City Councilor Michael Canuel

City Councilor Michael Canuel Fall River City Councilor committed to results, accountability, and serving our community.

📊 A number in our FY2027 budget that deserves more scrutiny.Last night during the budget hearing, I raised concerns abou...
06/04/2026

📊 A number in our FY2027 budget that deserves more scrutiny.

Last night during the budget hearing, I raised concerns about Fall River's assessment for SRTA (Southeastern Regional Transit Authority) — and unfortunately, I didn't get the clarity I was hoping for.

Here's what the data shows:

Fall River's SRTA assessment is jumping from $1,698,180 in FY2026 to $2,322,260 in FY2027 — a $624,080 increase, or 36.7% in a single year. For context, we've seen steady 2–3% annual increases for years. This spike is on par with the FY2018 jump that followed a major restructuring.

What's even more striking: of the $2.37 million in additional regional transit funding being assessed statewide in FY2027, Fall River is absorbing 26.3% of it — more than a quarter of the entire statewide increase according to preliminary cherry sheet estimates.

I asked the administration about this two weeks ago. I asked again last night. We still don't have a satisfying explanation for why Fall River is being hit this hard relative to other communities.

To be clear — this is not a line item the City Council can unilaterally cut. Our SRTA assessment is set at the regional level. But that doesn't mean we shouldn't pressure test it. We should be asking hard questions: How is this number calculated? What's driving the spike? Is Fall River's share of the formula correct? Can it be reduced?

Residents deserve answers, and I'll keep pushing.

Today, we honor the American heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom.May we never forget the courage, ser...
05/25/2026

Today, we honor the American heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom.

May we never forget the courage, service, and patriotism of the brave men and women who gave everything for this nation.

God bless our fallen heroes, and God bless America. 🇺🇸

This morning, my boys and I joined others at Oak Grove Cemetery to place flags on the graves of veterans ahead of Memori...
05/16/2026

This morning, my boys and I joined others at Oak Grove Cemetery to place flags on the graves of veterans ahead of Memorial Day. 🇺🇸

It was a meaningful opportunity not only to honor the men and women who served our country and made the ultimate sacrifice, but also to teach the next generation the importance of remembrance, gratitude, and respect for those who defended our freedoms.

I believe it is important that our children understand the sacrifices made by those who came before us and that traditions like this continue to be passed down for generations to come.

Thank you to all of the volunteers who took part in helping ensure these heroes are never forgotten.

I had the opportunity to attend several meaningful events across our community over the last 24 hours and wanted to shar...
05/16/2026

I had the opportunity to attend several meaningful events across our community over the last 24 hours and wanted to share.

Thursday evening, I attended the 2026 Outstanding Vocational Student Awards Banquet for Diman Regional Vocational Technical High School, recognizing 19 outstanding students representing trades from across the school. Their hard work, dedication, and talent are a reminder of the bright future ahead for our city and region.

Today, I attended the Civil War Monument Ceremony at Oak Grove Cemetery, honoring those who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country.

I then joined the Peace Officer Memorial Ceremony to recognize and remember the law enforcement officers who gave their lives in the line of duty, and to thank those who continue to serve and protect our communities every day.

From there, I attended the Haitian Flag Raising Ceremony at Fall River Government Center, celebrating Haitian heritage, culture, and the many contributions of the Haitian community here in Fall River.

Thank you to everyone involved in organizing these important events and for all those working every day to strengthen our community.

Glad to attend this morning’s grand opening of the new Behavioral Health Network Abilities Learning Center here in Fall ...
05/08/2026

Glad to attend this morning’s grand opening of the new Behavioral Health Network Abilities Learning Center here in Fall River. Expanding access to behavioral and learning support services for children and families is an important investment in our community, and we’re proud to welcome them to the city.

Last night, the City Council unanimously passed a resolution I was proud to sponsor focused on improving cleanliness and...
04/30/2026

Last night, the City Council unanimously passed a resolution I was proud to sponsor focused on improving cleanliness and maintenance across Fall River.

This effort was driven by residents—especially the many who spoke up and signed an online petition highlighting concerns about litter, illegal dumping, and the condition of our streets, parks, and neighborhoods.

Everyone wants the same thing: a city we can be proud of. Cleaner streets, better-maintained public spaces, and neighborhoods where families feel good spending time.

This resolution is a step in that direction.

As we head into the upcoming budget, it asks for a clear picture of the resources currently dedicated to cleanliness, maintenance, and enforcement—so we can better understand where we stand and where improvements can be made.

It also ensures ongoing updates to the Committee I currently chair so this stays a priority moving forward.

I appreciate everyone who took the time to speak up on this issue—your voices are making a difference.

Recently, I was honored to present my first official citation as a City Councilor recognizing Greg’s Saturday Kitchen an...
04/18/2026

Recently, I was honored to present my first official citation as a City Councilor recognizing Greg’s Saturday Kitchen and their 40 years of service to Fall River.

This incredible effort began as a young man’s Eagle Scout project—Greg Primo’s vision to make sure that anyone in need could count on a warm meal and a welcoming place.

Carried forward by Joe and Liz Primo in memory of their son, Greg’s Saturday Kitchen has become a cornerstone of Fall River and a powerful example of what consistent service can mean to a city.

This morning I had the opportunity to attend the Massachusetts Municipal Councillors' Association Regional Breakfast Mee...
04/10/2026

This morning I had the opportunity to attend the Massachusetts Municipal Councillors' Association Regional Breakfast Meeting at Arsenal Yards in Watertown.

As a new councilor, I’m making it a priority to listen, learn, and see what other communities are doing well. The panel discussion on how fiscal policies shape our communities offered valuable perspective on the challenges cities and towns are facing, and the importance of thoughtful, responsible decision-making.

Just as important was the chance to connect with fellow local leaders, share ideas, and bring back what works. Strong communities don’t happen by accident—they’re built through collaboration, innovation, and a willingness to keep learning.

Looking forward to putting some of these insights into action back home.

04/07/2026

I’m looking forward to my first Neighborhood Office Hours tonight as part of the Maplewood Neighborhood Association meeting at Letourneau School at 6:30 PM, where I’ll be joining as a guest speaker.

As I shared during the campaign, staying connected to residents and showing up in our neighborhoods isn’t something I want to do occasionally — it’s how I plan to serve.

I’m grateful to the Maplewood Neighborhood Association for the invitation and for the work they do to keep neighbors engaged and connected.

I’m looking forward to listening, learning, and hearing directly from residents tonight.

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Fall River, MA

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