Early voting is now in its second day, and turnout has been strong. This bodes well for independent candidates like Nick, who offers solutions tailored to Medford’s specific challenges. While the Our Revolution group focuses on global issues, candidates like Nick are working hard to ensure that Medford residents receive practical, local solutions—whether it’s reinstating weekly city council meetings or leveraging his legal background to help the city navigate everyday challenges. Visit his facebook page for daily updates on citywide issues – https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575246882228 Of course you can also check out his campaign website – https://www.nickgformedford.com/ Below are the videos of our interviews with Nick.
Patrick Clerkin is an independent candidate you should elect if you want your voice heard on the city council. At this point, his platform is spelled out on his website – clerkin4medford.com. If you have not heard him speak on the issues please check out the videos below:
John and Patrick discuss the zoning issue, the Medford High School and the Charter.
Finally the show that helped kick off his campaign.
If early indications are good, there is significant turn out for the first day of early voting. A strong turn out bodes well for the independent candidates who took the first three spots in the primary. They are only expected to do better! They have all run a clean campaign and have sought to engage the entire city of Medford. They are also a uniting force and they want the best for Medford. Please vote “Yes” for the charter and vote for the seven candidates below.
Early voting for the November 4 municipal general election begins TODAY at the Alden Memorial Chambers at Medford City Hall as follows:
Saturday, October 25, 2025 – 8:30AM – 2:30PM Sunday, October 26, 2025 – 8:30AM – 2:30PM Monday, October 27, 2025 – 8:30AM – 4:30PM Tuesday, October 28, 2025 – 8:30AM – 4:30PM Wednesday, October 29, 2025 – 8:30AM – 7:30PM Thursday, October 30, 2025 – 8:30AM – 4:30PM Friday, October 31, 2025 – 8:30AM – 12:30PM
Other options for voting in this election include mail-in ballots or voting on election day, November 4. The deadline to request a Vote by Mail ballot is Tuesday, October 28 at 5pm. The form is available at the Secretary of the Commonwealth’s website (https://www.sec.state.ma.us/…/votin…/vote-by-mail.htm…), in the Election Office (Room 102 of City Hall), or by calling the Election Office at 781-393-2491.
Join us for a night ofStep into the shadows and join us for an evening of chills, thrills, and laughter at Mystic Players Revival’s Spooky One-Act Play Festival, directed by Madison Sedlor!
From spine-tingling tales to frightfully funny twists, this festival brings together a hauntingly talented cast and a cauldron of original short plays guaranteed to keep you on the edge of your seat. Whether you come for the scares, the surprises, or the sheer Halloween spirit, you won’t want to miss this spellbinding night of theater.
Dates: October 24, 25, 26
Showtime: 7:00 PM (Doors open at 6:30 PM)
Where: The McGlynn Middle School, 3002 Mystic Valley Pkwy, Medford, MA 02155
Cast: Kathy Bedard, Robin Burrage, Emily Deller, Susan Diller, Kristin Fehlau, Ethan Stone Hatfield, David Kleinman, Ruth LaTourelle, Julia Novina, Margaret Petrella, Jim Sampson, Declan Geoffrion Scannell, Sam Tincler, Judi Townsend, Nessa Zermeno
Playwrights: Ron Burch, Peter Dakutis, Ian Downes, Andrew Rosdail, Madison Sedlor, Austin Steinmetz
This is the first of many articles you should consider ahead of the upcoming elections—and what you need to know. Re-electing the current slate is not in the best interest of Medford’s long-term future or our wallets.
With all the talk about building new schools, creating affordable housing, and growing revenue through a business tax, there’s a lot to unpack. First, let’s be clear: there isn’t a Medford resident who doesn’t want these things. Second, nothing comes free—everything has a cost, and that cannot be overstated.
We’ve already discussed why a slate-style city council (our revolution) is not an effective form of government. Unfortunately, this group—whether intentionally or not—has created division in Medford. Instead of fostering collaboration, their approach has deepened the divide. Ironically, even writing about them seems to widen it further. So let’s shift the conversation to something most people can relate to: how this all affects you.
🏘️ Zoning and Density: What’s at Stake
Medford’s zoning overhaul, launched in 2022 and continuing through 2025, is guided by the city’s Comprehensive Plan, Housing Production Plan, and Climate Action and Adaptation Plan. These documents aim to increase housing supply, reduce emissions, and promote walkable neighborhoods City of MedfordMassachusetts Municipal Association (MMA). But the implementation raises serious concerns:
Parking and Congestion: The new zoning proposals reduce off-street parking minimums in many areas. Residents in South Medford and Hillside already report difficulty finding parking during peak hours mattleming.com.
Infrastructure Strain: Over 40% of Medford’s water and sewer lines are more than 75 years old. New developments will require costly upgrades, yet no comprehensive infrastructure plan has been released alongside the zoning changes mattleming.com.
Construction Disruption: Infrastructure upgrades could cost tens of millions over the next decade, funded through rate increases and state grants.
🏠 Affordable Housing: Promises vs. Practice
Medford’s zoning reform includes inclusionary housing policies, but implementation has been uneven:
Limited Affordability: Of the 1,000+ units approved since 2020, only about 15–20% are designated as affordable. Most are priced for households earning 80% of Area Median Income (AMI), which exceeds $100,000 for a family of four in the Boston metro area citizenportal.aiCity of Medford.
Oversight Gaps: The city has not published a public audit of affordable housing compliance since 2018. Without regular enforcement, developers may not renew affordability agreements, which typically expire after 15–30 years City of Medford.
Linkage Fee Loopholes: While Medford adopted a linkage fee in 2022 to charge developers for large projects, several developers have received waivers or reduced rates. The current fee is $4.74 per square foot—far below Boston’s $15.39 or Cambridge’s $33.34 mattleming.com.
💸 What Does “Affordable” Really Mean?
The term “affordable” is often misunderstood. In Medford, a one-bedroom unit priced for someone earning 80% of AMI can still cost over $2,000 per month. For many residents—especially seniors, young families, and essential workers—that’s simply out of reach citizenportal.ai.
🔍 The Bottom Line
Medford’s zoning overhaul is a pivotal moment. Residents must ask: Are we building a city that works for everyone—or just for developers? The upcoming elections will determine whether we continue down this path or demand a more transparent, inclusive, and data-driven approach.
On November 4th please elect the following independent candidates to city council and lets bring back thoughtful, inclusive community engagement for the City of Medford.
The Charter is Medford’s foundational document for city governance, and updating it is a vital step toward a more modern, transparent, and accountable local government.
Good morning. This is a repost from our interview with Ron Giovino and Milva McDonald —two individuals whose dedication and hard work have been instrumental in shaping Medford’s proposed new City Charter. It is worth noting that this Charter will be on the November 4th ballot and we urge you to vote “Yes”. The charter committee was put together by a fine group of people who want to see the city of Medford improve, not only in regards to ward representation but in terms of having a more robust city council that serves the city and not personal agendas. Please watch the interviews here or on our youtube page but it cannot be understated how important this charter is to the city of Medford. Every independent candidate supports this charter and so should you. Don’t take our word on this, please read the following article released by Gotta Know Medford published today – https://www.gottaknowmedford.com/new-medford-charter-will-be-on-the-ballot/
As John Petrella states at the end of each show – “Stay Informed”
So, what is the Charter?
The Charter is essentially Medford’s constitution. It defines how the city government operates—how decisions are made, who holds power, and how that power is checked and balanced. Medford’s current charter is over 40 years old, and while it served its purpose in the past, it no longer reflects the needs, values, or expectations of today’s residents. The new charter is the result of over a decade of advocacy and careful review, aiming to bring Medford’s governance into the 21st century.
Why does it matter?
Because the Charter affects everything. It determines how responsive and transparent your city government is. It shapes how budgets are created, how officials are elected, and how residents can participate in civic life. A modern charter means clearer rules, better accountability, and more opportunities for public input. It’s not just a document—it’s a blueprint for a better Medford.
On November 4, voters will have the chance to approve this new charter. It’s a rare opportunity to make a lasting impact on how your city is run. So read it, understand it, and vote yes if you believe Medford deserves a government that reflects its people and its potential.
Posted today from Nick Giurleo’s facebook account.
At its September 30, 2025 meeting, the City Council completely ignored a legal opinion and passed a major divestment ordinance in another 6-1 vote.
KP Law was asked to review the text of the ordinance, which if approved would require the Treasurer-Collector to refrain from investing public funds in, and divest currently invested public funds from, several very broad categories of areas. This includes companies that derive revenue from the sale of “fossil fuel products” and “defense contractors.” The ordinance also contains a poorly-disguised Boycott, Divestment, and Sanction (BDS) provision, inserted with obvious intent to target all investments connected to the country of Israel.
According to KP Law’s opinion, the ordinance as drafted raises “significant legal implications regarding the City’s compliance with state law.” It notes that modeling the ordinance off of Boston’s recently-approved divestment ordinance is problematic because Boston is exempted from state law rules on trustee investments. As Nick had noted in multiple public comments, “many of the criteria and legal terms set forth in the current proposed Ordinance are vague”.
The full text of the opinion is screenshotted below.
In summary, KP Law advised that the ordinance was legally problematic and should not be approved without vetting and revisions. The Council approved the ordinance anyway based on a slew of frivolous reasons. Here is a summary of what each councilor who voted in favor said in justification of their vote:
Councilor Bears: The opinion was not received in a timely manner so it should be disregarded.
Councilor Leming: The opinion is not “a serious objection” to the ordinance. The opinion was “politically timed”. It should not be taken “seriously”. Its timing was a “game of chicken.”
Councilor Tseng: The opinion is just a policy recommendation. It should have a “more legal perspective”. If the ordinance conflicts with state law, “let that be that.” If the ordinance is legally problematic, it won’t be “a hill we can’t climb.”
Councilor Lazzaro: The “assumption” that the city should not be divesting from the targeted areas is “insane to me.” The opinion should be disregarded because of its timeliness.
Councilor Callahan: Those investing assets on behalf of another should not have a fiduciary duty to maximize investment returns. The law should take a second seat to “values”. If the state wants to sue Medford, a lawsuit is welcomed.
Councilor Collins: The opinion was received “last minute.” The Council has been aware of the legal issues with the ordinance for “months.” They have already been talked about. There is no reason to believe the ordinance will “lose us money.”
Debate lasted less than half an hour. While our newly hired city solicitor appeared over Zoom to address another paper, he was nowhere to be found when the divestment ordinance was discussed. In response to the 6-1 vote, the mayor rightfully vetoed the ordinance. Whether the Council takes the time to amend the ordinance and change the legally problematic language as advised, or override the veto, will be on the agenda at tomorrow’s meeting.
Nick agrees that the Council should be appraised of legal opinions in a timely manner, but this is not a justification for ignoring the substance of an opinion and approving legislation anyway. Disregarding legal concerns based on frivolous justifications and approving papers that expose the city to legal liability is a level of reckless that calls into serious question the fitness of the councilors who voted in favor to hold office. Residents pay to defend lawsuits initiated against the city. Our councilors have a fiduciary obligation to protect Medford from these suits by not passing legislation that unnecessarily exposes the city to legal liability.
When elected, Nick will put an end to these practices. He will apply his expertise as an attorney to protect the city from expensive lawsuits. He will work to ensure legislation before the Council is in compliance with the law before it is approved.
Medford Happenings just interviewed Doug Schoop from the Rotary club, we will be editing the show today and hopefully get it posted in another day or so. In the meantime if you’re looking for something to do on Wednesday, join them at Giggle’s comedy club in Saugus!
Some really outstanding acts and musicians have found their way to Medford and to have Patti Smith performing in Dec, why is this being posted now? Tickets went on Sale last week and the show is selling out quickly! You should not miss this performance!
Please check out the following sites to see who will be playing locally. See why Medford is the new cultural center of MA!
Deep Cuts Featuring Maximum Rock n Roll – open tue-thurs 12pm-9pm, fri & sat 12pm-11pm HOURS MAY CHANGE FOR EVENTS 21 MAIN ST MEDFORD, MA 02155 (781) 219-3815 – https://www.deepcuts.rocks/events
Medford Brewing Company – The best community bar in Medford! You will not see a more civically engaged business. If there is a major event in Medford, chances are they are there, serving their outstanding array of craft beers! They feature different events and that info can be found below. OPEN MON – THURS 3PM TO 10PM, FRI/SAT 12PM TO 10PM AND SUN 12PM TO 8PM https://medfordbrew.com/events/ 30 HARVARD AVE. MEDFORD MA 781-874-0406
Mrs Murphys Live Irish music every day! 25 SALEM ST. MEDFORD MA 781-874-0527 – https://www.mrsmurphs.com/
The Ford Tavern – Live Irish music. The Ford also features Trivia night every Wednesday from 7pm – 9pm. 61 LOCUST ST. MEDFORD MA 781-874-0406 https://www.thefordtavern.com/
ART
Arts Collaborative Medford – OPEN Tuesday – Thursday: 12-3pm https://artscollabmedford.org/ – This weeks events are on the main page of the website. 162 MYSTIC AVE Medford, MA 02155
The Medford Public Library – featuring Arts, Crafts, Book events, they literally host all events. https://medfordlibrary.org/events/ Summer hours end August 31st. They are OPEN MON – THUR 9AM to 9PM, FRI 9AM to 6PM and SAT 9AM to 1PM. 111 HIGH STREET MEDFORD 781-395-7950
Tufts invites the local community to their 2025 Workshop Day on cybersecurity. On Tuesday, October 21 from 9am-11am at the Alumnae Lounge, join the 2-hour workshop day on cybersecurity where people can learn from Tufts University faculty, students, community, and industry leaders in short sessions.
•Balanced governance between all wards, all demographics
•Practical solutions not driven by ideology or partisanship
•Better citywide communication
Kit includes reference ballot with suggested ovals filled in (to familiarize you with the layout) and final flyer (for sharing candidate names, websites, registration link and Election Day easily via social media, text and email).
TICKETS FRIGHT THIS WAY: 
Dates: October 24, 25, 26
Cast: Kathy Bedard, Robin Burrage, Emily Deller, Susan Diller, Kristin Fehlau, Ethan Stone Hatfield, David Kleinman, Ruth LaTourelle, Julia Novina, Margaret Petrella, Jim Sampson, Declan Geoffrion Scannell, Sam Tincler, Judi Townsend, Nessa Zermeno
Playwrights: Ron Burch, Peter Dakutis, Ian Downes, Andrew Rosdail, Madison Sedlor, Austin Steinmetz
Medford Happenings 