Government
Boston, Massachusetts
The city is governed by a Mayor-Council system. The Mayor serves as the city’s chief executive officer, while the Boston City Council acts as the legislative body. The Mayor is elected to a four-year term in a nonpartisan election. The City Council consists of 13 members, with nine elected from districts and four elected at-large to represent the entire city. Council members serve two-year terms.
The City Council is responsible for establishing policies, approving the city budget, and overseeing municipal operations. Unlike a Council-Manager system, Boston does not have a city manager; instead, the Mayor directly oversees city departments and agencies.
The Boston Police Department, Boston Fire Department, and Boston Emergency Medical Services (EMS) provide public safety services, while the Suffolk County Sheriff’s Department manages corrections and legal processes.
Contact Information
Boston City Hall
1 City Hall Square
Boston, MA 02201
Phone: (617) 635-4000
Website: boston.gov
Mayor’s Office
Phone: (617) 635-4500
Email: mayor@boston.gov
Boston City Council
For a full list of City Council members and their contact information, visit the City Council Members page: boston.gov/citycouncil
Public Services
Non-Emergency Services & General Inquiries: Dial 311
Emergency Services (Police, Fire, Medical): Dial 911
Boston Police Department (BPD): (617) 343-4500
Boston Fire Department (BFD): (617) 343-3550
Boston Emergency Medical Services (EMS): (617) 343-2367
GOVERNMENT NEWS
Massachusetts Beaches Closed Due to High Bacteria Levels
News Summary In response to soaring temperatures, Massachusetts has closed 14 beaches due to elevated bacteria levels to protect public health. Notable closures include Constitution Beach in East Boston. The...
Boston School Committee Seeks Revisions in Exam School Admissions
News Summary The Boston School Committee is launching a search for equitable admissions policies for the city’s exam schools. Superintendent Mary Skipper emphasizes the need for fairness, moving beyond competition...
Mixed Verdict in Karen Read’s Trial: Acquitted of Murder but Convicted of OUI
News Summary Karen Read was acquitted of murder and manslaughter charges but found guilty of operating a vehicle under the influence (OUI) following the death of her boyfriend, police officer...
Surge in Campaign Spending Affects Boston Mayoral Race
News Summary Boston’s upcoming mayoral election sees an unprecedented rise in campaign spending as incumbent Mayor Michelle Wu faces off against challenger Josh Kraft. Wu’s reelection efforts are bolstered by...
Boston Retirement Board Approves 3% COLA for Retirees
News Summary The Boston Retirement Board has approved a 3% annual cost of living adjustment (COLA) for retired city workers, amounting to $450 for the next fiscal year. This decision...
Massachusetts Drivers Face License Renewal Challenges Due to Debt
News Summary In Massachusetts, nearly 3 million drivers are unable to renew their licenses due to unpaid debts, as the Registry of Motor Vehicles imposes non-renewal status. This policy, which...
Heat Advisory Issued for Southern New England Amid Storm Predictions
News Summary A heat advisory has been issued for southern New England, including Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Connecticut, due to high temperatures and humidity. The advisory is in effect from...
Jurors Deadlocked in Boston Firefighter Rape Trial
News Summary In a high-profile case, jurors deliberating the trial of Terence E. Crosbie, an Irish firefighter, were unable to reach a verdict on rape allegations from a St. Patrick’s...
Saugus Man Sentenced for Embezzling Over $180,000
News Summary A 29-year-old Saugus man has been sentenced to 25 months in prison for embezzling more than $180,000 from TD Bank customers. Derek Aut, who worked as a bank...
