COVID-19 – Page 4 – Senator John Velis

November 19, 2020

Senator Velis Secures Holyoke Soldiers’ Home Amendment in Budget Debate

BOSTON (11/19/2020)

The Massachusetts State Senate unanimously adopted an amendment sponsored by Senator John C. Velis that provides $200,000 for the creation of an ombudsman’s office at the Holyoke Soldiers’ Home and $200,000 for increased and improved resources for residents. In remarks given on the Senate floor, Senator Velis stressed the importance of instituting an ombudsman’s office.

“This office will be an independent, impartial, and confidential resource for residents and families to turn to when issues and concerns with care arise,” said Senator Velis. “Having someone directly on the ground at the Home, who can properly investigate problems before they worsen is critical, and this ombudsman would be that oversight that the Home so desperately needs.”

Senator Velis, a Veteran and Major in the U.S. Army Reserves, currently sits on the Legislative Soldiers’ Home Oversight Committee and has been a part of public hearings and listening sessions with residents, families and staff. He referenced these sessions in his remarks.

“I have heard from families and Veterans time and time again of the great relationships that residents form at the Home, and how Veterans want to live there and be around others who have also served,” said Senator Velis. “What has also become apparent, is that there is not enough support for the residents and families at the Home. This amendment begins to fix that.”

The $200,000 allocated for supplies and resources will go to a variety of different initiatives, and Senator Velis stated that he wanted to give the Home the flexibility to spend the funds where they were needed most. In the Senate’s COVID-19 Supplemental budget that was passed in July, Senator Velis had also secured $250,000 for increased Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) at the Home, which has since been disbursed.

“In the supplemental budget the priority was to get more PPE to the Home, because that was really the immediate concern that we were hearing about at that time,” said Senator Velis. “Now we need to focus on how to improve the quality of care more generally, whether that be new commodities, improved sanitation, or other investments.”

In addition to these amendments, the Senate’s Final Budget appropriates $25.5M to the Home’s administrative account, $1.5M higher than last year’s funding. Senator Velis noted his appreciation to the Senate Ways & Means Committee for their collaboration throughout the budget process, and stated that this support will help the Home increase staffing levels and meet other deficiencies.

Late Wednesday night, the senate passed the final budget. Next, the Senate and House will meet in conference committee to work out differences between the two versions, before a finalized budget is sent to the Governor for his consideration.

November 16, 2020

November 15th, 2020 – Weekly Update

Hi Everyone,

I hope you all are doing well and have been able to take advantage of some of the warm weather we have had recently. This past week was packed full of meetings throughout the district and I was honored to participate in several Veterans Day ceremonies as well.

I began my week at the Holyoke Medical Center for a meeting with HMC President Hatiras, Representative Vega, and Representative-Elect Duffy where we discussed how services for patients have changed in recent months. Later in the day, I stopped by the Holyoke Soldiers’ Home to drop off over 500 letters from students in our district that were distributed to Veterans this week. The letters were truly heartwarming, and full of appreciation for our Veterans and their service. I know how much they meant to the Veterans and am inspired by how thoughtful the students in our community are.

On Tuesday morning I was glad to join the Forum House and Massachusetts Clubhouse Coalition at the Short Stop Bar and Grill in Westfield, where I had the privilege of recognizing Short Stop and the Hannoush family for their work with adults with mental illnesses. It is phenomenal to see businesses and organizations in our community diversifying their workforce and collaborating together, and I was happy to be a part of the recognition ceremony.

Although our usual Veterans Day celebrations may have been restricted this year, it was amazing to see all the different ways that our communities showed their appreciation for our Veterans. I began the day in Agawam at the Vietnam Memorial Bridge for a moving ceremony with the Agawam Veterans Council, the West Springfield VSO, and the Agawam Police Department. We were also joined by students of Agawam High School who played Taps during the ceremony. Later in the morning, I joined Westfield community members and Veterans at Parker Memorial Park, where I was honored to speak and thank our Veterans. And Wednesday evening I joined Congressman Seth Moulton and several other Veterans for a virtual Veterans Town Hall event where we shared experiences and talked about what our service means to us. I couldn’t be more grateful to have been a part of all these amazing events, and I am proud to be a part of a community that appreciates our Veterans so much. Everything that we have in our lives, everything that we so often take for granted, is due to the sacrifices of our service members, and we are all so thankful for the men and women who have served our great country.

On Thursday morning, I had a virtual meeting with the New England Cable and Telecommunications Association, where I received updates about how the expansion of broadband access to the Hilltowns is going. During these times, it is critical that every community has access to internet, and I was encouraged by the progress that has taken place.

Thursday afternoon the Senate Committee on Ways and Means released their final Fiscal Year 2021 State Budget recommendation. I believe that this budget has made important investments in our State and local infrastructure, while remaining fiscally responsible during these difficult economic times. The Committee’s budget recommends a total of $45.985 billion in spending. Some of the highlights in the budget recommendation include $5.283 billion for Chapter 70 education funding, $18.577 billion for MassHealth funding, more than $540 million in housing stability programs, and $1.129 billion in unrestricted general government aid for local investments in education, health care, public safety and road infrastructure. I am also pleased that there is significant support for those who have been hit hardest by COVID-19, including a new Economic Planning and Resource Program that will fund more than $40 million in grants and loans to small businesses.

I am also extremely happy to announce that the Senate prioritized the Holyoke Soldiers’ Home in the Senate budget. The Senate included an additional $1,000,000 for the Home in the budget recommendation, totaling $25M. This will provide much needed support to the residents and staff, and emphasizes the Senate’s strong commitment towards the Home and our Veterans.

I am proud to be apart of the Senate and to continue working to make the Home the best it can be. Next week the Senate will debate the Senate budget, and changes and additions will be made through amendments. After the budget is debated by the Senate, the Senate and the House will then work out the differences between their respective versions, before sending a finalized one to the Governor’s desk.

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 delivering letters from students to the Holyoke Soldiers’ Home for Veterans Day*

November 9, 2020

November 8th, 2020 – Weekly Update

Hello Everyone,

I hope you all are doing well. I know many of you were probably focused on the elections this past week, and I thank all of you who participated in our democracy by voting. No matter who you voted for, it is critical that we move forward from this election in a united fashion. We can truly accomplish so much more when we work together, and we must always remember that there is more that unites us than drives us apart.

This week the Governor announced new measures aimed at slowing the recent uptick of COVID-19 cases. As of November 6th, everyone above the age of five in Massachusetts is required to wear a mask in public, regardless of whether social distancing is practiced. Furthermore, the state’s indoor gathering limit will be lowered from 25 to 10 people. The Governor also announced a 9:30 closure time for many businesses, which does not include takeout and grocery shopping. Lastly, the Governor has instituted a Stay-At-Home advisory for residents from 10PM to 5AM with exceptions for work and other essential activities. The number of cases in our communities is steadily rising, and it is critical that we remain vigilant and cautious as we head into the winter months.

This week I had a series of meetings regarding the state budget. As some of you may know, the Governor released his revised budget recommendations for FY21 two weeks ago. This week the House released their FY21 budget. The next steps include: a debate between House members concerning potential amendments, the release of the Senate’s version of a budget followed by a Senate debate and then a conference committee in which House and Senate members work out differences between their budgets. I have been meeting with organizations throughout the district to hear about their needs and concerns, and have been advocating on their behalf in meetings with my colleagues. While everyone is going to be asked to do more with less this year, it is critical that those struggling are getting the necessary funding. I will be sure to keep you all updated as our budget debates begin in the coming days.

Last Sunday I was honored to join the Westfield Spanish American Association for the 25^th Puerto Rican Flag Raising Ceremony in-front of Westfield City Hall. In addition to celebrating the contributions of our Puerto Rican community, the ceremony was also dedicated to two members of Westfield’s Puerto Rican community who we lost this past spring.

I also met with Holyoke Superintendent Dr. Vázquez Matos, State Representative Vega and Representative-Elect Duffy this week to discuss how the school year is going and to go over some of the challenges they are facing in their new structure. Our schools and educators have truly adapted in incredible ways throughout this pandemic, and it is so important that we continue to support them going forward.

Sincerely,

John C. Velis

Senator Velis speaking at Westfield City Hall for the 25th Puerto Rican flag raising ceremony on Sunday, November 1st

November 1, 2020October 30, 2020

November 1st, 2020 – Weekly Update

Hello Everyone,

I hope you all had a great week. I just want to remind you all to go vote—polls open this Tuesday! Town and city clerks have worked diligently to ensure that voting is safe and secure. If you still have your mail-ballot and would like to return that instead, you should return it by hand to a drop box or to your local election office no later than 8PM on Tuesday. Voting is the fundamental way that we can all participate in our democracy and I urge you all to exercise this right.

This week the Legislature’s Soldiers’ Home Oversight Committee held two public hearings for current and former staff members to testify. I want to thank every single staff member for their strength in sharing their stories. They care deeply about the veterans at the Home and the tragedies that took place shook them and changed their lives forever. What is clear from their testimony is that the institutional weaknesses that contributed to these tragedies did not begin in March. While dedication and compassion are present at the Home, there is a noticeable and problematic lack of resources and support for the staff. The testimonies shared this week shined a light on the problems that have existed at the Home for so long. During the hearings and in conversations with Committee members I brought up the importance of instituting a ombudsman at the Home who would be on the ground to investigate problems. From the hearings it is clear that the Home has suffered from staff scheduling structural problems, and a lack of resources for a while. I’m grateful for all the staff members who shared their perspectives this week.

On Thursday my office and I also spent some time at the Westfield Senior Center passing out lunches and collecting damaged American flags to deliver to Westfield’s VSO for a proper retirement. As some of you may know, when a flag becomes torn, faded, or damaged, it is important for it to be retired respectfully and appropriately. This is an event I have participated in every year at the Westfield Senior Fair, and while some adjustments were made due to COVID, I’m glad this event could still take place. The flag is a symbol and representation of our great country and I was honored to take part in this event.

This Friday morning I was proud to present David Billups, the long-time director of Westfield’s Public Works Department, with a Senate citation in honor of his retirement. David’s leadership in the city has been known far and wide and I was glad to join in recognizing his years of public service.

This week I also had a series of meetings with Senate leadership surrounding my priorities for the FY21 budget we are currently working on. So far this Fiscal Year the State has been operating on a series of interim budgets, as it has been difficult to plan without knowing final revenue numbers and federal aid amounts. Soon enough though, we will have our final FY21 budget, and I have been advocating strongly for the needs of our district during our budget discussions. Even though this is a difficult year, it is critical that the institutions in our communities are getting the support that they need from the State, and I will be continuing this work in the coming weeks.

Sincerely,

John C. Velis

The Soldiers’ Home Oversight Committee on Tuesday, October 27th at Holyoke Community College

Paul Barabani, former Superintendent at the Holyoke Soldiers Home, testifies virtually to the Soldiers’ Home Committee on Thursday, October 29th

October 30, 2020

Legislature’s Soldiers’ Home Oversight Committee Hears from Staff during Public Hearings

HOLYOKE (10/30/20)

The State Legislature’s Holyoke Soldiers’ Home Oversight Committee held two public hearings this week for current and former staff members at the Home to share testimony.

Testimony from staff touched on numerous topics, ranging from the Home’s response to COVID-19, to inadequate staffing levels, and general administrative issues that have been apparent for years. Senator John Velis noted the importance of hearing directly from staff during these hearings.

“Staff members were on the frontlines when the pandemic hit, but they were also there before,” said Senator Velis. “It is becoming increasingly clear that the institutional weaknesses that contributed to these tragedies did not start in March. And to truly ensure that the Home is sustainable for years to come, we need to know what occurred before, during, and after 76 veterans died of COVID at the Home.”

One of the major issues that arose during Tuesday’s hearing was inadequate staffing levels at the Home, which many said results in staff “floating” between different units.

Joseph Ramirez, a CNA in the Dementia Unit at the Home for 5 years, stated that floating staff has existed at the Home for years. He noted that this results in illnesses spreading “like wild fire” as staff members are constantly moving between populations. Mr. Ramirez also noted that morale with staff at the Home is extremely low.

Andrea Fox, a representative for the Massachusetts Nurses Association, testified that many staff members did not want to testify out of fear of retaliation, which she believes is representative of larger cultural issues at the Home. She stated that staff care deeply about all the veterans they work with, but that there is simply not enough support to give the veterans the care they deserve.

During Tuesday’s hearing, Senator Velis mentioned the possibility of instituting an ombudsman position at the Home, which would serve as a resource for residents and families.

“I think one of the most important things for the Holyoke Soldiers Home going forward is to have an ombudsman, a person on the ground at the Home that can investigate issues when they arise,” said Senator Velis. “I think it’s absolutely critical that families and residents have an independent, impartial, and confidential place to go to.”

Thursdays virtual hearing included testimony from Paul Barabani and John Paradis, the former Superintendent and Deputy Superintendent of the Home. Mr. Barabani noted that he had brought up concerns with staffing and funding levels for years, and felt completely under supported. Mr. Paradis echoed these sentiments and stated that when concerns were expressed, the State responded by calling for more studies and promising to look into the issues.

When asked after Thursdays hearing about his reactions to staff testimony, Senator Velis noted the correlation between support the Home receives and past issues that have occurred.

“In all the different issues that have been brought up this week, the one constant is that there is noticeable lack of resources and support for the staff,” said Senator Velis. “There needs to be better oversight, consistent staff schedules and rotations, and increased support for those who are caring for our heroes day in and day out. We need to institute real changes that address these problems and keep them from happening again.”

Paul Barabani, former Superintendent at the Holyoke Soldiers’ Home, testifies to the Committee virtually on Thursday, October 29th

October 27, 2020

Legislature’s Soldiers’ Home Oversight Committee Holds First Public Hearing for Families

HOLYOKE (10/20/2020)

The State Legislature’s Holyoke Soldiers’ Home Oversight Committee held its first public hearing at Holyoke Community College today for family members to share testimony regarding the COVID-19 outbreak at the Home, which tragically led to the deaths of 76 veterans.

Senator John Velis, who represents Holyoke and the Soldiers’ Home, sits on the Committee and was among those who helped organize the hearings. In his opening remarks, Velis said how grateful he was to the families for sharing their stories.

“I will never be able to truly understand the pain you and your families endured, and I can only imagine how difficult it is to relive those tragic months last spring,” said Velis. “Your strength, your courage, and your determination to seek justice and a better future for the Home, is inspiring. From the bottom of my heart, thank you for being here today.”

The Committee heard from a number of different families during the hearing, which lasted for over three hours. Written testimony was also submitted to the Committee as well.

Laurie Mandeville-Beaudette was one of the family members who testified during their hearing. Her Father, James Mandeville, had lived at the Soldiers’ Home for 16 years, and passed away in April from COVID-19. She said it was extremely difficult not to be able to be there to help her father.

“He constantly complained during our Facetime calls that he felt like he was in prison. He couldn’t understand why I couldn’t be there with him. I was his daughter, his voice, his best friend. He relied on me for almost everything,” said Mrs. Mandeville-Beaudette. “Please do not let a disaster like this ever happen again.”

Mrs. Mandeville-Beaudette also stated that she believed that the small room sizes, lack of PPE and proper sanitation, and poor medical decisions by administrators created “the perfect storm” for COVID-19 to run rampant in the Soldiers’ Home.

Cheryl Turgeon also testified during the hearing. Her father, Dennis Threshner, is still a resident at the Home. In her testimony, she noted how many other families have been impacted and how important it is for the Home to be upgraded.

“To the other 76 veteran’s family members, I hear your voices and you are not forgotten,” said Mrs. Turgeon. “They [current residents] need a new home, they need adult daycare, they need protections.”

Senator Walter Timilty is one of the co-chairs of the Oversight Committee. After the hearing, he expressed how moving and emotional the testimonies of the family members were.

“The heartfelt testimony that was offered today is vital to the Special Committee’s oversight process. What these veterans and families have endured is a true tragedy of epic proportions. I am so very thankful that these family members were able to summon the strength to share the tragic stories of their heroic loved ones with the Committee today,” said Timilty. “It was a very emotional hearing. It is my fervent hope that through the sharing of these stories, that we as a committee are able to find answers for those who were lost to the COVID-19 outbreak at the Soldiers’ Home.”

The Committee will hold a second public hearing for families virtually on Thursday, October 22^nd, and two hearings for Soldiers’ Home staff next week on Tuesday, October 27^th and Thursday, October 29^th.

When asked about the Committee’s work moving forward, Senator Velis stressed the importance of translating what they hear in the hearings into tangible recommendations and reforms.

“For us to truly understand the necessary steps needed to better the Home and its veterans, it is essential that we fully grasp the magnitude of the events that transpired, and that is why these hearings with families, staff, and others are so critical,” said Velis. “The Home means so much to our veterans and our community, and we in the legislature need to make sure we are responding to every single issue and concern that contributed to this tragedy.”

The Committee has a deadline of March 31^st to file a report on its investigation and recommendations along with any possible legislation.

October 27, 2020October 27, 2020

Legislature Passes Legislation to Extend Unemployment Benefits to 17,000 Low-Income Recipients

(BOSTON – 10/26/2020) The Massachusetts State Senate and House of Representatives passed An Act relative to additional unemployment benefits for the neediest recipients currently excluded from the Lost Wages Assistance program today, filed less than two weeks ago by Sens. Jehlen and Lesser. The bill would enhance unemployment benefits for 17,000 people in Massachusetts by as much as $1800 each. Thousands of people were left out of the Lost Wages Assistance Grant to extend $300 weekly payment boosts to people collecting unemployment benefits by a restrictive Trump Administration rule.

“This legislation will make the necessary changes to make sure people with less than $100 in weekly benefits receive that $1800 in added income,” said Senator Patricia Jehlen (D-Somerville). “Just last week I heard from a neighbor and constituent who was short $2 in his weekly benefit to receive the $1800 in Lost Wages Assistance. The state investment in raising the minimum benefit will bring $31million to Massachusetts residents for rent, for food and other expenses.”

“The Senate is laser focused on assisting those most in need, especially as we continue to tackle the dueling challenges posed by the global pandemic and economic crisis,” stated Senate President Karen E. Spilka (D-Ashland). “This legislation speaks to that commitment and will help assist residents in obtaining lost wages as a result of the ongoing public health emergency. I would like to thank Senators Pat Jehlen, Eric Lesser and Michael Rodrigues, as well as Speaker Robert DeLeo and his colleagues for working to quickly usher this bill to the governor’s desk.”

“This boost to unemployment compensation for those affected by the Trump Administration rule is a critical measure to alleviate unnecessary hardship for 17,000 of the most vulnerable people across the Commonwealth,” said Senator Eric Lesser (D-Longmeadow). “I am proud of this bill’s swift passage and hope that Governor Baker quickly signs off to give people the ability to purchase food, pay their rent, and stay warm as we head into colder weather.”

The bill first went through the Committee on Labor and Workforce Development before making it to the Senate floor for a vote. Senator John Velis (D-Westfield) sits on this committee and stressed the importance of meeting the needs of those who are struggling.

“This bill will have a tangible impact on those who are really hurting from the effects of this pandemic,” said Senator Velis. “Many people have been unable to get these additional federal funds from the LWA program, and this legislation will fix that issue and ensure that those in our community are getting the benefits that they need. I’m grateful to my colleagues in the legislature who have led on this. “

In August, the Federal Emergency Management Agency began accepting applications for the Lost Wages Assistance program. The Trump White House included a restriction that banned people receiving less than $100 a week in benefits from receiving the LWA boost of $300 a week.

Massachusetts was approved for 6 weeks of LWA compensation for every eligible recipient, covering the weeks ending August 1 to September 5. Numerous states acted to increase weekly benefit amounts, including neighboring RI and NH, so that no recipient of unemployment would be left out of receiving the boost. Over 100 legislators wrote on September 24 to Secretary Rosalin Acosta to ask the state to implement a similar increase in weekly benefit amounts for Massachusetts recipients.

In discussions with the legislature, the Baker-Polito administration has indicated that with a small investment of state dollars to increase base benefits retroactively, up to $31M could be returned to the state from the FEMA program. The Department of Unemployment Assistance has been negotiating with FEMA since the legislators issued their request. In an answer legislators received, FEMA advised: “It is possible to make an individual an eligible claimant for LWA from the week ending August 1, 2020, if they are monetarily eligible for at least a $100 weekly benefit amount…”

The legislation will authorize the Baker-Polito Administration to implement an increase to unemployment compensation for every recipient in Massachusetts not receiving at least $100 in weekly benefits. This enhancement would be applied retroactively to roughly 17,000 recipients.

Update 10/28/2020 – Governor Baker has signed this bill into law.

October 27, 2020November 24, 2020

2nd Holyoke Soldiers’ Home hearing will feature staff accounts of coronavirus outbreak

*October 27, 2020 – MassLive/The Republican – Stephanie Barry, Photo by* Don Treeger

HOLYOKE — The second hearing before a legislative oversight committee on the COVID-19 crisis at the Soldiers’ Home in Holyoke is set to highlight accounts from staff who cared for sick and dying patients during the outbreak.

The hearing Tuesday at Holyoke Community College comes a week after an initial, in-person hearing largely featuring families of veterans. They testified about fathers and husbands who were sickened by or succumbed to the virus as the state-run nursing home for veterans reportedly descended into chaos.

……

State Sen. John Velis, D-Westfield, represents a district that includes Holyoke and is a veteran himself. He said he and his staff have mulled feedback he received in “listening sessions” with families over the summer and the first round of hearings.

Velis said he plans to press witnesses on Tuesday about the need for an ombudsman to act as conduit between the veterans and their families and the staff and administrators of the Soldiers’ Home.

“Families and residents need an independent, impartial and confidential person to talk to when things come up,” Velis said. “An ombudsman would be that independent watchdog on the ground who investigates issues when they arise.”

October 26, 2020

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 3^rd, there is early in-person voting at a secure location in your City or Town until October 30^th. 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 104^th 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 104^th 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.

Sincerely,

John C. Velis

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

October 19, 2020October 19, 2020

October 18th, 2020 – Weekly Update

Hello Everyone!

I hope everyone had a great week and was able to enjoy the long weekend. I had plenty of meetings and events in the district this week, and have some updates regarding early voting and the Soldiers Home Oversight Committee to share. I also am excited to announce a new addition to my Senate Staff, Katie Verra! Katie is my new Chief of Staff & Legislative Counsel, and we are so excited to have her join the team. She recently received her J.D. from Suffolk University, and brings a wealth of experience in fiscal policy analysis and legislative drafting. Welcome Katie!

Early voting began this past Saturday, October 17^th! In addition to in-person voting on November 3^rd, there will be early in-person voting available at a secure location in your City or Town from October 17^th until October 30^th. If you live in Westfield, you can vote at City Hall on any weekday from 9am-5pm, Saturdays from 9am-2pm, and Sundays from 11-4pm. If you live in Southwick, you can vote at Town Hall on any weekday from 8:30am-4:30pm (Thursdays until 6:30!), and on Saturdays/Sundays from 8am-12pm. If you live in another municipality, you can go to www.MassEarlyVote.com to find your early voting location and schedule, or give my office a call and we can help.

Next week, the Legislature’s Soldiers Home Oversight Committee will be holding two public hearings for family members and health care proxies to share their testimonies directly with the Committee. The first hearing will be in-person at Holyoke Community College on Tuesday October 20^that 11am, and the second hearing will be held virtually on Thursday October 22^ndat 12pm. Over the past months, I have held my own listening sessions with family members of those who lost loved ones, and I can tell you that their experiences are not only heartbreaking, but shine a lot of light onto how we can improve the Home moving forward. We need their voices, and I am grateful to all who are going to testify during these hearings.

This past Tuesday I had a great meeting with SolaBlock’s founders Jason Laverty and Scott Longley. SolaBlock is an Easthampton-based company focusing on developing sustainable solar-wall systems that would enable almost any building structure to extract and use energy from the sun. We need to continue to develop sustainable energy sources, and it is great to see companies utilizing Western Massachusetts manufacturing opportunities. Later that day I visited the Westfield Fire Department where I learned more about the department’s operations, and got to watch them conduct practice scenario training on firefighters who have been incapacitated and need assistance. They were also kind enough to feed me dinner! It is always great to see first hand how our first responders prepare and train, and many thanks to Fire Chief Egloff for the invitation.

On Thursday morning I participated in a very productive virtual discussion with the West of the River Chamber of Commerce alongside several of my legislative colleagues. The Chamber has many business members from Agawam and West Springfield, and we discussed the challenges that businesses are facing and how we in the legislature can help. Navigating the recovery and reopening process is not going to be easy, but it is critical that we are meeting the changing needs and concerns of our local businesses.

On Friday I joined other Western Massachusetts legislators for a call with MassDOT Secretary Pollack for a discussion regarding developments with the Valley Flyer project. The Valley Flyer train, which has a station stop in Holyoke, is an important mode of transportation for so many in our communities and we are looking forward to its expansion. Later on Friday, I went over to the Massachusetts Military Support Foundation’s empowerment center in Agawam to help pass out food kits. The MMSF has done such a great job of helping veterans and community members get access to the food they need during these difficult times, and I greatly appreciate their work.

On Saturday I joined the Westfield Council on Aging for their “Serving up Senior Safety” Luncheon. We distributed lunches to nearly 200 seniors in the community and shared information on local resources and how to stay safe during COVID-19. Later that evening, I joined the Agawam Police Department for a ride-along, where I got a chance to see what their officers go through on a daily basis and how they prepare. It is so important to get out and see this work for myself. These experiences are truly eye-opening, and I am grateful to have been able to join them.

Sincerely,

John C. Velis