Office of Housing Stability retiree Fred Berman received a citation of recognition by the Somerville City Council.

By The Times Staff

The Somerville City Council and Mayor Katjana Ballantyne commended Fred Berman on his career with a citation on the eve of his retirement from the Office of Housing Stability.

Fred Berman dedicated more than 20 years to public service, including six years as Co-Deputy Director of Housing Stability.

“Fred’s advocacy has been instrumental in increasing affordable housing and preventing displacement all across Somerville,” said City Council President Judy Pineda Neufeld as she read from the citation at the February 27 City Council meeting.

Since opening OHS in 2018, they have responded to almost 8,000 requests for assistance.

“OHS simply would not have been able to meet the overwhelming demand for services and be where we are today with a staff of 13 without Fred,” said Ellen Shachter, director of the Office of Housing Stability.

Shachter explained that Berman has helped hundreds of Somerville residents facing eviction or families at risk of housing loss.

“We have some very challenging clients and some very challenging cases and Fred will never give up on anyone,” Shachter said. “I know that Fred will never leave the battle for housing as a right for all, or for the fight for justice for marginalized communities. It is simply in his DNA.”

Berman thanked former Somerville Mayor Joseph Curtatone and current Somerville Mayor Katjana Ballantyne for embracing initiatives to help residents in need.

“It’s been a privilege to be part of a community that more often than not welcomes advocacy for affordable housing, for responsible development, and for programs, policies and resources that help neighbors in times of need,” said Berman.

Ward 3 City Councilor Ben Ewen-Campen said that Berman is a “personal hero” of his. “You are a north star for myself, and I think for everyone in Somerville who cares about affordable housing.”