Category: Westfield

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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
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December 13th, 2020 – Weekly Update

Hi Everyone,  

I can’t believe that it’s already December, it’s getting colder every day!  

This week the state released its initial COVID-19 vaccine distribution plan with the hope that vaccine inoculations can begin as early as next week. The distribution timeline is divided into phases, and the first phase will prioritize health care workers and the most vulnerable residents in our communities. The vaccine will be free to all and insurers will not charge co-pays or out-of-pocket costs. These developments are really encouraging, but it’s important to remember that this is not going to be an immediate process. COVID-19 is just as dangerous today as it was before this news, and we need to continue to wear masks and social distance so that we can get through this together. You can find out more about the vaccine distribution at Mass.gov/COVIDvaccine. 

This past Monday, I hosted a Zoom forum with legislative colleagues and Commissioner Jane Ryder of the Department of Developmental Services. We discussed challenges that Adult Day Programs in our region are facing and how to improve communications and financial supports from DDS to these organizations. Tuesday night I joined the Holyoke Democratic City Committee for their virtual meeting honoring State Representative Vega as Democrat of the year. Representative Vega has been an incredible advocate for Holyoke during his time as a legislator, and I was proud to speak about my friendship with him and our work together.  

Wednesday and Thursday were full of meetings in the community. I joined Holyoke’s Public Safety Committee meeting Wednesday night and had another informative meeting with Southampton Town Administrator Ed Gibson on Thursday afternoon. On Wednesday I also met with Jay Kumar, the owner of Universal Plastics in Holyoke, to hear about challenges businesses like his have been facing.  

This Saturday Army and Navy played 121st football game in their historic rivalry. One of my colleagues, Senator Mike Rush, is a Lieutenant Commander in the US Navy and we realized that this is the first time in modern history that the Senate has a sitting Senator enlisted in each of the branches. Considering this, we decided to make a friendly wager on the game: loser must post a video singing the opposing branch’s fight song. Needless to say, I’m looking forward to hearing Senator Rush’s beautiful rendition. For updates on our wager, feel free to visit my social media channels at @SenJohnVelis.  

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 

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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 

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November 29, 2020 – Weekly Update

Hello Everyone,  

I hope you all were able to safely celebrate Thanksgiving with your loved ones, whether that be in-person or virtually!  

I want to first update you all on the status of the FY2021 budget. As you might remember, last week the Senate passed our final FY2021 budget after two days of debating over 450 amendments. The next step is for the Senate and House to meet in conference committee to resolve differences between the two versions, before sending a finalized budget to the Governor for his consideration. This week the Senate and House each appointed members to the budget conference committee. 

I also want to shout out the annual Monte’s March, which took place earlier this week to benefit the Western Massachusetts Food Bank. This two-day, 43 mile walk from Springfield to Greenfield raises awareness and funds to prevent hunger in our region. While the march this year looked different than past years, people really stepped up—the March raised more than $600,000 in donations.  These donations will benefit the Food Bank and our communities in countless ways and I’m inspired by everyone who participated or made a donation.  

Tuesday morning I had a virtual meeting with constituents from Holyoke to discuss some of the challenges that residents are facing regarding their unemployment benefits and other state resources. As a result, my office is creating  some easily accessible information for our communities, both in print and digital forms, on what resources are available to them and how to receive such benefits. In addition my office is always available to assist anyone who is having difficulty with their benefits or unemployment claim.    

Tuesday afternoon I met  with Pat Beaudry at the Pioneer Valley Planning Commission. We discussed a variety of challenges that our communities in the Pioneer Valley are facing, and it was great to get his input. Later on Tuesday, I drove over to MGM Springfield where I had an introductory meeting with President Chris Kelley. 

On Wednesday I joined Congressman Neal and community members in Holyoke for the ribbon cutting of Harper’s Haven playground, which is dedicated in memory of Harper Violet, a young Holyoke resident who we tragically lost this past spring. I’m grateful to all the businesses, donors, and community members who pitched in to make this playground come to fruition. 

Wednesday afternoon I joined the Forum house in Westfield for their annual Thanksgiving Lunch. It was great to help pass out Thanksgiving meals and talk with residents about how they’re doing. The holidays can be a challenging time for many, and it’s so important that we continue to reach out and provide support to those in our community who are struggling.  

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 

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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.

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November 22, 2020 – Weekly Update

Hello Everyone,  

 This week the Senate unanimously passed our final FY2021 budget after a two-day debate concerning 450 amendments. This $46 billion budget makes important investments in the Commonwealth and local infrastructure, while remaining fiscally responsible during these unprecedented times. I am proud that my amendments allocating funds for local organizations in our district were also adopted during the debate.  

On Wednesday the Senate adopted my amendment providing $200,000 for the creation of an ombudsman’s office at the Holyoke Soldiers’ Home and $200,000 for increased and improved resources to increase the quality for residents. The ombudsman office will be an independent and confidential resource for residents and families to turn to when issues or concerns with care arise, and will be able to properly investigate problems before they grow. In addition to these amendments, the Senate’s final budget appropriates $25.5 million to the Home’s administrative account, $1.5 million higher than last year’s funding, which will help the Home increase staffing levels and meet other deficiencies. The Senate’s level of commitment to the Home and our Veterans is clear, and these funding investments are powerful steps towards reforming the Home. 

On the first day of debate, the Senate adopted two of my other amendments allocating funds to organizations in our district. I was proud to secure $50,000 for the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Westfield and another $50,000 for the Boys & Girls Club for Greater Holyoke, both of which have gone above and beyond throughout this pandemic to help those struggling in our communities. I was also glad to see my amendment was adopted to allocate $100,000 to Baystate Health and $50,000 to the Agawam Police Department for their opioid addiction treatment and prevention programs. Problems with opioid addiction and substance use disorders have only gotten worse during COVID-19, and it is critical that we are supporting our hospitals and first responders who work to help those struggling.  

One of the real tangible focuses in the Senate’s budget is on helping our economy and local communities recover from the lasting impact of COVID-19. The budget invests $46.4 million for a new Economic Planning and Response Program, which will provide grants and loans to small businesses. The budget also creates and funds programs to educate and train Massachusetts workers for new lines of work, including $40.6 million for adult basic education services and $10 million for the Workforce Competitiveness Trust Fund to help connect residents to jobs. To aid local communities, the budget appropriates $1.129 billion in unrestricted general government aid to support community investments and help municipalities recover.  

The Senate and House will now meet to work out differences between their two different budgets, before a finalized version is sent to the Governor for his consideration.  

Although budget debate and work took up almost all of my week, I still had a few events and meetings that I was able to attend. On Monday I spent some time at the Holyoke Boys & Girls Club handing out groceries to community members. Helping those struggling with food insecurity is one of the major ways the Club has stepped during this pandemic, and I was glad to help out. Tuesday morning my staff and I joined in on a call with Western Mass Housing First to talk about their work and how they are adapting with COVID-19 rates back on the rise.  

Thursday I joined the Massachusetts Airport Management Association and officials from Barnes Regional to receive updates from the Federal Aviation Association and MassDOT. And on Friday I had my bi-weekly meeting with Holyoke Community College President Royale, where we discussed remote classes and what resources the college has been providing to students.  

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 

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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
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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 25th 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.  

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

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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. 

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 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
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State Senate in Strong Support of Bringing F-35A Fighter Jets to 104th Fighter Wing

BOSTON (10/22/2020) 

On Thursday the Massachusetts State Senate adopted a resolution to support the assignment of F-35A fighter jets to the National Guard’s 104th Fighter Wing in the City of Westfield. The resolution, which was filed by Senate President Karen Spilka and adopted unanimously, was directed towards U.S. Air Force Secretary Barbara Barrett and Major General Gary Keefe, the State Adjutant General.  

The resolution noted that the “assigned F-15C aircraft will meet the end of its service life within the decade, requiring 104th Fighter Wing to convert to the next generation of fighter aircraft to sustain its relevance in the national defense strategy and the continued vitality of Barnes Air National Guard Base.” 

Senator John Velis, who represents Westfield, was among those in support of the resolution. Last month, Velis sent his own letter to Secretary Barrett to express his support for the 104th Fighter Wing to be selected to receive the F-35A assignment.  

“In that letter I noted some of the key reasons why the 104th is so uniquely poised for these F-35As. The accomplished legacy of the Wing, the strategic and optimal location between major metropolitan cities and our Eastern Seaboard, the high caliber level of guardsmen and training… these are all things I mentioned and are clear indications in my mind that the 104th Fighter Wing should be selected,” said Velis. “It’s phenomenal to have the support of the entire State Senate on this, and I couldn’t be happier to see this resolution get adopted today.” 

 Senator Velis also noted the great impact that this would have on the future of the base and the overall benefits this investment would bring to the City of Westfield.  “The 104th Fighter Wing is one of the most respected Fighter Wings in the Combat Air Forces and one of the oldest flying units in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Going through this airframe conversion will allow the Fighter Wing to operate through 2070.” said Velis. “The benefits that the Fighter Wing brings to our local economy and community are known far and wide, and this investment would just be so great for our long-term stability.”  

Currently, the 104th Fighter Wing is in consideration for the F-35A, and are awaiting notification for an Air Combat Command led site survey. After the completion of the site survey, the Secretary of the Air Force will likely select Preferred and Reasonable Alternative locations by the end of the winter. The final decision for basing is anticipated in summer 2021. 

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