At their Annual Conference in New Bedford on Thursday October 1, 2026, the Massachusetts Municipal Lawyers Association (MMLA) presented Representative Kristin E. Kassner (2nd Essex District) with their prestigious Legislator of the Year Award, in recognition of her contributions to municipal law and local government. Rep. Kassner, a longtime planning professional, has championed municipal issues in the State House, consulting with MMLA and other stakeholders to file legislation to codify Site Plan Review and require land use board training; these bills are now included in the omnibus Economic Development bill. Rep. Kassner also serves on the Joint Committee on Municipalities and Regional Government, and has filed budget amendments to increase Unrestricted General Government Aid (UGGA) to local communities.

Funding will improve essential infrastructure and strengthen connections to new housing and commercial districts; This year’s awards represent largest amount of statewide Community One Stop for Growth funding in program’s history

Governor Maura Healey announced $39,958,535 in 2027 Community One Stop for Growth grant funding through 46 awards for projects in 24 cities and towns across Northeast Massachusetts. The awards will support housing and economic development through investments in public infrastructure, site preparation and community planning.