UPDATE: John Barros has been appointed as the interim executive director of the Massachusetts Convention Center Authority (MCCA), effective January 14, 2024. This unanimous decision, made by the MCCA board with a 13-0 vote, comes at a critical time as the agency faces scrutiny following the recent departure of CEO Marcel Vernon amidst corruption allegations.
Barros, who previously served as the chief of economic development under former Boston Mayor Marty Walsh, expressed his commitment to the role, stating, “I’m honored to step into this role at such a critical moment for the MCCA.” He emphasized the importance of the MCCA as a “world-class cultural and economic engine” that influences not just Boston, but the entire commonwealth.
This appointment arrives just a month after the MCCA parted ways with Vernon through a controversial $500,000 severance agreement. As investigations continue into alleged corruption and destruction of evidence, Barros will oversee key venues including the Thomas M. Menino Convention & Exhibition Center and the John B. Hynes Veterans Memorial Convention Center. His mandate will focus on enhancing economic impact through events and tourism.
Both Governor Maura Healey and Mayor Michelle Wu praised Barros’s appointment. Healey remarked, “As Massachusetts prepares for an extraordinary, nation-leading year ahead for events, tourism and economic development, the MCCA is going to play a pivotal role.” Wu added that Barros’s experience and dedication will lead the MCCA to “greater collaboration and success,” especially as Boston gears up for significant events like the 250th commemorations and the World Cup.
In other news, the Boston City Council is taking a two-week break following its inauguration and a chaotic vote to elect a new president. The council’s next meeting is scheduled for January 28, 2024, as members recover from a surprising election process that saw Liz Breadon emerge as the new president.
The council’s unexpected decision to pause meetings has raised eyebrows, particularly after Monday’s inaugural chaos. Sources indicate that many councilors were involved in late-night negotiations that led to Breadon’s nomination as a compromise candidate. In a last-minute twist, Breadon was approached by fellow councilors to consider the presidency just before the vote.
As the council takes this break, anticipation builds for how Breadon will shape her leadership, including naming a vice president and assigning committee chairs at the upcoming meeting.
The developments within both the MCCA and the Boston City Council reflect pivotal moments for Boston’s governance and economic future, highlighting the need for strong leadership amid ongoing challenges. Stay tuned for further updates as these stories unfold.
