A Monthly Newsletter from Senator Julian Cyr
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May 2025
Dear Friends,

Can it be? Has spring finally begun to start springing? While a chill continues to emanate from Washington (didn’t those first 100 days of the new administration feel like 1,000 already?), I can already feel the warmer days ahead approaching. I got to attend one of my favorite spring rituals this month, the Nantucket Daffodil Festival, in addition to an absolutely stunning day on Martha’s Vineyard. We crisscrossed the district from Yarmouth to Truro under longer days and bluer skies. It won’t be long before we’re all enjoying our warm sandy beaches and welcoming the throngs of tourists who flock to our shores.

As we close out April, I want to take a moment to reflect on the powerful demonstrations of civic engagement we've witnessed across Cape Cod and the Islands. From the "Hands Off!" rallies in Hyannis and Eastham to community gatherings in Provincetown and Five Corners in Vineyard Haven, thousands have come together to make their voices heard. These events are a testament to the resilience and values of Cape Codders and Islanders. I am deeply moved by your passion and dedication to defending our rights and values.
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My speech at the April 5th "Hands Off!" protest in Provincetown.

Now, as we turn the corner into May, budget season is upon us. The Senate will be releasing our version of the FY26 budget in just a week or so. These next steps are critical—and throughout April, I’ve been listening. I met with dozens of nonprofits, municipal officials, school leaders, and community advocates across Cape Cod, Martha’s Vineyard, and Nantucket to shape my priorities. From preserving behavioral health services to boosting housing production, to ensuring reliable ferry service and protecting our fragile environment, I’m fighting to make sure our region isn’t overlooked.

There’s hard work ahead, and the stakes are high, especially with chaos as the only thing we can count on from Washington. But I believe in us. Your continued involvement and advocacy are essential as we move forward. Let's stay engaged, stay hopeful, and continue to work together for a stronger, more equal Cape and Islands.

Warm regards,

Julian Cyr
Updates & Newsroom
A Difficult Moment for Our Region
The recent federal indictment of Representative Chris Flanagan is deeply troubling. While Representative Flanagan, like any citizen, is entitled to due process and the presumption of innocence, the seriousness of the situation cannot be ignored.

Serving in public office is a position of great trust — a trust placed not only in our actions but in our ability to lead without distraction or compromise. For the sake of his constituents, his colleagues, and his family, it is clear that Representative Flanagan must resign. The people of the First Barnstable District deserve full, undivided representation, and they deserve leadership that can focus solely on the pressing issues facing our communities.

This is a sad and painful moment, but our commitment to good governance — to accountability, integrity, and public trust — must remain steadfast.

Cape Cod state lawmaker Christopher Flanagan arrested for fraud ([link removed])
“These are serious charges and the criminal justice system must respect the principle of presumed innocence. However, this news casts a shadow on the good work of the Legislature,” Cyr said. “I do not see how Chris can continue to serve the people of Brewster, Dennis, and Yarmouth. For the good of his constituents and his family, he must resign.”

Cape Cod state rep. pleads not guilty on charges of stealing $36,000 from former employer | GBH ([link removed])
Gov. Maura Healey said Friday that Flanagan should resign, saying the allegations against him “threaten to undermine the important work of the Legislature and cast doubt on his ability to faithfully serve his constituents.” Flanagan’s fellow Cape Cod Democrat, state Sen. Julian Cyr, also called for him to resign his seat, as did the Massachusetts Republican Party.
Press Clips
Watch This
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22 News WWLP
22 News WWLP ([link removed])
“We are seeing a hateful effort to erase trans people from public life. These are coordinated and deliberated attacks,” said Provincetown Senator Julian Cyr.
Housing

‘Seasonal Communities’ Goes to Voters in 4 Towns ([link removed]) -
The Provincetown Independent

“If you’re serious about housing, you should be enthusiastic for this,” Cyr said. “When you have the details in statute, like Provincetown’s Year-Round Market-Rate Rental Housing Trust, if the town wants to change a few things it means going through a whole process with the legislature. This is a more nimble, responsive strategy so these tools can still work well in the future. There are no surprises in the regulations.”

Provincetown housing: affordable year-round condos on the way ([link removed]) –
Cape Cod Times

Article No. 17, which asked voters to accept a seasonal community designation for Provincetown, was approved. The seasonal community designation in Massachusetts recognizes communities that have significant seasonal variations in housing demand, visitor populations and employment. A request by a voter to postpone the article was not approved. State Sen. Julian Cyr, D-Provincetown, spoke against postponement, and in favor of the article.

Island towns among first accepting ‘seasonal communities’ designation ([link removed]) –
The Martha's Vineyard Times

“I’m delighted Provincetown was the first town to vote in support of their seasonal communities designation, and that my friends and neighbors unanimously voted in favor of this essential toolkit that will help procure and preserve year-round housing across the Cape and Islands,” Cyr said in a statement to The Times. “After each town votes to accept their seasonal communities designation, they will begin the process of choosing which tools from the toolbox to apply to their specific needs. That’s why it was so heartening to see voters in Oak Bluffs, Edgartown, and West Tisbury also chose to accept this designation for their towns at their respective town meetings this week. I am confident that as residents of towns that have yet to vote become more informed on what’s included in this designation, the yeses will continue to pour in.”

Cloverleaf Breaks Ground; Leaders Look to Future ([link removed]) –
The Provincetown Independent

“We can’t pretend that everything is fine,” said state Sen. Julian Cyr at the ceremony. “A parent just told me that their child’s class at Truro Central School is dropping from six kids to five. When I went to that school there were 25 kids in our grade.”

Cloverfield Housing Project Breaks Ground in Truro ([link removed]) – CapeCod.com

At initial lease-up, the site will have a 70 percent local Truro residency preference to boost housing for local workers. “This development will provide 43 more homes for individuals and families who have ties to Truro and Cape Cod. We look forward to welcoming them to our new neighborhood in Truro,” said Truro Select Board Chair Susan Areson.

ADU Rules Are Debated by Advisory Commission - The Provincetown Independent ([link removed]) – The Provincetown Independent

The advisory commission did not reach any firm conclusions on April 7 — but in a subsequent conversation with the Independent, state Sen. Julian Cyr said he felt the conflict between the state’s new housing law and the legislation that created the Seashore had already been resolved.

Governor Healey Announces $18 Million in Housing Development Awards to Create 288 Units in Gateway Cities | Mass.gov ([link removed]) – Mass.gov

“The expansion of the Housing Development Incentive Program is an example of the kind of bold action we need to meet the moment in our housing crisis. By investing in housing in our Gateway Cities, we’re not only creating much-needed homes — we’re breathing new life into downtowns, strengthening local economies, and making it possible for more people — across incomes and backgrounds — to put down roots in the communities they love.”

Lawmaker introduces two bills aimed at solving urgent crisis costing homeowners money: 'There is no silver bullet' ([link removed]) - The Cool Down

The bills aim to expand flood insurance coverage and provide opportunities for homeowners to fortify their homes against natural disasters. Ultimately, the hope is that achieving these goals will create stronger competition in the insurance market, knocking down rates and improving coverage.
Climate and Environment

Ecological Grants Support Wetland Restoration ([link removed]) - CapeCod.com

“These efforts,” he said, “will not only preserve the unique ecosystems that define our coastline but will also help protect our water quality, mitigate flooding, and ensure the next generation can enjoy the same natural beauty that I did growing up.”

‘Water doesn't know property lines’: Where Massachusetts’s climate and housing crises meet ([link removed]) - Commonwealth Beacon
As state Sen. Julian Cyr puts it, “the real issue is our housing market is valued basically on what a given home or apartment rents for by the night in July and August.”

Healey-Driscoll Administration Awards $1.24 Billion in Loans and Grants to Fund Wastewater and Drinking Water Infrastructure Projects ([link removed]) – Mass.gov

“I’m proud to see the Clean Water State Revolving Fund step up once again to support nine critical projects across the Cape and Islands with a significant $239 million in funding. Cape Cod, Martha’s Vineyard, and Nantucket are facing a multi-billion-dollar wastewater crisis, and this funding is a key part of our efforts to tackle nutrient pollution in our ponds, rivers, and coastal embayments. With the added benefit of over $55 million in additional funding from the Cape Cod and Islands Water Protection Fund, these resources are helping our communities make real progress in addressing the degradation of our waterways. I want to thank the Board of the Clean Water Trust for their continued partnership and especially for ensuring that communities will be able to receive carryover project costs from prior years."
News from around the District

Top elected officials fire back over VA funding cuts ([link removed]) - The Martha's Vineyard Times

"It’s shameful that those who have served our country, put country before self, are having vital programs ripped out from under them at the whims of an unelected billionaire implementing capricious, slash-and-burn policies,” Cyr said.

Massachusetts Happy Hour Ban Might Be Overturned in Push From Julian Cyr ([link removed]) - Bloomberg News

"Happy hour isn’t a panacea,” Cyr said in an interview. But “we do have a bit of a fun problem.” Allowing drink specials is “part of a suite of policies that we need to pursue,” he added. Cyr has also proposed bills on health care ([link removed]) , multi-family zoning ([link removed])  and mental health services ([link removed])  and was recently tapped to lead the state’s housing initiatives as chair of the legislature’s joint committee.

Two family members died in NY rental. Now Cape family wants better law ([link removed]) - Cape Cod Times

“Two lives were lost, and many more lives will forever be changed as the property owners of the un-permitted Airbnb where Shannon and Maggie perished in a fire are now being charged with second-degree manslaughter,” said Cyr in a statement.

Maggie June’s Legacy: Bill Would Require Smoke Alarms In Vacation Rentals ([link removed]) - Cape Cod Chronicle

Cyr underscored that the tragedy that befell the Hubbard family was entirely preventable. “Short-term rentals, like all rentals and residences, must remain compliant with fire and safety codes,” he said. “Representative Luddy and I are committed to doing everything we can to move this bill forward.”

MA physician assistants seek fewer restrictions to broaden care access ([link removed])
- The Milford Daily News

“You're entering this field during a health care workforce crisis in Massachusetts,” Cyr told students. “PAs are critical to filling these primary care gaps and keeping care accessible,” he said.

Unbound Pages: Will Massachusetts be the next state to pass ‘freedom to read’ legislation? ([link removed]) - WGBH

In Massachusetts last year, state Sen. Julian Cyr and state Rep. John Moran put forth a bill called “An Act Regarding Free Expression,” ([link removed])  which was pushed forward but didn’t make it to Gov. Maura Healey’s desk last session. The bill, and similar legislation, is being actively worked on now by lawmakers. ([link removed])

Legislation to protect libraries, librarians from potential book bans is back before committee ([link removed]) - The Berkshire Eagle

“In this moment where we are seeing politicization of information, we're working hard to safeguard the right to read and to make sure that librarians are able to focus on the very good and skilled work they do,” Cyr said.

Independence House expanding with new building, services in Hyannis ([link removed]) - MetroWest Daily News

"This shows what is possible with Congressional support and from local officials,” state Sen. Julian Cyr, D-Provincetown, said. “We should be judged as a community for what we do for vulnerable people on the Cape and Islands.”

Massachusetts Senate selects Elizabeth Freeman to be first woman bust in State House ([link removed]) - The Berkshire Eagle
“Representation is not meant to be a crumb. The decision to place busts of two women in the Senate chamber is a meaningful testament to the extraordinary contributions of scores of women to our Commonwealth,” said Cyr. “It has been an honor and a privilege to chair the Senate Art Committee through this spirited yet rigorous process, and I’m grateful for Senate President Spilka’s vision of a Senate that more closely reflects the diversity that has defined our Commonwealth.”

Hundreds Gather in Eastham and Provincetown to Protest Trump Administration ([link removed]) - The Provincetown Independent
In Provincetown, a series of speakers took to the steps of town hall, including state Sen. Julian Cyr.
Legislation Corner

New Law Empowers Tenants to Seal Eviction Records Starting May 5

Beginning May 5, 2025, Massachusetts tenants will have the opportunity to petition the courts to seal certain eviction records, a significant step toward reducing housing discrimination and promoting access to stable housing. This provision is part of the Affordable Homes Act, signed into law in August 2024, and has been championed by my good friend and colleague Senator Lydia Edwards

Key Provisions of the Law:
* Eligibility: Tenants can petition to seal eviction records based on the type and outcome of their case. For instance:

* No-Fault Evictions: Tenants may request sealing; if the landlord does not object within seven days, the court will approve without a hearing.

* Non-Payment of Rent: Tenants can apply to seal their record after four years, provided they have had no evictions in that period and can demonstrate financial hardship.

* At-Fault Evictions: Tenants may petition to seal records after seven years, assuming no further evictions have occurred .

* Impact on Credit Reports: Once sealed, eviction records will no longer appear on credit reports, preventing them from adversely affecting tenants' future housing opportunities .

The process for sealing prior evictions can be done on any computer with internet access, including at your local library or community center. Here are some other useful resources for tenants seeking additional assistance:
* Massachusetts Legal Help: Offers detailed guidance on the eviction sealing process, including eligibility criteria and step-by-step instructions for filing a petition. Visit MassLegalHelp.org ([link removed]) for more information.

* Trial Court Law Libraries: Provide assistance in understanding legal procedures and accessing necessary forms. Find your local library at Mass.gov.

* Volunteer Lawyers Project: Offers free legal assistance to tenants facing housing issues. Learn more at vlpnet.org ([link removed]) .

RESPONSE 2025 & Updates to Shield Law

As the Trump Administration attempts to roll back critical protections and disrupt federal support for health care, education, and civil rights, the Massachusetts Senate has launched Response 2025 - a coordinated effort to safeguard our residents and uphold the values we hold dear. 

Under the steadfast leadership of Senate President Karen Spilka, Response 2025 is our proactive strategy to assess federal actions, identify their impacts on the Commonwealth, and implement state-level solutions to mitigate harm.  

The first legislative action taken under Response 2025 sends a clear message: Massachusetts decides what care is legal in our state. My dear friend and colleague – a fierce legislator and advocate for health justice – Senator Cindy Friedman wrote and filed SD2808, An Act strengthening health care protections in the Commonwealth, an effort facilitated with critical support from Attorney General Andrea Joy Campbell.  SD2808 prohibits cooperation by state agencies with out-of-state or federal investigations targeting those who provide or seek reproductive and gender-affirming care. This timely legislation also strengthens data privacy safeguards, requiring health insurers to protect electronic medical records from being used by out-of-state entities to pursue patients or providers.

Critically, the bill also ensures access to emergency abortion care, mandating that licensed hospitals in Massachusetts provide life-saving procedures when needed. This legislation ensures that Massachusetts remains a beacon of safety, dignity, and access to care - no matter what kind of health care you need. I’m deeply grateful for the leadership of Senator Friedman and Attorney General Campbell as we work to uphold our Commonwealth’s commitment to health care justice. 

SD2808 is just the beginning of the Senate’s Response 2025 plan to shield Massachusetts residents from harmful federal overreach. This larger initiative is spearheaded by the Senate Committee on Steering and Policy, led by Chair Cindy Friedman and Vice Chair Jo Comerford, and focuses on four key goals: 
* Assessing federal actions to determine their real-world impact on Massachusetts. 

* Identifying policy solutions to mitigate potential harm and safeguard residents. 

* Prioritizing state responses based on need, feasibility, and effectiveness. 

* Providing clarity to the public by cutting through misinformation and helping residents understand the state's role in protecting their rights and services. 

As your State Senator, I am committed to working alongside Senate President Spilka, Senator Friedman, Senator Comerford, and the rest of my Senate colleagues to ensure that Massachusetts remains a beacon of progress and protection for all its residents. 
House kicks off budget season on Beacon Hill
As happens every April, the House Committee on Ways and Means released its proposal for the Fiscal Year 2026 budget. (For a refresher on the overall budget process, please visit my June 2024 newsletter!) While the House budget avoids new or increased taxes (including removing Governor Healey’s proposed prescription tax, the subject of many recent constituent emails), it proposes strong investments in areas like public education and maintains funding for the Pocasset Mental Heath Center – which is a huge win for our region. As the Senate prepares to release its version of the FY26 budget in the coming weeks, I will be focused on ensuring that our communities on Cape Cod, Martha’s Vineyard, and Nantucket are protected from potential cuts, and that we continue to invest in local services, schools, and supports that promote equity and economic stability across the Commonwealth.
Seasonal Community Advisory Council
Working Groups
The Seasonal Community Advisory Council is hard at work! I’ve been assigned to two working groups, the Year-Round Housing Working Group and the Metrics & Further Designation Working Group. The work of these groups continues to shape the seasonal community designation by helping to define how Massachusetts identifies and supports seasonal communities in need of year-round housing stability. In the Metrics and Further Designation Working Group, we’ve been diving into how to calculate statutory factors for designation, determine their weight, and explore whether additional factors should be considered. In the Year-Round Housing Working Group, we’re considering appropriate definitions for critical terms (i.e. tiny homes and attainable housing), shaping how a statewide seasonal housing trust could function, and enforcement of year-round occupancy restrictions. I’m proud to represent a region that is often ground zero for the housing crisis—and prouder still to be part of the statewide
conversation to ensure our seasonal communities have the tools and resources they need to thrive year-round.
Massachusetts Association of Physician Assistants Lobby Day

I had the privilege of joining nearly 200 physician assistants and students at the Massachusetts Association of Physician Assistants (MAPA) Lobby Day at the State House. This annual event underscores the vital role PAs play in our healthcare system, particularly in addressing the primary care shortages exacerbated by the pandemic.​

A central focus of our advocacy was my Bill S.1502, which seeks to remove outdated supervisory requirements for PAs. The legislation would empower PAs to practice at the top of their license, enhancing access to care across the Commonwealth. This change is especially crucial in underserved areas like the towns of the Outer Cape, Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket, where primary care providers are scarce. You can read more about this legislation here: Bill S.1502 ([link removed]) .
Regional Transit Authority
Legislative Luncheon

It was great to join colleagues and transit leaders from across the Commonwealth at the RTA Legislative Luncheon in Boston. The energy in the room made it clear: regional transit is not just about buses — it’s about connection, opportunity, and equity for our communities. I was proud to see the strides the Cape Cod RTA and Nantucket RTA have made, expanding service and rebuilding ridership, even as they face rising costs. The conversations we had underscored how critical it is that we not just maintain but grow our investment in RTAs to meet the real needs of residents year-round.
Massachusetts Chapter of the National Association of Housing and Redevelopment Officials

I had the pleasure to speak with the Massachusetts Chapter of the National Association of Housing and Redevelopment Officials (Mass NAHRO) during their Legislative Advocacy Day at the State House. The event brought together nearly 70 housing authority board members, executive directors, and advocates from across the Commonwealth to engage directly with legislators on critical housing issues.

As the Senate Chair of the Joint Committee on Housing, I emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts to address our state's housing challenges. I highlighted the need for increased investment in affordable housing, support for public housing authorities, and the implementation of policies that promote housing stability for all residents.​
Latest Events- In the District and Beyond!
GROUND BREAKINGS, RIBBON CUTTINGS, AND LAUNCHES, OH MY!
Shovels in the ground in Truro

I joined neighbors and community leaders to break ground on the Cloverleaf project—Truro’s long-awaited, oft-delayed affordable housing development on Highland Road. It was a moment years in the making: one of the first things I framed in my State House office as a newly elected state senator was the deed to the Cloverleaf, given to me by Lt. Governor Karyn Polito in 2018. Seven years later, and more than a decade after conversations first began, we’re finally moving dirt.

The Cloverleaf will finally bring 39 units of housing to a town where the median home price requires an income of over $240,000, but the median household income is under $95,000. That math doesn’t work—and it’s driving families, workers, and future generations out of our community. This development is about more than housing—it’s about whether Truro has a future as a year-round community.

Nearly half the project’s $39.2 million cost is being funded through state and state-administered sources, including over $10 million from the Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities and $6 million from the Massachusetts Housing Partnership. It also includes local support from the Town of Truro, Barnstable County, and crucial state and federal tax credits and clean energy incentives. This kind of collaboration—from Beacon Hill to Town Hall—is how we move the needle.

But we also have to be honest: Cloverleaf didn’t come easily. It faced delay after delay, largely due to spurious lawsuits and opposition from a vocal minority. That resistance reflects a deeper challenge—one rooted not in federal dysfunction, but in inequality right here at home. We have to name that if we want to change it. As I said that day, there is an oligarchy in our own backyard. And if we want to preserve the fabric of our communities, we must confront that reality with resolve. Listen to my speech here:
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My address at the Cloverleaf groundbreaking in Truro on April 11.

And thanks to recent changes in state law, the next Cloverleaf hopefully won’t take a decade to deliver. Under the Affordable Homes Act, towns can now require abutters who file frivolous lawsuits to post bonds of up to $500,000 — a powerful new tool to stop the oligarchs in our own backyard from abusing the courts to delay or kill affordable housing. This reform sends a clear message: the days when a handful of neighbors could sabotage community-driven projects are numbered. Housing for working families, not obstruction by the privileged few, is the future of Cape Cod.
A B.R.I.D.G.E. that's not too far

I joined Sheriff Donna Buckley for the official launch of the B.R.I.D.G.E. Center — a groundbreaking initiative that represents a new era for public safety and behavioral health in Barnstable County. Sheriff Buckley and her team deserve enormous credit for their leadership and vision in bringing this project to life. The B.R.I.D.G.E. Center will serve as a critical alternative to incarceration for individuals struggling with mental health challenges, substance use, and co-occurring disorders — offering real pathways to treatment, recovery, and stability.

For too long, our criminal justice system has been forced to act as a substitute for the behavioral health system we need. The B.R.I.D.G.E. Center fundamentally changes that. It offers a compassionate, evidence-based model that addresses root causes rather than simply cycling people through incarceration. As your State Senator, I’m proud to support this innovative approach — one that treats every individual with dignity and recognizes that public safety and public health must go hand in hand. This is a proud day for Cape Cod and the Islands, and it’s just the beginning of what we can achieve when we think differently and lead with compassion.
Groundbreaking of Independence House with Congressman Keating

The groundbreaking of the new Independence House was a special day made even more meaningful by the support of our federal partners — including attendance by Congressman Bill Keating — all of whom have been strong champions for the project.

Independence House is about more than just bricks and mortar — it’s about building safety, dignity, and hope for people who need it most. Independence House has been a lifeline for countless individuals and families across our region, providing critical support services, shelter, advocacy, and empowerment. Thanks to their tireless efforts and strong advocacy from our Congressional delegation, Independence House was awarded $3.46 million through the Omnibus Spending Bill of the Consolidated Appropriations Act signed into law in December 2022 — a critical investment that made this expansion possible.
Grand Opening of Edwin Barbey Patient Care Pavilion at Cape Cod Hospital

The ribbon cutting of the Edwin Barbey Patient Care Pavilion at Cape Cod Hospital in Hyannis marked a transformational moment for healthcare on the Cape and Islands. Touring the new facility, I was struck by the cutting-edge cancer treatment technology now available right here in our own backyard — the kind of advanced care that, not long ago, required a trip to Boston.

This $215 million, 144,000-square-foot project stands as an achievement — completed on time and on budget — and it will have an enormous impact on the health and well-being of our communities. Thanks to this investment, Cape Codders will now have easier, faster access to lifesaving cancer treatments without the burden and stress of long-distance travel. Patients can stay close to family, support networks, and home — a meaningful difference in some of life’s most difficult moments.
JAC & the HLC:

A Day with Housing and Livable Communities Secretary Ed Augustus

Representative Hadley Luddy and I joined Housing and Livable Communities Secretary Ed Augustus for a day of housing advocacy and site visits across the Lower Cape. Secretary Augustus, despite the many demands on his time, has made it a priority to visit our region repeatedly— and I’m grateful for his commitment to understanding the unique housing challenges we face here on the Outer Cape and Lower Cape. It was Secretary Augustus’ 102nd and 103rd housing authority visits (out of 242 statewide!) since he assumed office in 2023. Together, we visited the Chatham and Orleans Housing Authorities, meeting with local leaders who are working tirelessly to preserve and expand affordable housing for year-round residents. Currently, there are 270,000 people statewide on waiting lists for public housing.

We also had a terrific visit with Jay Coburn and the team at the Community Development Partnership in Orleans, whose innovative work supports housing, economic development, and community sustainability across the Lower Cape. According to CDP research, thousands of units, including projects in every single town of the Lower Cape, are in the pipeline for development. Downtown Orleans alone has a plan for 1,250 units thanks to wastewater infrastructure improvements.

We wrapped up the day with a roundtable discussion at the Eastham Public Library so Secretary Augustus could give a seasonal housing update to town managers, town planners, community leaders and stakeholders, and select board members from many of our Outer and Lower Cape towns. We brought everyone up to speed on what’s included in the Seasonal Communities Designation their towns were about to vote on, including the ability to purchase year-round deed restrictions and the allocation of housing for municipal workers and artists. The Secretary let everyone know that this will be a deliberative process, and he and I both want every town to take advantage of the opportunities to take part in this new policy toolkit.

The Secretary’s engagement and attentiveness throughout the day made it clear: he understands that a one-size-fits-all approach to the housing crisis won't work, and that rural and coastal communities like ours need tailored solutions. I’m encouraged by the energy and partnership that Secretary Augustus and his team brings to this work, and I look forward to continuing to collaborate with him to deliver real results for the people of Cape Cod and the Islands.
Island Hoppin'
A day on Martha's Vineyard

April is such a lovely time to visit Martha’s Vineyard, with businesses and flowers beginning to reopen for the season, the chill of winter receding in the distance. Representative Thomas Moakley and I were greeted upon arrival by Rep. Moakley’s hardworking island liaison, Grace, who is doing a terrific job keeping us connected to the island community.

We began our morning with Dean Teague, the newly appointed CEO of Martha’s Vineyard Community Services (MVCS). Dean is a seasoned leader, a U.S. Navy Medical Corps veteran, and most recently the CEO of Calvert Health System in Maryland. His leadership comes at a critical time, as demand for behavioral health, early childhood, and substance use services grows across the Island. We are excited to have Dean at the helm of such a critical organization and look forward to partnering to strengthen community-based services.

Next, we met with newly elected Edgartown Select Board member Alex Morrison — marking a significant moment as the first new member of that board in decades. It’s refreshing to have a new voice helping guide the town. Alex spoke passionately about sustaining livability for Islanders as housing and everyday costs climb. We even brainstormed a bit together, wondering aloud about sites like the land near the airport, where former Army barracks once stood, that could help meet future housing needs.

We then met with Paddy Moore, Melinda Loberg, and Jim LaValle from Navigator Homes of Martha’s Vineyard — the nonprofit that is stepping up to replace Windemere Nursing and Rehabilitation Center currently located at Martha’s Vineyard Hospital, which had been losing $3 million a year due to pandemic-related space constraints and persistent staffing challenges.

Navigator Homes will offer a “Green House” style of care, with communal living and dining spaces but private bedrooms for residents, and with empowered frontline staff making decisions for their households. It’s a promising model — but the big challenge remains: how to fund it. Reimbursements for skilled nursing barely cover costs, and Navigator is the only skilled nursing provider available to Island residents. Increasing Medicaid reimbursement rates will be crucial, along with reducing reliance on expensive traveling nurses (which made up 75% of Windemere’s workforce). Long-term rate relief will be key to ensuring Navigator’s success and sustainability for years to come.

Another important stop was the Red House Peer Recovery Support Center, where we learned about the urgent need to find a new home after their current lease, held through Martha’s Vineyard Hospital, will not be renewed. Red House plays an essential role in supporting Islanders in recovery, and it is critical that they find a permanent location to continue their vital peer-led work.

Rep. Moakley and I taped an appearance on Tank Talk with the one and only Dr. Bob Tankard — one of my favorite stops whenever I’m on the Island. We talked about recent legislative efforts that will have a real impact here, and previewed some of the policies we’re hoping to get done this session, including Rep. Moakley’s bill requiring a motorcycle license for moped rentals, new legislation to allow restaurants and hotels to stock epinephrine (EpiPens) directly from wholesalers, and long-overdue action to clean up the State Forest — cutting through red tape that had made it nearly impossible for workers to live there legally.

Coach Tankard asked the important question: where can affordable housing actually go? We talked about how on an island, everything is interconnected — housing, workforce, environment — and how it’s all part of one delicate ecosystem. In the face of a hostile new federal administration, we have a higher obligation than ever to show our constituents what good state and local government can do.

We also toured the new Island Autism Center in West Tisbury — a major project offering not just program and residential spaces for individuals with autism, but also onsite workforce housing to support staff. The campus includes a beautifully designed Hub House, creating a true community space for residents and families.

It was heartening to see how a bold vision for autism services and housing can come together in one thoughtful, welcoming space — and we couldn’t help but smile seeing the goats and chickens roaming the grounds, bringing even more life and joy to this special community.

We capped off the day with a delicious snack in Vineyard Haven at El Barco, which had just opened for the season, where we had the pleasure of sitting down with Tisbury Select Board member Christina Colarusso. Christina brings a fresh, youthful perspective to town government, and it’s exciting to see new energy and leadership emerging across the Island.

I left the Island grateful — grateful to have purpose in this challenging moment, and determined to keep working every day, on the big and small issues alike. Much of our work — wastewater, housing, infrastructure — is not partisan. It’s about keeping our communities strong for the generations ahead.
The 49th Daffodil Festival and 46th Antique Car Show!

The Nantucket Daffodil Festival is one of my favorite traditions — a joyful celebration of spring, community, and the beauty of the island in full bloom. This year marked the 49th annual Daffodil Festival and the 46th annual Antique Car Show, two events that speak to the enduring spirit and creativity of the Nantucket community.

This year’s Festival was especially memorable for me, as I had the honor of serving as a judge for the Antique Car Show. It was no easy task — the care and pride that so many Islanders and seasonal residents put into their vintage vehicles was truly impressive. After much deliberation, we awarded Best in Show to a gorgeous English White 1966 Austin Healey — a real standout that captured the timeless charm and spirit of the day. Channel 7 news anchor Amaka Ubaka delivered the grand prize just as the skies opened. Despite the downpour, it was a joyful, beautiful day to kick off the season on Nantucket.

The Daffodil Festival is about more than just flowers and parades — it’s about community, tradition, and celebrating everything that makes Nantucket so special. I always leave the island with a full heart and a deep appreciation for the energy, creativity, and resilience that define this special place.

In the District and Beyond!
Talking Maternal Health Equity with the Yarmouth Rotary Club

Recently, I had the opportunity to join the Yarmouth Rotary Club as their guest speaker at the Hearth n’ Kettle on Route 28. I gave updates on a number of issues pending on Beacon Hill, and I also spoke about one of the most important public health initiatives we advanced last session — legislation to improve maternal health outcomes across Massachusetts.

Despite the Commonwealth’s reputation for having some of the best health outcomes in the country, we continue to see alarming disparities in maternal health, particularly among Black women, Indigenous women, and low-income families. Legislation signed into law last summer seeks to close those gaps by strengthening prenatal and postpartum care, expanding access to community-based supports like doulas, improving screening for postpartum depression, and ensuring that every birthing person in Massachusetts has access to culturally competent, high-quality care — no matter where they live.

The Cape and Islands face unique challenges when it comes to maternal health. Geographic barriers, provider shortages, and the high cost of living make it even harder for families here to access the care they need. That’s why it’s critical that rural and regional needs are at the center of this work. I’m grateful to the Yarmouth Rotary Club for the warm welcome and for their longstanding commitment to strengthening our communities. Investing in maternal health isn’t just good policy — it’s a moral obligation to give every family the healthiest start possible.
The NAACP of Cape Cod

I recently joined a meeting of the Cape Cod Chapter of the NAACP — a gathering of leaders, advocates, and concerned community members who are deeply committed to justice, equity, and building a better future for all.

I had been meaning to attend one of these meetings for some time, especially as the need for strong, unified community movements has only grown in recent months. The work of the NAACP and organizations like it is critical, and it has always been a movement I aim to support — not just with words, but with real action.

Since the inauguration of the current federal administration, we have seen mounting headwinds against the progress so many have fought to achieve. Tens of millions of dollars have been stripped from essential public services. Long-standing protections for legal residents have been violated. Fundamental rights — rights that should be beyond question — are being steadily chipped away. And across the country, extremist political forces are sowing division and fear, threatening the fabric of our democracy itself.

In the face of these challenges, we need more than just resistance. We need a plan for renewal — a "Project 2029" — a collective, forward-looking effort to repair this nation and rebuild the institutions that are meant to serve and protect every person equally. Massachusetts has a role to play, and Cape Cod and the Islands have a role to play. As I emphasized during the meeting, the problems we see aren’t just “over the bridge.” We have work to do right here at home, addressing inequities in housing, healthcare, and opportunity — and ensuring that our region is welcoming and accessible to all.

I left the meeting heartened by the energy, insight, and determination of those gathered. Cape Codders and islanders continue to show up — ready not only to protest injustice, but to build something better in its place.

Thank you to the Cape Cod NAACP for the invitation and for the work you do every day to move us forward.
Cape Cod Young Professionals 10th annual Shape the Cape Summit

I had the privilege of speaking (and snatching the mic from my sister Marissa) at the 10th Annual Shape the Cape Summit, hosted by Cape Cod Young Professionals (CCYP) at The Emerald Resort in Hyannis. With over 300 attendees from across the Cape, the summit served as a vibrant forum for connection, learning, and envisioning a more inclusive and sustainable future for our region.

The sessions were both insightful and inspiring, covering a wide array of topics that resonate deeply with the challenges and opportunities we face on the Cape. Discussions ranged from the realities of affordable housing and the intricacies of the blue economy to the nuances of starting a business and the importance of mental health and work-life balance. Notably, panels like “Should I Start a Business?” and “How Affordable is Affordable Housing?” provided attendees with practical insights and sparked meaningful conversations about our community's future.
What's cookin' in Community Kitchens

The team at the Truro Community Kitchen is quite the well-oiled machine. They’ve just hit the five-year mark and have prepared and delivered more than 85,000 meals so far. They currently make 120 meals every Tuesday which are then delivered by six drivers. When the TCK has leftovers, they work with neighboring organizations like the AIDS Support Group of Cape Cod to make sure no food goes to waste.

Later that same day Representative Luddy joined me for a visit with the 246 Community Kitchen in Wellfleet, where we were welcomed with incredible warmth — and a few great jokes too. It's more than just a meal; it’s a true community gathering, with tables set with care, hearty food (including thoughtful vegetarian options), and a spirit of connection that brightens even the coldest months. We were grateful to share in the fellowship and see firsthand the heart and hospitality that make the Outer Cape so special.
Provincetown Annual Town Meeting

With one of the earliest Annual Town Meetings on the calendar, Provincetown had the opportunity to be the first town from the Cape and Islands to vote on accepting their Seasonal Communities designation, and I am happy to say the voters overwhelmingly said "yes."

This designation, created through the Affordable Homes Act, is a direct response to what towns like Provincetown have been asking for. It provides critical new tools to address our housing crisis: expanded authority to create municipal deed restrictions for year-round housing, the ability to raise the residential property tax exemption from 35% to 50%, and the power to encourage the development of smaller, workforce-friendly housing units. In short, — it's the exact help Provincetown and other seasonal communities have been demanding for years.

Of course, it wouldn’t be Town Meeting without a little drama. The first voter to the microphone tried to indefinitely postpone the article — a move that would have denied Provincetown access to the very solutions the community has been fighting for. I couldn’t sit quietly, so I stood up at the microphone to remind my fellow town meeting voters that this designation wasn’t being imposed on us — it was built out of what we asked for, what we need, and what will help preserve the vibrant, year-round community we love.

The day after Provincetown’s town meeting, three towns on Martha’s Vineyard — Edgartown, Oak Bluffs, and West Tisbury — also voted to adopt the Seasonal Communities designation. Just this week, Wellfleet, Chilmark and Tisbury said yes, too. Its clear momentum is building across the Cape and Islands to take real, tangible steps to address the housing emergency.
A visit with the Chatham Select Board

I joined Representative Hadley Luddy for a visit with the Chatham Select Board, and I left feeling deeply encouraged. Chatham is really trying to meet the moment — especially when it comes to addressing the housing crisis. I was proud to share some of the tools we're advancing at the state level to support local efforts, including new strategies to help the “missing middle.” Almost every year-round working person who doesn't already own a home — or isn’t positioned to inherit one — is going to need some level of assistance in the years ahead. We have to be honest about that reality and plan accordingly.

One exciting tool is the Good Landlord Tax Credit, which I co-authored with my close colleague Senator Lydia Edwards, and was included in the tax relief packaged signed into law in 2023. Senator Edwards preceded me as Chair of the Joint Committee on Housing and remains a fierce ally in this work. Our tax credit incentivizes landlords to offer below-market rents to year-round tenants — a real step toward stabilizing our communities. I also had the opportunity to visit the Chatham Housing Authority just a week prior, and I can say firsthand: it’s one of the best-run and best-maintained housing authorities on the Cape, thanks to exceptional leadership and staffing.

Chatham’s proactive investments extend beyond housing. Years ago, the town made the forward-looking decision to invest in sewer infrastructure ahead of most other Cape towns — a choice that’s now paying dividends, as Chatham has been able to refinance debt from its current sewer expansion at more favorable rates. It's another example of Chatham’s leadership and willingness to think ahead.
Planning for the high season with the Harwich Chamber of Commerce

I had a great visit with the Harwich Chamber of Commerce to catch up and share updates as we head into another Cape Cod summer. A big thank you to Cyndi Williams for her leadership. Under her guidance, the Chamber is doing exactly what a Chamber should do: bringing people together, getting ahead of challenges, and celebrating everything that makes Harwich special.

Harwich is gearing up for a busy season, although with Canadian tourism projected to be way down this year, there's some uncertainty about how things will shake out. Still, it’s clear that Harwich businesses are ready to adapt and meet the moment — just as they always do.

I also shared some exciting updates from Beacon Hill, especially about the Affordable Homes Act. Harwich, where 42% of homes are second homes, will now be officially designated as a "seasonal community." That opens up new local options that Harwich has been asking for — like municipal deed restrictions for workforce housing and the ability to raise the residential property tax exemption from 35% up to 50%. To unlock these tools, Harwich voters will need to pass two bylaws: one to allow tiny homes (Accessory Dwelling Units) on properties, and another to encourage merging undersized lots for housing. These changes can make a real difference for year-round working families who are being priced out.

We also talked about big wins for Harwich’s infrastructure. I’m thrilled that Harwich received $31.3 million from the State Revolving Fund to move critical wastewater projects forward. Investing in clean water isn’t just about protecting our environment — it’s about building a stronger, more sustainable future for Harwich and the Cape.
The fine folks at F.A.W.C.

It was wonderful to catch up with Sharon Polli and hear about the next chapter for the Fine Arts Work Center in Provincetown. FAWC is truly a gem — housed in a beautiful, historic campus at 24 Pearl Street where artists and writers from around the world come to live, work, and create. Their fellowships are renowned, not only launching the careers of countless artists and authors but also strengthening Provincetown’s identity as a beacon for creativity and expression.

Their plans for new artist housing at are ambitious and exactly the kind of forward-looking project that can help sustain Provincetown’s artist colony. I'm excited to seeFAWC bring this vision to life, and I’m grateful for all our cultural anchor institutions do to nurture our local community and the broader creative landscape.
The bridges of Barnstable County

My staff had the opportunity to tour Follins Pond and the headwaters of the Bass River with Rick Bishop, executive director of Friends of Bass River, and commercial fisherman Joel Bois. From the water, the view of the underside of the Route 6 bridges that connect Dennis and Yarmouth is nothing short of alarming. Rotten wooden pilings, sheared-off supports, crumbling concrete, rusted rebar, and open runoff pipes pouring into the river — it’s clear these structures, built over 50 years ago, are in significant and worsening deterioration.

Read more about it here: Friends of Bass River: Route 6 bridges in Dennis, Yarmouth need repair ([link removed])

Thousands of people drive over these bridges every day without realizing how compromised the infrastructure beneath them truly is. Seeing it firsthand, and hearing from Rick and Joel — who know this river intimately — made the risks feel real and urgent. It's not just about replacing or repairing a bridge; it’s about safeguarding public safety and protecting our fragile river ecosystems. As Rick rightly pointed out, even if the pilings were shored up, marine worms and long-term erosion pose serious challenges to their stability.

Our visit also highlighted another growing threat to Bass River’s future: the invasive Chesapeake Boring Sponge. Joel Bois, who says shellfish account for a sizable portion of his haul, showed us how these sponges latch onto quahogs and eat right through their shells, devastating the shellfish population. Joel now spends hours each week removing the sponges from the water — a grueling and often losing battle. Left unchecked, this invasive species threatens not only the ecological balance of the river but the livelihoods of local fishers who have depended on these waters for generations.

Beyond the immediate infrastructure and shellfishing concerns, the tour underscored the broader environmental work underway. Friends of Bass River has been doing outstanding work, including securing $4.7 million in funding to restore 57 acres of former cranberry bogs back into wetlands — vital projects that will improve water quality, restore habitat, and reduce nitrogen loading. Rick and Joel also showed us the runoff pipes under the bridges, where untreated water pours directly into the river, further stressing an already fragile system.

Friends of Bass River truly are "the voice of Bass River,” advocating for restoration, education, and sustainable stewardship. Their work reminds us that infrastructure and environmental health go hand in hand. Whether it's fixing crumbling bridges, replacing failing culverts, or restoring wetlands, the investments we make today are critical to preserving Cape Cod’s future.
English for All at the Hyannis Public Library

Recently, I sat in on a session of English for All at the Hyannis Public Library — and it was a reminder of the goodness that lives at the heart of our community.

English for All is a volunteer-led program that meets a real and pressing need: supporting members of our immigrant community as they build not only language skills, but confidence, opportunity, and belonging. The classes go far beyond grammar drills. Volunteers help students untangle the real English we use every day — the idioms, the slang, the playful (and often confusing) turns of phrase that define how we truly communicate. In doing so, they open the doors of full participation in work, school, and community life.

Seeing the class in action was inspiring. Volunteers and students worked side by side, laughing, learning, and connecting in a way that spoke volumes about the welcoming, open-hearted spirit Cape Codders are known for. Programs like English for All embody the idea that a strong, thriving community leaves no one behind—and that language can be a bridge, not a barrier.

Hyannis Public Library Director Antonia Stephens and I discussed the plans for the library’s major renovation, its first in five decades. I secured a $50,000 earmark to assist in these efforts and am excited to see the plans come to fruition.
Breakfast with the Cape and Islands Municipal Leaders Association

Representative Hadley Luddy joined me for a morning meeting with the Cape and Islands Municipal Leaders Association (CIMLA) in Eastham for a wide-ranging discussion about the issues that matter most to our region. I appreciate CIMLA and all our local officials who dedicate themselves to strengthening our communities — their leadership is vital as we navigate challenges both old and new. From housing affordability and coastal resilience to wastewater infrastructure and the governor’s plan to mitigate rising utility costs, the conversations we had reaffirmed just how interconnected our priorities are — and how essential collaboration will be in the months ahead.
A chat with MassHire and the Massachusetts Workforce Association

I had the opportunity to join MassHire and the Massachusetts Workforce Association (MWA) for a conversation about the future of workforce development across Massachusetts. Gathering at Ocean Edge in Brewster, we brought together MassHire Workforce Boards from across the Commonwealth to tackle the challenges — and opportunities — facing our regional economy.

The message was clear: if we want to build a sustainable future for Cape Cod, we must invest boldly in our workforce. That means supporting young people in career pathways, expanding access to vocational training, addressing the housing crisis that drives workers away, and making sure that jobs on the Cape offer a real future for year-round residents.

We also had a chance to highlight some bright spots: new apprenticeship programs, stronger partnerships between schools and employers, and creative approaches to help match workers with opportunities right here at home. Organizations like MassHire CIWB and MWA are doing the essential work of connecting the dots between education, industry, and community needs.

As your State Senator, I’m committed to making sure workforce development stays at the center of our policy conversations — because when we invest in workers, we invest in the future of Cape Cod and the Islands.
Power of the people: protests, rallies, and demonstrations

Throughout April, Cape Codders and Islanders united in powerful displays of resistance against the regressive, punitive policies being thrown at us by the current federal administration. In Hyannis, over a thousand residents gathered at the rotary, voicing their opposition to actions threatening Medicare, Social Security, and other vital programs. Eastham saw approximately 600 demonstrators along Route 6, protesting cuts to government services and the erosion of democratic institutions.

In Provincetown, the steps of Town Hall became a stage for outrage and solidarity. At least 400 individuals convened, chanting "Hands off our community!" in a unified call to protect our rights and freedoms. This gathering was not just a protest but a reaffirmation of our town's commitment to inclusivity and justice.

I extend my deepest gratitude to community organizers like Michelle Axelson, whose unwavering dedication to advocacy continues to inspire. Michelle's leadership, both in organizing these rallies and in championing initiatives like gender-inclusive public restrooms in municipal buildings, exemplifies the spirit of Provincetown. ​(The Provincetown Independent ([link removed]) )

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