Safety First at Halloween Bike Event
Dear Editor,
Recent months have seen multiple comments, concerns and complaints at public meetings and on social media regarding the safety of people riding bikes- and scooters- on our streets, particularly at intersections. Much of this is the result of the simple reality that more people in Winthrop are choosing to get around by bike (or scooter). As a geographically isolated, densely populated community with just two ways in and out, and a text book “last mile gap” to rapid transit, this is a good thing! That said, concerns over public safety are warranted and should be taken seriously by our public officials and all who use the road, and there are many ways to accomplish this.
As a community group advocating for safer, better streets for biking as well as for walking and driving, we’d like to share that this issue- safety for all roads users- will be elevated in a number of visible and tangible ways at our Bike Winthrop Halloween Bike Parade and Fun Ride this Saturday (Oct. 28 at 11:00, Ingleside Park). Come on down to the park between 11-1 and you will find:
• Free helmets, reflectors, and solar powered plus usb charged bike lights (courtesy of a generous grant from Winthrop Charities)
• Free bike repair service with Wildcat Bike Repair and local mechanic, Guy Minnick (a poorly functioning bike is a dangerous bike!)
• Educational resources on rules of the road, safety tips, maps
• Bike obstacle course in the skate hockey rink to practice safely navigating turns
• Advocacy table to write or draw your vision for safe streets and why and where you want to see improvements made in our town
The event will also feature games, crafts, food, coffee, music with DJ Cuzzi, and of course, our signature “Halloween Fun Ride” around town at 11:30 (escorted by the Winthrop Police) and everyone’s favorite, the kids costume parade around the park at 12:00. This year’s parade judges will be Judie VanKooiman (local charity Those Who Can For Those In Need), Gorman Fort Banks Principal Mark McEneny, and prospective School Committee Member Zac Purington, with the awards ceremony will be MC’d by Roseann Mazzuchelli (formerly of Winthrop Veterans). We are particularly excited to announce a beer garden with Drop Zone Brewery and food truck with Elote. Get your costume and your bike, trike, scooter or stroller ready, and we’ll see you at the park on Saturday!
Julia Wallerce
On the Political Scene in Winthrop
Dear Editor,
As members of Congress are struggling to choose a Speaker of The House I asked myself a simple question. Why can’t Winthrop find candidates for local town positions?
I realized that Winthrop is very similar to Washington DC. The negativity surrounding Winthrop politics over the past few years has been devastating. We have had a Council President attacked on the bridge, property damage to a former School Committee member’s home, a nail being placed in a former Council President’s tire which led to his resignation and most recently politically motivated and fabricated allegations against a candidate.
It’s no wonder why we only have two contested races for unpaid positions in the upcoming election. As a community we need to stop the negativity and be an example for Washington not a product of Washington.
Al Longo
Precinct 4
Our Historic District at Metcalf Square
Dear Editor,
First let me say that after being involved in our local government for almost forty years there is no question in my mind that our community needs a new fire house / public safety building. My dilemma is its proposed new location.
In the 80’s the FAA’s sound proofing grant program required applicants/ communities conducted a historic survey to identify any historic properties within the sound proofing area. This report also identified five potential Historic Districts in our community that could meet the US Department of Interior’s requirements for placement on the National Register of Historic Places.
Winthrop Community Development office convinced this was an important and worthwhile endeavor proposed to the Selectman that The Historic District Study Committee be appointed and suggest one Historic Districts out of the that five potential districts that had been identified. After a year the committee determined the Metcalf Square / Winthrop Center to have the most potential and likelihood for nomination to the National Register of Historic Places . The District was comprised of over 100 unique historic and architectural significant properties meeting all criteria for nomination. The area roughly bounded by Winthrop Street, Pauline Street, Fremont Street, Cross Street, Buchanan Street, Lincoln Street, Belcher Street and Hermon Street. The report was given to the Selectman and the task of having the nomination be prepared was given the the Winthrop Historic Commission.
The Commission upon consultation with the Massachusetts Historic Commission was advised to hire a professional historian that specialized in nominations to the National Register which could cost as much as $10,000.00. The Commission raised the funds by engaging with Arcadia Publishing. With no moneys available at the time the Historic Commission took it upon themselves to raise the fund. In conjunction with Arcadia Publishing the Commission began researching and writing the book ‘Images of America Winthrop’ took about three years. The funds were raised from the royalties of this book sale and Consultant/Historian was hired to complete the nomination through the Request For Proposal process required by law. About a year later the nomination was completed, public hearings conducted and the application submitted to the Massachusetts Historic Commission where it was approved and then forward to the US Department of Interior for final approval On March 30, 2010 The Winthrop Center /Metcalf Square was placed on the National Register of Historic Places.
So the process and value of this designation should not be taken lightly. Long hours for over 10 years were spent in pursuit of this significant and prestigious recognition.
Listing in the National Register does not mean that limitations will be placed on the properties by the Federal government. Public visitation rights are not required of property owners. The Federal government will not attach restrictive covenants to the properties or seek to acquire them. When a property is listed in the National Register, the owner may do anything with the property that he/she wishes, unless state or federal funds, permits, or licensing are used, or unless some other regional and/or local ordinance or policy is in effect.
In Massachusetts properties nominated to the National Register are automatically listed in the State Register of Historic Places. There are no limitations, public visitation requirements, or restrictive covenants for private properties included in the State Register. State Register properties owned by municipalities and nonprofit organizations may compete for state restoration grants.
With urban sprawl and over development encroaching on our community , it is necessary to preserve our towns antiquity and historic inventory. I realize for many folks these buildings are old and outdated and prime for redevelopment, and many projects in the district are being planned now with no regard for this historic recognition and status. So I felt it necessary to enlighten our citizens of the process by which we have a Historic District and why. Many people who had hindsight to preserve our heritage whether it be Selectman, Historic Commission or town citizens knew it was important to preserve our communities historic buildings in this historic district, so future generations can understand how our community developed and changed over time into the great town we have become.
Sincerely,
Richard Ferrino
Member of the Winthrop Historic Commission
John Munson and Max Tassinari Are Best for Winthrop
Dear Editor,
In the upcoming Town Election on Tuesday, November 7, I am supporting John Munson for re-election as Town Councilor for Precinct 2, and Max Tassinari for election as Town Councilor at Large.
I firmly believe that both John and Max have the character, competence, and courage that is needed on our Town Council at this time.
Regarding John Munson, I feel that when an incumbent has done a good job, he deserves re-election.
John has brought a rare sensibility to the Town Council during the past two years since his appointment by a majority of the Town Council to fill a vacancy on the Council to represent Precinct 2. He has shown the ability to work with anyone and everyone to help Winthrop pursue a brighter future. This comes from his understanding of the Town’s needs as a husband, father, business owner and active member of the community.
John Munson has pursued accountability and transparency in town government, modernization of town operations, financial support for critical services, safer streets in the community, and strong advocacy for the residents of precinct 2 and all areas of the town. He knows what needs to be done and realizes the importance of having everyone at the table to make the best decisions for the whole community.
John will continue to be a great asset to Winthrop if re-elected as Town Councilor for Precinct 2 next month.
Regarding Max Tassinari, he is above all a decent, honest person who will fight for all of Winthrop’s residents.
Max knows that town government should be effective, fiscally responsible, and data driven to achieve our community’s priorities. He is an experienced finance professional in both the public and private sectors with an MBA from Bentley University. He is also a devoted husband, father, and homeowner. He is committed to making decisions with understanding and compassion.
Max Tassinari will prioritize investments in Winthrop Public Schools; provide budget oversight of the Town’s finances; advocate to protect and promote our parks, green spaces, and environmental resilience; promote collaboration between citizens, community groups, and first responders to maintain a safe and vibrant Winthrop; and deliver effective and responsive constituent services.
Max will be a strong, new voice on the Town Council if he is elected as Town Councilor at Large next month.
Vote for two people, John Munson and Max Tassinari, who will make a real difference for Winthrop over the next four years if they are successful on Election Day, November 7th.
Bill Schmidt
Supporting Tassinari and Munson
Dear Editor,
Local offices probably have the most impact on your day-to-day lives, but unfortunately have some of the lowest voter turnout. Who is at the table matters, when discussing fire safety, development, or what is or isn’t taught in our schools. Everyday life in Winthrop is seeing a lot of changes. We are growing as a town, we need to build infrastructure to protect our shoreline and properties, we are healing and still learning from the shooting two years ago, and we are trying to balance a budget.
Winthrop is a special town. It is a beautiful slice of Americana, almost like a Normal Rockwell painting. To keep a town special you have to have a leadership dedicated to hearing all voices. Leadership that is principled, transparent, and can bring people together.
This November 7, we have the opportunity to vote for our local leaders. I hope Winthrop votes for Max Tassinari for Town Councilor at Large and John Munson for District 2 Town Councilor.
Both of these men are ready to serve on day one.
Munson is running for a second term. He is proven to be an inquisitive steward concerning Winthrop’s finances. He has fought against government waste and wants to ensure we have the most transparent local government. You don’t have to agree with Munson to have access to him.
He cares about all of us. I believe he has earned another term on the council.
Tassinari, may not have lived in Winthrop very long but he has Winthrop values. I have known him and his family for close to 10 years. I can say without a doubt he is a man of his word. He is humble enough to know when to ask questions and will look to his neighbors in Winthrop to help him as a town councilor. I especially appreciate his background in finance and his experience in government in protecting our environment.
Today, Winthrop needs unifiers. Winthrop needs people with proven records of professionalism, grace under fire, and who will put people before political parties. That’s Max and John. They are running for the right reasons, not with a right-wing (or any) agenda. We are a purple town we have a lot of political perspectives but essentially the job is about “potholes.” It’s about answering the phone and being able to meet and talk with anyone and listen to everyone. These guys get it.
Let’s vote them in Nov 7.
Lydia Edwards
Why I Support Todd Sacco
Dear Editor,
I wanted to share why I support Todd Sacco.
It all started with a conversation about national politics. Todd would say, “All politics start at the local level.” I was not sure what he meant, and I decided that I should start paying attention at the local level. I learned the following about Todd.
• Todd is a fierce advocate for our Police Department, Fire Department, Teachers, DPW and others. He is compelled to find ways for the people that work in Winthrop to be able to afford to live in Winthrop. I want that too. The many people that support us living a good life should have the same opportunity.
• Todd wants to find new revenue streams, uncover missed opportunities. Items like, are we receiving enough from Massport, or the MWRA?
• He is dedicated to Winthrop and continuous improvement. How can we be or do better today than yesterday? He asks tough questions. He may present a different point of view by looking at a problem through a different lens. It is time that we did not just do things because that is the way it has always been done. It is time we look for the inefficiencies and change or fix them one by one.
• Todd is advocating for accessibility – All citizens in our community have the right to participate in meetings either in person or remotely. We have the technology in the Harvey room and the Middle/High school. Every meeting can be live streamed and provide translation or ADA options. Communication streams need to be updated to support everyone.
• Citizens should be involved in the discussion when it comes to fees, water rates, increased taxes.
Todd takes ownership of issues and deals with them straight on. He has been involved and working for Winthrop for decades. Always thinking of families first. It is undeniable that he will work hard for all of us. It takes someone with an understanding of our Town to be able to move issues forward. It takes someone that is willing to work hard days, nights, weekends while having a full-time job to move us forward. Todd has been out there day and night, talking to people, knocking on doors, people in the community are stopping while he is out on the corner of Main St or the bridge. He is on Winthrop Votes every Tuesday night talking with the community.
I have seen what he has accomplished in the last year, and his ideas for Winthrop’s future. He is available, accessible, and most of all. He loves Winthrop. Winthrop wins if we vote for Todd Sacco, Councilor at Large on November 7th.
Carole Mietzsch
Supports Todd Sacco
Dear Editor,
I have known Todd along with his wife Alyssa and sons Trevor and Seth for many, many years. Our youngest children are in the same grade and are on many sports teams together. I thought I was a great cheer coach but I kindly pass the spirit stick over to Todd. He is all about his family and the children of Winthrop! Undoubtedly, you will see Todd at games with his horn, yep his horn. Routing and cheering not only for his sons but for mine and for the team’s success. He was also on the school committee helping the children of Winthrop get the academic success that they deserve. Who wouldn’t want that for their children? I know I do!
One story that I would like to share with you of Todd is that of the Tough Mudder we did together as a team of 5. We are talking about a 13 plus mile course with extremely difficult obstacles on a mountain. Todd’s strength and determination was not about crossing that finish line for himself but to help his teammates along so we could all cross together! This is the Todd I know. This is the person you want in this position. Todd wants this town to succeed in every aspect. He wants the best for our children. Todd is here for the betterment of the town and the people in it.
With that said, Todd’s honest, pragmatic, and hopeful insight into our community’s problems and needs, and his willingness to examine the issues and listen closely to the public’s questions and concerns, sets him far above others, and so I am writing today to express my support for his campaign and my intention both to vote for Todd in the upcoming election and to spread word to others of the value of his policies and abilities.
Best,
Denise Beshere
Thank You
Dear Editor,
The WHS Hockey boosters would like to thank our golfers and our 24 generous sponsors! We are also grateful for the generosity of so many that donated raffle items as well as those that came to the post-golf party to support. We can’t forget the staff at the Winthrop Golf Club, they went out of their way to make sure everything was perfect.
Hall of Fame Sponsors:
Boston Sail Loft / Jamie Tipping
MSA Mortgage
HAT TRICK SPONSORS:
Architectural Building & Restoration
Bert Kline Jr
Corolla Roofing
Dunbar Hockey
Frankie Ferrara Construction
Inello Electric
Lantern Realty
Mike and Maddie Favaloro
PLAYMAKER SPONSORS:
George Barker – Auto Buying Consultant
In Memory of Kory A Oulette, St. Mary’s Class of 2021
In Memory of Vice Principal Mr. Boyle
Jac’s Cafe
Jen and Gary Capone
Previte Family
Robert Rich Auto Repair
Vigliotta Family
Winthrop Pro Shop
DONATIONS:
Belle Isle Seafood
Bianco and Sons
Kenny and Koren Streeter
Odyssey Grill & Pizza
Thompson’s Towne Liquors
Winthrop High School Boosters Club
Supports Tassinari
Dear Editor,
I am writing to express my enthusiastic endorsement of Max Tassinari as a candidate for Councilor at Large. Max’s unwavering dedication to creating safer communities make him the ideal candidate for this crucial role. As a former police officer, I know firsthand the skills needed when dealing with crime prevention, emergency response, and community outreach. Max understands that public safety is not merely the responsibility of the police, fire and public health departments, but a collective effort involving the entire community. By actively promoting community engagement, collaboration, and education, Max demonstrates his commitment to establishing a safer environment.
Max’s leadership skills, integrity, and ability to work collaboratively with all stakeholders are qualities that will enable him to make a substantial difference as Councilor at Large. He is a compassionate and dedicated individual who genuinely cares about the well-being of our community. Max’s strong moral compass and ethical approach to public service make him a trusted candidate who will always prioritize the safety and security of our residents.
In conclusion, I wholeheartedly endorse Max Tassinari as Councilor at Large, and I urge the voters of Winthrop to support Max’s campaign and entrust him with the responsibility of working to improve and preserve public safety for our community.
Sincerely,
Brian J. Perrin Sr.
On the Proposed Fire House
Dear Editor,
As discussions about a new fire station and the upcoming ballot question regarding the debt exclusion to pay for the project continue, I’m frustrated that the Town Council and Fire House Building Committee’s (FHBC) efforts have not met the goals of quashing misinformation and explaining the proposed plan adequately, despite the best efforts of both groups.
Questions that arose at the advent of this process – and that have been answered by the FHBC in meetings, at public events, during public hearings, and even on a dedicated website are still being posed by residents.
As a member of both the Town Council and the FHBC, as well as staunch supporter of our first responders, I am hoping our community is willing to continue to allow us the opportunity to clarify.
The questions being raised are valid, thoughtful, and earnest, and deserve to be answered, which the FHBC has done.
I am hoping that this letter can reach a few more people and clear up some lingering confusion. There is relatively unanimous support for the necessity of a new fire house, which is wonderful. Where confusion creeps in seems to be on the proposed location.
In a town of roughly 1.2 square miles of land, which is even further restricted based on various environmental factors, a building that meets the foundational requirements for a Fire Station is hard to find an adequate location for. Winthrop is dense – there is no “free” space, certainly.
The most common question I’ve heard asked is – Why not the old middle school site? This is incredibly valid and worth questioning.
At first glance, it is a large, unoccupied space that is already town owned – wouldn’t that save us money? I wish the answer was yes, and we could tackle two problems with one solution, but unfortunately that is not the case.
There are requirements for the strength of the foundation of a public safety building, especially for one that houses incredibly heavy equipment such as fire and auxiliary apparatuses the department needs. The cost of filling the foundation would likely be in the millions, if possible at all, given that area’s propensity to flood.
The costs continue to add up above ground as well – the cost of demolishing the existing structure and the cost of asbestos mitigation needed is another multimillion dollar piece of the what a project at that site would entail.
One of the most hidden costs, however, is time. Article 97 of Massachusetts General Law seeks to protect park and recreational lands – an incredibly important effort.
Depending on where the footprint of a fire house would sit, there would be at least some amount of protected parkland involved. While it’s not impossible to do, building on that land requires a lengthy legal process with the state.
The cost of construction is increasing 8-10% annually. By the time the Article 97 issues are resolved, we could be looking at a 20 – 30% increase in the price tag of the project, substantially increasing the cost to residents.
An additional consideration would be the size of that plot. It would be wasteful and overly expensive to put just a fire station there, and the practical project would be a full Public Safety Complex. The cost of that today would be roughly $80 million. Adding to that figure year over year to account for the Article 97 processing time would bring the project in the ballpark of $96 million dollars – a whopping $60 million more than the estimate cost of the current proposal.
The call for a new fire station has been sounding for over 30 years now, but I do understand the feeling that this particular proposal was thrust upon the people of Winthrop, and I truly sympathize with that. It is never easy to make such a big ask of our residents, and it is certainly made harder when the feeling of doing a disservice in the communication of an ask is added.
Time is truly of the essence on this project. I say that not to pressure our community, but as an attempt to preserve all of our pocketbooks and protect our first responders.
Beyond the unavoidable increase in cost as time goes on, it is important to remember that fire stations aren’t just a workplace, they’re a home. Our first responders are living and working in dangerous conditions. I for one was alarmed to learn about all the safety codes we are currently in violation of.
I understand there are still questions, but luckily there is also still time before ballots are cast. Please reach out to members of the Fire House Building Committee, myself included, to have your questions answered, or to share your concerns. Visit the website to see some FAQs, tours of our current stations, commentary from the FHBC, and to find out exactly how much the project will impact your personal property taxes at winthropfirestation.Com.
The committee is here for you, please leverage this resource before the vote on November 7.
I am an avid supporter of the proposed plan and a yes vote on November 7 for the reasons above and many others.
A yes vote protects the occupants of the Wadsworth building and prevents a developer from purchasing that land, leaving the town with no say in its usage, it protects our firefighters well-being, and it protects our neighbors and families by ensuring proper equipment and healthy responders when we need them most.
Please vote yes for the debt exclusion to build a new firehouse – for yourself, for your neighbors, and for our community.
Thank you, Hannah Belcher