Pereira says dignity, discourse, and results-oriented leadership will define his approach in 2026.
Category: City Hall
Posted inCity Hall
Analysis: Even-year elections could save thousands, restore trust, and improve government
Moving local elections to even-numbered years alongside state and federal elections could increase turnout, lower costs, and is broadly popular with Republicans and Democrats.
Posted inCity Hall
2025 in review: A year of highs and lows for City Hall, Statehouse
Despite the protracted scuffle between the mayor and the council, the city made progress in transportation, economic development, the environment and the budget.
Posted inPolice and Courts
City Council to confirm New Bedford police chief
The committee recommendation comes after a months-long power tussle between the mayor and the council that briefly included a lawsuit.
Posted inCity Hall
New Bedford comes in under budget by $4.8 million
For the first time in more than a decade, every city department was at or under budget.
Posted inelection 2025
Recount affirms Scott Pemberton’s Ward 2 victory
Thursday’s election recount confirms the challenger’s narrow victory. Ward 2 will have a new councilor for the first time since 2017.
Posted inelection 2025
Maria Giesta files for a Ward 2 recount
After the Ward 2 election was decided by 17 votes, the defeated incumbent wants to be sure.
Posted inCity Hall
Mayor relents, submits police chief appointment to City Council
The council referred the matter to the committee on appointments and briefings. It will withdraw its lawsuit over Police Chief Jason Thody’s nomination.
Posted inelection 2025
Analysis: New councilors sell progress, but not change
Knocking on doors, spending smart money, and offering “change” — but not too much. Two candidates show how to win a council race in New Bedford.
Posted inelection 2025
Council newcomers James Roy, Scott Pemberton win seats
Pemberton, the Ward 2 challenger, unseated incumbent Maria Giesta by 17 votes. Roy won a seat in the at-large race, along with four incumbents, including Naomi Carney.