Watertown News | Page 8 | Your Source for Local News

Water & Sewer Rates Increasing More Than Expected Due to Error in Calculations

By Charlie Breitrose | 7 hours ago

Watertown residents will see an increase of 4.5% in both the water and sewer rates for the fiscal year that began on July 1, 2026, which is slightly higher than forecasted a year ago. However, the future increase could be significantly higher than projected due in part to an error made calculating future year revenues.

Possible Purchase of Police Drone and Guidelines for Use Discussed by Council Committee

The Watertown Police Department is considering purchasing a drone like this one made by Paladin Drones (Photo from Paladin)

An automated drone is one of the new technologies being considered by the Watertown Police Department. On July 9, the City Council’s Public Safety Committee held a hearing to ask questions and hear from the public about the possible use of a drone.

A Pair of World Cup Final Watch Parties in Watertown

Those looking to join other soccer fans in Watertown to catch the World Cup Final have two choices of venues to catch Sunday’s big game.

Wada Hoppah Charles River Ferry Boat Has Hit the Water — See a Video and Photos

The first moments on the water for the Wada Hoppah Charles River ferry boat. (Photo by Charlie Breitrose)

An idea formed three years ago took to the waters of the Charles River on July 11, 2026 when the Wada Hoppah ferry launched at the Newton Yacht Club.

More Headlines

City Council Moving Out of City Hall for July 14 Meeting

Mutual Aid Group Delivers Air Conditioners in Watertown During Heat Wave

Watertown Woman’s Film About the Pressures of Parenthood Showing at Several Film Festivals

Schools

New Head of Perkins School for the Blind Looks to Build on Legacy, Advocate for the Visually Impaired

By Charlie Breitrose | June 25, 2026

Perkins School for the Blind President and CEO David Barth, right, speaks with a student during the White Cane Walk. (Courtesy of Perkins School for the Blind)

David Barth did not take the most direct route to becoming Perkins School for the Blind’s President and CEO, but he told Watertown News that the work helping some of the most vulnerable children get the education, services, and rights that they deserve is something he has done during his whole career.

Sports

Watertown Football Gridiron Club Hosting Golf Tournament, Business Sponsorship Program

By Guest Writer | June 25, 2026

The Watertown Football Gridiron Club has two opportunities for the community to support WHS football.

The following announcement was provided by the Watertown Football Gridiron Club:

Long before the first whistle of the fall football season, Watertown High School football players are already hard at work. Through year-round strength and conditioning programs, summer training camp, and preseason scrimmages, Raiders athletes dedicate themselves to becoming stronger teammates, better leaders, and representatives of the Watertown community.

Business

Charles River Chamber Board Welcomes Three New Members

By Guest Writer | June 25, 2026

The Charles River Regional Chamber announced the addition of new members of the Board of Directors. The Chamber serves Watertown, Newton, Needham, Wellesley, and Brookline. See more details in the announcement from the Chamber, below,

Entertainment

WEEKEND FUN: Tipsy Tea Party, a Show at the Mosesian Center, Historic Mansion Tour, Drop into the Makerspace

By Charlie Breitrose | June 25, 2026

(UPDATED: June 25, 3:10 p.m.: the Watertown Children’s production is in July, stay tuned for more information)

The Pride month celebration continues this week with the Tipsy Tea Party on Sunday. The final weekend of a play by a new theater company is at the Mosesian Center. Take a tour of the historic Gore Mansion and learn about the intricacies of the wallpaper in the former governor’s home on Saturday. In the mood to make something, learn how at the Hatch Makerspace on Friday.

Government

Unwanted Surprises Drive Up Cost of Renovation of the City’s Parker Annex Building

By Charlie Breitrose | June 24, 2026

The Parker Annex Building (Courtesy of City of Watertown)

City officials have learned what it’s like to renovate a 100+ year old building, and the unwanted surprises that come with it. On Tuesday night, the City Council approved a $373,000 budget transfer to cover the cost of unexpected additional repairs, as well as to insulate the Parker Annex.

Letters

LETTER: Answers and Questions About City Manager’s New Contract

By Guest Writer | June 24, 2026

Hi All,

I read the agenda for last night’s City Council meeting. As I went to the City website and clicked on the City Council agenda, it “beach balled” forever!

Food

Bar ‘Cino Starting Monday Night Supper Club, See What’s on the Menu

By Guest Writer | June 24, 2026

The Monday night Supper Club is coming to Bar ‘Cino in Watertown Square. See the dishes on offer in the announcement from the restaurant, below.

Schools

Watertown Student Delivers Speech at Fontbonne Graduation

By Guest Writer | June 24, 2026

Watertown’s Lily Carpenter received her diploma at the Fontbonne graduation. (Photo by Faith Ninivaggi)

Watertown’s Lily Carpenter graduated from Fontbonne, The Early College of Boston, and delivered a speech about her experience at the school, where she transferred after her previous school closed. See more details in the announcement from Fontbonne, below.