Watertown News | Page 2 | Your Source for Local News

School Officials Outline Strategies to Improve Watertown’s Special Education Program

By Charlie Breitrose | May 1, 2026

A study of the Watertown Public Schools’ special education found a number of areas of concerns, including a lack of uniformity, a need for better communication with families, and a distrust among parents of students in the program.

City Hall Annex at Parker Building to Temporarily Close

The following announcement was provided by the City of Watertown:

The City’s Parker Building at 124 Watertown Street will be temporarily closed from May 2-12, 2026, to undergo electrical service upgrades in the building.

Restaurants Won’t be Allowed to Automatically Include Plastic Utensils Under New Ordinance

Restaurants in Watertown will not longer be able to automatically include packets of plastic utensils with takeout or deliver orders. (Photo by Charlie Breitrose)

A new ordinance approved by the City Council prohibits restaurants from automatically including plastic utensils with takeout orders, however customers can request these items when they order or pick up their food.

Council President Outlines City’s Protections for Undocumented Immigrants, Does Not Favor an Executive Order

City Council President Mark Sideris. (Photo by Charlie Breitrose)

After receiving questions about and requests to protect immigrants in Watertown in recent weeks, City Council President Mark Sideris emphasized the steps being taken by the City to provide safety and security, but said he does not favor the City Council passing a resolution or executive order regarding immigrants in Watertown.

More Headlines

Watertown Eco Fest will Feature Sustainable Vendors, Demonstrations & Activities for All Ages

Robotics Company Builds on Watertown’s History of Manufacturing in Former Mill Building

School Committee Update: Budget, Fees, Cell Phones in Schools, Special Ed Strategy

Around Town

Watertown Elected Leaders and Community Activists Endorse Daniel Lander for State Senate

By Guest Writer | April 30, 2026

Daniel Lander.

The following announcement came from the Landers for Senate Campaign:

Daniel Lander announced that his state senate campaign had been endorsed by a slate of elected and community leaders in Watertown. These leaders include elected school committee members, labor activists, and democratic party leaders. They are supporting Daniel’s vision for a more progressive Massachusetts that will take on the status quo and fight the affordability crisis while standing up to the Trump administration.

Around Town

Youth TV Production Workshop Offered by Watertown Cable

By Guest Writer | April 30, 2026

The following announcement was provided by Watertown Cable Access Television:

WCA-TV’s Youth Workshop is back this summer for children between the ages of 9 to 14. Our students will learn the basics of video production, from scriptwriting to editing. By the end of the Workshop, students will have produced a film.

Entertainment

WEEKEND FUN: Tour Watertown’s Oldest House, Free Comics, French Play, Tequila Tasting, Cribbage

By Charlo Maurer, Contributor | April 30, 2026

Browne House

Do you happen to speak French or just love the sound of it? The French Theater Project is presenting Soie on Friday and Saturday evenings at the Mosesian, a fun way to start the weekend. (there will be English subtitles.) On Saturday there is going to be a garden party at the Browne House, the oldest house in Watertown. If you haven’t seen it, it is definitely worth a quick tour. Get in a game of crocket and check out the music while you’re there. Also on Saturday, it is free comic book day at the Comic Stop! Your free comics might seem even better after attending the tequila tasting at Godon’s in Arsenal Yards. They have an extensive selection of tequila, mescal and agave drinks to try. Finally, on Sunday there is a Cribbage tournament at the Ancient Order of the Hibernians, head there to have lots of fun pegging with others.

Elections

LETTER: Retired Judge Endorses Sen. Will Brownsberger

By Guest Writer | April 29, 2026

To The Editor,

I am writing to enthusiastically support Senator Will Brownsberger’s re-election campaign and will be voting for him on Sept. 1.

Environment

Watertown Swap Shop Returns, Eco Fest & Composting

By Guest Writer | April 29, 2026

The following announcement was provided by the Watertown Solid Waste and Recycling Committee:

The Watertown Swap Shop re-opens for its second season this Saturday, May 2. The Swap Shop is located at the Recycling Center, 76 Stanley Ave., Watertown. The Swap Shop will be open on the first Saturday of each month, May to November, from 10 a.m.-2 p.m., except July when it will be open on the second Saturday. Bring your no-longer needed small items in good condition to the Swap Shop and/or take up to eight items home with you. No clothing or textiles.

Entertainment

Gore Place Tour, Pattern & Place: Wallpapers of the Mansion 1806-Present

By Guest Writer | April 28, 2026

Gore Place..

Gore Place will host a set of special tours focused on the wallpapers in the mansion that dates back to the early 19th century. See more information in the announcement from Gore Place, below.

Obituaries

OBIT: Michael Donovan, 38, Advocate for Children with Autism & Other Challenges, Devoted to Family & Friends

By Guest Writer | April 28, 2026

Michael Donovan

The Donovan, Lazarus, Zinsmeyer, and Eurich families are devastated to share that Michael Maurice Donovan passed away on March 20th, 2026, from complications related to Marfan Syndrome. At only 38 years of age, this loving husband, son, brother, cousin, uncle and friend left us much too soon, but he will stay with us in rich memories.

Government

Detailed Plans for Watertown Square Project to be Presented at Open House

By Guest Writer | April 27, 2026

Save the date for the Open House on Watertown Square Implementation on May 20, 2026, from 3-8 p.m. at 9 Galen St. See more details in the announcement from the City of Watertown, below.