Video Update for June 25

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qcQlbscVrKk 

This is Mayor Paul Brodeur

The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education has released its initial guidance for fall school reopenings this morning. It is a complicated set of requirements and recommendations and calls for districts to develop three plans to provide education this fall that rests squarely on whatever unpredictable course the coronavirus takes: a full-scale return of students, a mix of students learning in school and at home, or a continuation of only remote learning. Incoming Superintendent Kukenberger and the Melrose Public Schools leadership team are evaluating the guidance and seeking answers to many unanswered questions. You can find the report at DESE website: http://www.doe.mass.edu/. By clicking on the initial return-to-school guidance link.

I am happy to report that the City has passed a budget for fiscal year 2021. I want to thank all city department heads and the members of the City Council for their diligence and dedication as we navigate these challenging fiscal times. We will all continue to keep an eye on the economy and state and federal aid as the fiscal new year begins on July 1.

And some good news from the Melrose Recreation Department. Registrations are going well, and the department will be releasing a brochure of phase 3 programs tomorrow. We recognize that Phase Three has not been officially announced yet, but the department has the ability to run almost all of the announced programs under the phase 2 guidelines and is prepared to adjust safely and professionally should the anticipated phase 3 date or other regulations change. Resident safety is our top priority, and folks should call the Recreation Department with any questions or concerns they may have.

Finally, just a reminder that the Melrose Human Rights Commission (in partnership with the Foundation Trust) will be hosting a Car Parade in honor of Pride on Saturday at 2pm. If you'd like to join in, meet at the Memorial Hall parking lot beginning at 1:45pm. Get creative and decorate your car for the parade. We hope to see you there!

Thanks again for all you are doing to keep the community safe. Together, we will get through this!