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The News Site of Boston College

The Heights
The News Site of Boston College

The Heights
Proponents of the ordinance’s removal also argue that the lengthy process deters people from opening businesses in Newton. (Genevieve Morrison / Heights Editor)

Newton Officials Weigh Cutting Parking Requirements To Boost Business Growth

Thomas Kenneally • October 3, 2025
Local landlords and entrepreneurs urged Newton’s Zoning and Planning Committee on Monday to eliminate mandatory parking requirements, stating they stifle commercial growth.
The updated Climate Action Plan will serve as a crucial road map for the next five years of Newton’s environmental policies. (Natalie McDonnell / For The Heights)

Newton Unveils Draft Climate Action Plan at Newton Free Library

Natalie McDonnell • October 2, 2025
On Monday night, community members and elected officials gathered at the Newton Free Library to hear a panel of local environmental representatives discuss their current projects and next steps, including a presentation of the draft for Newton’s updated Climate Action Plan. 
The original ordinance was implemented in August of 2019 and, as per state requirements, requires a reevaluation every five years. (Genevieve Morrison / Heights Editor)

Newton’s Zoning and Planning Committee Addresses Amendments to Inclusionary Zoning Ordinance

Henry Eig and Patrick Lundregan • September 28, 2025
Newton's Zoning and Planning Committee (ZAP) met Thursday to discuss a reevaluation to the city’s Inclusionary Zoning Ordinance, deciding on changes to legislation regarding inclusionary rental and ownership projects in the context of housing trends and affordability. 
The film emphasizes how recovery doesn’t end with sobriety—instead, that’s where the hard work begins. (Genevieve Morrison / Heights Editor)

Newton Screening of Local Film ‘Recovery City’ Highlights Women’s Journeys Through Addiction and Recovery

Grace Duffy • September 28, 2025
At the Newton Free Library on Wednesday evening, filmmaker Lisa Olivieri screened her award-winning documentary, Recovery City, alongside a panel of local healthcare experts who discussed the importance of support for addiction recovery.
Dahmubed believes his education and professional experience have equipped him with a distinctive skill set. (Image Courtesy of Cyrus Dahmubed)

Cyrus Dahmubed Urges Affordability and Strategic Growth in Ward 4 City Council Candidacy

Samuel Lee-Papastavros, Sophie Chamberlain • September 28, 2025
Dahmubed believes his background in architecture, urban design, and policy gives him a unique understanding of design thinking and spatial dynamics—skills he argues are essential to solving Newton’s affordability crisis. 
Miara faces Ben Schlesinger in the race for the Ward 5 seat. (Image Courtesy of Jenna Miara)

Jenna Miara Hopes To Bring Legal Experience to Ward 5 Newton School Committee Seat

Sophia Gallon • September 28, 2025
Newton resident, Newton Public Schools (NPS) alumna, and mother Jenna Miara, running for the Ward 5 seat on the Newton School Committee, hopes for the opportunity to provide strong leadership for NPS.
The bakery specializes in Chinese desserts, everything from mochi to mooncakes. (Sophie Bai / For The Heights)

Crystal Bakery Is Newtonville’s Hidden Gem

Sophie Bai and Katherine Kline • September 28, 2025
Crystal Gao and Mark Chen began Crystal Bakery as an online business in a small studio, but the Chinese-style patisserie has blossomed into a recognizable spot for inventive pastries in Newtonville. 
A decision on whether to adopt an integrated or traditional model is expected to be made in February 2026. (Genevieve Morrison / Heights Editor)

Newton Schools Draft New Math Curriculum, but Some Claim It Falls Short

Jordan Mirabile and Kalia Philbert • September 25, 2025
At Newton School Committee (NSC)’s meeting on Wednesday, Newton educators and parents discussed the future of math instruction and a new long-term place for its older school buildings.
The market is not only inclusive of shoppers of different ages, but also those of differing financial circumstances. (Sophia Gallon / Heights Staff)

Newton Farmers Market Fosters Community, Fun, and Food at Newton North High School

Sophia Gallon • September 21, 2025
Every Saturday morning, Newton North High School opens its parking lot to the city, welcoming local farmers, bakers, and community members.
Chaimanis said he will bring a fresh perspective to the city council, combining his acumen for finance with his entrepreneurship and management experience. (Image Courtesy of John Chaimanis)

John Chaimanis Emphasizes Pragmatic, Community-Focused Leadership in Ward 4 City Council Run

Matthew Antonecchia • September 21, 2025

John Chaimanis, a Newton resident and father of three, is running for the Ward 4 at-large Newton City Council seat in hopes of bringing common-sense decision-making and civil discourse to city hall. “I...

The awards were chosen through a mix of public voting and judge selection. (Riley Del Sesto / Heights Editor)

Newton Honors Local Entrepreneurs at Small Business Awards

Riley Del Sesto • September 19, 2025
The Charles River Regional Chamber celebrated Newton’s small businesses Wednesday night at the first-ever Newton Small Business Awards, gathering local leaders, entrepreneurs, and residents at the West Newton Cinema.
Newton Teachers Association President Mike Zilles confirmed that the quote was true but missing context. (Genevieve Morrison / Heights Editor)

Out-of-Context Comment From NTA President Sparks Outcry Among Newton Parents

Genevieve Morrison • September 19, 2025
Contrarian Boston, a Substack blog, reported a secondhand quote by Newton Teachers Association (NTA) President Mike Zilles from his speech at the district’s convocation, saying that students should be “in the mix” but not put first. Zilles confirmed that the quote was true, but missing context.
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