https://www.sentinelandenterprise.com/2026/10/18/sizer-school-in-fitchburg-holds-its-own-primary-election-campaign/

On Oct. 7, Fitchburg Mayor Sam Squailia made a special visit to Sizer School as an honored guest of the “My Party” 10th grade primary election campaign at Sizer School.

School officials said that project-based learning is a key component to the Sizer School curriculum. Creating independent learners and engaged citizens is part of the school’s personalized experience. The “My Party” project in the 10th grade allowed students to create their own political parties and platforms, which they then presented during a primary election campaign earlier this month.

“Students looked at both sides of the aisle and said, ‘That’s not me,’” explained 10th Grade U.S. history teacher Kenneth LaCoille. “They came up with ideas about how to change and improve things in our country — some liberal and progressive, others more conservative and centrist, but all of them were trying to articulate policies and well thought out promises to create a party that could reach people their age.”

Officials said that advanced level, deep-dive courses like this allow Sizer students to fully engage in their materials and make connections to other areas of study. Many of the My Party participants are also taking an elective course, “You and the Law” which is helping them understand our country’s legal and judiciary system. Students will be visiting the courthouse soon to watch a real trial in progress.

This year’s final primary participants were Mona Umpierrez of Fitchburg and Sahara Caron of Westminster representing the Full Sweep Party; LuResneea Lovaincy of Leominster and Ari McCauliff of Lunenburg representing the Evithea Party; Elias Mejias, Allison Almeida and Kevin O’Dell of Fitchburg representing the Global Peace Agency; and Liam Landry of Leominster and John Soares of Fitchburg with the The Ehhh Party.

Ehhh stands for Employment, Housing, Healthcare and Hunger. The Global Peace Agency was created with the slogan “World Wide Unity.”

“Our party is based on global rights for all and bringing everyone together to help them feel at peace,” said Mejias. “What does it do to human nature? It shifts our primary loyalty away from tribal national groups toward a shared global identity as it aligns with biological morality.”

According to Umpierrez, the Full Sweep Party is “a party where everyone is invited.”

“Many issues in America are caused by our government system. Rich people having too much power — our government lets it happen,” she said.

Citing what she called a “trash” deportation system and a broken judicial system, Umpierrez said their party is the “full sweep” needed to clean up the country.

Lovaincy and McCauliff created the Evitheia Party as a way to bring “power to the public, purely for the people.”

“Our mission is to provide this country with the resources it needs to thrive, creating equality for everyone and allow people to live the lives they deserve,” said Lovaincy.

“Many of the platforms and promises in these speeches are pie-in-the-sky scenarios,” said LaCoille. “My students were shooting for the moon and trying their best to figure out creative ways to solve big problems.”

When everyone had spoken, Mayor Squailia commended all of the student speakers and the work put into each presentation and slideshow.

“Something that I experience every day as mayor is we all see and identify problems. That’s one thing. Criticizing also happens and that’s easy. But the full solution takes time and collaboration and is really where we see effective government,” said Squailia.

The winner of Squailia’s vote, and also the popular vote for the whole of the 10th grade, was the Full Sweep Party. Squailia said she was impressed with the students’ presentation and for “bringing up relevant, actual political issues at this time and addressing how we’re going to pay for it.”

School officials said that for over two decades, Sizer School, a North Central Charter Essential School, has been sending graduates into the world who think for themselves, care about others, and act responsibly. Essential School Education goes beyond the page, using project based, hands-on education to prepare scholars for the future. For more information, go to www.sizerschool.org.

As always, many meetings held at the Legislative building are broadcast live by Fitchburg Access Television (FATV) with recordings available at www.fatv.org the next day. You can also look up meeting agendas and schedules here on the City of Fitchburg website: https://www.fitchburgma.gov/AgendaCenter

• Appointments Committee

(October 20)

https://www.fitchburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_10202026-5426

• City Council

(October 20)

https://www.fitchburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_10202026-5445

• Fitchburg Public Schools: Student Advisory Committee and School Committee Joint Meeting

(October 19)

https://www.fitchburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_10192026-5447

• School Committee

(October 19)

https://www.fitchburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_10192026-5446

• Fitchburg Redevelopment Authority (October 21)

https://www.fitchburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_10212026-5439

• Legislative Affairs Committee (October 20)

https://www.fitchburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_10202026-5429

• License Commission

(October 19)

https://www.fitchburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_10192026-5444

• Montachusett Metropolitan Planning Organization

(October 21)

https://www.fitchburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_10212026-5442

• Monty Tech Capital Improvements Subcommittee

(October 20)

https://www.fitchburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_10202026-5440

• Monty Tech Financial Planning Subcommittee

(October 20)

https://www.fitchburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_10202026-5441

• Monty Tech Policy Subcommittee (October 21)

https://www.fitchburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_10212026-5438

• Water/Wastewater Commission (October 21)

https://www.fitchburgma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_10212026-5443

This is where Oliver’s Cafe was and now the home of ROOTS Natural Foods Market and Kitchen.

The segment covers:

• ongoing road paving

• sewer/stormwater projects

• preparation for winter

• The Mayor addressed a question about a Maura Healey sign at the old courthouse by Monument Park and what the rules were about political signs on public land. It’s not allowed on public land but the sign was on private property now since the courthouse was sold by the state to a developer.

• recent grants received by the city

• affordable vs. market rate housing in the city

• opening of ROOTS Natural Foods Market & Kitchen in West Fitchburg

• upcoming tax classification hearing on October 28

• city budget pressures going into 2027

• Starting on November 1, the city will be taking over the Basic Life Support ambulance service.

• the future of the landfill and what plans the city can have to prepare over the next couple of years

• $17 million to support reconstruction of John Fitch Highway

• proposed changes to City Clerk responsibilities

• Grants for a new Coggshall Park playground

• STEAM program at Fitchburg Public Library

• Trick-or-Treat on Main Street on October 24

The MRFRS Catmobile offers low-cost spay/neuter services for cats for just $245, including:

✂️ Spay/neuter surgery
🩺 Brief veterinary exam
💉 Rabies and FVRCP (distemper) vaccines
🐾 Microchip
🐜 Flea treatment
🐈 Nail trim

Limited appointments available. Schedule here:

https://app.clinichq.com/online/5db1433d-d4c7-497b-ae45-07241d5cea07

As flu, COVID and other seasonal illnesses begin circulating, health officials across North Central Massachusetts are helping residents prepare for the months ahead.

Local public health officials share information on upcoming vaccination clinics across the region, while doctors from Heywood Hospital discuss when to get vaccinated, the importance of community protection, everyday ways to limit the spread of illness and warning signs parents should watch for when children get sick.

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1Dyj2hNwRV/?mibextid=wwXIfr

Massachusetts State Auditor Diana DiZoglio has released a new report, "License to Pour: Access & Equity in Massachusetts Liquor Licensing," highlighting challenges we have been advocating to change here in Fitchburg.

I was glad to contribute Fitchburg's perspective to this statewide discussion as the report confirms what many municipalities and small business owners have experienced for years: Massachusetts has an outdated liquor licensing system that creates unnecessary barriers to opening restaurants, attracting investment and growing our local economies.

🍷 Our current liquor licensing system relies on population based limits established in 1933---- rather than actual business demand or economic development opportunities.

🏙️ Only 26 Massachusetts municipalities have greater local control over their pouring licenses, while 302 remain subject to state restrictive quotas.
💰 The wealthiest municipalities issue 58% more pouring licenses per resident than the least wealthy municipalities (including Gateway Cities like Fitchburg)
🚧 Approx. 2.5 million Massachusetts residents live in communities where state licensing limits constrain economic opportunities.

🏗️ In Fitchburg, we are seeing substantial progress in our economic development efforts --- from new housing investments bringing residents and built-in customers downtown... to the redevelopment of historic buildings, new businesses opening, and continued investment in our commercial corridors, Fitchburg is creating opportunities for entrepreneurs and private investment.

Our downtown/intown revitalization efforts, housing developments and growing business community are building momentum. We want to keep that momentum going! ... and liquor licensing flexibility helps spurn this economic opportunity.

Fitchburg currently does have pouring licenses available for restaurants and establishments looking to serve alcohol for consumption on their premises.

...but we have NO package store licenses available for businesses wanting to sell beer and wine for customers to take home...

That presents a challenge for small businesses, specialty markets and entrepreneurs looking to expand their offerings or establish new retail businesses here....including specialty food markets and neighborhood retailers hoping to offer beer and wine for off-premises consumption. Municipalities like ours need licensing rules that reflect local economic conditions.

📣 What do we need?

✅ Greater local control over liquor licensing decisions.

✅ Modernizing the nearly century old population based license quotas to reflect actual 21st century economic development needs.

✅ More opportunities for small businesses and entrepreneurs to obtain licenses without costly barriers.

✅ Greater transparency and fairness throughout the licensing process.

✅ Giving Gateway Cities like Fitchburg the tools to attract investment, support existing businesses and continue revitalizing commercial districts.

"In Fitchburg, we know too well how access to liquor licenses can affect whether a restaurant or hospitality business can open, expand, or invest in our community."
I appreciate Auditor DiZoglio and her team for putting research and data behind these challenges, and for including Fitchburg's voice in this discussion.

We are working hard to bring new investment into Fitchburg, support our existing businesses, encourage entrepreneurship and strengthen our commercial districts.

Our housing growth, downtown redevelopment and infrastructure investments are creating new opportunities. We need state policies that help our communities build on those successes. Fitchburg is moving forward, and we'll continue advocating for the flexibility and resources we need to keep that progress going!

📖 Read the full Auditor's report:

https://www.mass.gov/report/license-to-pour-access-equity-in-massachusetts-liquor-licensing

This week, Fitchburg officials approved funding for youth recreation programs and a new Coggshall Park playground, while cemetery trustees discussed maintenance needs and future burial capacity.

The Montachusett Joint Transportation Committee also reviewed plans for the region’s next long-term transportation strategy.

Knocked down power lines and street lights are flickering. Don't go down that street! ⚠️

Wallace Tower in Fitchburg marked a milestone in its modernization with two dedications: a veterans memorial park honoring World War II Army nurse Isabel Demmon and a community room named for longtime Housing Authority employee Mark Cunningham.

The ceremonies recognized the building’s history, the legacy of those who served the community, and a family connection spanning generations.

I had a conversation with someone on what types of stores we would like to see in Fitchburg and one idea was an independent arts & crafts store. Wonder if one would do ok on Main Street or be better off on a property like this.

The Department of Public Works advises residents of the following work that will be done, weather permitting, during the week of October 19, 2026.

Road Construction
Monday – Friday, 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (expect road closures, traffic delays and/or detours)

🚧 Combination Sanitary Sewer/Storm Drain Separation Project
GVC will be performing the following work. Parking near the construction zones will not be allowed.
▪️Prospect Street & View Street - new drainage and water installation.
▪️166 Boulder Drive to Wood Place - new drainage installation.
▪️GVC’s subcontractor, PJ Albert will continue road reconstruction on the following streets: High Street, Elm Street, Simmonds Street, and Johnson Street.

🚧 Main Street Water Main Improvements
JA Polito will be performing the following work. Intersection closures and detours will be established as needed.
▪️Paving work on Main Street between Newton Place and North Street
▪️Water main installation on Boulder Drive between Mill Street and Water Street.

🚧 Water Street Bridge Replacement
▪️MIG will be installing watermain services on Water Street. Expect detours and traffic delays.

🚧 Pipeline Replacement
▪️Unitil and its subcontractors Neuco and Path Mechanical will be conducting natural gas pipeline upgrade projects on Fairmount Street, Daniels Street, Cliff Street, Beeckman Street, Salem Street, Granite Street, Spruce Street, Birch Street, Hale Street, Lynn Street, Hasset Street, Canton Street, Blossom Street, Ross Street, Pearl Street, and Day Street.

🚧 Ward 1 Paving: Fairbanks Street, Munroe Street, Birch Street and Heywood Street
▪️Lazaro will continue various sidewalk and driveway apron restoration.

🚧 Electric Ave @ Rollstone Road Roundabout:
▪️Lazaro will begin drainage construction for crosswalks.

🚧 Stoneybrook Road (entrance only):
▪️PJ Albert will complete final paving.

🚧 Main Street (from West Street to River Street)
▪️PJ Albert will complete final paving.

Monday – Friday, 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
🚧 Minor traffic impacts
▪️Culvert repair at 650 Arn How Farm Road. Expect detours and delays.
▪️Pothole repairs citywide.
▪️Stormwater maintenance to prevent flooding from blocked catch basins.
▪️Various repair of the existing drainage infrastructure(s).

💧 Hydrants
Notification of all hydrant flushing areas will be posted daily on the City’s Facebook page.
▪️Hydrant flushing on the High System (hydrants with Red tops) in the River Street, Clarendon Street, Franklin Road, Electric Ave and Kimball Street areas to include all area side streets.
▪️Privately owned hydrant flushing in various areas throughout the city.
▪️Hydrant replacement/painting throughout the city.

Use SeeClickFix to report maintenance requests or concerns including potholes, sidewalks, signs/ signals, lights, parks, catch basins or manholes.

Please call the DPW Dispatcher at 978-829-1900 with any immediate request including weather-related events (snow, wind, ice, flooding) or sewage backups.

Celebrate the Holiday Season with local businesses and the community, featuring caroling, hot chocolate & more!

Fitchburg needs your help to donate blood for our neighbors.

The Fitchburg Health Department is hosting a Blood Drive with the Mass General Hospital Blood Donor Bus at Fitchburg City Hall.

📍 Fitchburg City Hall

700 Main Street

📅 Wednesday, December 16, 2026

⏰ 9:30 AM to 3:00 PM

Pre-registration is required:

https://blooddonor.kraftfamilyblooddonorcenter.org/donorportal/

A single blood donation can help save up to three lives.

The process: they check your blood pressure, check your iron, collect one pint, and you walk away knowing you helped someone who may need blood during surgery, cancer treatment, trauma care, childbirth complications, or another medical emergency.

Give blood. Save a life. Feel good.

To prepare, please remember to:
🍽 Eat a healthy meal before donating
💧 Drink at least 16 ounces (2 cups ) of water before donating
😴 Get a good night’s sleep before your appointment
🪪 Bring a photo ID

Thank you to the Fitchburg Health Department and Mass General Hospital Blood Donor Bus for helping make this possible

https://checkout.square.site/merchant/MLPGKJHQVQQFT/checkout/G6XOTSEMHVRO6MHMMKM6FGDS?src=webqr