Medford, Massachusetts
Est. 2026 · Free to Read
Medford Mercury
The Smartest Way to Keep Up with Medford
Morning Edition
May 18, 2026
Vol. I · No. 35 Community· Politics· Environment· Events Past Issues
City Government

Medford Considers Generational Tobacco Ban

Following similar measures adopted in other Massachusetts communities, the city is evaluating a policy that would prevent future generations from purchasing tobacco products.

The city is evaluating a generational tobacco ban, following similar measures adopted in other Massachusetts communities. The policy would prevent future generations from purchasing tobacco products. The proposal represents an escalation in public health measures as communities seek innovative approaches to reducing tobacco use.

Why it matters: Generational tobacco bans represent a novel public health approach that could fundamentally reshape tobacco availability. As a first-mover community, Medford's decision could influence other Massachusetts cities and serve as a case study for the effectiveness of age-based restrictions on legal products.
⚠ Economic Impact

Anheuser-Busch Plans Major Workforce Reduction

Anheuser-Busch has notified the state of plans to lay off nearly 200 workers at its Medford facility. The layoffs represent a significant economic impact for the local area and will affect employees across multiple departments.

Today
State notification filed
Pending
Local response and support discussions

City Weighs Trash Collection Changes

City officials are considering reducing weekly trash pickup to once every two weeks as a cost-saving measure. The proposal has drawn significant resident opposition from across Medford neighborhoods.

The initiative aims to reduce municipal expenses but faces pushback from residents concerned about sanitation, odor, and pest management during warmer months.

Community Concerns

Residents have expressed worries about:

A public comment period is expected to follow formal proposal submission.

Today in Medford

9:30 AM
Library Board of Trustees Meeting

Regular meeting of the library board to discuss library operations and governance. Medford Public Library

6:00 PM
School Committee Meeting

Regular meeting of the Medford School Committee to address district business and educational initiatives. Medford Public Schools

Around Town

Recurring · Every Week
Live Music
Down By Riverside Blues Jam
Recurring — check schedule

The spiritual successor to the legendary Johnny D's blues jam, hosted at Arts Collaborative Medford.

162 Mystic Ave, Medford
Coffee & Café
Twisted Tree Cafe
Daily

Coffee, tea, toasts, bowls, and salads in West Medford. Gluten-free, vegan, and dairy-free options available.

421 High St, West Medford
Library
Medford Public Library Programs
Daily — 1,000+ events/year

Book clubs, cooking classes, live music, dance workshops, STEM for kids, and more. The city's most active community hub.

111 High St, Medford
Outdoors
Clippership Connector Path
Open daily

Paved riverside path connecting Medford to the Mystic River Greenway. Popular for running, walking, and cycling.

Riverside Ave, Medford