
Community News
Local news about your town and neighbors
Community Forum to discuss Killam School and ReCAL projects set for April 16
Residents are invited to join town officials and project leaders for an important virtual community forum on two major initiatives coming before voters this spring: the Killam Elementary School Building project and the Reading Center for Active Living (ReCAL) project.
April is Autism Acceptance Month: a time to learn, support, and advocate
The Town of Reading proudly recognizes April as National Autism Acceptance Month, a time to not only raise awareness but also to foster greater understanding, support, and inclusion for individuals on the autism spectrum and their families.
Cook statement on local elections
Firstly, congratulations to both Melissa Murphy on her re-election and Karen Rose-Gillis on her election to the Select Board. The position requires a tremendous amount of time, effort, energy, and sacrifice and I wish them both well in joining the remaining Select Board members to work collaboratively together to guide Reading forward. Also, kudos to Tony D’Arezzo for running as well, Reading voters deserved the ability to choose from a diverse candidate pool.
Reading Democrats to hold caucus
Reading, MA — Registered Democrats in the Town of Reading will be holding a caucus at the Reading Pleasant Street Center, 49 Pleasant Street Center on Monday, April 14th at 7:00 PM to elect 14 delegates and 4 alternates to the 2025 Massachusetts Democratic Convention. Registration opens at 6:30 PM and the doors will close promptly at 7:00 PM. The Convention will be held on Saturday, September 13th at the MassMutual Center in Springfield. At that time, thousands of Democrats from across the state will come together to discuss party business, nominate our candidate for US Senate and celebrate our successes as we prepare for upcoming elections.
Murphy statement on local elections
Dear Reading Residents,
I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone, especially those who took the time to come to the polls and cast their votes. I am immensely proud of the campaign we ran.
D’Arezzo statement on local elections
I‘d like to take this opportunity to congratulate Karen Rose-Gillis on her election and Melissa Murphy on her re-election to the Select Board. Now begins the real work of running the Town and guiding us through the future.
I’d like to thank family, friends and everyone who supported me. It was your efforts and encouragement that allowed me to run in the first place.
Rose-Gillis statement on local election
Dear Reading Residents,
I would like to take this opportunity to thank all the residents who took the time to vote on Tuesday. Voting is a fundamental right we have to allow us to choose how we move forward as a community. I am hopeful Reading will continue to increase voter turnout for our local elections. Our voices collectively are so important in how we move forward and make many important decisions for our town.
Durgavich statement on local election
Dear Reading Community,
Thank you so much for placing your confidence in me as the newest School Committee member. I want to thank everyone who supported me in my campaign, and everyone who cast a ballot in this year’s election. Participation is key to democracy, and that is needed more than ever right now!
Memorial Day - remember and honor
This Memorial Day Monday, May 26, 2025, The Town of Reading invites all residents to join in a day of remembrance, reflection, and gratitude. As w commemorate 250 years since the start of the American Revolution, we also pause to honor and remember all those who have given their lives in service to our country.
Voters elect new local leaders in April 2025 election
Reading residents went to the polls on Tuesday April 8, 2025, to cast their votes in the town’s annual local election. With competitive races and key ballot decisions, the election drew strong interest from across the community.
Annual Town Election Day today: what you need to know
Reading’s Annual Town Election is happening today, Tuesday, April 8. Voters from all precincts will cast their ballots at the Reading Memorial High School Hawkes Fieldhouse, located at 62 Oakland Road.
Polls will be open from 7:00 am to 8:00 pm.
Final workshop for Reading’s Arts & Culture Plan - April 9
The Town of Reading invites all residents, artists, and community members to join the final activation and workshop for the Arts & Culture Plan on Wednesday, April 9 at 6:00 pm at the Reading Public Library.
Friends of Reading Scouting announces 2025 Mulch Fundraiser
Spring is in the air and that means it’s time to think about mulch! We are pleased to announce that the 2025 FoRS Mulch Fundraiser is now officially open. You can order securely at our website - www.readingscouting.org.
Calculate your tax impact: upcoming town projects
The Town of Reading is considering two major building projects that will be funded through debt exclusions, pending voter approval. These projects aim to enhance community resources and educational facilities. Use the Tax Impact Calculator to estimate how these initiatives may affect your property taxes next year.
Together for Reading announces endorsements for April 2025 local election
Together for Reading (TfR) is proud to announce our candidate endorsements for Select Board, School Committee, and Town Meeting candidates.
Local entrepreneur fills critical need with inclusive, accessible binders
For many transgender and non-binary individuals, chest binders are an essential tool for gender affirmation, but accessible safe, affordable options remain a significant challenge. One local entrepreneur has set out to change that by launching a business dedicated to providing high-quality, inclusive, and accessible binders to the community.
Select Board Candidate Forum recap
On March 26, the Reading Democratic Town Committee and Reading Republican Town Committees co-sponsored the official Select Board Candidate Forum, providing an opportunity for residents to hear directly from candidates. The event was held in the Community Room at the Reading Public Library and was recorded by RCTV for those unable to attend in person. The forum was moderated by Jen Hillary, with Bob Holmes serving as the interviewer.
Sample sensory garden coming to RPL
As part of the Rooted in Reading grant, the Reading Public Library (RPL) is installing a sample sensory garden designed to highlight different ways to experience nature. Sensory gardens help people connect with the environment and become more mindful of their surroundings.
A sensory garden is intentionally designed to stimulate the senses - sight, smell, sound, and touch - encouraging visitors to engage with plants and natural elements in an immersive way.
Joint Community Forum: Killam School & Reading Center for Active Living
The Town of Reading invites residents to participate in a Joint Community Forum on two significant projects coming before the community this Spring: the Killam School Building Project and the Reading Center for Active Living (ReCAL) project.
Swanson anonuces candidacy for RMLD Board of Commissioners
My name is Rich Swanson, and I am running for RMLD Commissioner in the upcoming election. I'm excited about the opportunity. I currently work as the Director of the Energy & Climate Division at Blue Strike - a small consultancy - as an energy economist and finance specialist with experience in infrastructure planning, regulatory design, and strategic decarbonization. Specifically, I lead a team that delivers tailored sustainability and energy strategies to public and private sector clients.