The Somerville Beacon

How I Moderated My First Mayoral Debate

A peek behind the scenes.

Oct 21 • 

Ben Orenstein

4

9

What Should I Ask at Monday's Mayoral Debate?

I'm moderating a debate between Wilson and Burnley and would like to include your questions.

Oct 14 • 

Ben Orenstein

2

12

June 2025

New Course: How The Somerville Government Works

Taught by yours truly.

Jun 18 • 

Ben Orenstein

6

Let's Fix the School Street Crossing

I'm putting together a crew!

Jun 12 • 

Ben Orenstein

4

April 2025

Automatically Addressing a Housing Shortage

A model for writing an automatic response system into the law

Apr 6 • 

Ben Orenstein

15

1

March 2025

An Interview with Willie Burnley Jr.

Somerville City Councilor and Candidate for Mayor

Mar 11 • 

Ben Orenstein

10

February 2025

An Interview with Jake Wilson

From At-large Councilor to Mayor?

Feb 28 • 

Ben Orenstein

5

How is spot zoning defined in Massachusetts?

Fortunately, the courts have been rather clear on this!

Feb 17 • 

Ben Orenstein

4

January 2025

You're invited to the Somerville City Council

Let's go to a meeting together!

Jan 31 • 

Ben Orenstein

3

Somerville Upzoned 12 Lots in 2024

My previous post, “Somerville Passed 7 Laws in 2024”, focused on statute (changes to the Code of Ordinances).

Jan 14 • 

Ben Orenstein

9

Losing More Votes Might Be Good For You

I recently joined my local Neighborhood Council, and we make all our decisions democratically.

Jan 13 • 

Ben Orenstein

4

2

Somerville Passed 7 Laws in 2024

So I read every one!

Jan 11 • 

Ben Orenstein

11