Political News and Notes

Ortega Named Chief

Kara Elliott Ortega has been appointed Chief of Arts and Culture for the City of Boston by Mayor Martin Walsh (was interim Chief).

Ortega worked as the Director of Planning and Policy in the Arts cabinet for three years, playing a leadership role in the development and implementation of Boston Creates, the City’s cultural plan.

“Kara has demonstrated an extremely strong dedication to better serving local artists, generating more support for the arts sector, and developing partnerships to enhance the arts throughout the City of Boston,” Mayor Martin Walsh said.

Audit of Student Activity Accounts Released

The findings of an independent audit conducted by Ernst & Young (EY) of student activity accounts at Boston Public Schools (BPS) has been released.

The EY audit analyzed fund activity and use, assessed key internal controls and reviewed historical transactions at 118 schools in the system.

“Launched in the early 1990s, these accounts have never been audited or reviewed until now,” Mayor Martin Walsh noted.

“Trust, transparency and being fiscally responsible for the residence of Boston is what drives our priorities, and this in-depth review has allowed for the creation of substantial and comprehensive new policies and procedures,” Mayor Walsh said.

September is                       

Recovery Month

A series of events are planned marking September as Recovery Month, a national observance that aims to combat social stigma around addiction, celebrate recovery, and promote overall awareness, according to Boston Mayor Martin Walsh.

“Every year, we recognize Recovery Month as a time to start conversations about substance use and provide support for individuals who are struggling or in recovery,” the Mayor said.

He added, “This month is dedicated to all members of our community who have been impacted by substance use disorders and to the care providers who support people throughout the recovery.”