BOSTON- The Massachusetts House of Representatives officially engrossed their version of the state budget for fiscal year 2018 on Tuesday, concluding their annual debate over amendments to the $40 billion spending bill. Representative John Velis has secured funding in the House Budget for safety improvements and restoration of the Westfield Athenaeum through a $25,000 earmark in the state’s travel and tourism line item.
“The Athenaeum is an institution in this city. Beyond its capacity as a top-notch local library, it is also a living local history museum, a vibrant community hub, and a critical source of information and education for the residents of Westfield. As a State Representative, it is my duty to make sure that the Commonwealth recognizes its importance not only to Westfield, but all of Western Massachusetts, as well,” says Velis.
Although the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners does grant the Athenaeum state money annually in the form of local aid, that money is typically used for their operating budget and day-to-day activities. Velis’s amendment would bring in an additional $25,000 to be used for their ongoing capital improvement project.
The Athenaeum has been undergoing construction for several months as part of their “Rise to Knowledge” campaign, their first major renovation project in 50 years. Mostly funded by private donations and grants thus far, they have already made several improvements ranging from increasing their energy efficiency to upgrading their lighting system. However, they still have a ways to go- when finished, the Athenaeum hopes to have a completely new study room, community foyer, and local history room, in addition to marked safety and technology improvements. The project has already raised over $1.2 million.
“The Athenaeum will always hold a special place in my heart,” says Velis. “Right after law school, when I was studying for the Bar Exam, they went out of their way to find me a quiet study spot in the basement. It felt like a second home after a while.”
With the House version finalized, the Budget now heads to the Senate for more amendments and debate. The budget will undergo a few more rounds of changes in conference committee before heading to the Governor’s desk for his signature. The new budget will take effect in June for the new fiscal year.
