Agenda Summary
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Proclaiming 2026 to be the Year of the Neighbor.
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Official Text
Proclamation
Whereas: The City of Somerville has always understood that our strength comes from our people, and especially from the relationships between neighbors and the connections between community members - the daily acts of connection, care, and solidarity that make this city resilient; and
Whereas: Community is Somerville's superpower, and the bonds we build across our neighborhoods, cultures, and generations are what allow us to face challenges together and move forward as one city; and
Whereas: At a moment of national discord and division, cities like ours must model a different way, one rooted in belonging, mutual support, and the belief that we all rise together or not at all; and
Whereas: Building connections between the community and the local government that serves them builds a foundation for mutual progress and creates spaces for community connection, inspiration, and advancement; and
Whereas: The City of Somerville has long invested in the programs, spaces, and resources that bring neighbors together - and this year, those efforts will be united under a shared commitment to deepening the connections that define us; and
Whereas: Even small acts of neighborliness, kindness, and mutual aid can have profound impacts on an individual’s ability to manage both small daily tasks or face large life challenges, and these beneficial connections deserve to be cultivated and celebrated; and
Whereas: Throughout 2026, Somerville will bring neighbors together through ward clean-ups, community events, and a citywide effort to strengthen the ties between long-time residents and those new to our city; and
Whereas: Existing City programs will be aligned around a common purpose - ensuring that every resident in every ward has opportunities to meet their neighbors, contribute to their community, and experience the belonging that Somerville stands for;
Now therefore be ...
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