December 2024 | The Stanley Report | | |
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Dear Friend,
Happy holidays and best wishes for a happy New Year!
December's issue of The Stanley Report includes the latest news from Waltham and Beacon Hill.
As always, please feel free to contact me if you need assistance.
Sincerely,
Tom Stanley
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Rep. Stanley attended the Waltham Boys & Girls Club's Annual Community Breakfast. | |
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Rep. Stanley attended Watertown Savings Bank’s Annual Club 50
Holiday Party.
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Rep. Stanley with Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development Secretary Lauren Jones and Dr. Aisha Francis, President of Benjamin Franklin Cummings Institute of Technology. | | |
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Rep. Stanley joined the annual Gold Star Families Tree Ceremony at the Massachusetts State House, organized by the Military Friends Foundation to honor the sacrifice of service members lost in combat, in military service, and to the hidden wounds of war. | |
Rep. Stanley joined Ward 7 Councillor Paul Katz for the annual elected officials’ Salvation Army bell ringing at the Waltham Market Basket. The event, organized with the help of Ward 8 Councillor Cathyann Harris, highlights the community’s collective effort to support those in need during the holiday season. | |
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Rep. Stanley, MA Legislature Pass Sweeping Climate Bill
Rep. Stanley joined his legislative colleagues in the Massachusetts House of Representatives and Senate in passing climate legislation to empower the state’s fight against climate change and accelerate progress towards the state’s goals of net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.
S.2967, An Act Promoting a Clean Energy Grid, Advancing Equity, and Protecting Ratepayers, reforms the siting and permitting of clean energy facilities, while responsibly reforming the gas distribution system. It vastly expands the electric vehicle (EV) charging network, incentivizes innovative technologies such as battery storage, fusion energy, advanced metering and meter socket adapters, includes measures to protect residents from high energy costs, and equips state agencies with the mandate to fight climate change. Learn more.
“This transformative legislation is a testament to Massachusetts’ leadership in addressing the climate crisis while safeguarding affordability for residents,” said Representative Thomas M. Stanley (D-Waltham). By streamlining clean energy infrastructure, expanding EV charging networks and investing in groundbreaking technologies, we are paving the way for a cleaner, more resilient future. I am proud to stand with my colleagues in advancing a bill that prioritizes equity, innovation, and environmental stewardship for generations to come.”
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Rep. Stanley, MA Legislature Pass Sweeping Economic Development Bill
Rep. Stanley joined his legislative colleagues in the Massachusetts House of Representatives and Senate in passing a sweeping economic development bill that authorizes a nearly $4 billion infusion into the Commonwealth’s economy while making wide-ranging policy changes to make Massachusetts more competitive.
The bold investments in H.5100, An Act relative to strengthening Massachusetts’ economic leadership, will stimulate new and proven industries, support workforce development and talent retention, and modernize economic growth strategies. Provisions of the bill will support small businesses, communities, and cultural development, ensuring that businesses on Main Streets across the Commonwealth benefit from the economic boost. Learn more.
“This economic bill contains vital investments to support businesses of all sizes along with our workforce,” said State Representative Thomas M. Stanley (D-Waltham). It also ensures the Commonwealth remains a leader in clean energy and life sciences. As co-chair of the Joint Committee on Elder Affairs, I worked hard to secure bond authorizations for capital projects in rest homes and nursing homes, providing critical support to improve and modernize these facilities and address the pressing needs of our aging population. I’m proud to have worked with my colleagues to prioritize these investments and help build a stronger foundation for the future of our communities.”
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Rep. Stanley Joins Waltham Boys & Girls Club for Annual Community Breakfast
Rep. Stanley recently attended the Waltham Boys & Girls Club's Annual Community Breakfast, an inspiring gathering where community supporters celebrated the remarkable work the Club does every day to uplift youth in Waltham. The event featured a panel of student speakers, including Jhani, a 9th grader at Waltham High; Nicolly, an 8th grader at Kennedy Middle School; and Wilson, a 7th grader at Kennedy. Each student shared personal stories of how the Club has provided a supportive environment and helped them work toward their goals during after-school hours.
This year marked several major achievements for the Waltham Boys & Girls Club. The Club secured $1 million in federal funds from Congresswoman Katherine Clark to assist with the re-opening of its aquatics facility. Additionally, the City Council approved $6 million in Community Preservation Funding to support the historical rehabilitation of the Club’s building.
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Rep. Stanley Joins Chaplains on the Way Television Program
Rep. Stanley was a featured guest on the inaugural episode of *Chaplains on the Way*, a monthly program recorded at Waltham’s WCAC TV Studio. He joined Michael Jones, executive director of Chaplains on the Way and Louise Rachin, board president, for a thoughtful discussion on housing-related issues.
The conversation highlighted resources available to support Waltham’s unhoused population, including the state’s $20 million investment to address veteran homelessness and the landmark $4 billion Affordable Homes Act. They also discussed eviction prevention programs and the vital work of local organizations assisting unhoused individuals in the community.
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Waltham High School Expands Career and Technical Education Opportunities
The Healey-Driscoll Administration recently announced the addition of 18 new state-approved Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs across 12 high schools, including Waltham High School. These programs are designed to provide students with hands-on learning experiences and career preparation that align with industry needs.
Waltham High School will now offer programs in cosmetology, environmental science and technology, heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration (HVACR), as well as programming and web development. These programs feature immersive learning experiences, including at least 900 hours of hands-on instruction, co-operative education partnerships with local employers, and the opportunity for students to earn industry-recognized credentials.
As part of the administration’s “Reimagining High School” initiative, these CTE programs are tailored to meet the demands of today’s job market. They provide students with innovative, applied learning opportunities and equip them with the skills and confidence needed to pursue meaningful careers or continued education after graduation.
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Rep. Stanley Participates in FY26 Consensus Revenue Hearing
Rep. Stanley recently attended the FY26 Consensus Revenue Hearing, where key state leaders and economic experts gathered to provide critical insights into Massachusetts’ fiscal outlook. The hearing featured testimony from Secretary of Administration and Finance Matthew Gorzkowicz, Senate Ways and Means Chair Michael Rodrigues, House Ways and Means Chair Aaron Michlewitz, and representatives from the Department of Revenue, Treasury, Massachusetts Taxpayers Foundation, and other leading economists. Together, they assessed the current state of the economy and projected revenue expectations for the upcoming fiscal year.
The FY26 state tax revenue estimate established during this hearing will serve as the cornerstone for budget proposals developed by the Healey Administration, the House, and the Senate. This foundational process ensures a comprehensive and informed approach to addressing the fiscal priorities of Massachusetts in the year ahead.
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WPY selected to participate in the Social Innovation Forum's 2025 "Social Innovator Accelerator" program
Rep. Stanley is thrilled to announce that Waltham Partnership for Youth (WPY) has been selected to participate in the Social Innovation Forum's 2025 "Social Innovator Accelerator" program. The Social Innovation Forum (SIF) is a Boston-based connector and catalyst committed to building lasting positive social change. Through its flagship program, the Social Innovator Accelerator, SIF helps innovative nonprofit organizations gain visibility, expand their networks and build capacity. Learn more.
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Rep. Stanley Attends Gold Star Families Tree Ceremony
Rep. Stanley joined the annual Gold Star Families Tree Ceremony at the Massachusetts State House, organized by the Military Friends Foundation to honor the sacrifice of service members lost in combat, in military service, and to the hidden wounds of war. The event brought families together to continue their loved ones’ legacy. Governor Healey also participated in the ceremony. Pictured above is Rep. Stanley with Waltham resident Kelly Durkee-Erwin, a dedicated advocate for veterans’ rights in Waltham and across the state.
This year’s Gold Star Families Tree honors Massachusetts service members who gave their lives for our Nation. Ornaments from their families adorn the tree, serving as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made for our freedoms.
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State Awards $1.8 Million to Support Waste Reduction Businesses Across Massachusetts
The Healey-Driscoll Administration announced over $1.8 million in grants through the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection’s (MassDEP) Recycling and Reuse Business Development Grant (RBDG) Program. The funding will support 21 companies across the state that are dedicated to enhancing reuse, recycling or composting initiatives. These grants enable waste reduction companies in Massachusetts to expand their collection and processing capabilities.
Newton-based Spoonfuls will receive up to $50,000 in grants. This September, Rep. Stanley participated in a ride-along with Spoonfuls, gaining firsthand insight into the organization’s mission of rescuing fresh, surplus food from retail partners. This initiative helps prevent food waste while delivering nutritious meals to individuals and families in Waltham and surrounding communities who need it most.
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Rep. Stanley Participates in Community Outreach Meeting on Proposed Housing Development
Rep. Stanley joined Mayor McCarthy and City Councilors Kathy McMenimen, Cathyann Harris, Carlos Vidal, and Paul Katz at a Community Outreach Meeting to discuss plans for a new residential apartment building on the southern edge of the Watch Factory Parking Deck.
The site developers presented their vision for the proposed housing community and engaged in a dialogue with residents, listening to feedback and incorporating community input into their development plans. The meeting underscored the importance of collaboration between city leaders, developers and residents to shape projects that meet local needs and priorities.
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CyberTrust in Waltham receives Technical Assistant Grant
Rep. Stanley attended a ceremony hosted by the Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development (EOLWD) and the Division of Apprenticeship Standards (DAS) at the Benjamin Franklin Cummings Institute of Technology announcing recipients of the FY25 Grants for Registered Apprenticeship Opportunities in Workforce (GROW) Awards. CyberTrust in Waltham received a Technical Assistant Grant to develop pre-apprenticeships in cybersecurity.
DAS awarded more than $3.2 million to 29 organizations to train and place over 500 apprentices across the state in sectors including healthcare, manufacturing, technology, life sciences, financial services, education, construction, and clean energy. The grants, which include contract renewals and new awards, leverage more than $2 million in state funding complemented by remaining support from federal funds to train apprentices in high growth industries like health care, manufacturing, clean energy, early childhood education and more.
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Healey-Driscoll Administration Awards $16 Million to Decarbonize Affordable Housing
The Healey-Driscoll Administration announced the third round of funding awards under the Climate Ready Housing program. The program is led by the Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities, in collaboration with Massachusetts Housing Partnership, MassHousing, and Local Initiatives Support Corporation Massachusetts.
These funds will enable affordable housing properties across eight Massachusetts communities to significantly reduce their energy use through energy retrofits and electrification, which will lower costs for evidence. The grant program will advance physical upgrades to a crucial segment of the state’s housing stock, improving indoor air quality and comfort for residents.
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Rep. Stanley Visits More Than Words to Highlight Youth Empowerment Initiatives
Rep. Stanley and Senator Barrett recently visited More Than Words (MTW) in Waltham, meeting with staff and youth to hear their stories and discuss critical issues, including criminal justice reform and mental health services. MTW is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering youth in foster care, those involved with the justice system, experiencing homelessness, or out of school, by giving them the opportunity to take charge of their lives through running a business.
Each year, Rep. Stanley, Rep. Lawn, and Senator Barrett work to secure state funding for Youth-at-Risk grants, which support programs that help vulnerable youth engage with their communities in safe and meaningful ways. This funding also supports MTW’s Young Parents Program, which provides job training, case management, and personalized advocacy to help young parents build brighter futures.
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Rep. Stanley Joins Celebration for 6th Annual Holiday Toy and Supply Drive
Rep. Stanley attended an event hosted by Johnson Compounding and Wellness in Waltham to celebrate the success of their 6th Annual Holiday Toy and Supply Drive. For six years, Rep. Stanley has proudly partnered with Johnson Compounding and Wellness and Jewish Family and Children’s Services (JFCS) to collect toys, diapers and infant toiletries for families in need.
Rep. Stanley extends heartfelt thanks to everyone who contributed this year, making a meaningful difference in the lives of local families during the holiday season. Your generosity continues to inspire and uplift our community!
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MBTA Launches GO App
The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) released its new, official mobile app, MBTA Go, a first of its kind for the organization. This initial release makes an early version available to riders with Apple iPhones. The MBTA plans to release a companion version for Android users in February 2025. This app, which was developed in-house and provides real-time information for all fixed-route services, will improve communications between the MBTA and riders. It will also allow the T to share information in a more accessible way. Learn more.
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Massachusetts RMV Urges Residents to Act Now and Plan Ahead for REAL ID Compliance
The Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) is reminding residents that beginning May 7, 2025, anyone traveling by plane domestically or entering certain federal facilities will need a Registry-issued REAL ID compliant driver’s license or ID, or a valid passport. The Registry is strongly encouraging everyone seeking a REAL ID-compliant license or identification card to go online now at Mass.Gov/REALID to learn what documents are needed for a required in-person appointment. Appointments are available right now. Customers who already have a compliant credential may renew online as long as they have not had a name change. Learn more.
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Regan's Corner
Meet Regan! Rep. Stanley and his family rescued a pup and named her Regan. Regan loves long walks, playing games in the yard, making friends and lounging with Rep. Stanley!
Help an animal find a home! Learn more about The Animal Rescue League of Boston (ARL) and ways you can help.
The Animal Rescue League continues to support legislation that enhances and improves protections for animals, and to oppose reforms that endanger the welfare of animals in Massachusetts. Learn more about ARL's current legislative agenda here.
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About Rep. Stanley
State Representative
City Council
Former City Council President
State Committee:
Co-Chairperson, Joint Committee on Elder Affairs
Member of:
Rest Homes Task Force
Special Legislative Commission on Continuing Care Retirement Communities
Massachusetts Advisory Council on Alzheimer’s Disease and All Other Dementias
City Council:
Veterans Committee
Economic Development Committee
Committee of the Whole
Education: Suffolk University (MPA), Bentley University (BS - Management), Mass Bay Community College (AS - Business Administration)
Community Involvement (Past & Present):
Waltham Boys & Girls Club, Waltham Youth Basketball Association, Basketball Plus Program, Central Middle School Basketball, Little Nippers Baseball, Warrendale Little League, Waltham Youth Soccer, Waltham Police Athletic League, CCD Teacher, St. Jude Church, Waltham Lions Club, Waltham Rotary Club, Reagle Players Board of Directors, Warrendale Little League Board of Directors, Waltham Partnership for Youth Board of Directors, Waltham Day Center (Homeless) Advisors Board, Waltham Family School Advisory Board, Waltham Safe & Healthy Schools YRBS Steering Committee, Reach Beyond Domestic Violence Advisory Board, Waltham Public Library Planning Committee, Waltham Sons of Italy, Middlesex Area Enough Abuse Campaign
Awards:
Work, Community, Independence - Human Service Advocate of the Year, COFAR - award recipient for support of people with mental disabilities, MassBay Community College Distinguished Alumni Award WATCH CDC - Housing Advocate Award, Minuteman Senior Services - Certificate of Appreciation, Boston Bar Assoc., Greater Boston Legal Services and MetroWest Legal Services - Pillar of Justice Award, Shining Star Award, Edinburg Center, Community Health Center Leader Award, The Massachusetts League of Community Health Centers, Dignity Award Certificate of Appreciation,
Home Care Ally Award, Home Care Aid Council,
Massachusetts State Association of PACE Programs (MassPACE) 2024 State Champion,
Massachusetts Assisted Living Association (Mass-ALA) Policymaker of the Year Award,
Massachusetts Police Association’s Legislator of the Year Award,
LeadingAge Massachusetts 2024 Aging Services Champion Award,
Dignity Alliance Legislative Champion
Personal:
Married to the former Kimberly A. Bayliss
Children: Ryan, age 30, Parker, age 21 & puppy Regan
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