Hello Ward 3,
This is a follow up to my last column as your Ward 3 City Councilor. First, the streets that I worked on to get repaired will be Franklin Ave, and Sherman St. Belmont will also get some additional work done, but by DPW, which is training their team to do the street repair work, versus contract out to do it. I really liked working with Dave Billips and his crew, as he is doing so much to get the work done and still save the tax payers money. I encourage you to insist that his budget be supported, for even though under staffed, he wants to purchase the equipment to do things ourselves than the more expensive contracting out.
2nd, The New Years Eve fire on Maple and Orange St. When I heard about it on the 10PM News I went over to check if all were OK, and they were. One of the tenants asked me to check into things for them. I did check with Public Health, and they are waiting for the Report from the Fire Marshall’s office this week. I also want to give praise to the Fire Dept. I was impressed with their thoroughness in collecting information as well in their taking care of the situation.
3rd, To my supporter on Woodbridge Ln. who spoke with me at Westfield Technical Academy regarding this Summer’s Baseball World Series. I checked into the matter re: concerns over parking, and there will be no parking signs up on abutting streets as we do for the fireworks.
Lastly, I mentioned that I was, to use a current cliché, re-inventing myself. Most of my life I have worked to live up to my citizen responsibility to be civic and community involved. Being elected is one way to help, but most of my life not being elected has never stopped me. I will be announcing soon the establishment of a non-profit to base the things I want to do. It is being called the Independent Centrist Voter Network, a part of its mission is public information and education, addressing issues of public policy changes to meet the needs and interests of the many Americans, and to advocate for issues of concern presented by you. Over the years I have developed a good working relationship with those in government, locally, State, and even a few nationally. I want to work with them to resolve issues and concerns of the people of our community. A while back I chose to become an Independent voter for much the same reasons that a majority of voters; rejecting the “get nothing done”, just say no, sabotage, and misrepresentation of each other. I do welcome reasonable and responsible Democrats, and Republicans frustrated with their Parties as well. As for me personally I will act as a Community Advocate for your issues and concerns, using the Public Speaking session at City Council meetings, and the network I have developed advocate for any of you who continue to bring me your concerns. I mean no disrespect to your new ward councilor, but this kind of work gives me a sense of purpose, and enables me to use my skills to help people.
Again, thank you Ward 3, and the good people of Westfield for your trust and kindness that you have given to me.
Brian Hoose [email protected]
