Lawmakers Discuss Changes to Health Care System, Including State Rep. John Lawn

State Representative John Lawn spoke on a panel about primary care reform at the 2026 Health Equity Trends Summit at UMass Boston on June 2. (Photo credit: Piper Brown Photography)

Watertown State Rep. John Lawn joined a panel of lawmakers speaking about trends in health care in a time when federal policies are changing the system. See more information in the announcement from Health Care Compact, below.

Watertown Community Foundation Challenge to Raise $25,000; Gifts Doubled Until June 26

The following announcement was provided by the Watertown Community Foundation:

The Watertown Community Foundation has launched a matching gift campaign to raise $25,000 in community donations and unlock up to $25,000 in matching funds. Through June 26, 2026, all gifts to support the work of the Watertown Community Foundation will be matched dollar for dollar — thanks to WCF’s Board of Directors.

LETTER: In Support of a Compromise Rent Control Bill

By Tony PalombaCity Councilor At-Large

As an At-Large City Councilor in Watertown Massachusetts I am acutely aware of the housing storage that Massachusetts is facing – both for those who wish to purchase a home and who would like to rent. We also know that the cost of homeownership and renting is continuing to climb. The burden of these two factors makes it difficult to provide low-income and moderate-income residents with affordable housing.

LETTER: Hope is Not a Strategy — Pleasant Street and Beyond

By Linda ScottWatertown Resident

I want to mention three meetings, one that I attended on June 5th that City Council President Mark Sideris conducted. These meetings are a relatively new concept as a result of our last Charter review. Each councilor is required to have one community meeting a year and invite the public. It’s a good idea.

Wayside Receives Grant to Support Health & Substance Use Prevention Program

The Wayside Multi-Service Center is located on North Beacon Street in Watertown. (Courtesy of Wayside)

The following announcement was provided by Wayside Youth & Family Support Network:

Wayside Youth & Family Support Network has been awarded a $75,000 grant from the Cummings Foundation to support the launch of its Seeds of Wellness pilot program within the organization’s Multi-Service Program.