Special to the Gazette
Residents, advocates, and legislators came together to share stories, elevate community priorities, and push for solutions that keep families and small businesses rooted in Boston.
Despite snowfall early Friday, February 6th morning, more than 50 community members gathered at 8:00 a.m. for the Jamaica Plain Neighborhood Development Corporation (JPNDC) Annual Legislative Breakfast.
This year’s event was the largest one yet, reflecting the public’s growing concern as neighborhoods and communities across Boston respond to significant federal and state budget challenges. JPNDC’s Legislative Breakfast created space for residents, advocates, and elected officials to discuss these issues and JPNDC’s 2026 Legislative Agenda.
Parents, business owners, and members of the community raised pressing concerns about rising residential and commercial rents, barriers to homeownership, energy costs, childcare, and more. Representative Samantha Montaño says, “”I always enjoy sitting down for a long conversation with my community. While the concerns shared with us all at the Breakfast this year are not surprising to hear, being able to connect directly with folks is essential. Community partners like JPNDC make the work we do at the State House tangible to folks who do not engage with us on an everyday basis. I look forward to working with everyone to build more housing and bring as many opportunities as possible to our neighborhood.”
Legislators in attendance — Senator Liz Miranda, Representative Samantha, Montaño, Representative Bill MacGregor, City Councilor Ben Weber, and City Councilor Ruthzee Louijeune — shared about their priorities and provided guidance on how community members can effectively advocate for their needs both at the city and state level. The event also featured remarks from Chief Brianna Millor, Chief of Community Engagement for the City of Boston.
JPNDC’s Community Organizing team shared support for legislation and budget line items that would sustain JPNDC’s important work in affordable housing, family childcare, economic prosperity, and small business that is taking place in Jamaica Plain, Roxbury, Dorchester, Mattapan, and beyond.
Teronda Ellis, JPNDC’s CEO, says, “We’re not letting the challenges of today affect our long-term goals as an organization. We are still, and always will be, committed to helping people and families comfortably call Boston home.”