Riddle 1: What would likely raise millions of dollars for the three core areas of affordable housing, historic preservation, and outdoor recreation and open space in Boston through a minor property tax surcharge and matching state funds? Answer 1: The…
Author: Sandra Storey
JP Observer: You saw it here: Trump is not very popular
In the 19 states that have held popular vote primaries for both parties so far this year, calculation of the raw numbers published on the New York Times website reveals that Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump has earned 19.9 percent…
JP Observer: JP has experienced ‘accidental security’
When Jamaica Plain economics are discussed these days, especially regarding housing, the phrase “accidental security” comes to mind. That concept goes a long way toward explaining changes that seem beyond our control in the neighborhood and might help us deal…
JP Observer: Mayor comes through on housing, arts, staff
Looking over the wish list for Mayor Marty Walsh’s new administration created by the JP Observer in December 2013, it’s exciting to note that he has accomplished a lot in major areas. The City made advances under Walsh in the…
JP Observer: Going national for gun control (and more)
Some terrific people represent Jamaica Plain in the United States Congress. Oddly enough, that can be frustrating at times. When our team votes our way, but Congress itself doesn’t, what can we do? Efforts to strengthen gun restrictions in the…
JP Observer: Streetcars would bring joy to Hyde Square
Although Jamaica Plain was once famous for being a “Streetcar Suburb” of Boston, service on the Arborway Line to Forest Hills was suddenly taken away by the MBTA 30 years ago this fall. Despite efforts to bring streetcars back to…
JP Observer: Simple changes can make housing senior friendly
Jamaica Plain is such a great place to live, younger people are joining older neighbors to think and talk about how they can “age in place” in the neighborhood. A big consideration, of course, is housing. When the Washington Street/Columbus…
JP Observer: JP can reduce its use of fossil fuels
By Sandra Storey Special to the Gazette “Can JP Power Itself?” was the tantalizing title of a community gathering and potluck sponsored by JP NET (New Economy Transition) and JP Forum on July 29. Related questions were posed: Can Jamaica…
JP Observer: Food pantry in, by and for JP needs support
The historic First Church in Jamaica Plain, Unitarian Universalist, whose clock looks out over the Monument Square Historic District, also houses a unique human service effort. Seventeen volunteers from JP manage and staff a food pantry there that provides basic…
JP Observer: Action is needed to preserve JP’s middle class
Boston, like most major cites in the U.S., is losing its middle class, according to the Brookings Institute and others looking at demographic trends. A large middle class is what anchors and stabilizes the working life of a city. A…