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.
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.
This week was the start of school for many in our district and I hope all students had a great first week. We are all so thankful for our teachers, who have adapted in so many different ways, and for all the staff behind the scenes who have been working so hard to welcome our students back.
I thought I would share some updates on the Commonwealth’s budget process this week. As some of you may know, the legislature did not pass a full fiscal-year budget this past summer as usual; instead opting for a interim budget that carries us through October. One reason for this is because we did not know how the federal government was going to act or what their budget was going to look like. As much our budget is based off what we receive from the federal government, this lack of federal action has made handling our state budget difficult. Furthermore, since the income tax deadline was extended from March 15 to July 15, final tax revenues were delayed, and it would’ve been hard to do a budget without knowing our total revenue. All this being said, we are still working hard on a full fiscal-year budget that will take us from November through the end of July. With groups and entities being asked to do more with less, this year more than ever Senators and Representatives are going to have to work extremely hard to make sure their districts get what they need.
October will be a crucial month for budget deliberation, and my job will be to meet with as many stakeholders out there as possible so that I can learn more about their needs and advocate for them. I have no doubt that this coming month will be one of the busiest I have ever had in elected office as I work to ensure that Westfield and the other 10 cities and towns in our [C(1] district get their fair share in the budget. This work has really already started, as this past Wednesday I met with Ways and Means Chairman Michael Rodrigues to talk about the budget, our districts needs, and the priorities I have for this year.
On Wednesday, I also had an in-depth meeting with Tapestry Health in Holyoke. I currently sit on the Mental Health, Substance Use and Recovery Joint Committee in the legislature and it’s crucial for me to get out and see the actual work taking place on the ground. In addition to running our local rapid COVID-19 testing site in Agawam, Tapestry has a huge impact on those dealing with mental health and substance use and we need to continue to support those in our community who are facing these issues.
Tuesday morning, I joined Southwick’s Council on Aging to talk with seniors as part of their “Tuesday Talks” with elected officials. It was great to have a chance to talk to directly to constituents about what’s on their minds, and explain a little bit about my work.
At the end of our Senate session this past Thursday, I was honored to put forth a motion to adjourn in memory of long-time Holyoke resident Marty Dunn. Marty was a former Mayor of Holyoke, a former State Senator from the Hampden and Hampshire district, and an incredible community leader. He taught me so much about Holyoke and beyond. His kindness and generosity were known far and wide. I will miss him greatly and am proud I could put forth this motion in his honor.
Earlier Thursday morning, I joined the Holyoke Taxpayers Association virtually for their annual meeting where it was great to see some new and friendly faces. During lunchtime, I headed over to the Westfield Senior Center to join the Council on Aging and the Westfield Police Department to hand out some drive-by lunches to residents. We handed out over 180 lunches, all while wearing purple to honor World Alzheimer’s month this September. I had some great conversations, and can’t thank the WPD and the COA enough for all that they do. After some work in the office, I had a walking meeting with Rebecca Hart regarding the Westfield Food Pantry. They’re applying for a grant for a mobile food truck and it was great to hear about the expansion! I wrapped up my day by joining Westfield State’s Annual Foundation Meeting to talk about some of the great work the they do for our students.
This past Friday was National Prisoners of War/Missing Action (POW/MIA) Recognition day. We must always remember and recognize the sacrifices of those in our military who were Prisoners of War and those who are still missing to those day. Their service to our nation will never be forgotten and we must never cease our search for all those who remain missing. Wednesday evening, I attended a MIA/POW Candlelight Ceremony at Pine Hill Cemetery Chapel in Westfield where I gave our service members and their families my thoughts and prayers.
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 at the Westfield Senior Center on Thursday with the Westfield Police Department and Westfield Council on Aging. They handed out over 180 lunches and wore purple in honor of World Alzheimer’s MonthSenator Velis at the Southwick Senior Center on Tuesday for their “Tuesday Talks with Elected Officials”Adjournment order for Martin J. Dunn of Holyoke, Senate Session 9/17/2020
I hope you all had a great week, and were able to enjoy the long weekend a little bit. I have some updates regarding unemployment assistance, COVID-19 testing, and some events from this week, but first I want to acknowledge the 19th anniversary of 9/11 this past Friday.
September 11th, 2001, will forever be engrained in my mind, as I remember all those that lost their lives that day, including those from our own Westfield community; Brian Murphy, Tara Shea Creamer and Daniel Trant. The atrocious terrorist acts of 9/11 changed our country forever. Through tragic loss, we saw how truly selfless and brave our first responders were, as they ran towards danger that morning and not away from it. And we saw the courage of all Americans in the days following. We must always stand together against acts of evil and hate, and never forget the day we lost so many. I spent Friday morning with the Westfield Fire Department for their annual ceremony of reflection and remembrance in honor of first responders. I then joined other elected officials and the families of Westfield Natives who fell victim to the attacks for a Wreath laying at the 9/11 Monument on North Elm Street.
Two years ago, while I was deployed in Afghanistan, I participated in a 9/11 remembrance ceremony in Kabul, not far from where the attacks were planned. Soldiers and marines of all ages gathered, and all understood the importance and meaning of why we were there. It was one of the most moving experiences I can remember. To see some of the younger soldiers have tears in their eyes for events that occurred before they were alive, or when they were just a very young child, is something that I will never forget. To this day we still have men and women in harms way in Afghanistan and elsewhere, and we must never forget their sacrifices and service as well.
Senator Velis speaking at the 9/11 ceremony in Westfield
A few weeks ago, Massachusetts was approved for grant funding to pay an additional weekly unemployment benefit to claimants under the Federal Lost Wages Assistance (LWA) program for the 3 weeks ending 8/1, 8/8, and 8/15. I am now happy to report that we have also been approved for the weeks ending 8/22, and 8/29! An additional application for a 6th week of 9/5 is currently being reviewed as well. While we are still waiting on a long-term package from the Federal Government, this funding will provide $300 a week to those who were eligible. No action is needed, and payments are expected to be in claimants bank accounts around 9/15/2020.
The State’s Stop-The-Spread COVID-19 testing has been expanded in Holyoke. In addition to testing at Holyoke Community College, free testing is now offered at Holyoke Veterans Benefits Dept., in the parking lot across from 310 Appleton St. Walkup testing is available Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 2-6PM. You may contact 413-322-5595 with questions.
On Monday, I went over to Springfield City Hall for a rally put on by the Western mass affiliate of the AFL-CIO. The action was part of a statewide Labor Day mobilization that demanded a recovery to our economy that works for the working class. I was proud to stand with so many union members, and was joined by co-legislators Rep. Aaron Vega, Sen. Jo Comerford, and Sen. Elect Adam Gomez. We need to make sure our economic recovery focuses on the working class, those who have been contributing and providing for our communities since day one.
Tuesday morning began with a meeting with Western Mass Housing First, where my staff and I received an update on Homelessness in Western Mass. Later that day I went over to the Easthampton Community Center for a tour. The community center has provided food, including fresh vegetables, to so many community members prior to COVID-19, but has really stepped up during this pandemic. I wrapped up my day by having an extensive zoom meeting discussion with constituents. I always want to hear what’s on peoples minds, and speaking directly with constituents is my favorite part of the job!
On Wednesday morning, I drove over to Easthampton to meet with Chief Norris and the Easthampton Fire Department. They showed me their operation, and even took me up in the 100 foot ladder truck! After this, I headed over to the Holyoke Senior Center to help hand out some Grab and Go Lunches to constituents. Later that afternoon I had a very informative meeting with Holyoke City Councilor Terry Murphy regarding housing subsidies. I want to highlight Caden, a sophomore at WHS who shadowed me for part of Wednesday. Caden was enthusiastic and very helpful, and it was great to have him along. I can’t wait to see what he goes on to do!
Senator Velis with the Easthampton Fire Department on Wednesday
Thursday was a day full of meetings for me! I met with Westfield City Councilor Kristen Mello to receive a PFAS update and discuss some possible legislative options moving forward. Afterwards, staff and I joined the Hilltown Domestic Violence Task Force for their monthly meeting, where I found out more about their work. In the later afternoon, I had a meeting with some of the leadership team at Providence Behavioral Health, where we discussed the different services they provided and how they are transitioning during this time. I wrapped up my afternoon with a Zoom Forum hosted by the Department of Veterans Affairs, and Payette (the architecture firm tapped for the Holyoke Soldiers Home project). The firm is still in the initial planning phase of the project, and I shared a lot of input on what I’ve been hearing from residents, families, and staff about how they want the new home to look. I think it’s crucial that this project accounts for those who will be relying on the Home in the future, and understands the needs of the next generation of Veterans, so that we have a facility that is sustainable for years to come.
Later Friday afternoon, I joined One Holyoke CDC and the Food Bank of Western Mass to help out with some food distribution and census collection efforts. I finished my day by helping out at a Drive-In Movie showing in Southwick that is helping the Southwick Civic Fund and the Wick 338 fundraise for a future Veteran’s memorial.
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.
June 29, 2020 – The Westfield News – Hope E. Tremblay
SOUTHWICK – State Sen. John C. Velis, D-Westfield, is “proud” to represent the town.
Velis met last week with the Southwick Select Board via Zoom to say hello and offer his assistance to the community.
“Since I was sworn-in, I have been going to all 11 cities and towns [in the 2nd Hampden and Hampshire Senate District] and checking in,” Velis said.
Velis, a Westfield native, said he has been a neighbor of Southwick his entire life and it was “an honor” to be representing the town in the Senate.
“I want you to view me as an allie,” he said. “Don’t hesitate to contact me.”
Velis said he plans to work closely with the Select Board.
“When local, federal and state government is working together, we get a lot more done,” he said.
Board members did not hesitate to immediately share some concerns about the Congamond Road project. Selectman Joseph Deedy said he would email Velis by the next morning with the issues facing the town with that project.
Selectman Russell S. Fox asked Velis where he stood on Chapter 90 funding, which is state money given to communities for road and infrastructure.
“We came in at $300 million,” Velis said of the Senate vote on Chapter 90 funding. “The House came in at $200 million.”
Velis said he hopes the Senate funding stands.
“It has been loud and clear where you’re coming from and I’m for the $300 million,” Velis said. “Chapter 90 is a big part of this ‘listening tour’.”
Velis said both Chapter 90 and Chapter 70, which is funding for schools, is a priority for the district.
Select Board chairman Douglas Moglin told Velis Southwick was voted the “best place to live in the Pioneer Valley” last year.
‘”We’re hoping to keep that moniker, with your help,” Moglin said.
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.
