No government agency, none, has the authority to act as judge, jury and executioner. Extrajudicial killings violate the Constitution, they violate human rights, and violate the most basic standards of democracy," Coletta Zapata said. "Boston has a responsibility to say that out loud. And it is a declaration that Boston will not be silent when federal power is abused.
Boston City Councilor Gabriela Coletta Zapata announced Monday that she has secured enough votes to become the body's new president. Coletta Zapata represents East Boston, Charlestown, and the North End on the council, which chooses a new president every two years. Councilors hoping to assume the title typically jockey for position and privately negotiate with their colleagues during the period surrounding the November elections.
Supporters and skeptics packed City Hall Tuesday to weigh in during a City Council hearing on the matter. Councilors are evaluating a proposed ordinance that would require a "comprehensive, public, and participatory study" before commercial AV services are launched in Boston. The ordinance would establish an advisory board to evaluate the introduction of AVs and provide guidance to the mayor.
Voters will choose four candidates for at-large City Council seats. Valdez was among the top eight vote-getters during last month's preliminary election, ensuring that she would move on to the general. But Valdez only came in sixth place out of 10 candidates in the primary. She was outpaced by popular incumbents like Council President Ruthzee Louijeune, Erin Murphy, and Julia Mejia. Former District 3 councilor Frank Baker, who is hoping to return to City Council as an at-large candidate, also received more votes than Valdez.
Flynn's idea, which was supported only by Councilor Erin Murphy, proposes an amendment to an ordinance passed by City Council in April. Under that earlier ordinance, the city will soon begin requiring third-party restaurant delivery companies like Uber Eats, Grubhub, and DoorDash to obtain new permits in order to continue operating in Boston. It also requires the companies to share new safety data with the city and to provide liability insurance coverage for their drivers.
This body has lost its credibility. We must acknowledge that the public has lost faith in the Boston City Council, and we must act accordingly. The status quo, my friends, is no longer an option.
