Hello everyone,
I hope all our local youth and school staff enjoyed a safe and restful February break this past week despite the cold weather out there!
Last week I joined my colleagues in writing to the Department of Public Utilities (DPU) regarding our serious concerns about the steep rate increases by investor-owned utilities companies such as Eversource and National Grid. Having heard from many constituents across the district I completely understand the frustration and concerns than has been shared with me regarding these high charges this winter. While the legislature does not have direct oversight over the rates approved by the Department of Public Utilities, it has been an issue I have been focusing on with the session underway. Together my colleagues and I urged DPU to take immediate action to reassess these rate adjustments and hold companies accountable. Please know my constituent services team is always available to assist you in reaching out to your utility provider to inquire about charges or with applications to heating assistance programs.
Throughout the week I had the chance to sit down with several local officials from Agawam, Holyoke, and Westfield. It is always critically important to me to be in close communication with the Mayors, City Councilors, and Selectboard members throughout our district so that we can work collaboratively to help advance the priorities of our communities.
Wednesday marked the 80th anniversary of the Battle of Iwo Jima. Over at the State House Team Velis attended a special ceremony to honor those who fought for and made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of our nation. Among the many Massachusetts veterans, gold star families, and members of our armed forces in attendance was a 99-year-old Marine veteran who fought at Iwo Jima.
On Friday my team and I presented a Senate citation to Little Springs Coffee over on Westfield Street in West Springfield to celebrate the grand opening of their new business. I am always thrilled to see new small businesses open in our district, and as a coffee enthusiast I can’t wait to stop in again.
This week Team Velis hosted office hours in Easthampton and Holyoke. Next week we will be hosting office hours on Monday at the Westfield Council on Aging from 12:30pm to 1:30pm, on Tuesday at the Russell Council on Aging from 11:30am to 12:30pm, and on Wednesday at the Southampton Council on Aging from 9:30am to 10:30am.If you are unable to make office hours, I can always be reached by email, john.velis@masenate.gov, by phone, (413) 572-3920, and you can find me online at senatorjohnvelis.com. 
Best, 
John Velis