Today during his midterm address Mayor Joe Curtatone announced that he will not be running for re- election in November. The mayor has served Somerville in that office for nine terms, making him the city’s longest serving mayor. It is not certain at this time what his future plans will be.

In his midterm address closing remarks, Curtatone stressed that being the mayor of Somerville has been an incredible experience, and singled out the efforts of city employees that have served in his administration along with constituents that have supported these efforts.

“I’m amazed at the work city employees put in day in, day out,” said Curtatone. “And the volunteerism and advocacy that residents contribute in service of Somerville. But I have been blown away by how our staff and how our community have stepped up even more during this pandemic.”

The mayor went on to say, “I want to thank every city employee and every community member who is contributing. You have risen to the occasion under difficult circumstances. You’ve worked extra hours, you’ve taken on new tasks, and you found creative solutions to the problems COVID-19 threw at us. The work you’ve done to serve the people of this city has been outstanding. The city staff, I must add, you’ve been a beacon of dependability in a sea of chaos. The very best example of what it means to be public servants. I am honored to work with you, my fellow elected officials, alongside the people of Somerville.”

Curtatone summed up by saying, “To everyone I say take care of each other. Remain vigilant about checking the spread of this disease. Give the vaccines time to do their job. Help mentor, help a neighbor or a friend who’s struggling, if you can. And stay focused on our future. We will not simply get through this, we will seize this moment. Somerville is still moving forward. I thank you.”

The mayor’s midterm address in full:
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