
Community News
Local news about your town and neighbors
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.
Reading DPW announces additional road resurfacing plans for Summer 2025
The Reading Department of Public Works (DPW) has announced updates to its road resurfacing plans for Summer 2025. While several streets have already been scheduled for paving, the DPW is evaluating additional roads to be included in this year’s resurfacing efforts.
The Town of Reading’s Engineering Division is currently conducting cost estimates to determine how many additional streets can be resurfaced within the available funding. Once finalized, the updated list of roads will be released to the public.
New trash & recycling cart coming to Reading starting April 8th
Beginning April 8th, the Town of Reading will roll out new trash and recycling carts to all households currently receiving Town collection. This initiative aims to improve waste management efficiency and standardize container use across the community.
Albert Pless, Director of Equity and Social Justice, to host office hours at Town Hall in April
The Town of Reading’s Office of Equity and Social Justice (OESJ) is committed to fostering an inclusive and welcoming community. As part of the mission, Albert Pless, Director of Equity and Social Justice, will be hosting office hours at Town Hall throughout April to engage with residents, listen to concerns, and discuss initiatives aimed at promoting equity in our town.
Stay informed!
The Town of Reading is committed to continuous improvement, ensuring a safe, accessible, and vibrant community for all. To keep residents informed and engaged, the Town has launched the Improving Reading page on its official website. This new resource serves as a central hub for all construction and improvement projects managed by the Town.
Free blood pressure screenings in April: stay on top of your health!
The Town of Reading is offering free, walk-in blood pressure screenings this April to help residents monitor their health. These screenings, conducted by the Town Nurse, provide an easy and accessible way to keep track of your blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other health issues.
March is Brain Injury Awareness Month: know the risks and prevention strategies
Brain injuries can have life-altering consequences, affecting a person’s memory, coordination, speech, and overall well-being. March is Brain Injury Awareness Month, and the Town of Reading is raising awareness about the causes, symptoms, and ways to prevent these serious injuries.
In-person early voting for Annual Town Election begins on March 29
Reading residents will have the opportunity to cast their votes early for the Annual Town Election on Tuesday, April 8, 2025. On Election Day, all precincts will vote at Reading Memorial High School Field House (62 Oakland Road), with polls open from 7:00 am to 8:00 pm.
March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month: know the risks and take action
Colorectal cancer is one of the most common types of cancer, but with early detection and prevention, it is also one of the most treatable. One in 20 people will develop colorectal cancer in their lifetime. This March, as part of Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, the Town of Reading is urging residents to understand the risks and take proactive steps to prevent this disease.
Measles: what you need to know
Measles is a highly contagious disease caused by the measles virus. Symptoms typically appear 7 to 14 days after infection and can be especially dangerous for babies and young children. With recent concerns over outbreaks, it’s important to understand how measles spread, its symptoms, and how to protect yourself and your community.
Ad Hoc Commemoration Establishment Committee continues discussion on honoring Bill Russell
The Ad Hoc Commemoration Establishment (ACE) Committee is meeting tonight at 7 pm in the Select Board Meeting Room at Town Hall (16 Lowell Street) to continue the discussion on how to properly honor Bill Russell - a legendary athlete and civil rights icon.
North Reading hosts prescription drug take-back event: ‘Don’t Be The Dealer‘
The North Reading Police Department, Community Impact Team, and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) are coming together to host the ‘Don’t Be The Dealer’ event, part of the DEA’s Prescription Take Back Program. The event will take place on Saturday, April 26, from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm at the O’Leary Senior Center, 157 Park Street, North Reading.