Official Public Notice: Citywide Cold Emergency and Upcoming Tax Deadlines

Emergency Cold Weather Declaration Active Through Tonight

Mayor Michelle Wu has declared a citywide Cold Emergency effective through Saturday, January 31, 2026. With wind chills forecasted to reach as low as -11°F, residents are urged to take immediate precautions to prevent frostbite and hypothermia. The City’s cold advisory threshold is triggered when wind chills are observed at or below 0°F, and this elevation to an emergency status reflects the extreme risk posed by current conditions.

• Warming Centers: Boston Centers for Youth & Families (BCYF) locations are active as warming centers during their regular Saturday hours. The Central Library in Copley Square and various Boston Public Library branches are also available for residents seeking relief from the frigid temperatures.
• Safety Checks: Residents are encouraged to check on elderly neighbors, individuals with disabilities, and those who may be vulnerable to extreme temperatures. Dress in several layers of loose-fitting, lightweight, warm clothing and ensure infants are not exposed to temperatures below 40 degrees.
• Emergency Assistance: If you encounter an individual experiencing homelessness outdoors, please call 911 for immediate assistance and transport to available shelters.

Property Tax Deadline: Third Quarter Payments

The City of Boston Assessing Department reminds residents that Fiscal Year 2026 third-quarter (Q3) property tax bills are due on Sunday, February 1, 2026. As the annual assessment certification process was finalized in December, residents may notice a concentration of the tax rate increase in this quarterly bill. To ensure timely payment, the City encourages the use of online payment portals. For those with questions regarding their actual tax bill or eligibility for residential exemptions, the Taxpayer Referral and Assistance Center (TRAC) is available for consultation.

Post-Storm Sidewalk Maintenance and Cleanup

Following the recent major winter storm that deposited approximately 23 inches of snow across the city, the Public Works Department continues its cleanup operations. While primary and secondary roads have been cleared for traffic, the City reminds property owners of their legal obligation to maintain safe pedestrian paths.

• Sidewalk Clearing: Property owners must clear snow and ice from sidewalks adjacent to their property to ensure safety for pedestrians and those with limited mobility. Given the current sub-zero temperatures, it is critical to clear any remaining slush before it freezes into solid ice.
• Space Savers: Residents are reminded that all space savers must be removed from city streets 48 hours after a snow emergency ends. As the previous emergency was lifted on Monday, all savers should now be cleared to allow for final snow removal and street widening.

City Council and Public Participation

The Boston City Council has officially begun its 2026-2027 term. Council President Liz Braden has announced the chairs and voting members for the standing committees. Public notices have been posted for several upcoming hearings at City Hall and via virtual platforms. Residents are invited to offer testimony on citywide planning and municipal rules at sessions scheduled for the first week of February.