Category: Chicopee

Posted on

December 20th, 2020 – Weekly Update

Hello Everyone,  

I hope you all are doing well and staying safe. We had quite a bit of snow this week, and I want to thank all the first responders and public works employees who were on call in our district.  

I was lucky enough to begin this past week listening to my good friend Senator Mike Rush sing “The Army Goes Rolling Along” over Zoom. Some of you might remember that me and the Senator, who is also a Lt. Commander in the US Navy Reserves, had a friendly bet on the Army-Navy football game last weekend. Luckily, the outcome was in my favor. In addition to the fun singing, the Senator made a donation to the Holyoke Soldiers Home and I made a donation to the Fisher House of Boston in his district, both great organizations serving our Vets. You can see the recording of the Senator’s performance on my social media, @SenJohnVelis. 

On Monday I met with Representative-Elect Pat Duffy via video-chat, who will be the new State Representative for Holyoke starting in January. I also had the honor of speaking with Ambassador Alexandra Papadopoulou, the Greek Ambassador to the United States. We discussed my recent re-election and other Greek legislators throughout the country.  

This past Tuesday, I remotely recorded an interview with Comcast Newsmakers. I went over the recent FY21 budget that the legislature passed and answered questions on my amendments securing funding for the Holyoke Soldiers Home. The interview will be released in the New Year and will be available on YouTube and Comcast on-demand. Later in the day, I had a phenomenal virtual meeting with the Holyoke Rotary Club where we discussed how COVID-19 has affected state finances and in turn how that has impacted municipalities.  

During these difficult times it has been incredible to see the ways our community has stepped up to help those struggling, especially those facing food insecurity issues. On Wednesday night, I joined Holyoke community members for the 5th annual Holyoke Community Dinner Celebration, where we handed out meals and chatted with residents driving through. Friday afternoon I joined the Russell Police Department for their food drive and handed out Christmas Dinner boxes to community members. I’m so grateful for the organizations, sponsors, and volunteers who organized these events! 

This week I am also happy to report that Westfield and Chicopee were both selected by MassDOT as grant winners for the Shared Streets and Spaces Program, which provides funds to municipalities to improve public spaces and increase safe mobility. Westfield will be receiving a little more than $225,000 to upgrade and expand existing sidewalks in the City and to improve facilities at adjacent PVTA bus stops. Chicopee will be receiving just above $75,000 to develop a network of mixed-use lanes for pedestrians and cyclists in Chicopee Center.  

As always if there is anything I can do to assist you, please never hesitate to reach out to my office. I can be reached at my email: john.velis@masenate.gov or by phone: (413) 572-3920 and you can find me online at senatorjohnvelis.com. 

Sincerely,  

John C. Velis 

Senator Velis with the Russell Police Department on Friday, 12/18 for the Christmas Food Drive
Senator Velis with the Holyoke Rotary Club on Tuesday, 12/15
Posted on

December 6th, 2020 Weekly Update

Hello Everyone,  

I hope you all had a great week and are staying safe and healthy during these difficult times.  

It is clear from this week’s data reports that the rate of COVID-19 cases in our communities is rising. Currently Southwick, Chicopee, and Holyoke are designated as red communities, while Westfield, Agawam, and Easthampton are designated as yellow communities. It is imperative that we continue to stay vigilant as we move into these winter months. While news surrounding a vaccine is extremely promising, we are not there yet, and we need to be mindful of the interactions we are having with others. 

This past Friday, the Senate and House came to agreement on a final FY2021 budget after differences between the two chambers were worked out in conference committee. I was proud to vote for this final legislation, which provides critical support and investments to our community while remaining fiscally responsible. I am also glad that my amendments providing funding for the Holyoke Soldiers Home, the Holyoke and Westfield Boys & Girls Clubs, Baystate Health and the Agawam Police Department survived the conference process and are included in the final bill. Now the budget will go before the Governor for his consideration.  

Tuesday morning I attended the ribbon cutting ceremony of Compass Recovery in Agawam, where I was honored to present them with a Senate citation in recognition of their opening. The treatment center will provide partial hospitalization and intensive outpatient services for those struggling with substance abuse disorders. 

On Wednesday I attended the services for Staff Sergeant Mark Johnson, a 2015 graduate of Agawam High School who recently passed away while stationed in Fort Hood, Texas. Sgt. Johnson served as a Squad Leader in support of Operation Atlantic Resolve in Romania and was a recipient of numerous military honors. His service inspires us all, and his passing is a tragic loss for our entire community.  

Thursday morning I was in Agawam for the grand opening of Vanguard Renewables’ new Organics Recycling Facility. The recycling facility’s innovative process converts expired and unsafe food waste into renewable energy. Vanguard Renewables is the largest organics recycler in the Northeast and will process nearly 500,000 tons of organic waste into renewables energy in 2021. It was truly incredible to tour the facility and learn more about how this process works firsthand.  

As always, if there is anything I can do to assist you, please never hesitate to reach out to my office. I can be reached at my email: john.velis@masenate.gov or by phone: (413) 572-3920 and you can find me online at senatorjohnvelis.com. 

Sincerely,  

John C. Velis 

Posted on

After victory, Velis prepares for first full term in state Senate

November 11, 2020 – The Reminder – Dennis Hackett, Reminder Publishing File Photo

WESTERN MASS. – After securing the Second Hampden and Hampshire District state Senate seat during the Nov. 3 election, state Sen. John Velis discussed his goals and challenges ahead of his first full term in office.

Before getting into anything, Velis said one of his top priorities was helping the area recover from the COVID-19 pandemic.

“First and foremost has to be COVID-19 recovery; it’s going to be an immediate and all-consuming issue in terms of how we recover. Small business, the hardships people are facing in the Second Hampden and Hampshire District, it’s absolutely critical to advocate for them,” he said.

While the Senate and House are facing difficult budget seasons, Velis said he is going to make sure his constituents have a seat at the table.

“We’re entering a difficult budget season with the House releasing theirs next week and then the state Senate releasing theirs the following week. Every lawmaker is going to be asked to do more with less. I need to zealously advocate for the constituents that elected me to ensure we have a seat at the table,” he said.

One of the ways Velis said he wants to stand out in legislature is by providing a bipartisan voice in the state Senate.

“One thing that is a priority of mine is continuing to be that voice in Massachusetts politics that doesn’t look at things just through the lens of the political party that happens to be next to my name. I think that’s critical to our nation, the healing and the working together,” he said.

Read More

Posted on

October 25th, 2020 – Weekly Update

Hi all, 

I hope this week was good to everyone! It was certainly a busy week for me. I want to remind everyone that in addition to in-person voting on November 3rd, there is early in-person voting at a secure location in your City or Town until October 30th. You can go to MassEarlyVote.com for more information or give my office a call-we’d be happy to help. Make sure you have a plan to vote!  

Based on this Thursday’s COVD-19 Community-Level Data report, there has been an increase in cases recently in our district. Westfield, Holyoke, and Chicopee are currently in the “red” (higher risk) category, while Southwick, Agawam and Easthampton are currently in the “yellow” (moderate risk) category. We need to continue to wear masks and socially distance  in order to stop this spread and keep our families safe. Free State testing is still available in Holyoke at Holyoke Community College and the Holyoke Veterans Benefits Department. Please contact my office with any questions about testing and resources.  

 This week, we held our first public hearings for the Legislature’s Soldiers’ Home Oversight Committee where we heard directly from family members who lost loved ones. Tuesday’s hearing was held at Holyoke Community College, and Thursday’s hearing was held virtually. The stories that were shared were heartbreaking, and I can tell you that each of us on the Committee were deeply affected. Hearing these experiences was essential to fully understand what changes must be made at the Home. I’m so grateful to those who testified and those who have spoken to me personally. Their strength is inspiring, and we will continue to work closely with family members as we move through this process. Next week, the Committee will be holding two public hearings for staff connected to the Soldiers’ Home to share their perspective, with an in-person hearing on Tuesday at Holyoke Community College and a virtual hearing on Thursday.  

This past Thursday the Senate convened in an informal session and unanimously adopted a resolution to support bringing F-35A Fighter Jets to the 104th Fighter Wing at Barnes Air National Guard Base. The resolution, which is directed towards U.S. Air Force Secretary Barbara Barrett and Major General Gary Keefe noted the importance of bringing these F-35As to Westfield. Last month, I sent my own letter to Secretary Barrett advocating for the 104th Fighter Wing to be selected for the F-35As—I’m ecstatic to have the support of the entire State Senate on this as well. The impact this airframe conversion would have, not just on the Fighter Wing but on the entire Westfield community, cannot be understated. I will continue advocating however I can. 

I also had a number of great meetings with constituents and local organizations this week. Early Monday, I met with the Greater Holyoke Chamber of Commerce to discuss various topics such as the Soldiers’ Home and East-West Rail possibilities. On Wednesday, I spent the day at the Statehouse for some meetings, including a virtual meeting with the Holyoke Taxpayers Association. I appreciate them taking the time out of their evening to discuss how taxpayers have been impacted by the pandemic. On Monday, I had an informative legislative briefing with Holyoke Community College officials, where we discussed some of the College’s priorities and budgetary needs. We need to support our schools at all levels, and I am strongly advocating for at least level funding for our public education systems throughout the budget process. After the briefing, I went over to Mount Tom Quarry to learn more about ongoing projects at the Department of Conservation and Recreation. 

Friday brought with it a Committee Hearing for the Mental Health, Substance Use & Recovery Committee, where we held a listening session on trends in behavioral healthcare during the pandemic. We must remember to always check in with those around us, even if they might seem okay, and my office is always available to share resources and connect people with the help they need.  

I know some of you reached out to my office this week about the South Maple Street Bridge in Westfield and where it stands. After some conversations with MassDOT officials this week, I can tell you that the project is definitely progressing. On Tuesday, MassDOT had a preconstruction meeting and next week the Department is meeting with utility companies and town officials. Prior to bridge construction work, some relocation work by the utility companies is required and I know that the contractors are already starting to submit their baseline schedule. I will be sure to keep everyone updated as this moves along. 

As always, if there is anything I can do to assist you, please never hesitate to reach out to my office. I can be reached at my email: john.velis@masenate.gov or by phone: (413) 572-3920 and you can find me online at senatorjohnvelis.com. 

Sincerely,  

John C. Velis 

The Legislature’s Soldiers Home Oversight Committee at their 1st public hearing on Tuesday, October 20th at Holyoke Community College
Posted on

September 6th, 2020 – Weekly Update

Hello everyone! 

I feel like I was all over the district this week for different events and meetings, both in-person and virtually, as I continue to hear from people in our communities. COVID-19 has affected our lives in so many different ways, and the economic and public health challenges we face moving forward are clear. One area that I don’t think is being talked about enough is the effect this pandemic has had on mental health and those struggling with substance use disorders. These are issues we cannot ignore, and I believe this pandemic has put even more pressure on those struggling with mental health and addiction. That is why in the coming weeks, I will be putting together a group of relevant stakeholders and health experts, to hold conversations about these issues and discuss how we can help those struggling in our communities moving forward. If you are interested in participating, please reach out to me.  

I began my Monday by having a meeting over phone with Lynn Clark, the Superintendent of Schools in Chicopee. Chicopee will begin school in a hybrid model starting on September 15th, and we will be monitoring all school systems in our district as the year begins. Shortly after this call, my staff and I had a very informative meeting with the MassDOT Highway Division. We went over a number of projects that are being planned around our district, including the Route 10/202 (Southwick Rd.) bridge replacement project in Westfield. This project will realign Southwick Rd/South Maple St. to provide a softer curve and improve the intersections of City View and Mill, and will include Northbound left turn lanes and buffered bike lines. I will keep pushing for these projects in our district that will greatly improve quality of life for our residents. I wrapped up my Monday by having a meeting with ROCA, a non-profit organization that focuses on helping high-risk young men and young mothers in our communities through a 4 year intervention model. They focus on outreach and building relationships with young people, and help them get the resources they need to maintain jobs and stay out of dangerous situations. 

Tuesday morning I headed over to the 104th Fighter Wing to meet with Mayor Humason and Wing Commander Col. William T. Bladen. As the third largest employer for our local economy I look forward to these continued conversations, as it is vital we keep our jobs growing. Later Tuesday afternoon, I had a meeting with John Bowen of the Westfield Planning Board, where a lot of our focus was on the Westfield Bike and Levee Project.  

Wednesday was all Agawam! I began the day by having a meeting with the Agawam Housing Authority, where I learned more about the different residencies in Agawam and all the different resources they provide. I then joined the Agawam Council on Aging at the Senior Center to pass out lunches to constituents who came by. Later that afternoon, I had an introductory meeting with Peter Carmichael from Six Flags New England about the current state of affairs for the park and how their employees are doing, many of whom reside in Agawam and all over our district. 

I began Thursday morning with some coffee with constituents at Circuit Coffee in Westfield. Speaking directly to constituents, and hearing what is on their mind is my favorite part of the job, and I pride my office on being as accessible as possible to you all. Shortly after, I headed over to Easthampton to tour and talk to some local businesses alongside City Councilor Owen Zaret. We started off at Tandem Bagel Company, and hit a bunch of businesses on Cottage Street, including Wedge Works Art & Home and The Water’s Fine Goods and Coffee. I fully understand the decimating impact that COVID-19 has had on our economy, and I will continue to talk to small businesses and help wherever I can. I’m grateful to Council Zaret for showing me around, and we stopped by the Easthampton Fire Department to talk with Chief Norris as well. I finished the day in Westfield, where I met with some more constituents, MassDOT, and City Officials to continue to listen in on the conversations surrounding the Westfield Bike and Levee Project.  

Friday Morning started with a meeting with Western Mass Housing first, and other local community partners, where we discussed housing and food insecurity issues in our communities. Shortly after this meeting, I joined State Representative Aaron Vega for lunch at the Crave Food Truck in Holyoke. Rep. Vega will be finishing up his time in the legislature this session, and while I will deeply miss our collaboration, I know that our friendship will continue on. Post lunch, Rep. Vega and I met with Damien Cote, Holyoke’s Building Commissioner to discuss building regulations and legislation. I then drove over to Granville, where I was proud to present a Senate Citation to Cooley Buy, and her company for their new business opening! Their new store at 66 Granby Road is a renovation of an old barn, and promotes local artists work such as pottery, woodworking, textiles, and glasswork. I encourage you all to check them out.  

While this week was busy traveling across the district, I was able to pause for a moment to pay my respects and express my condolences to the loved ones of two incredible members of the Westfield community that we lost this week, Brian Hoose and John Knapik. Their dedication and advocacy to our community was known far and wide, and they will be greatly missed. 

As always, if there is anything I can do to assist you, please never hesitate to reach out to my office. I can be reached at my email: john.velis@masenate.gov or phone: (413) 572-3920, and you can find me online at senatorjohnvelis.com. 

Sincerely,  

John C. Velis 

Senator Velis with Easthampton City Councilor Owen Zaret and Fire Chief Norris
Senator Velis visiting The Water’s Fine Goods & Coffee in Easthampton
Cooley & Company, a new store showcasing local artists work at 66 Granby Rd. in Granville
Senator Velis presenting Cooley Buy of Cooley & Company, with a Senate citation celebrating the opening

Posted on

Velis secures $7.5 million for district roads

July 18, 2020 – The Westfield News – Hope E. Tremblay

BOSTON – Funding for Westfield, Southwick and surrounding communities was included in a $17 billion borrowing bill approved July 16 by the Sente for transportation and infrastructure improvements.

State Sen. John C. Velis, D-Westfield, helped secure $7.5 million for transportation projects in the 2nd Hampden and Hampshire District, which is comprised of Agawam, Easthampton, Granville, Holyoke, Montgomery, Russell, Southampton, Southwick, Tolland, Westfield and part of Chicopee.

“At the end of the day, what matters most to me is being able to bring my work on Beacon Hill back home,” said Velis. “Advocating for our improvements to our roadways and transportation infrastructure will always be a major priority of mine, and I am proud that I was able to secure $7.5 million in the Senate Bond Bill for transportation projects across our cities and towns. I am thankful to all the local officials who worked with my office on this bill, and hope that the Governor now taps these projects to be included in his capital plan.”

The bill passed 36-4, with the Senate’s four-man Republican caucus voting in opposition. Explaining why he would not support the bill, Minority Leader Bruce Tarr cited the inclusion of a business-opposed provision to allow municipalities to increase local taxes and use the funding for transportation projects, reports Sam Doran of State House News Service. An amendment by Democrat Sen. Diana DiZoglio which would have struck that section was defeated 8-31. Sen. Susan Moran, who joined the Senate after a May special election, gave her inaugural speech on a successful amendment to add $350 million in funding toward replacement of the Bourne and Sagamore bridges. Also Thursday, the Senate and House worked in concert to send to Gov. Charlie Baker’s desk bills addressing mosquito control and take-out cocktails during the COVID-19 era.

Velis secured the following local funds:

$2.5mil for Northampton St./RT.5 in Holyoke

$870,000 for Greenway bikeway in Southampton

$600,000 for Congamond Road in Southwick

$1mil for roadway improvements in Westfield

$2.53 mil to be shared equally in Agawam, Easthampton, Granville, Montgomery and Russell for road improvements.

Continue Reading

Translate »