Somerville Borough Council Reorganizes, Eyes $200K in Dispensary Funds for Youth

Borough Council · Meeting of January 1, 2026

Somerville Borough reorganized for 2026 and Mayor Brian Gallagher proposed directing roughly $200,000 in annual cannabis dispensary revenue toward four new community programs. Gallagher, who acknowledged opposing the dispensary two years ago, outlined a paid training stipend for volunteer firefighters and EMTs, a revived summer camp program staffed by teen counselors, a youth public works beautification program, and a voluntary tree-replacement initiative for homeowners. Roger Vroom III was unanimously elected council president for a second year.

Fire Chief Ken Boat was sworn in for his second term leading the department, and Deputy Fire Chief Albert Boden also took the oath of office, both administered by County Clerk Steve Peter. Gallagher said the future of the now-vacant police headquarters and East Main Street firehouse, potential sites for an EV charging hub or recreation center, will require collective council deliberation. Tammy Stuchko was named the 2025 Citizen of the Year for 22 years leading the Somerville Santa program alongside the fire department.

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Source: the Borough Council meeting of January 1, 2026, reported from the official video recording and transcript.