MMA to honor legislators during Connect 351

During its Connect 351 conference this week, the MMA will be recognizing four legislators for their dedicated work in providing critical resources to cities and towns and promoting policy changes to modernize municipal government operations.

At a Friday dinner reception on Jan. 23, the MMA will present Legislator of the Year Awards to Sen. Brendan Crighton and Rep. James Arciero.

As chairs of the Joint Committee on Transportation, Crighton and Arciero provided critical support in passing a historic Chapter 90 infusion in 2025 — a top MMA priority. This resulted in a 50% increase to base local road and bridge funding, to $300 million.

Crighton, of Lynn, represents the Third Essex District in the Senate. Arciero, of Westford, represents the 2nd Middlesex District in the House.

Also at the Friday dinner, the MMA will be presenting Municipal Advocate Awards to Sen. Jacob Oliveira and Rep. Danielle Gregoire.

Oliveira and Gregoire introduced MMA priority legislation to codify current remote and hybrid public meeting options. This work played a pivotal role to further extend these provisions through June of 2027. Further, these provisions are reflected as part of the governor’s proposed Municipal Empowerment Act, another MMA priority for this legislative session.

Oliveira, of Ludlow, represents the Hampden, Hampshire and Worcester District in the Senate. Gregoire, of Marlborough, represents the 4th Middlesex District in the House.

The Connect 351 Friday dinner will be held at the Omni Boston Hotel at the Seaport, beginning at 6:30 p.m. Connect 351 attendees may register for the Friday dinner when they register for the conference.

All conference details are available at Connect351.org. Email [email protected] with questions or for registration assistance.