THOMAS P. FLAHERTY
Municipal Light Board Ward 5 Incumbent
Name: Thomas P. Flaherty, Sr.
Address: 79 Wild Flower Circle
Occupation: Regional Sales Director – Sprague Energy Resources, Current Commissioner Westfield Municipal Light Board Ward 5
What experience do you bring to this position?
25 Years of professional experience in regulated, unregulated and municipal electric and natural gas utility commodity supply management. Including 15 plus years as an elected Commissioner on the Municipal Light Board that oversees the General Manager, sets policy for the Department to follow and represents the ratepayers of the Westfield Gas & Electric/Whip City Fiber (WG&E/WCF). Serving as the Chairman for over six years.
Why is having a municipal utility an asset to the city?
There is an endless list of reasons that having a Municipal Utility like WG&E/WCF is an asset to the City of Westfield. WG&E is accountable to its Ratepayers, and has direct access to the utility through their representatives on the Municipal Light Board. Stable, competitive rates, that have continually been below the Massachusetts utility average. Focus on Westfield first in the event of a service outage. Support of the community through sponsorships, in kind services and support of non-profit organizations. Whip City Fiber’s near $20 million investment in the City has given the community an option to cut the cord on cable and receive faster, more reliable internet.
Why should residents vote for you?
The residents of Ward 5 have had faith in me to be their representative for the past eight elections. My professional experience in the utility and energy commodity supply industry allows me the unique opportunity as the only Commissioner to speak the industry language with the WG&E/WCF management. My family has lived in Westfield for the past 18 years. My wife is a Special Education teacher in Westfield Schools. I have been a volunteer coach in Westfield Little League, Suburban Basketball, Youth Soccer and Special Olympics. We are dedicated to the betterment of our great city.
