Greetings Westfield! I hope everyone is enjoying their weekend. I have quite a few things to talk about this week so I’ll get right to it.
On Wednesday I was out in Boston for formal session. This week the House voted to pass H4173, An Act to Promote Energy Diversity. The bill passed 154-1. This bill tackles a few different areas relating to energy. One provision sets to increase the use of wind and hydropower in the Commonwealth. The bill would require energy distribution companies to solicit long term contracts to purchase 1,200 megawatts of both hydropower and offshore wind. These bids will have to go through an evaluation process to ensure they are cost effective and reasonable before any company is required to enter into a contract.
JOHN VELIS
A number of amendments to this bill were also passed. One such amendment sets out to help homeowners finance energy efficiency projects. Another amendment addresses natural gas pipelines exposed as as part of local infrastructure projects. Gas companies will now need to survey and repair any leaks found during these projects. Now that this bill has passed the House it is on to the Senate.
I would also like to mention an event coming up later this month. On on June 25th Westfield will be having a 5K to benefit Lift For The 22. This organization focuses on address the issue of veteran suicide. As most of you folks know, this is a cause very important to me. Each day 22 veterans commit suicide in the United States. This is simply unacceptable. Lift for the 22 provides gym memberships to returning veterans in hopes of providing them with a healthy and constructive outlet. The run begins at 10 a.m. at The Elks Lodge and registration is open online.
Now, before I wrap this up for the week, I want to take a minute to mention another upcoming opportunity here in Westfield. As I have mentioned in a previous update, Habitat for Humanity’s home repair program, “A Brush With Kindness,” will be coming to Westfield this summer. Rather than building completely new homes, this particular program works with families who need some work done on their home but may not be able to do it themselves for any number of reasons. I know there are many service men and women who have given so much and could use the help of this program. Therefore, we’d love to focus on our Veteran’s with this summer’s initiative. If you or someone you know may be interested in this program, please reach out!
That’s all for this week. Enjoy the rest of your weekend Westfield! Get outside and enjoy this wonderful weather. As always, please feel free to contact me with your questions, issues, or concerns at [email protected] or at my district office phone number, 413-572-3920.
