Page 2 On the Campaign Trail THE REVERE ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, MAY 9, 2025 “This program, funded by PROGRAMS | FROM Page 1 READY TO GO: Ward 5 Councillor Angela Guarino-Sawaya is shown outside the Election Commissioners offi ce at city hall Wednesday after turning in her nomination papers with 143 certifi ed signatures. Although only 50 signatures were required for her re-election bid, she says she’s ready to gear up for her campaign in this election year. “Let’s get ready to vote this September (if there’s a primary) and again in November for the election. I’m committed to continuing to work and making you proud every step of the way!” said GuarinoSawaya. (Courtesy photo) the generosity of Revere residents looking to extend a helping hand to those in need, is aimed at helping senior citizens and fi nancially vulnerable individuals,” said Mayor Keefe. “This program will provide some welcome relief for those who meet the criteria.” The “Elderly & Disabled Tax Relief Program” has been in existence for several years. In order to qualify for the program, the taxpayer must be an owner-occupied resident of Revere and meet the following additional requirements to be eligible: 65 years of age or disabled as of July 1 of the Fiscal Year; be current with all real estate taxes, have income of no more than $30,000 per year if POWER UP | FROM Page 1 The City of Revere’s Planning and Community Development Department arranged a presentation on Revere Power Choice for the City Council at their last meeting. Melana Paton, a consultant helping the city set up Revere Power Choice, explained the basics of electricity service to the council and viewers. Paton explained that National Grid customers pay for two services each month. They pay for the single or combined $50,000 per year for joint property owners. As part of the application, taxpayers should submit a statement of the extenuating circumstances which have created a hardship. The funds will be awarded to the neediest of applicants as determined by the Elderly and Disabled Tax Relief Program Committee, which is composed of the Chairman of the Board of Assessors, Treasurer and three citizens as required by M.G.L. C. 60, §3D. The applications must be returned to the Treasurer’s Offi ce on or before May 30, 2025. “While the benefi ts of this program are modest, they will provide some measure of relief to those who fi nd themselves in diffi cult circumstances,” added Mayor Keefe. “We electricity National Grid supplies and for it being delivered over National Grid wires and poles. However, other companies, called electricity suppliers, also supply power and give consumers choices. Revere has opted to buy electricity from Direct Energy, who will put electricity on the grid for the city. Although there is no guarantee, the group purchasing power for the city could lead to lower prices — giving households stable bills. The encourage residents to let elderly or disabled relatives and neighbors know about this program if they think they might meet the guidelines.” Direct Energy rate will hold steady for 30 months, or until December 2027. In contrast, National Grid sets their prices every six months. At the start of the Ukrainian war, National Grid prices spiked by 14 percent. Paton said consumers will still have a relationship with National Grid, which will send out monthly bills. The diff erence will be bills will show electricity is provided by Direct Energy at their rate. Households with a National Grid account will automatically be enrolled in Revere Power Choice, and that has been a sticking point for some residents. “I have to state the auto enrollment is a huge problem for a lot of people,” said Ward 3 Councillor Anthony Cogliandro. “They feel they are being forced to do this.” But Paton repeated several times that people can opt out of the program at any time with no fee or penalty. “Residents don’t like the fact they have to opt out,” said Cogliandro. Ward 1 Councillor Joanne McKenna said she had received a zillion calls from residents asking if Revere Power Choice is a scam. “I felt I didn’t have enough information to give my constituents. I just want to educate people and let them know what’s going on,” said McKenna. To learn more about the program, go to reverepowerchoice.com. Patrick M. Keefe Jr. Mayor
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