Retiring Planning Director Looks Back on His 17 Years in Watertown

Steve Magoon

Steve Magoon has seen the transformation of large sections of Watertown, and played a major role in the creation of some of the City’s most important planning documents during his time working for the City. Magoon will retire at the end of January after more than 17 years as director of the Department of Community Development and Planning. Magoon arrived in Watertown after working for four years in Gloucester, his first job in Massachusetts. His career began in his home state of Maryland, where he rose up to become the planning director in Charles County. He still remembers his first impression of Watertown.

Watertown Home Depot Temporarily Closed Due to Snow Accumulation on Roof

Following the heavy snowfall last weekend, the Home Depot in Watertown has been closed due to the snow on the roof of the store on Arsenal Street. A crew from WBZ Channel 4 on Wednesday found the parking lot closed, a handmade sign saying “Store Closed,” and some confused shoppers. The station reached out to Home Depot and got a message saying that the store was closed “out of an abundance of caution” due to “significant snow accumulation on the roof.” The store is working with City officials to make sure the store is safe for shoppers and employees. A screenshot from WBZ Channel 4.

Charles River Chamber’s Sends Letter with “Timely Immigration Information for Employers”

The Charles River Regional Chamber sent a letter about anticipated immigration enforcement efforts in the Boston area, and included guidance for businesses and information about immigration policies. See the letter written by Chamber President & CEO Greg Reibman, below. To our members:

Our chamber firmly believes in abiding by all federal, state and local laws. However, those laws include individual protections, rights and due process that we believe must also be followed. This afternoon, I’m writing to share with you timely information related to immigration provided to us by the Massachusetts Law Reform Institute, as well as the office of Attorney General Andrea Campbell, that may be important to you, your employees and others in your circle.

Artemis Yoga Welcomes Community with Free Classes at January Open House

The following announcement was provided by Artemis Yoga:

Artemis Yoga is inviting the local community to an Open House on Saturday, Jan. 31, 2026, from 1 to 3 p.m. at its Watertown studio. The afternoon will feature a series of free in-studio yoga classes, along with raffles, giveaways, local treats, and special in-studio offers. Located at 639 Mt. Auburn St., Artemis Yoga is a locally owned, independent yoga studio that recently marked its 10th year in Watertown, having opened its doors in 2015.