Jamaica Plain's City Councilor, Matt O'Malley, to Hold 'Running' Office Hours

Jamaica Plain's City Councilor Matt O’Malley is teaming up with the to hold running office hours - literally.

An avid runner who counts six finished marathons to his credit, will combine constituent services and physical fitness inviting Jamaica Plain and West Roxbury residents to join him for "Office Hours on the Run" beginning in September.

“Since my election I have been holding district office hours regularly in coffee shops and restaurants in Jamaica Plain and West Roxbury,” said O’Malley. “I thought it was time to get outside and work off some of those pastries and bagels while talking about residents’ concerns. It’s a great opportunity to get some exercise while taking a closer look at what’s going on around the communities of District 6.”

Runners of all abilities are invited to meet on Sat., Sept. 15 from 8 and 9 a.m., at the ’s Quinn Way entrance. O’Malley, who has teamed up with the Parkway Running Club for the event, encouraged everyone to attend.

A similar event will be held in Jamaica Plain in October, with details to come.

Through the years O'Malley has said that he's not the fastest runner, even joking that he'll be in the back with the street cleaners.

“We can run or take a brisk walk. The idea is to get people outside and on the move while addressing some of the important issues facing our neighborhoods.  Most importantly, everyone is welcome.”

O’Malley said constituents who attend will choose the route, adding he hopes they will point out problems and issues along the way. “Show me the potholes, the sidewalks that need repair, and the traffic trouble spots,” he said.  “Let’s talk about how to get these problems addressed.”

"The Parkway Running Club is pleased to join with our City Councilor Matt O'Malley in promoting health and fitness in our community through Matt's Office Hours on the Run,” said Jim Sweeney, president of the Parkway Running Club.  “We welcome runners of all abilities and ages to come to Matt's Office Hours and then run with the Club and discover the community spirit, fun and health benefits of running with the Parkway Running Club."

There was no official word on whether O'Malley's staff will run, too. 

O’Malley's "Office Hours on the Run" in Jamaica Plain will be in October. And if you're not down for running and would like the regular office hours, O'Malley will still be holding those in both neighborhoods.

Regular office hours in Jamaica Plain and West Roxbury in September will be on: 

• Friday, September 7 at , 284 Amory Street in Jamaica Plain.  Jamaica Plain liaison Ture Turnbull will attend. 

• Friday, September 21 at , 1810 Centre Street in West Roxbury.  West Roxbury liaison Bill MacGregor will attend.

Also, if you'd like to get in touch with O’Malley at his City Hall office, it is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m.  Please call 617-635-4220 to reach the office.