~ According to recent data, the cost of living in Boston has risen by 2.5 percent in 2024 compared to the previous year. This increase has been primarily driven by higher costs in transportation, food, and housing.

This information comes as a result of Massachusetts Chapter 188 of the Acts of 2010, which grants retirement boards the authority to adjust their members' Cost-of-Living-Adjustment (COLA) base at their discretion. However, despite efforts from retirees and members of the Council for over two years, the Boston Retirement Board did not vote in favor of increasing the COLA base earlier this month.

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The decision has sparked concern among retirees who rely on fixed incomes. In response, Councilors Weber, Santana, and Flynn introduced a resolution highlighting the dedication and contributions of these retirees as municipal employees. The resolution urges for a COLA base increase from $15,000 to $18,000 for City of Boston retirees.

In support of this cause, the Council has adopted the resolution and will continue to advocate for retirees to receive both a three percent annual COLA increase and a base increase. The hope is that these measures will provide retirees with a more comfortable standard of living after their years of service to the city.

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