Josh Kraft Opposes Wu's Plan for Mass and Cass, Backs Emergency Declaration

Boston Mayoral Candidates Clash Over Mass and Cass Crisis

Boston’s mayoral race has intensified as candidates take opposing stances on the growing crisis at the Mass and Cass open-air drug market. Josh Kraft, a leading contender in the race, has thrown his support behind a city councilor’s push for an emergency declaration, while also criticizing Mayor Michelle Wu’s handling of the situation.

Kraft publicly endorsed Councilor Ed Flynn, a vocal critic of Wu’s administration, who has been advocating for the city to declare a public health and safety emergency at the intersection of Massachusetts Avenue and Melnea Cass Boulevard. This area, often referred to as "Methadone Mile," has become a focal point of drug use, dealing, and violence that is spilling over into surrounding neighborhoods, particularly the South End.

Kraft argues that Wu’s approach has been too passive, failing to address the escalating crisis effectively. He claims that the current strategy lacks a long-term plan and has not adequately dealt with the consequences of previous actions, such as the clearing of the Atkinson Street tent encampment in late 2023. According to Kraft, this move led to increased problems in nearby areas, worsening conditions for residents.

In contrast, Kraft has proposed a “recovery-first” plan that includes several key initiatives. These include establishing a new police command for the Mass and Cass area, reinstating a community syringe program, and creating a “Recover Boston” addiction recovery campus. He also pledged to ensure sufficient shelter beds for the homeless, including replacing state-run beds lost at Shattuck Hospital.

While Kraft supports maintaining access to Narcan and syringes, he plans to eliminate drug consumption sites. His campaign emphasizes the need for stronger enforcement, recovery programs, and better coordination between city agencies. “This is about leadership, not excuses,” Kraft said. “Boston cannot wait another four years for the crisis at Mass and Cass to solve itself.”

The Wu campaign responded by dismissing Kraft’s criticisms as “recycled ideas” and highlighting the progress made under Wu’s leadership. They pointed to efforts to end permanent encampments, provide housing and treatment for the homeless, and reduce fatal overdoses. The mayor’s office stated that the city is already using all available resources to address the issue, working closely with community organizations and state partners.

Wu’s spokesperson, Emma Pettit, emphasized that declaring a local public health emergency would not unlock additional authority or resources. Instead, she called for continued coordinated and compassionate efforts to tackle the root causes of the crisis.

Councilor Ed Flynn, however, remains unconvinced. He cited recent incidents, including a 4-year-old boy who stepped on a needle in South Boston and a homeless woman who squatted in a family’s home. Flynn argued that the situation has deteriorated over the past decade, with open-air drug markets, public drug use, and violence becoming rampant.

Despite Flynn’s resolution calling for an emergency declaration, it was blocked by Councilor Sharon Durkan, a close ally of Mayor Wu. This decision has left the issue unresolved, with both sides continuing to push their respective agendas.

As the mayoral race heats up, the debate over how to address the Mass and Cass crisis reflects broader concerns about public safety, homelessness, and the effectiveness of current policies. With the election approaching, voters will be watching closely to see which candidate offers the most viable solutions to these pressing challenges.