Official Notice: Flag Protocols and Presidents' Day Service Schedules

Official Flag Notification

Governor Maura Healey has ordered the United States and Commonwealth flags to be flown at half-staff on Sunday, February 15, 2026. This gubernatorial order is issued in honor of United States Army Staff Sergeant Robert Russell Arnold of Boston on the day of his interment. Flags at all public institutions of the Commonwealth, including Boston City Hall, local municipal buildings, and state military installations, will remain at half-staff from sunrise until sunset today.

Presidents' Day Holiday Observance

In observance of Presidents' Day on Monday, February 16, 2026, the City of Boston has announced significant modifications to municipal services and schedules. Residents are advised to take note of the following changes active through the holiday weekend:

• City Office Closures: Boston City Hall and all administrative municipal offices will be closed on Monday. While online services remain accessible, in-person business will resume on Tuesday, February 17.
• Trash and Recycling: There will be no curbside trash or recycling collection on Monday. Collection schedules in most neighborhoods will be delayed by one day for the remainder of the week. Residents are encouraged to verify their specific neighborhood schedule via the city's digital resources.
• Parking Regulations: Parking meters will be free across the city on Sunday, February 15, and Monday, February 16. No time limits will be enforced at meters during this period. However, all other parking rules, including restrictions for fire hydrants, handicapped zones, and street cleaning, will remain strictly enforced.
• Public Facilities: All Boston Public Library branches and Boston Centers for Youth & Families (BCYF) community centers will be closed on Monday.

Upcoming Public Hearings and Board Meetings

The City Clerk has officially posted several notices for public meetings scheduled for Wednesday, February 18, 2026. These meetings are open to the public, with many offering virtual attendance options:

• Boston Retirement Board: Convening at City Hall, Room 816, at 9:00 a.m.
• OPAT Internal Affairs Oversight Panel: A public session will be held at 2201 Washington Street starting at 10:00 a.m.
• Boston Cannabis Board: A virtual voting agenda session is scheduled for 1:00 p.m.
• Disability Commission Advisory Board: A remote hearing will begin at 5:30 p.m. to hear public testimony regarding accessibility.

Public Service Announcement: Winter Recreation

As part of the city’s winter wellness initiatives, the "Skating at Lunch" program is active today. Free ice skating is available at the Boston Common Frog Pond on Sunday, February 15, from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. This program includes complimentary admission and skate rentals for all city residents.