▶︎ City Hall
Joint convention flips, elects Brad Markey for School Committee
Eleventh hour deal-making led to the surprise election of Mayor Jon Mitchell’s preferred candidate, former City Councilor Brad Markey.
Bousquet and Coward surface as lead nominees in School Committee contest
Though both candidates grew up in New Bedford, they have different priorities: one is focused on boosting voc-tech programs and the other is focused on “fundamentals.”
It’s official: City Council confirms police chief appointment
A months-long power tussle between the council and the mayor had delayed the confirmation and swearing-in of Jason Thody until Thursday night.
Joint convention deadlocks on selecting School Committee member
Nominees Henry Bousquet and Marcus Coward each secured eight votes. But since neither could prevail after seven rounds, voting has been rescheduled for Jan. 21.
Ryan Pereira takes the reins of the New Bedford City Council
Pereira says dignity, discourse, and results-oriented leadership will define his approach in 2026.
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▶︎ Budget and development
Port Authority says marina investigation flawed, blames DCR for issues
The Port Authority’s letter defends its management of the Pope’s Island Marina and blames the state for maintenance problems.
Companies adapt to State Pier closure
Businesses are relocating after an engineering review forced the closure of most of the pier. Repairs will take about four years.
Inspector General uncovers ‘grossly mismanaged’ Pope’s Island Marina
The New Bedford Port Authority and DCR failed to account for repair funds, decades of rent, and public documents.
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