2011   Boston’s 2011-2012 Legislative Package 2 Subject: A review of bills from the Mayor's Legislative Package - a continuation from February March, 2011   FY12 School Budget Approved Subject: School Committee Approves a $829.5M school budget for FY12, next stop City Council March, 2011   Boston United for Students Coalition Update Subject: Education and mobilization efforts underway with a major event on April 6 March, 2011   District 7 Primary and Licensing Board Appointment Subject: Elections February, 2011   BPS Proposes New School Funding Model for FY12 Subject: Schools February, 2011   Boston’s 2011-2012 Legislative Package Subject: Legislation February, 2011   Superintendent Submits FY12 Budget with 1% Increase Subject: School Finance February, 2011   City Council and School Committe Leadership in 2011 Subject: City Council/School Committee January, 2011   Boston's Tax Rate Set for FY11 Subject: Finances January, 2011   Mayor Menino's Speech Priorities Subject: Mayor annual speech setting the agenda January, 2011   BPS Prepares for Innovation Schools Subject: Schools January, 2011   Boston Residency Requirement Still Active Subject: Residency ordinance enforced despite questionable benefits and uneven application December, 2010   Boston Weathers Pension Funding Crisis Subject: Planned perfect strom comes together to avert significant cost increase in FY12 December, 2010   Boston’s Retiree Health Care Liability Revised Subject: Annual required contribution reduced slightly but still far above City's appropriation December, 2010   School Health Costs Outpace Chapter 70 Aid Subject: BPS Health Insurance and CH70 review December, 2010   Boston School Committee Deadline Extended Subject: Appointed School Committee November, 2010   Superintendent to Present New School Closure Plan Subject: School Closings November, 2010   Boston School Committee Accepting Applications Subject: Appointed School Committee October, 2010   Charter Schools Will Expand In Boston Subject: Charter Schools October, 2010   Boston United for Students Subject: A coalition of 35 organizations united to demand serious reform in the teachers' contract September, 2010   A New Beginning at 12 BPS Turnaround Schools Subject: New authority and $22.5 million applied to transform underperforming schools September, 2010   Boston's Bonds Now Rated Aaa by Moody's Subject: The rate is due to a recalibration, not a change in credit opinion September, 2010   Boston Ends Fiscal 2010 With A Small Surplus Subject: Actual revenues over budget exceed spending over appropriations to generate $9.1M surplus September, 2010   Downtown Boston BID Subject: City Council should approve Boston's first business improvement district August, 2010   Rating Boston in 2010 Subject: Boston takes full advantage of federal stimulus bond opportunities July, 2010   Boston's FY11 Budget Approved Subject: Third year of state aid cuts makes budget tight but deeper cuts expected in FY12 July, 2010   Downtown Boston BID Subject: City Council should approve Boston's first business improvement district July, 2010   Potential Ballot Initiatives for November Election Subject: Steep reduction of sales tax and curb on affordable housing may appear on the ballot June, 2010   Health Insurance Double Standard Continues Subject: The Massachusetts Legislature has approved its recommended FY11 operating budget but no provisions were adopted to enable cities and towns to better manage its employee health insurance costs, the #1 budget buster for every municipality. June, 2010   Mayor Menino's Resubmitted FY11 Budget Subject: The Mayor's revised $2.3B budget for FY11 is $49.4M or 2.2% higher than the FY10 budget and it represents a net increase of $4.1M over his original April submission, excluding the teacher pension reductions in revenues and expenses. June, 2010   Impact on Future Spending is Key for Firefighters' Contract Subject: The Boston City Council should not be quick to accept Local 718 offer as the panacea for the vote they must take. Multi-year financial implications are at stake. June, 2010   Can Boston Afford the Firefighters’ Arbitration Award?- PDF VERSION Subject: Cost of four-year contract can be covered but implications for the fifth year raise concerns May, 2010   Can Boston Afford the Firefighters’ Arbitration Award? Subject: Cost of four-year contract can be covered but implications for the fifth year raise concerns May, 2010   Boston’s Retiree Health Care Liability is Growing Subject: OPEB April, 2010   Boston Takes Advantage of Education Reform Subject: Late designation of eligible schools creates a tight timeline for fall implementation February, 2010   Quinn Bill Impact on Police Retirements Subject: More police retirements are occuring as Quinn bill payments are reduced. February, 2010   New Boston Retirement Board Member Subject: Filling of a vacant position during a tumultus time. February, 2010   Firefighter Contract Arbitration Status Subject: Firefighter arbitration complete. City Council may play key role. February, 2010   Superintendent Presents FY11 Budget Plan Subject: Budget gap remains, requiring further cuts while moving forward with reform agenda February, 2010   City Council Committees in 2010 Subject: Stability for key committees – new committees created February, 2010   Boston Should Not Adopt Early Retirement Incentive Subject: Short-term benefit not worth cost of increasing pension liability January, 2010   New Members for Boston City Council & School Committee Subject: Budget challenges will dominate early action taken by new members January, 2010   Quinn Bill Pay Cut for Boston Police Officers Subject: 41% Quinn Bill reduction will have lingering consequences on several fronts January, 2010   Opportunity for Bold Education Reform At Hand Subject: House draft is preferable but still requires modification to meet challenge December, 2009   Boston’s Use of Federal ARRA Funds in 2009 Subject: Capital projects received most dollars but funds for operational use are important. December, 2009   Consider Serving on the Boston School Committee Subject: Deadline for School Committee Application Extended November, 2009   Boston Ends Fiscal 2009 With A Small Surplus Subject: Finance November, 2009   Suffolk County Government Effectively Eliminated Subject: Sheriff’s functions transferred to state but cost to Boston will stay the same October, 2009   Mayor Will Appoint Two New School Committee Members Subject: An opportunity to serve the City - applications due November 12 October, 2009   New Firefighters’ Contract Not Expected Until 2010 Subject: Cost of firefighters’ contract should reflect City’s fiscal position October, 2009   Boston Sells ARRA Qualified School Construction Bonds Subject: Boston is the first Massachusetts city to sell new stimulus QSCB tax credit bonds October, 2009   Mayor Menino Files In-District Charter School Bill Subject: Charter Schools - Two BTU grievances contributed to Mayor’s new reform push July, 2009   Legislature Ends “King for a Day” Disability Pensions Subject: Disability pension based on twelve months compensation, not one day July, 2009   Legislature Cuts Boston’s State Aid Deeper Subject: Steep cuts to state aid and grants overshadow new local revenues. June, 2009   Boston Moves to Single-Stream Recycling on July 1 Subject: Waste haulers must offer commercial customers recycling collection and disposal services June, 2009   City Sucessful in Debt Refunding Issue Subject: Recent sale produced savings to reduce debt service costs June, 2009   Charter Schools Endorsed by Mayoral Candidates Subject: Existing caps for charter schools prevent more seats for Boston students despite demand June, 2009   Boston Puts Recovery Funds to Use Subject: School and Police Departments use recovery funds for operations April, 2009   State Pension Reform Targets “King for a Day” Subject: Critical language changes are needed to define income and prevent abuse April, 2009   Double Standard Exists for Managing Health Insurance Subject: House budget shows wide gap between state and municipal control April, 2009   State Quinn Bill Expenses Under Fire Subject: Boston only required to fund its half of Quinn Bill police salary costs April, 2009   Medical and Educational Tax-Exempt Values Updated Subject: These institutions make a significant contribution to Boston's economy March, 2009   Rating Boston in 2009 Subject: Boston succeeds in bond market in turbulent financial times March, 2009   FY10 School Department Budget Approved Subject: Damaging staff cuts could be lessened if BTU accepts wage freeze March, 2009   Superintendent’s FY10 Budget Will Cut $46.2M Subject: Only $21.6M in savings has been identified – 917 positions would be cut February, 2009   Federal Stimulus Funds Headed to Boston Subject: One-time funds for school and police operations must be carefully targeted February, 2009   Boston’s 2009-2010 Legislative Package II Subject: Bills filed to achieve governmental efficiencies February, 2009   Mayor Appoints PILOT Task Force Subject: Payments-In-Lieu of Taxes to be re-examined February, 2009   City Council & School Committee Leadership Changes Subject: Ross elected Council President and Groover School Chairman January, 2009   JLMC Approves Arbitration for Firefighters’ Contract Subject: City limits issues submitted for arbitration January, 2009   Boston Hit Hard By State Aid Cuts Subject: Governor’s local aid budget contingent on new taxes January, 2009   Boston’s 2009-2010 Legislative Package Subject: Revenue bills re-filed but one-third of bills are new January, 2009   Academy Graduates Add to Police Force Subject: Slight decline in overall force level countered with an additional class of 30 December, 2008   Time to Reassess GIC Entry Requirements Subject: Limited municipal membership falls far short of property tax relief promise December, 2008   Property Tax Revenues During An Economic Slowdown Subject: Why the tax levy will grow by 5% in FY09 December, 2008   Fiscal 2009 Tax Rates Set Subject: Divergent values produce levy shift to business property December, 2008   Three New Pilot Schools Approved for 2009 Subject: Plans for new Pilot schools and expansions fall short of BTU contract agreement November, 2008   School “Pathways to Excellence” Plan Approved Subject: Plan to trim spending misses the mark in needed savings to be achieved November, 2008   Paid Detail in Boston Should Be Changed Subject: Detail ordinance should be amended to give the Police Commissioner flexibility November, 2008   Boston Projects Budget Shortfall in Fiscal 2010 Subject: Early projections do not reflect latest turmoil – bigger problem now expected November, 2008   When Will the JLMC Act on Boston Firefighters’ Contract? Subject: State committee was established to resolve disputes, not extend them October, 2008   A Renewed Look at Boston's Retiree Health Insurance Costs Subject: Segregated trust and Medicare enrollment receive new interest. October, 2008   How Boston Fares In National Economic Turmoil Subject: City's conservative financial approach pays dividends in uncertain times October, 2008   School Pathways Plan – Good Start But More Savings Needed Subject: Superintendent releases "Pathways to Excellence" plan to create savings and improve academic achievement. October, 2008   Boston Ends FY08 With a Surplus Subject: Revenues come in $34M over budget, but spending exceeds plan by $18M September, 2008   Three City Employee Salary Issues Subject: Department Head salary raises tied to second year of performance evaluations September, 2008   Boston’s OPEB Liability Is Growing Subject: New actuarial valuation increases liability by $553M since June 2005 September, 2008   Change Coming To Boston Retirement Board Subject: For the first time in 14 years, a non-union member is elected Chairman of the Boston Retirement Board September, 2008   No End in Sight for Boston Firefighters' Contract Subject: Negotiations between the Menino Admin & Firefighters may not be settled until next spring. August, 2008   The Growing Importance of Boston's Foreign-Born Population Subject: BRA report on foreign-born population in Boston is released. August, 2008   Boston Retirement System's Investment Returns Subject: Annualized returns fall below state performance August, 2008   Fire Strategic Planning Committee Report Subject: First Quarterly report of the Fire Departments SPC is released and points to positive implementation. August, 2008   Interactive Mapping Applied to Capital Plan Subject: New web feature provides a bird’s eye view of capital spending August, 2008   Mayor Appoints O’Neill to School Committee Subject: Banking professional has long history with BPS and at-risk youth August, 2008   Boston Metro Area Ranks HIgh in Education Impact Subject: Boston area educational institutions rank in top four our of 50 largest metropolitan areas according to a study by the Atlanta Regional Council for Higher Eudcation. June, 2008   The Status of Charter Schools In Boston Subject: Demand for Charter School Seats exceeds available seats. June, 2008   Boston's FY09 - FY13 Capital Plan Subject: 5-year capital plan for Boston is released, calling for the issuance of $120M in GO bonds over the next five years. June, 2008   Fire Commissioner Appoints Two Civilian Deputies Subject: Civilian appointees with the goal of improving the adminstration and managment of the Fire Department and strengthen the Commissioner's management authority. June, 2008   Boston Leads All Cities in NIH Research Grants Subject: Nonprofit Institutions in City received $1.6B in fiscal 2007 in National Institutes of Health grants. June, 2008   The Greening of Boston Subject: City takes action to reduce threat of climate change and bring efficiencies to operations May, 2008   The Drug and Alcohol Testing Bill That Wasn't Subject: New Firefighters' contract should include operational changes in several areas May, 2008   Muncipalities Wait for State Approval of OPEB Reserve Subject: Legal authority to establish a trust fund for OPEB would reduce overall liability May, 2008   The Accidental Disability Retirement Process Subject: Why are Boston firefighter disability retirements so disproportional? May, 2008   Senate Budget Allows Added Pension Cost for Municipalities Subject: COLA Change could increase Boston's annual pension costs by $7-$10M. May, 2008   Mayor's Recommended FY09 Budget Subject: Personnel costs account for 75% of the total growth in the FY09 budget April, 2008   Foreclosure Status in Boston Subject: A look at the impact of the subprime mortgage crisis April, 2008   Rating Boston In 2008 Subject: What the bond ratings say about Boston in 2008 April, 2008   Firefighters' Contract Update Subject: Fire Union Delaying tactics continue with no progress made April, 2008   Public Works Audit Impact Subject: A look at the management needs of the public works department April, 2008   Boston’s Tax-Exempt Property Subject: Government represents 79% of total exempt area March, 2008   Abatement Applications Drop In FY08 Subject: Abatements continue on a downward trend March, 2008   Boston Succeeds in March Bond Sale Subject: City receives excellent rate in uncertain market March, 2008   Boston Schools Face FY09 Budget Challenge Subject: Multi-year strategy for efficient change should be high priority March, 2008   BPS Looks to Busing to Reduce Costs Subject: Student assignment and policy choices involved in any change March, 2008   City Council & School Committee Subject: Leadership Changes for 2008 March, 2008   Fiscal 2008 Tax Rates Set Subject: Boston's taxable property values increase by 4% in FY08 and total tax levy jumped by 5%. Tax rate drops for both residential and business. January, 2008   Police Ranks Grow with New Classes of Graduates Subject: BPS stengthend by 224 new patrol officers and 64 detectives in 2007 January, 2008   Will New Pilot Schools Be Approved? Subject: February 2006 agreement authorized seven new pilot schools. January, 2008   Boston Firefighter Disability Retirement Trends Subject: Disproportionate growth raises questions of legitimacy January, 2008   School Department Facing FY08 Budget Challenge Subject: Declining enrollment and program initiatives create $12.8M problem January, 2008   Governor's FY09 State Aid for Boston Subject: Net General Fund state aid for BOston would increase by $3.1M January, 2008   Boston's Bond Position in Subprime Crisis Subject: City's high bond rating should result in no direct impact with March issue. January, 2008   BPS Facing Unsustainable Budget Trends Subject: Lower enrollment levels affect funding sources while staffing continues to rise November, 2007   Five Towns Join Group Insurance Commission Subject: The first deadline for joining the GIC has passed and only five municipalities have joined November, 2007   City Increases Health and Board of Appeal Fees Subject: Existing fees increased 50-100% and new fess established to meet costs November, 2007   Governor Signs Classification Law Subject: Business classification factor returned to 175% in FY08 November, 2007   Paid Detail is Also a Municipal Issue Subject: Boston police officers earned $33.5 million for paid details in 2006 November, 2007   Two New Faces on the City Council Subject: The November 07 election has a voter turnout that was the lowest in over 50 years November, 2007   Tax Initiative Petitions Certified by AG Subject: Finances September, 2007   City Council Races Set for November Election Subject: Election September, 2007   Boston Ends Fiscal 2007 With a Surplus Subject: Finances September, 2007   School Committee Search Subject: School Committee September, 2007   New Superintendent Reveals Her Opening Strategy Subject: Schools September, 2007   Mayor Appoints Fire Review Panel Subject: Fire September, 2007   Landlocked Tidelands Deadline Extended Subject: Final legislation is of critical importance to Boston development August, 2007   Tenant Negotiation Ordinance Defeated Subject: A proposed ordinance requiring landlords to negotiate with tenants is defeated by the City Council, 8-5 August, 2007   City Council Elections Subject: City Council District & At-Large elections for 2007 August, 2007   Governor Signs Pension Bill Subject: Law requiring the transfer of assets of any retirement system not meeting newly established guidelines. August, 2007   Special Development Districts (Chapter 40T) Subject: A new approach to fund public infrastructure improvments is being considered by the Legislature. August, 2007   Boston's Restricted Local Control Subject: Highlights of outdated state control over Boston August, 2007   BPS Roadmap to Improvement Subject: Leadership transition plan outlines challenges and opportunities for new Superintendent August, 2007   Most School Employee Contracts Not Settled Subject: Contract negotations are influenced by BTU contract June, 2007   FY08 BPS Budget Aims at Achievement Gap Subject: School Department budget totals $782.5M in FY2008 June, 2007   City's FY08 Budget OK'd Subject: $3.1M added for employee salaries and youth services June, 2007   Property Tax Relief in Name Only Subject: Municipal health insurance legislation with new title passed House and Senate June, 2007   Capital Budget Set to Grow Subject: City plans to increase capital spending over next five years June, 2007   Superintendent Schools Worth Watching Subject: Superintendent Schools intended to transform underperforming schools May, 2007   Winthrop Square Garage Sale Subject: Use of proceeds from the garage operation and sale requires a public discussion. May, 2007   Boston's Growing Hotel Supply Subject: Room demand and other indicators show an improving market. May, 2007   Quinn Bill Reform Under Attack Subject: Bill would increase costs but not improve police services. May, 2007   Tenant Collective Bargaining Plan Proposed Subject: City Council ordinance would require negotions and create penalties May, 2007   Boston Sworn Police Officers Trend Upward Subject: Class of 82 graduates boosts uniformed ranks May, 2007   Department Head Performance Evaluations Subject: Salary raises tied to first performance evaluations April, 2007   Measuring Boston’s Service Delivery April, 2007   Rating Boston in 2007 Subject: What the rating agencies say about Boston April, 2007   BPS FY08 Budget Soars with Salary Increases Subject: Collective bargaining agreement adds to costs in FY07 and FY08 April, 2007   City’s FY08 Budget Makes its Debut Subject: Personnel costs continue as a budget driver April, 2007   Who is Your Unsung City Hero? Subject: Nominations for 2007 Shattuck Awards Due MAY 1 April, 2007   Preliminary Special Election Results Subject: District 2 Special Election April, 2007   Boston Receiveds Bond Rating Upgrade Subject: Boston's bond rating was raised from AA to AA+ by S&P. Boston is ranked at the highest AA rating from both S&P and Moody's. March, 2007   Boston's 2007-2008 Legislative Pacakge Continued... Subject: Phase 2 overview of bills in Boston's FY07-08 legislative package. March, 2007   Governor's FY08 State Aid for Boston Subject: FY08 Governor's budget has been released. A 2.1% increase in local aid for Boston. March, 2007   Governor's Municipal Partnership Act Subject: Overview of Bill designed to provide new revenue and efficiency measures to assist municipalities in fiscally difficult situations. March, 2007   More Changes for City Management Team Subject: A review of open positions in the Menino Administration. March, 2007   BPS Budget Proposes Slight Growth Subject: BPS FY08 preliminary budget is $747.1M an increase of $13.2M or 1.&% not including funds for collective bargaining. March, 2007   State of the City Subject: Mayor's speech January, 2007   City Council Committees Set Subject: City Council January, 2007   Boston's 2007-2008 Legislative Package Subject: Legislative January, 2007   BTU Contract Negotiations Update Subject: Schools January, 2007   Boston's OPEB Liability Identified Subject: Finance January, 2007   State Pilot School Option for English High Subject: Schools December, 2006   Tax Bills Reflect New Values and Rates Subject: Taxes December, 2006   City Settles With Five Small Unions Subject: Collective Bargaining December, 2006   The Rest Of The Story Subject: Mayor Menino December, 2006   BCEC Land Purchase Complete Subject: Convention Center December, 2006   Boston Ends 2006 With Surplus Subject: City Finances November, 2006   Incentive Pay For Teachers Subject: Schools November, 2006   Ordinance Requiring Tenant-Landlord Negotiations Filed Subject: Housing November, 2006   Preliminary FY07 Tax Bill Increases Subject: Taxes November, 2006   Boston Police Numbers Continue to Rise Subject: Police October, 2006   BPS Teacher Retention Faces Challenges Subject: Schools October, 2006   It Pays To Be Elected Subject: Salaries October, 2006   Tax-Exempt Institutions Increase Pilot Payments Subject: City Finances October, 2006   The Unsung Heros Subject: Shattuck Awards October, 2006   New Civilian Fire Commissioner Appointed Subject: Fire September, 2006   State-Local Infrastructure BIll Signed by Governor Subject: Development September, 2006   Congratulations to the 2006 Shattuck Award Recipients Subject: Shattuck September, 2006   City Management Appointments and Remaining Vacancies Subject: Personnel September, 2006   Boston Public Schools Awarded the 2006 Broad Prize Subject: Schools September, 2006   Raising the Bar for School Contract Negotiations Subject: Schools September, 2006   Economic Development Bill Awaits Legislative Vote Subject: Economic Development July, 2006   Soccer in Boston Subject: New stadium for soccer in Boston July, 2006   New Face on the City Council Subject: Election July, 2006   State OPEB Liability Released Subject: City Finances July, 2006   Underperforming Boston Schools Subject: Schools July, 2006   FY07 City Budget Moving Forward Subject: Finances May, 2006   Police Officer Numbers Increasing Subject: Police Staffing May, 2006   Linkage Fees Increase Subject: Linkage May, 2006   City Council Approves Salary Increases Subject: Salaries May, 2006   Charter School Funding Subject: Charter Schools May, 2006   Inclusionary Development Policy Change Subject: Development May, 2006   Changes in the City Council Subject: City Council April, 2006   In the City Council Subject: City Council April, 2006   For Sale: City's North Street Building Subject: Facilities April, 2006   Salary Raises at City Hall Subject: Personnel April, 2006   Rating Boston in 2006 Subject: Finance April, 2006   Increasing Boston Police Officers Subject: Police April, 2006   FY07 School Budget Continues Modest Growth Subject: Schools April, 2006   Boston's FY07 Budget Subject: Finance April, 2006   Boston's Bond Rates Increase Subject: City's rating increses come after three years of tight finances May, 2005   Boston's $2B FY06 Budget Subject: Boston's first $2.0 B budget makes clear that the city faces long-term fiscal challenges that will require continued strong management and restraint. May, 2005   School Board Search Subject: Boston's appointed school board has an opening for a new member. Details on the current school board included. November, 2004   Rent Control, Again Subject: New rent control act is in the City Council. Targets elderly and low income residents. November, 2004   Spike in Available Office Space Subject: Almost 2M square feet of office space added back to the market in 3Q2004. November, 2004   Public Improvement Commission Subject: The role of Boston's Public Improvement Commission. November, 2004   CDBG Turns 30 Subject: CDBG Marks 30 years of over $700M in funds coming to the City of Boston. November, 2004   Land Deal Creates Heritage Center Subject: Boston buys a property that will be home to the City's archives August, 2004   Residential Tax Bill Increase Subject: The average single-family tax bill in Boston increases by 14.5% August, 2004   FY04 Surplus Subject: Boston ends FY04 with a $4.4M surplus August, 2004   $4.6M More For '05 Subject: The state sends $75.0M to cities and towns in a one-time supplemental August, 2004   Lottery Diversion To End Subject: State agrees to stop withholding lottery funds from cities and towns over five years August, 2004   Boston Housing Cuts Subject: HUD cuts Fair Market Rents August, 2004   Supermarkets Have Doubled Subject: Boston neighborhoods have seen 20 supermarkets erected since 1992 July, 2004   Budget Hitch Subject: Union concerns almost delay City Council's approval of the budget July, 2004   Quinn Standards Become Law Subject: Board of Higher Education adopts statutorial guidelines for the Quinn Bill July, 2004   Police & Fire Contracts Settled Subject: Arbitration results in salary increases July, 2004   Shattuck Public Service Awards Announced 2004 Subject: The Bureau congratulates this year's honorees July, 2004   Pension Cost Spike Subject: FY06 will see a 25% increase in the City's pension costs July, 2004   BPS FY05 Budget Subject: School Committee approves a 1% budget increase for FY05 March, 2004   2004 Taxes Set, Budget Revised Subject: Average single family tax bill increases by 14.5% March, 2004   Supplemental Tax Decision Subject: City should reject supplemental tax on new value March, 2004   Step Increases Subject: Employees receive automatic pay raises March, 2004   Regional Savings Subject: Collaboration between Boston area cities saves money March, 2004   Rating Boston in 2004 Subject: Boston's bond ratings upgraded by S&P. February, 2004   Charter Schools Subject: Governor Romney looks to remove caps February, 2004   State Aid Stable So Far Subject: The Governor's budget proposes a 1.5% increase in state aid for FY05 February, 2004   Mayor's Speech Subject: Mayor Menino addresses Boston's business and civic leaders February, 2004   State Housing $$$ Subject: MassHousing to finance 5,000 new units of mixed-income housing February, 2004   BPS Budget Problem Subject: BPS projects a $7.2M budget problem in FY04 January, 2004   Service Accountability Subject: Mayor's State of the City Address - new initiative: Neighborhood Response Teams January, 2004   Classification Shift OK'd Subject: Governor signs new law allowing a shift in tax burden to businesses. January, 2004   SCHOOL FY05 Budget Watch Subject: A look at the current facts of the FY05 BPS Budget January, 2004   FY04: Midpoint Check Subject: Halfway through the fiscal year, Boston's budget is 2.5% more than the original budget. January, 2004   Free Cash Certified Subject: The City recently certified $61.1M in free cash - limiting what is available for use. January, 2004   Fire Overtime = Money Subject: WIll the Fire dept stay within its FY04 overtime budget? November, 2003   BID Not Yet Ready Subject: Washington Street Business Improvement district legislation needs more work. November, 2003   Circuit Breaker Funding Subject: Special eduction grant expected to direct more funds to the BPS November, 2003   $40M for Hotels & Condos Subject: City selects recipients of Hotel Development Loan funds November, 2003   Tax Classification Issue Heats Up Subject: The Legislature is taking a longer look at the property tax classification issue and how to fix the problem. November, 2003   FYI - Port of Boston Subject: Facts regarding Boston's port November, 2003   COOP Tax Break Subject: Should cooperative housing units qualify for the residential tax exemption? October, 2003   Classification Shift Subject: Property tax burden expected to shift from business to residential class. October, 2003   BID Next Step Subject: The Washington Street Business Improvement District is moving it's way through the Legislature September, 2003   FY03 City Surplus Subject: City ends FY03 with a surplus despite dire predictions. September, 2003   No Tax Amnesty Subject: Why Boston doesn't need a tax amnesty program. September, 2003   MVE Targeted Subject: What an intiative petition to repeal the motor vehicle excise tax would mean to Boston. September, 2003   Spending Rank Subject: Governing Magazine ranks state & local spending. September, 2003   By Any Other Name Subject: New version of rent control is making its way through the City Council September, 2003   Election 2003 Subject: Preliminary Election Results September, 2003   Research Bureau Wins National Award Subject: GRA AWARD August, 2003   Loans, Hotels & Jobs Subject: Hotel Development Loan Fund unveiled. Selected hotel developments to gain gap financing. August, 2003   Personalty Growth Subject: Personal Property values are growing due to changes by the state. August, 2003   New Way to Vote Subject: New optical scan voting machines come to Boston in time for the next election - cost $1.5M August, 2003   Financial Team Subject: Menino Administration keeps financial team August, 2003   Reserves 101 Subject: City should not use reserves for collective bargaining. August, 2003   Election 2003 Subject: Nomination papers are in - Boston will see 3 races in the preliminary election August, 2003   Municipal Relief Subject: State Municipal Relief package July, 2003   BIDFA: Bonds for Jobs Subject: Boston Industiral Development Financing Authority and how it works. July, 2003   Teacher Layoffs Subject: Teacher layoffs to be minimized this year. Annual staffing process adds complications July, 2003   Still The One Subject: Boston is the highest ranking city in the US ofr NIH grant awards. July, 2003   New Pilot Schools - 2004-05 Subject: Applications for Pilot schools in 2004-05 schoool year July, 2003   Boston's Budget Begins Anew Subject: Boston's FY04 approved budget. July, 2003   Future Urban Renewal Subject: The future role of the City Council in Urban Renewal plans for the city. May, 2003   Redeploy Sworn Force Subject: Fire & Police departments should redploy workforce in order to deal with a reduction of sworn staff. May, 2003   New Fees, No Process Subject: City Council approves fees & fines increase without holding a public hearing. May, 2003   Limited Relief Subject: House approves a municipal relief package with minimal impact for cities & towns. May, 2003   City Severance Pay Subject: Early retirement incentive leads to additional cost of severance pay. May, 2003   Budget Brightens Subject: City Finances May, 2003   FY04 Budget Watch Subject: City Council & School Committee action on the Budget and new retirement incentive program March, 2003   How Boston is Rated Subject: Rating agencies maintain Boston's ratings - high marks are given for financial performance and careful debt managment. March, 2003   4-Part Bond Sale Subject: City sells bonds of $162M, for: capital program, 1010 Mass Ave, conversion of school BANS and Refunding of 1993 bonds. March, 2003   Charter School Growth Subject: More Charter Schools for Boston March, 2003   New BPS Bus Contract Subject: Boston School Committee Awards 5-year transportation contract to First Student, Inc. March, 2003   Romney Budget Slashes Aid Subject: Impact of Governor's budget for FY04 on Boston's FY04 budget March, 2003   Boston Is the Locomotive Subject: Highlights of Mayor Menino's speech to the Research Bureau's annual meeting March, 2003   Preparing for FY04 Subject: cost controls must be applied to prepare for further cuts in FY04 October, 2002   School Committee Wants You Subject: applications being accepted for two school committee positions until 11/13/02 October, 2002   New BPS Bilingual Plan Subject: school committee approved new bilingual education policy providing increased services October, 2002   Salary Increase OK'd Subject: salary increases for the mayor, council, and department heads (still face problem of compression) September, 2002   BPS Appointments Subject: superintendent appointed 38 new school administrators for 02-03 September, 2002   1010 Mass Ave. Subject: Boston will purchase office building currently being rented for city departments September, 2002   Capital Idea Subject: bond conversions and refinancing in FY02 have created significant savings for the city September, 2002   ERI Workout Subject: city must determine if it can accept the 507 ERI applicants and still backfill no more than 20% September, 2002   FY02 BPS Surplus Subject: boston schools had operating budget surplus for the 12th year running September, 2002   FY02 City Surplus Subject: $5.2M general fund surplus for final FY02 due to excess revenue. September, 2002   Council Redistricting Subject: redistricting plans will be discussed in neighborhood hearings; final plan will be voted on in Sept. July, 2002   Urban Regionalism Subject: collaboration with the Metropolitan Mayors Coalition can promote cost control and savings July, 2002   Student Assignment Subject: a task force on student assignment will decide how to assign student to 3 new schools and others July, 2002   City Approves Washington Street BID Subject: the proposed Business Improvement District for Washington Street was accepted with a 5 year term July, 2002   Local Aid Lower in '03 Subject: FY03 state aid for the city is cut; Charter schools and Additional Assistance most affected by cuts July, 2002   Police on the Street Subject: officers in admin or clerical positions will be transferred to direct service; civilians will cover July, 2002   MFA Economic Impact Subject: lists results of an economic impact study by the MFA; highlights MFA's role as employer, vendor, etc June, 2002   Special Election Results Subject: Rob Consalvo won the District 5 seat vacated when Dan Conley was appointed interim DA June, 2002   ERI Update Subject: City adopts an Early Retirement Incentive program; excludes public safety and caps at 370 employees June, 2002   FY03 Budget Approved Subject: describes anticipated revenues and expenditures in the newly approved FY03 budget June, 2002   Telecom Fee Subject: the Mayor's proposed telecommunications right of way rent was rejected by the council June, 2002   $33M for Housing Subject: details the non-recurring revenue being used to fund the Leading the Way housing initiative June, 2002   Round 2: Recycling vs. Living Wage Subject: three bidders for recycling contracts have stated they will not pay the Living Wage; talks continue June, 2002   Will Costs Exceed $157.8M? Subject: compares actual site costs to the total amount authorized in the Convention Center Act April, 2002   City Bonds Less for BCEC Subject: City issues less bonds for BCEC due to excess revenue from taxi license sales and room excise fund April, 2002   FY03 Budget Update Subject: Ways and Means hearings on the FY03 budget; new dollars are expected from state aid April, 2002   ERI for City Employees Subject: Mayor submitted early retirement incentive program to City Council; public safety employees excluded April, 2002   Washington St. BID Again Subject: Mayor submitted a revised Washington St. Business Improvement District petition April, 2002   House Questions BCEC Subject: House of Representatives voted to create a commission to look at BCEC plans and alternatives April, 2002   Closing on Berkeley St. Subject: details plans for selling the old police headquarters to the Saunders Hotel Group for housing funds April, 2002   Recycling vs. Living Wage Subject: refuse and disposal contract bidding conflicts with the City's Living Wage ordinance April, 2002   School Budget Woes Subject: Schools have $14M gap in FY03 school budget; School Committee votes on 3/27 February, 2002   Keynote Speech By Mayor Subject: describes the Mayor's speech at the Boston Municipal Research Bureau's 70th Annual Meeting February, 2002   Boston Sells Bonds Subject: City sells $100M of GO bonds; J.P.Morgan was the lowest of 5 bids; proceeds to build 3 new schools. February, 2002   A Special Electionà Subject: election for District 5 seat vacated by Daniel Conley when he took over as Suffolk County DA February, 2002   Non-BPS Enrollment Subject: charts the minority student population in BPS and non-BPS schools February, 2002   City Council Committees Subject: City Council Committees are consolidated from 28 to 22; Ways and Means handles school budget February, 2002   Tax Exempt Property Subject: facts about exempt property and PILOT agreements; 51% of City is tax exempt; 80% of which is public February, 2002   Hayward Place Subject: plans for Hayward Place in the Downtown Crossing area being discussed; proceeds to go to gap funding February, 2002   Abatements FY02 Subject: charts decrease in abatement applications from FY95-02; FY01 was the second lowest filing since FY85 February, 2002   Prop. 2 1/2 at 20 Subject: Prop. has been around 20 yrs; reduced city reliance on property tax, but it depends on state aid January, 2002   Personal Property Break Subject: Small businesses with $10,000 or less (personal property) pay no taxes FY02; exempts $17.4M in value January, 2002   Boston High as a Pilot School? Subject: Faced with possible closing, headmaster gets conditional approval to create a pilot school; January, 2002   FY02 City Budget Revised at Mid-Year Subject: Revised general fund budget, projects $3.4M decline from adopted; revenue/expenditure projections January, 2002   Tax Rates Rise, Values Slow Subject: Boston's taxable assessed value $54.2B, increase of $3.7B. Tax rates also rose; value growth slows January, 2002   Council's Changing Faces Subject: FY02: 4 Councilors interested in DA position, 1 in Register position; could lead to new faces December, 2001   Fire Management Team Subject: Commissioner has restructured top management team; comm. can now focus on implementing reforms December, 2001   FY02 Tax Bills Subject: Tax rates expected to increase after 7 yrs of decreases; High residential increase (4.1%) due to.. December, 2001   Quinn Bill Standards Subject: Board of Higher Ed requested CJRC study of Quinn Bill (due to criticizm); key findings included.. December, 2001   Taxi Medallions Subject: Sale of 237 medallions generated $36.2M (part of city's $157.8M share of BCEC); December, 2001   BPS Budget Deficit? Subject: School Dept projected spending $4.8M more than FY02 operating budget (before cuts); November, 2001   Breaking Up Is Hard To Do Subject: Councilor Turner proposed 2 district changes; for numeric balance, 'minority/majority' district etc November, 2001   Back Streets Subject: Menino announces program to raise priority of smaller businesses that have received less attention November, 2001   2001 MCAS Results Subject: Improvement seen in all Boston high schools; still more than 1/2 fail , so intense remedial required November, 2001   State Budget News Subject: Legislature finally submitted FY02 Budget to Governor; Little negative impact on Boston is expected November, 2001   Rent Control By Another Name Subject: Menino home rule petition passed rent limits 8,000 'at-risk' housing units; rent control effort? September, 2001   CPA Loss Requires New Direction Subject: No winners in Community Preservation Act vote; CPA not good policy, but city must address housing September, 2001   Linkage Change Advances Subject: Mayor & Council signed petition to incrase linkage fees, speed up cash flow, & formalize mitigation September, 2001   Year End Surplus Divided Subject: City officials to apply FY01 State/excise revenues to FY02; City still closes FY01 with $8.6M surplus September, 2001   Fire Contract Crossroad Subject: Final negotiation efforts underway; if no contract made, both parties likely to go to arbitratration August, 2001   Living Wage Changes Subject: Based on LWAC recommendations, Mayor to submit changes to ordinance for Council approval August, 2001   BPS Recertifications Subject: 1st round completed; educators must earn120 Professional Devel. Pts.(every 5 yrs) or face dismissal August, 2001   Paying Teachers Pensions? Subject: Pension reimbursement arrangement may change, potentially leaves city with $41M costs for FY02 August, 2001   Community Preservation Subject: Housing advocates to put ballot question about CPA & 2% annual tax surcharge for affordable housing August, 2001   AIM: Literacy Improvement Subject: Payzant strengthens Literacy Initative Plan (due to MCAS failures); 5 goal strategy to be implemente July, 2001   Salary Increases Advised Subject: Boston Comensation Advisory Board recommended increase of up to 9% for Dept.Heads; etc.. July, 2001   Review of Living Wage Subject: Mayor asks Commission for ordinace recommendations; ordinance has applied to 219 contracts as of '01 July, 2001   Charter Crisis Averted Subject: 5-hour emergency Council session approved $5.1M Law Dept. Budget & averted Charter crisis; July, 2001   City Budget Watch Subject: Three differences b/w Council & City budgets: school supplies, housing account, Council legal couns June, 2001   Regionalism Retry Subject: Metropolitan Area Planning Council convened 9 mayor meeting; regionalism has eluded Boston in past June, 2001   High School Squeeze Subject: Enrollment increase plus class reduction requirements means squeeze on schools; June, 2001   Boston Private Employers Subject: BRA survey of largest private employers highlights importance of non-profit sector; (8 of top 10) June, 2001   BASAS Contract Subject: BASAS is affected by BTU contract; BPS offered BASAS standard 3% for 3yrs; June, 2001   CITISTAT For Boston? Subject: Menino learns more of Baltimore's CITISTAT program (computer stats to help city dept. services) June, 2001   Linkage Redux Subject: Menino 2nd attempt to raise linkage fees; Key home rule petition recommendations include.. (in text) May, 2001   State Budget Watch Subject: House passed their FY02 Budget without changing city's state aid; May, 2001   Planning $ For BRA Subject: Why is BRA not funded in FY02? City should continue BRA support, to fund infrastructure expenses,etc May, 2001   FY02 Capital Budget Subject: Menino's 5yr. capital budget (02-06) $1.485B; Bond/BAN revenues will help fund capital work May, 2001   BPS Passes Test #2 Subject: Benchmark #2 passed by listing vacant positions on web by May 1st; Bilingual & sped teachers needed May, 2001   Linkage Distributed Subject: Neighborhood Housing Trust approved $4.3M disbursement of linkage funds for 7 projects thru city May, 2001   Progress, Partnerships & Priorities Subject: Menino releases $1.8B FY02 operating budget; Adds 178 positions, property tax = 80% revenues April, 2001   BPS FY02 Budget Update Subject: School Dept. to receive largest revenue share; School Comm has approved $635.1M budget, with cuts April, 2001   Salary Facts Subject: Proposed Counicllor raise; Mayor should reward increases for performance & not straight increases April, 2001   Berkeley St. HQ Subject: Sale & development of HQ is on schedule; Hotel to employ 200/open June 2003; $10.5M to housing April, 2001   Fire Contract Status Subject: Local 718 plans for long negotiations; in mediation with JLMC; Administration seeks lang. changes April, 2001   Quinn Bill for Firefighters Subject: Governor pushing bill for firefighters; questionable cost benefits at best for legislation March, 2001   Rating Boston Subject: Recent GO rating increase reflect good economy; City expected to continue conservative fiscal policy March, 2001   Mayor Delivers Keynote Speech Subject: At 69th Annual BMRB meeting, Mayor focused on businesses and tax incentives; housing etc. March, 2001   BPS Deadline Met Subject: Met March 1 posting deadline; 712 positions posted, 407 employees can re-apply for their position March, 2001   Contract Watch Subject: Fire: City & Firefighters Local 718 moves mediation to Joint Labor Mgmt. (JLMC) - possible arbitrati February, 2001   State Aid for Boston Subject: Boston faces smallest aid increases if no additional aid approved; After Quinn bill, leaves $640K February, 2001   Contract Watch Subject: Schools: BPS now can open post all positions on March 1, eligible BPS teachers still get 1st pref February, 2001   Changes in Culture Subject: Kaplan appionted Comm.Cultural Affairs; increased awareness of cultural activities increases funds February, 2001   Abatements for FY01 Subject: Revaluation year increase in applications (4,535) - greater than FY00, less than FY98 (last abate.yr February, 2001   BPS FY02 Budget Subject: Payzant preliminary budget $635.1M, increase of $24.4M; new spending due to BTU contract, etc. February, 2001   Tax Rate Drops as Values Grow Subject: Taxable value increased 26.5%, resulting in decreases in tax rates; Tax rate facts listed in text January, 2001   Fire Contract Reform Subject: BMRB recommends Menino stand firm in contract negotiations; Changes not drastic, and much needed January, 2001   Quinn Bill Comes Due Subject: BMRB cautioned of expense of bill; Turning into high cost program; (FY01 paid $2.9Mmore than budget) January, 2001   The State of the City Subject: Menino focused on theme of investment in Bostonians; various proposals for goals listed in text January, 2001   MCAS Results Subject: Significant % of high schoolers still failing MCAS; BMRB wonders if 5yrs high school is necessary? December, 2000   Fenway Area Infrastructure Subject: Ballpark proposal brought $100M for neighborhood improvements; Specific improvements listed in text December, 2000   BTU Contract Part II: Implementation Subject: Payzant tells Committee what BPS must implement (since BTU contract removed improvement obstacles) December, 2000   Berkely St. HQ Sold Subject: Old Police HQ sold for $14M to Saunders Hotel Group; 200 room hotel plans to open July 2001 December, 2000   Linkage Settlement Subject: Menino Admin. reaches settlement w/ housing plaintiffs; MOU 'no legal effect' (as was stated by BMRB December, 2000   $30M for Housing Subject: $30M part of $163.7M city plans to spend in 3yrs. on housing; $30M only small % of 'very lg. pool' December, 2000   K-2 Class Size Cuts Subject: BPS-BTU contract reduced class sizes of K-2 by 25-22 students by 2003, and grades 3-5 from 28-25 September, 2000   Values To Go Up, Tax Rates To Go Down Subject: Overall values expected growth of 25%, drop in property tax rates in excess of 10% September, 2000   City Unveils Housing Plan Subject: How one-time $30M will be used? Mayor released 'Leading the Way' report on 3 Yr. housing strategy; September, 2000   Fenway $ Model Subject: Key funding principles of BCEC could help Fenway are: new revenue sources, share state funds, etc. April, 2000   Make Linkage Process Work Subject: How linkage should be allocated fairly in S.Boston/City; Existing funds process defined by state law April, 2000   Restructuring 3 High Schools Subject: School leadership ineffective, curriculum inconsistent, parental outreach non-existant; to remedyà April, 2000   Taxi Medallion Sales Up Subject: 210 of 260 sold, funds raised for BCEC $32.3 M(40% more than expected); April, 2000   Standford 9 & Summer Schools Subject: Based on test results, 12,000 kids to attend summer school (grades 2-9); Goal is fo 99% pass by '03 April, 2000   Teacher Contract Reforms Needed Subject: Changes needed to improve student achievement; contract controls hirees/training/school organization April, 2000   Union Contract Signed Subject: AFSCME Council 93 settlement reached with Menino; City may have to evaluate staffing levels now April, 2000   Fiscal Year 2001 City Budget Approved Subject: FY01 Operating budget $1.692B, $86.1B over FY00; minor adjustments made to original April submission April, 2000   School Budget Problems? Subject: BPS rumored to spend $9M over budget, but 11 months remain for adjustments; (stems from $6M imbalanc April, 2000   Web Powered Purchasing Subject: City can use e-commerce to provide services; Purchasing Dept. is logical choice for start, April, 2000   Paying for 3 New Schools Subject: Maybe impossible to fund all 3 BPS capital programs; Text outlines costs of 3 new schools/problems March, 2000   Financing Fenway Park Subject: Mayor feels new stadium should be financed like BCEC, meaning City use capital budget for support March, 2000   Managing Linkage Subject: Menino's home rule petition to increase linkage by 44% should trigger two changes (noted in text) March, 2000   A Plan for City Housing Dollars Subject: Administration to decide use of $25M non-recurring revenue; Menino pleged $ to housing, not linkage March, 2000   Arcade for City Hall Plaza Coming Subject: BRA to provide $1.5M for Arcade, 1st phase of renovation of Plaza, also includes new T-station/park February, 2000   3 BPS High Schools to Change Subject: Payzant intervenes @ 3 schools that fail at reform initiatives/low test scores; intervention explain February, 2000   City Sells BAN's & GO Bonds Subject: Sold $27.8M of BAN's & $120M GO's on Feb. 9th; BAN sale completes initial financing of BCEC costs February, 2000   Boston Public Library Snapshot Subject: A little history of the library, facts about funding, etc. February, 2000   United States Census 2000 Subject: Stats help determine how federal funds are distributed, districts for electoral seats, business plan February, 2000   BPS Attendence Up, But Still Poor Subject: Approximately 20% kids out 4 weeks/yr, rates better due to new requirements; still probs at high sch February, 2000   State Oversight of Boston Subject: State oversight still of Boston Licensing Board, Mayor's Office of Consumer Affairs, Boston Finance February, 2000   City Faces State Aid Change Subject: Gov. recommends FY00 increases in Ch.70 & Lottery; Additional Assistance would decrease by $47.6M January, 2000   School News Subject: FY01 Budget: prelim. $593M; 2000 Objectives: Sch. Comm. approved Superintendent's goals; New Schools January, 2000   Abatement Requests Slope Down Subject: Abatement apps. decreased by 33%, record low of 2,720, thanks to Assessing Dept. efforts to improve January, 2000   Boston is on the Cutting Edge Subject: Financial / human resources payroll computer system improves efficiency, information flow, etc January, 2000   Triple Double A for Boston Subject: Upgraded GO debt by all three rating companies; due to economic growth, increased financial strength January, 2000   Fiscal 2000 Tax Rate Set Subject: Continued strong economy evident in tax rate; Table in text shows property valuation/tax levy & rate December, 1999   School Budget Problem Subject: BPS projected spending is $8.5M more than FY00 Budget; Underfunding, pilot school openings, etc. December, 1999   Class A Tower Values and Taxes Up Subject: Assessed value Class A/A- commercial space increased by $2.8B since FY96; now 35% business tax base December, 1999   City Adjusts Budget at Mid-Year Subject: Setting tax rate mid-yr. allows city to adjust to revenues/expenditures; small bottom line decrease December, 1999   Promotion Costs Subject: BPS created 11-month year to help kids towards promotion, but plan needs careful fund planning December, 1999   DPW Snapshot Subject: Explanation of Department of Public Works, breakdown of spending, equipment, etc December, 1999   City Ends With Budget Surplus Subject: Ended FY99 with $7.7M surplus; 14th consecutive; Menino should establish a free cash surplus by now October, 1999   Mayor's Planning Speech Subject: Planning and development speech to business leaders led to themes for future development; October, 1999   Boston's Tax-Exempt Property Subject: 51% city property exempt; Stats and figure in text regarding specifics about property exemptions October, 1999   Why No Washington Street BID? Subject: Why is BID stuck in legislature? 1.City BID's differ from State BID's; 2.BPPA concerns about patrols October, 1999   Living Wage Regs Under Review Subject: Issue is whether regulations will strictly resemble ordinance, or if it will expand the laws reach October, 1999   Water Transit Has Big Potential Subject: Ridership projected to triple in next decade; need to expand capacity/quality of facilities,etc. October, 1999   Parks Snapshot Subject: Facts and figures about the Parks Department September, 1999   City Election Stats Subject: Diagram and narrative explaining citywide voter turnout since 1981 September, 1999   Contract Cleaning for New Schools Subject: Superintendent should put cleaning out to bid for 5 new schools; September, 1999   More Boston Taxi's Subject: With 40% more medallions to be sold, city already met $23M revenue to support it's share of BCEC September, 1999   Capital Concerns Subject: City must prioritize capital projects; analysis must occur to ensure that basic maintenance is met September, 1999   Pilot Payments Rising Subject: City & Harvard University agreed to new 20-yr. $40M PILOT, leads to additional revenues for city July, 1999   No To Binding Arbitration Subject: Bureau opposes re-introducing binding arbitration for police,etc due to financial implications July, 1999   Library Gets More funds Subject: Council approved $10M supplemetal for Library Dept; covers insurance deductible of BPL flood (98) July, 1999   Sale Proceeds For Housing Subject: Council voted to surplus old police headquarters as of Sept.1; to use proceeds for housing July, 1999   State Budget Impasse Subject: No direct impact on City operating budget, despite legislatures failure to approve FY00 budget July, 1999   Fire Snapshot Subject: Facts & figures about department June, 1999   Still Bidding for a Bid Subject: Union is first challenge for Washington St. BID; the BPPA fears BID's proposal may supplant officers June, 1999   Old Police HQ for Sale Subject: City offering the seven story building for $9.5M or best offer June, 1999   Stanford 9 Test Results Subject: Payzant released 1999 results; progress made, but not as fast as expected June, 1999   FY00 Budget Approved Subject: Council approved Mayor's $1.6B operating budget basically unchanged with few exceptions; June, 1999   BPS Budget Released Subject: School Committee adoped $573.9M budget, a $27.3M increase over FY99; priorities listed in text February, 1999   Managing the Seaport Plan Subject: BRA must manage ongoing development carefully; Seaport Plan report sets context for development February, 1999   BRA Approves Land Takings Subject: BRA began to take or buy parcels for Convention Center - data listed about parcels purchased/taken February, 1999   Police Snapshot Subject: Basic facts/figures about the police department - to be written each month about a different dept. February, 1999   Boston 400 Challenge Subject: Comprehensive planning initative thru 2030; under BRA has conducted community needs planning, etc February, 1999   Pilot School Space Crunch Subject: Facility needs not met, shows need for master plan; these indicate broader problems facing City/BPS February, 1999   BPS Drop-Out Rates Edge Up Subject: Cohort rate measures # students graduating within 5 years; Drop-out rate increased to 26% January, 1999   Taxi Medallion Sale Subject: All 75 medallions sold at City's first auction; remaining 75 expected to be sold at auction in fall January, 1999   New Teaching Standards? Subject: Will revised standards be availabel to evaluate BPS teachers by 99-00? needed for contract negs. January, 1999   Seaport Guidelines Subject: Expected soon is BRA master plan for district, based on five objectives listed in text January, 1999   BPS Master Plan Needed Subject: Building 5 new schools is good, but doesn't provide neighboorhood school plan; one is needed January, 1999   State Aid to Cities and Towns Subject: Cellucci's FY00 recommends Cherry Sheet aid increase of $238M; figures about state aid listed January, 1999   School Facilities Plan Subject: BPS expects to release another working draft of facilites master plan in January November, 1998   FY99 Values Up, Tax Rates Down Subject: 5th year city's tax base increased, rates decreased; data about rates included in text November, 1998   Taxi Medallion Auction Subject: City to auction 75 of 260 new taxi medallions to support costs of BCEC November, 1998   For The Record Subject: Councillor Kelly re-elected for 6th President term; Mayor re-appoints Spring/Harris to School Commit November, 1998   BID Proposal Goes to State Subject: Mayor signed BID petition, now must negotiate 'cooperation agreement' between city and BID committee November, 1998   City Ends FY98 In The Black Subject: FY98 has $7.4M surplus, to be applied to city fund balance, unsure if free cash surplus will happen November, 1998   School News Subject: Promotion Policy report received, recommended ways to improve; BPS submitted 3 FY99 supplements November, 1998   Bureau Notes Subject: 5th annual Shattuck Awards & release of Boston Facts & Figures October, 1998   Bond Sale Sharply Increases Subject: City to sell $120M of GO bonds to finance capital program; largest issue sold; September, 1998   Accreditation News Subject: First time in 3 yrs, all 15 Boston high schools are accredited; however, 5 still face problems September, 1998   Convention Center Marketability Study Subject: Legislation requires study to project reasonable satisfaction that conditions are met by 2003, etc. September, 1998   Environmental Impact Report Subject: BRA must complete EIR, to be submitted to the MCCA for review in October, as part of BCEC regs September, 1998   City Rates An Increase Subject: Moody's increased rating to Aa3 - highest rating since A1 in 1996; September, 1998   Registry of Deeds Transfer Subject: FY00 - Secretary of State will assume operation of Deeds; no dramatic impact on city revenue stream September, 1998   Welfare Benefits to Run Out Subject: December 1: 7,148 families could use all cash assistance and be required to get employement September, 1998   Snapshot on Homicide Rate Subject: 1997 saw 37 year low; currently, this trend continues as Boston has seen only 22 as of August September, 1998   Sharing Teacher Training Subject: Intermunicipal cooperative agreement between techology training Boston & Watertown teachers May, 1998   Where's Regionalization? Subject: Comprehensive report issued in 1997; not much planning action at all; May, 1998   Teacher Retirement Subject: Re-draft Rule of 90 bill to House Ways/Means; est. new state early teacher retirement incentive May, 1998   Civil Service Change Subject: H5518 Boston home rule petition would require Personnel Admin. certify provisional employees to perm May, 1998   The School Committee Subject: Held public hearing discuss changes to student promotion policy; anticipates small FY98 BPS surplus May, 1998   BPS Staff Changes Subject: Deputy Superintendent Jackson leaving; Bureau recommends Superintendent evaluate organization of BPS May, 1998   Living Wage Review Subject: Menino appoints 7 to City Assistance Advisory Comm, to examine living wage ordinance May, 1998   The City Council Subject: began deliberations on the Mayor's budget April, 1998   BPS FY99 Budget Subject: $547M for BPS in Mayor's budget; increase of $40.1 M from FY98; New priorities are listed in text March, 1998   FY99 Budget Unveiled Subject: Mayor presented FY99 budget of $1.523B, increase of $103.9M from FY98; List of Mayor's priorities March, 1998   Living Wage is Back Subject: Hearing to examine concernces about ordinance; Bureau recommends necessary amendments March, 1998   The Rest of the Story Subject: Patrolman's Association joins AFL-CIO after legislature overrode Gov's veto Commissioner power bill March, 1998   Future Teacher Shortage Subject: News articles highlight future shortage, Boston's actuarial report shows stats of ages of retirement March, 1998   G.O. Bonds Subject: City prepares to refund $63.4M in bonds, at a savings of $2.3M in interest costs over 18yrs. March, 1998   Rating the BWSC Subject: Moody's upgrades BWSC from A2 to A1; Standard's increased rating from A to A+ March, 1998   Washington Street Bid Proposed Subject: Business Improvement District (BID) submitted to Council; Discussion about City's authority of BID March, 1998   Boston's New Bond Rating Subject: Fitch IBCA gave city AA- (comparable to A from Moody's/Standards), first time Fitch has ranked city March, 1998