We have finished our last council meeting until the end of August so I figure I would catch you up.
First of all, I had the unique experience of participation in the return of Marine Corps Captain Richard Vincent for burial after 72 years. I met some of his remaining family prior to the burial, and introduced myself not only as a city councilor, but more importantly a veteran. And, I was honored by their allowing me to join them on this final journey. I want to express my greatest appreciation first to our fire department, for as the procession passed our central station they had assembled on both sides of the street in full gear to salute and honor this moment. As well our police department not only for the escort, but by having officers along the way to guide the procession and to honor Cpt. Vincent with a salute as he passed before them. Also, while short notice, the many good people of Westfield that stood along the street as he passed by. A great deal of respect must be given to the Marine Corps for making all of this possible, including the transporting of Cpt. Vincent’s family from Colorado and Texas. And especially to Westfield’s Marine Corps League for the emotional, and yet dignified officiating over this event. Present at the burial were Cong. Richard Neal, State Secretary of Veterans Affairs Francisco Urena, Mayor Knapik, Sen. Humason, and Rep. John Velis. Rep. Velis, I think summed up our feelings best, when he said: the media had it wrong by saying that Cpt. Vincent no longer had family in Westfield, for Westfield is his family, and at long last he is home. And, lastly my friend and fellow Councilor James Adams, whose funeral parlor handled all the special arrangements to make this possible.
Because of the presence of Sec. Urena at the event I mentioned the letter that I brought to the council and was passed unanimously opposing the creation of regional veteran services offices to replace local ones. He reassured me that we are on the same page, and that he and the Governor would oppose the enactment of this if it were to make to the Governor’s desk.
Back to business; I want to thank the DPW for the long-awaited patching of the streets in Ward 3, especially along Western Ave, and Washington St. areas. And, another long-awaited project: the sidewalk, and soon to happen, road work on Franklin St. Another Ward 3 improvement is the rail trail by the river. The Esplanade and observation decks are under construction, and they are already looking good. There is also a plan to get a restaurant right near the old railroad bridge, where it meets the planned trail, that and with the upgrades in the Whip Museum are going to be a great addition. I am also pushing for the improvements at Whitney Park for a playground and other improvements that will serve the neighborhood.
I would like the feedback from those in the neighborhood, as it is proposed to extend part of the rail trail along the levee to the Congress St. area and from there on to Rt. 20. Either stop me on my walks, or e-mail me to let me know your thoughts and concerns.
The house on Chestnut St. that burned down is being replaced, and I have been working with abutters, and the Building Dept., to make sure it fits into that neighborhood.
Now to correct some misconceptions. During our budget meetings it was reported that there were heated words with Councilor Keefe. There was a misunderstanding. I wanted to have what I call an honest budget compared to last year’s. My words were misinterpreted. Last year it was reported that we had a $12-13 million surplus; and from my conversations with constituents that meant to them: all the bills were paid. I had to explain, their misunderstanding. We often lack credibility enough not to say things that can be easily misunderstood. Councilor Keefe thought I suggested the council lied. But, once he thought about it, he took the time to apologize to me, and the council, now understanding what I meant. And, I have to thank him for the maturity and sense of personal responsibility to apologize. He is a good man, and a friend and while we have some philosophic differences we can and do respect each other’s positions.
Lastly, “the school.” I want to thank all the parents and residents of Wards 2 and 4 for showing up and speaking on this issue. This battle began well before my being elected, but it is still being fought. Yes, from what I understand mistakes were made. But, I think that there is more to it than that. Most of the work to get it built had been done. Materials have been bought, contracts started, equipment purchased and stored. There was a lawsuit that the city won. These along with renting the elementary schhol in Russell, have cost Westfield taxpayers nearly a million dollars, if not more. There was land agreed to be used then a change of mind. There was talk of conspiracies with WSU. But, I know that WSU not able to get funds for a downtown Performing Arts Center and was ending their agreement with the city for Juniper Park. There is speculation that an appeal to the judicial finding is going to be made.
For me, 1. Is the need for a new school is most important. I toured Franklin Ave. School and there are classroom and counseling areas in the hallways, there are asbestos problems, heating problems, and no cooling. Some of the older schools cannot use computers as the wiring won’t accommodate them. There are concerns about lead paint under the layers of decades old paint. 2. The unnecessary cost to tax payers. 3. By revealing the condition of the levee at Ponders Hallow to the Army Corps of Engineers we have renewed their demand that we maintain it, and that will cost. But, in attending that meeting they said, and according to the documents from the Fed that I have, we could use it for passive use for three years until we come up with a plan. 4. The Fire Dept., now in possession, is not resourced to maintain it, while Parks and Recreation can use the DPW to do so. And, from the Parks and Recreation Commission meeting, they are willing to do so, and once they evaluate the parcels can begin the process for use.
OK, see you all along my walks with Ollie, please do not hesitate to stop me and talk. We do not have to always agree, but I promise you straight and honest answers, and will do my best to deal with your concerns and issues.
Your Ward 3 City Councilor, Brian Hoose; wishing you a good and safe summer. [email protected]
