Mayor Wu Extends Cold Emergency as Boston Boards Convene on Local Licensing and Public Safety

Cold Weather Emergency in Effect

Mayor Michelle Wu has extended the citywide cold weather emergency through today, Monday, February 9, 2026. The declaration comes as extreme temperatures continue to impact the region, prompting the city to activate its emergency response protocols. Public health officials are urging residents to take precautions, and the city’s network of shelters and warming centers remains open to provide relief for vulnerable populations. Mayor Wu emphasized that the city is prioritizing outreach to individuals experiencing homelessness to ensure everyone has access to a safe, heated environment during the frigid conditions.

Community and Government Meetings Scheduled for Today

Despite the extreme cold, several official city sessions and community meetings are moving forward virtually today to address local governance and neighborhood concerns:

• Boston Collegiate Charter School Joint Board Meeting: Scheduled for 2:00 p.m., the Joint Board of Trustees and Foundation Board will meet virtually. The session is expected to cover administrative updates and long-term planning for the institution, with opportunities for public testimony as outlined in recent city notices.
• East Boston Abutters Meeting: At 6:00 p.m., the city will host a virtual community meeting regarding a proposal at 357 Meridian Street. The applicant, doing business as Meridian Corner Mart, is seeking a beer and wine license. This meeting is a critical step in the licensing process, allowing neighborhood residents to voice support or concerns regarding the new permit.
• Civil Service Commission Hearings: The state’s Civil Service Commission begins a new week of adjudicatory hearings today at its Boston offices on Cambridge Street. These sessions handle employment appeals and personnel matters involving municipal and state employees.

City Council Focuses on Budget and Public Safety

While the full City Council does not meet until Wednesday, committee activities today are setting the stage for a high-stakes legislative week. Councilors are currently reviewing a major four-year, $90 million contract for Boston firefighters. Discussions are also expected to focus on recently proposed hearing orders regarding snow removal relief. District councilors have raised concerns about the efficiency of current snow management following recent winter storms, with proposals for a "Snow Corps" and the potential acquisition of industrial snow melters similar to those used in New York City. Additionally, the Council is expected to continue its debate over the 2026-2027 internal rules, which have seen pushback regarding restrictions on floor debate.

Executive Order on Federal Operations

The Mayor’s office also continues to provide guidance on the recently signed "Executive Order to Protect Bostonians From Unconstitutional and Violent Federal Operations." The order, which remains a central political topic this week, prioritizes de-escalation by the Boston Police Department and clarifies that city resources will not be used to assist in certain federal immigration enforcement activities that the administration deems overreach. This action follows collaborations with mayors from neighboring municipalities including Cambridge and Somerville.