Week in Review: Polystyrene Ban

Somerville Bans Polystyrene Takeout Containers
The Somerville Board of Aldermen Thursday night voted to ban the use of polystyrene—often known as styrofoam—takeout food containers. The ban will take effect in one year, according to the ordinance passed Thursday.

Bill to Honor Sean Collier Coming Closer to Reality
Sean Collier's dream was to be a member of the Somerville Police Department. Though his life was taken from him just months from achieving that dream, Collier may still get his wish. According to a report on MyFoxBoston.com, a bill has moved quickly through Massachusetts legislature that would posthumously honor the slain Massachusetts Institute of Technology officer by appointing him as a member of the Somerville Police Department.

If the Green Line Extension doesn't receive federal funding, other transportation projects in the state might take "a back seat" in order to fund the light rail project through Somerville, according to boston.com. The news website said Richard Davey, the Massachusetts secretary of transportation, is committed to funding the entire Green Line Extension project. The state is seeking $557 million in funding from the Federal Transit Administration's New Starts program to pay for the Green Line Extension.

Lauded Boston Food Truck to Open Restaurant in Magoun Square
Pennypacker's, a small food truck company known for its porchetta sandwich, is planning to open its first brick-and-mortar location in Somerville's Magoun Square.

Somerville's Posts Financial Report Online
Somerville recently posted the first ever Comprehensive Annual Financial Report online. The report, dealing with fiscal year 2012, takes a look at the city's finances, and interested residents can dig into information about they city's debt, revenues and expenditures.

10 Historic Homes Honored Thursday
The Somerville Historic Preservation Commission honored 10 homes Thursday night at the 2013 Somerville Preservation Awards ceremony.