Watertown News (https://www.watertownmanews.com/page/7/)
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.
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 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.
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.
by Pixabay
School bus fees will rise $200 for students who don’t qualify for the mandated busing areas of town in the 2026-27 school year. School officials will also look at purchasing its own buses, which would be electric.
Registration is open for a new program offering from Watertown Recreation: Youth Field Hockey. See more information in the announcement from Recreation Department, below.
The following piece was provided by Watertown Citizens for Peace, Justice and the Environment:
On April 8, seven Watertown High School students engaged in lively discussions with the community at the Watertown Free Public Library. Sponsored by Watertown Citizens for Peace, Justice and the Environment (WCPJE). Student Voices and Conversation brought together City Councilors, School Committee members, and the general public to hear what is on the minds of local students.
Multiple City facilities will be closed on Patriots Day, and trash and recycling will be impacted by the holiday. See more information from the City of Watertown, below.
The Watertown real estate market continues to buzz with tons of properties hosting tours this weekend.
Photo by Charlie BreitroseWatertown City Hall
Despite uncertain economic times, Watertown’s Fiscal Year 2027 budget will maintain the City’s program and staffing from the current year, but keeps staffing “headcount neutral.” The City will be in better shape than many communities in the area, City Manager George Proakis told the City Council on Tuesday night.
By Linda ScottWatertown Resident
Is a Parking Garage in Watertown Square’s Future? But first, a Development Timeline, or watch the “magic numbers” grow
If you have already read my previous letter, “City Government – Trust, but Verify,” this letter might seem superfluous. What I’ve tried to do here is reason through what happened to the numbers in the Watertown Square Plan. Then I tie it into plans for a parking garage. Follow along, if you’re interested.
Watertown Helps Out, a chance for people to give back to the community where they live and/or work, returns in May. The Watertown Community Foundation has a list of places to make a difference throughout the months. See more details in the announcement from the Foundation, below.