Boston Mayor Marty Walsh takes oath for second term

BOSTON — Mayor Marty Walsh has taken the oath of office for a second term as Boston's chief executive.

Former Vice President Joe Biden presided over the inauguration Monday at the Cutler Majestic Theatre.

The Democratic mayor defeated City Councilor Tito Jackson in November.

Biden praised Walsh for his character and efforts to create a thriving middle class, calling him a "man of extraordinary character in a moment when we need more character and incredible courage."

In a video tweeted overnight, Walsh previewed a main topic of his speech Monday – a new effort to build 200 units of long-term housing for chronically homeless individuals.

Walsh is calling it Boston’s Way Home Fund.

It’s starting with $250,000 of private donor funds, with a goal of raising $10 million during his new term as mayor.

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“I am honored and humbled by the opportunity to lead our city for four more years,” Walsh said in the video. “And I continue to be inspired by the people of Boston, with big hearts and deep love of community.”

Walsh says he'll continue working to "make a better Boston for everyone."

First elected in 2013, Walsh replaced the late Tom Menino, the city's longest-serving mayor who didn't seek re-election.

His first four years in office have brought more economic development to portions of Boston including the seaport district. City and state officials lured General Electric to move its corporate headquarters from Fairfield, Connecticut, to Boston last year.

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