First I would like to express my sadness with the loss of Ted LaBorde, writer for the Republican. I had known Ted since our days in Chicopee when he worked for their office there. He has always been a man of integrity and responsibility in his writing. Over that bunch of years he had done an awesome job of covering what is newsworthy in Westfield and the trust and respect of our elected and our appointed. I was pleased to see so many names attached to the face book mentioning of his passing. I am only sorry that I was able to attend his wake, for I would have liked to meet his family, and to tell them what they already knew: he was a very good and trusted man, and will be sorely missed. I would like to thank Mayor Sullivan for his honorable mention of his illness and how much he respected him. As well, the accolades given by all sides of the Council. And, to Ward 4 Councilor Mary O’Connell for collecting our names on a get well card at a previous Council meeting expressing our thoughts.
OK on to business… One pending issue for the Council as to whether to enable a raise from $10,000 a year, to $13,000 per year. With the General Court getting a raise it might be a sensitive issue, but many if not most Councilors giving so much of their time to attend meeting, research subject matter, meeting with over issues or with citizens and organizations, that whether they agree or not, to at least have a basis for their vote. And, as well, time away from their family and work. We should consider it. It has been a long time since the last increase. But, it is my belief that the question should be on the ballot. It would have to go for a public vote anyway, and this would provide the time and place for those for and against it to bring their thinking and opinions to the voters.
Lastly, I would like to thank Sen. Humason for supporting the initiative brought by Sen. Lessing to have a fast rail connection with Boston. Back in 2008 when I ran for State Rep., I advocated for this. Springfield is going to become an important hub connecting North/South, and East/West train service. The work is being done to better link Springfield with Hartford on to New York City and beyond. Already Holyoke, Northampton, and Greenfield have improved their link. And this link goes to Canada. As well, Palmer is working to improve theirs.
This rapid transit link to Boston can and will bring jobs, and revenues into Western Ma. Just think about it? With casino and new industries in the Springfield area, our arts, entertainment, and cultural resources it would bring more people out to visit. As well, with our lower costs of living, and housing it bring Bostonians West as it often takes the same time to make through cross city traffic, and add in the price of Parking when you can find it, plus you can ride in and take the T to work versus deal with the traffic and congestion. It would prove to be an asset to the region. And, while on the subject I would ask you to speak with Mayor, and Councilors to get serious, while there are State and Federal resources supporting the direct link of Westfield to Springfield. It is not a fun drive into Springfield, even though a short distance, imagine once the casino is operating, and other development are working. Show you initiative, most of the Council won’t bite.
Your former Ward 3 City Councilor, Brian Hoose…. [email protected]
