WORCESTER—From the council chamber to Clark University classrooms, it was a busy week in Worcester. The city manager got a mighty fine review from council, a college announced sweeping changes, and city pools are opening just in time for the summer heat. Here’s your Friday roundup of stories you might’ve missed:
City Council praises Batista’s leadership in annual evaluation
Worcester’s City Manager Eric Batista earned high marks from councilors this week in his first formal evaluation, with praise for his work on housing, economic development, and crisis response.
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Clark University plans faculty cuts, academic overhaul
Clark announced major restructuring plans that include laying off tenured faculty, citing financial pressures and shifting student interests. The plan has sparked concern among staff and alumni.
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Worcester man indicted in 2021 killing of Franklin Mane
A grand jury has indicted Jose Pacheco in connection with the 2021 shooting death of 19-year-old Franklin Mane. He’s expected to be arraigned in Worcester Superior Court.
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Cooling centers, beaches open as heat rises
With temperatures soaring, Worcester has activated its network of cooling centers and spray parks to help residents stay safe and hydrated.
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Becker College stabbing case sees new indictment
More than 15 years after a fatal stabbing on the Becker campus, a second man has been indicted in the killing of student Michael Jagroo.
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Worcester beaches open June 27 for summer swim season
Local lifeguards are back on duty starting today. City beaches officially open for the season this weekend.
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City Hall shifts visitor parking to Main Street
New parking rules and a single point of entry went into effect this week at Worcester City Hall as part of tightened security measures.
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Indian Lake treatment planned for June 30
A plant-control herbicide will be applied to parts of Indian Lake on Monday. Residents and pets should stay out of the water until Tuesday.
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WRRB sets fall debate lineup ahead of 2025 Worcester election
The Worcester Regional Research Bureau will host a full slate of candidate debates this fall — covering everything from School Committee to the mayor’s race.
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Former Worcester man sentenced in federal gun and drug case
Juan Otero, 23, received a 6-year federal sentence after selling cocaine and multiple illegal firearms — including a modified machinegun — while out on state pretrial release.
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Worcester man indicted for murder in death of 4-year-old
Francisco Ortiz faces murder and child abuse charges stemming from the 2024 death of a 4-year-old and the abuse of two other children.
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Community Legal Aid seeks volunteer attorneys
The nonprofit is expanding pro bono opportunities to support low-income clients facing eviction, family law issues, and consumer debt.
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Have news, tips, or a story worth telling? Reach Editor Charlene Arsenault at carsenault@theworcesterguardian.org—because good stories (and great scoops) deserve to be shared.
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