Holyoke - City Councilor At Large Kevin Jourdain was very proud this week to receive the endorsement of the Pioneer Valley AFL-CIO Central Labor Council. "In these tough economic times, where the real unemployment rate surges on 17%, it is nice to know that one of the strongest voices for Holyoke's working families has recognized my hard work on their behalf and have joined my campaign for re-election."
Councilor Jourdain was very appreciative of the endorsement and continues to work hard to be the voters' Fiscal Watchdog on the City Council so that all Holyoke families benefit from a financial responsbile city government that meets their needs.
Re-Elect Holyoke's Fiscal Watchdog!
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Friday, September 25, 2009
Jourdain shows leadership on schools: supports lower class sizes!
Bigger classes trigger concern
Friday, September 25, 2009
By JEANETTE DeFORGE
jdeforge@repub.com
HOLYOKE - The City Council is requesting information about class sizes and the number of teachers who were laid off, with the idea of restoring some teacher positions if funding is available.
In August, the City Council voted on an order to request information on teacher layoffs and class sizes. The School Committee received the order and discussed it in their meeting this week.
"What does this City Council order mean?" asked School Committee member Dennis W. Birks Jr.
He and other members said they hoped it may mean the City Council is willing to assist in replacing some of the positions cut when the school budget of about $76 million was adopted in June. A total of 106 jobs were eliminated through layoffs, resignations and retirements. They included teachers, administrators, custodians and teacher assistants.
By state law, the city is required to spend a minimum amount of money on the schools and it typically does not spend more, but it can with mayoral and City Council approval. The state funds about 90 percent of the school budget.
"The is a step in the right direction," Birks said. "We will need the help."
City Councilor Kevin A. Jourdain said he filed the order more as a parent of children who are in kindergarten, first-grade and pre-school in the public schools. He said he sees class sizes increasing in Lt. Clayre P. Sullivan School, where his two older children are students.
The city's free cash fund, which is money left unspent at the end of the fiscal year, is available and Jourdain said the City Council may be able to use some of that to rehire some teachers reduce class sizes.
"My order is focused on teachers," he said. Adding he knows other employees, such as custodians, are also important but he wanted to focus specifically on the classroom.
But Jourdain said his order is two-fold. He also wants to push school officials to move quickly from offices rented at 57 Suffolk St. to the half-empty H.B. Lawrence School. While it is estimated to cost $870,000 to renovate the school to create offices, the move would save $400,000 a year in rent and other expenses and would be recouped in two years.
He is also pushing the committee to decide if it will use the vacant John J. Lynch School or if it can be turned over to the city and sold.
School Committee members said they are concerned about how budget cuts have affected educational programs across the city.
Committee member Michael J. Moriarty said parents have complained to him about a third-grade class with 30 students and health classes in some of the kindergarten through eighth-grade schools have been severely cut.
While extra money would be welcome, the City Council cannot by law tell the School Committee how to spend the funds, said Mayor Michael J. Sullivan, who also serves as the committee chairman.
Friday, September 25, 2009
By JEANETTE DeFORGE
jdeforge@repub.com
HOLYOKE - The City Council is requesting information about class sizes and the number of teachers who were laid off, with the idea of restoring some teacher positions if funding is available.
In August, the City Council voted on an order to request information on teacher layoffs and class sizes. The School Committee received the order and discussed it in their meeting this week.
"What does this City Council order mean?" asked School Committee member Dennis W. Birks Jr.
He and other members said they hoped it may mean the City Council is willing to assist in replacing some of the positions cut when the school budget of about $76 million was adopted in June. A total of 106 jobs were eliminated through layoffs, resignations and retirements. They included teachers, administrators, custodians and teacher assistants.
By state law, the city is required to spend a minimum amount of money on the schools and it typically does not spend more, but it can with mayoral and City Council approval. The state funds about 90 percent of the school budget.
"The is a step in the right direction," Birks said. "We will need the help."
City Councilor Kevin A. Jourdain said he filed the order more as a parent of children who are in kindergarten, first-grade and pre-school in the public schools. He said he sees class sizes increasing in Lt. Clayre P. Sullivan School, where his two older children are students.
The city's free cash fund, which is money left unspent at the end of the fiscal year, is available and Jourdain said the City Council may be able to use some of that to rehire some teachers reduce class sizes.
"My order is focused on teachers," he said. Adding he knows other employees, such as custodians, are also important but he wanted to focus specifically on the classroom.
But Jourdain said his order is two-fold. He also wants to push school officials to move quickly from offices rented at 57 Suffolk St. to the half-empty H.B. Lawrence School. While it is estimated to cost $870,000 to renovate the school to create offices, the move would save $400,000 a year in rent and other expenses and would be recouped in two years.
He is also pushing the committee to decide if it will use the vacant John J. Lynch School or if it can be turned over to the city and sold.
School Committee members said they are concerned about how budget cuts have affected educational programs across the city.
Committee member Michael J. Moriarty said parents have complained to him about a third-grade class with 30 students and health classes in some of the kindergarten through eighth-grade schools have been severely cut.
While extra money would be welcome, the City Council cannot by law tell the School Committee how to spend the funds, said Mayor Michael J. Sullivan, who also serves as the committee chairman.
Thursday, September 24, 2009
Pluta, Lumbra score victories in Preliminary Election!
Election Results from September 22, 2009 Primary:
Turnout 4573 (19%)
Mayor
Elaine Pluta 2,224
Daniel Boyle 1,292
Eva O'Connell 499
Antonio Colon 487
Treasurer
Jon D. Lumbra 1,781
David B. Donoghue 1,544
John C. Pietrzykowski 1,057
Turnout 4573 (19%)
Mayor
Elaine Pluta 2,224
Daniel Boyle 1,292
Eva O'Connell 499
Antonio Colon 487
Treasurer
Jon D. Lumbra 1,781
David B. Donoghue 1,544
John C. Pietrzykowski 1,057
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
Councilor Jourdain's Re-Election Kickoff on September 17th!
Dear Friend,
Another Election Year is upon us and these are exciting times in the City of Holyoke. We will be welcoming in a new Mayor and there are some openings on the City Council. Incredibly, at the youthful age of 37, I am now the 3rd most senior member of the City Council and the Most Senior member of the important Finance Committee.
For 16 years, I have been your fiscal watchdog and the best friend of Holyoke’s taxpayers. During my tenure, I have kept the devil at the door in order to root out government waste and abuse in order for you to enjoy a city government that is more responsive to your needs and less taxing on your pocketbooks. I am a leader who is always prepared and always vigilant in the defense of Holyoke’s important priorities and basic common sense. During these times of fiscal uncertainty, Holyoke voters know they can turn to me as the most qualified candidate for Councilor At Large on fiscal issues.
I have worked hard to expand our tax base with key support for new economic development while also being a good ambassador of the city and improving our reputation throughout the state and region. In 2008, Business West Magazine chose me as one of the Top 40 Young Professionals in Western Massachusetts under the age of 40. Experience counts and no one in the last two decades has a better record of constituent service, unquestioned integrity and unwavering commitment to the people of our city.
In order to continue my work on the City Council, I need your support! Fundraising for better or worst is the lifeblood of any campaign. Unfortunately, the cost of campaigns, like everything else, continues to go up. I have always been able to count on you and this is why I am asking for you to join me for my Re-election Kickoff and fundraiser.
Councilor At Large Kevin Jourdain’s Re-Election Kickoff
Thursday, September 17, 2009
6pm – 9pm
The Wherehouse?
109 Lyman Street
Holyoke, MA 01040
Suggested donation: $20 per person
Tickets can be purchased at the door or in advance by sending your contribution to The Jourdain Committee; PO Box 10383; Holyoke, MA 01041-1983. (There is a response card attached below for your convenience - just double click it and print it) I am looking forward to a big crowd but if you cannot attend, please strongly consider a generous donation to make our campaign victorious. If you have any questions or would like to volunteer on the campaign, please call me at (413) 538-5519.
It has been a tremendous honor to serve the people of Holyoke on the City Council, let us make sure they have the type of leadership they deserve in their city government by making sure I am re-elected on November 3rd!
See you September 17th and thank you again for all of your past support!
With warmest regards,
Kevin A. Jourdain
Jourdain sponsors order to provide new Property Tax Relief for Holyoke's Seniors
Holyoke – Councilor At Large Kevin Jourdain announced that he has co-sponsored an order with City Councilor At Large John G Whelihan to dramatically increase the eligibility of senior property tax exemptions in the City of Holyoke so that an additional two hundred seniors will be potentially eligible for eligible for critically needed tax relief. “For 16 years, I have fought for affordable and stable residential property tax rates, as well as, curb the growing cost of city government,” said Jourdain.
“Unfortunately, the city has continued to increase its tax levy each year and it is hurting many of our seniors who are on fixed income, this order will come as welcome news that some relief is on the way,” added Jourdain. For the Fiscal Years 2000-2009, the tax levy, which is set solely by the Mayor, has been increased by $2 million per year causing average single family tax bills to increase $1200 per year.
M.G.L. Ch 59 §5(41C) establishes the state allowances for senior tax exemptions and who is eligible. Councilor Jourdain proposes to amend the eligibility allowances to the maximum allowable under the statute as follows:
1) That the eligibility age be reduced from 70 to 65
2) That the Income Limits be raised to $20,000 for singles and $30,000 for married persons from $18,000 for singles and $25,000 for married couples.
3) That the Asset Limits be raised to $40,000 for singles and $55,000 for married persons from $35,000 for singles and $37,000 for married couples.
4) Asset Deductions be allowed for up to a 4-Family for number of units in the home from up to a 3-Family home under current Holyoke law.
5) That the Exemption allowed be increased from $500 to $750.
Statistically, because of the current lower eligibility limits only 79 people in Holyoke currently qualify for the current $500 tax exemption. The City of Holyoke is permitted to distribute 259 exemptions of $500 and get a full 100% reimbursement from the state. Therefore, except for adjusting the amount of the exemption to $750, adjustments 1-4 in the Jourdain-Whelihan proposal comes at no cost to the city.
Because of the rising average single family tax bills, the current elderly tax exemption of $500 has lost much of its impact because it used to account for 30% of their tax bill but now only reduces 18% of the bill. By increasing the exemption to $750, the exemption would account for 28% of their bill and provide some real relief that will come as seniors on fixed income with limited assets could sorely use. “While Social Security is giving no raises, Holyoke must remain affordable to our seniors who are often caught between a rock and hard place when they try to make ends meet, this order will provide hundreds of dollars in new relief for each senior” said Jourdain.
With the city preparing to certify millions in new free cash in addition to $9 million in stabilization fund, the small cost of $250 (because state pays first $500) to help 259 of our most needy seniors keep their homes would cost only $64,750 if every senior who qualified took exemption. “Our seniors built Holyoke and when they are in need we need to make sure we are there for them,” said Jourdain.
The Jourdain proposal would begin July 1, 2010 if adopted by the City Council. At the meeting, the Jourdain-Whelihan order was referred to the Finance Committee for a committee meeting with the Assessors. Councilor Jourdain also added, “I am very proud to co-sponsor this order with Jay Whelihan, his father and I adopted the last adjustment 6 years ago and his father would certainly have supported this order because he was always a champion for our seniors.”
“Unfortunately, the city has continued to increase its tax levy each year and it is hurting many of our seniors who are on fixed income, this order will come as welcome news that some relief is on the way,” added Jourdain. For the Fiscal Years 2000-2009, the tax levy, which is set solely by the Mayor, has been increased by $2 million per year causing average single family tax bills to increase $1200 per year.
M.G.L. Ch 59 §5(41C) establishes the state allowances for senior tax exemptions and who is eligible. Councilor Jourdain proposes to amend the eligibility allowances to the maximum allowable under the statute as follows:
1) That the eligibility age be reduced from 70 to 65
2) That the Income Limits be raised to $20,000 for singles and $30,000 for married persons from $18,000 for singles and $25,000 for married couples.
3) That the Asset Limits be raised to $40,000 for singles and $55,000 for married persons from $35,000 for singles and $37,000 for married couples.
4) Asset Deductions be allowed for up to a 4-Family for number of units in the home from up to a 3-Family home under current Holyoke law.
5) That the Exemption allowed be increased from $500 to $750.
Statistically, because of the current lower eligibility limits only 79 people in Holyoke currently qualify for the current $500 tax exemption. The City of Holyoke is permitted to distribute 259 exemptions of $500 and get a full 100% reimbursement from the state. Therefore, except for adjusting the amount of the exemption to $750, adjustments 1-4 in the Jourdain-Whelihan proposal comes at no cost to the city.
Because of the rising average single family tax bills, the current elderly tax exemption of $500 has lost much of its impact because it used to account for 30% of their tax bill but now only reduces 18% of the bill. By increasing the exemption to $750, the exemption would account for 28% of their bill and provide some real relief that will come as seniors on fixed income with limited assets could sorely use. “While Social Security is giving no raises, Holyoke must remain affordable to our seniors who are often caught between a rock and hard place when they try to make ends meet, this order will provide hundreds of dollars in new relief for each senior” said Jourdain.
With the city preparing to certify millions in new free cash in addition to $9 million in stabilization fund, the small cost of $250 (because state pays first $500) to help 259 of our most needy seniors keep their homes would cost only $64,750 if every senior who qualified took exemption. “Our seniors built Holyoke and when they are in need we need to make sure we are there for them,” said Jourdain.
The Jourdain proposal would begin July 1, 2010 if adopted by the City Council. At the meeting, the Jourdain-Whelihan order was referred to the Finance Committee for a committee meeting with the Assessors. Councilor Jourdain also added, “I am very proud to co-sponsor this order with Jay Whelihan, his father and I adopted the last adjustment 6 years ago and his father would certainly have supported this order because he was always a champion for our seniors.”
Sunday, July 26, 2009
CBS 3 Does Followup Story on Holyoke Library Computer Controversy
http://www.cbs3springfield.com/news/local/51361147.html
By Matthew Campbell
Story Published: Jul 21, 2009 at 11:18 PM EDT
Story Updated: Jul 21, 2009 at 11:18 PM EDT
Weeks after a CBS 3 Springfield investigation uncovered an alleged child porn cover-up, the Holyoke library has made changes.
New computers, equipped with state of the art firewalls is the response from the Holyoke Library after their computers were infiltrated by child porn.
"It will prevent any changes and any downloading onto our computers," says library director, Maria Pagan.
Back in December, Holyoke resident Michael Houle, was indicted for accessing child porn on the library's computer.
It took three days before someone finally went to police.
It was librarian Carla Wessells. She spoke exclusively to CBS 3 Springfield earlier this month, alleging a cover-up took place.
"She kept saying over and over, the police are going to want to know a name. And she told me to just relax," Wessels said in that interview.
Tuesday at a board meeting, the library denied a cover up, but admitted there were gaps in their safety policies.
Now they're correcting them.
"Between the new computers and state of the art software, this is a step forward," Pagan says.
Patrons can see the changes as new signs are posted on the walls.
A new safety security manual was revised and approved by the Holyoke Police Department.
Appleton Street officials say the city's library matches or beats the safety at any other library in the state.
"Keeping it simple like that eliminates any questions about what needs to be done," says Holyoke Police Lt. Denise Duguay.
In August, all employees will undergo mandatory training on what to do if someone abuses the library computers again.
"I think it's a good start. There may be employees that weren't sure how to handle the situation so I think the training is always a good start," says resident Melissa Rogers.
Residents again feel safe to bring their kids to the Maple Street library, but aren't sure the director, the one accused of a cover up, should go unpunished.
"The first thing she should've done is bring it to somebody's attention and that should've been the police," says Brenda Cruz.
However, the library, admits no wrong.
In a telephone interview with Board president Ellen Moriarty, she says, nothing will be done to Maria because "she's served the board well."
No matter how residents are feeling, it appears that the controversy will end here.
The board is run independently from the city, so all decisions, including this one, can't be challenged.
By Matthew Campbell
Story Published: Jul 21, 2009 at 11:18 PM EDT
Story Updated: Jul 21, 2009 at 11:18 PM EDT
Weeks after a CBS 3 Springfield investigation uncovered an alleged child porn cover-up, the Holyoke library has made changes.
New computers, equipped with state of the art firewalls is the response from the Holyoke Library after their computers were infiltrated by child porn.
"It will prevent any changes and any downloading onto our computers," says library director, Maria Pagan.
Back in December, Holyoke resident Michael Houle, was indicted for accessing child porn on the library's computer.
It took three days before someone finally went to police.
It was librarian Carla Wessells. She spoke exclusively to CBS 3 Springfield earlier this month, alleging a cover-up took place.
"She kept saying over and over, the police are going to want to know a name. And she told me to just relax," Wessels said in that interview.
Tuesday at a board meeting, the library denied a cover up, but admitted there were gaps in their safety policies.
Now they're correcting them.
"Between the new computers and state of the art software, this is a step forward," Pagan says.
Patrons can see the changes as new signs are posted on the walls.
A new safety security manual was revised and approved by the Holyoke Police Department.
Appleton Street officials say the city's library matches or beats the safety at any other library in the state.
"Keeping it simple like that eliminates any questions about what needs to be done," says Holyoke Police Lt. Denise Duguay.
In August, all employees will undergo mandatory training on what to do if someone abuses the library computers again.
"I think it's a good start. There may be employees that weren't sure how to handle the situation so I think the training is always a good start," says resident Melissa Rogers.
Residents again feel safe to bring their kids to the Maple Street library, but aren't sure the director, the one accused of a cover up, should go unpunished.
"The first thing she should've done is bring it to somebody's attention and that should've been the police," says Brenda Cruz.
However, the library, admits no wrong.
In a telephone interview with Board president Ellen Moriarty, she says, nothing will be done to Maria because "she's served the board well."
No matter how residents are feeling, it appears that the controversy will end here.
The board is run independently from the city, so all decisions, including this one, can't be challenged.
Councilor Jourdain seeks input from citizens on 2009 Priority Road Repair List!
For Immediate Release
July 27, 2009
HOLYOKE – City Councilor At Large Kevin A. Jourdain announced today that he is seeking input from the citizens of Holyoke regarding which streets they believe should be placed on the DPW’s 2009 Priority List. The DPW annually develops a Priority List for road resurfacing and related work. The City anticipates spending approximately $700,000 this year which is funded through our Chapter 90 State Aid for Highways. Every year, Councilor Jourdain makes it a point to seek the input from his constituents in developing the city’s Priority List. “Over the years, I have been very successful in getting scores of streets in need of resurfacing and sidewalk replacement placed on the DPW’s Priority List,” said Jourdain. Councilor Jourdain is the most senior member of the Finance Committee and has secured tens of millions of dollars in new streets and sidewalks during his tenure on the City Council. “I continue to put my experience to work for the taxpayers by making sure their needs are met.”
If a constituent knows of a street or sidewalk that needs to be replaced, please contact him at (413) 538-5519 or email him at Kevin.Jourdain@verizon.net.
# # #
July 27, 2009
HOLYOKE – City Councilor At Large Kevin A. Jourdain announced today that he is seeking input from the citizens of Holyoke regarding which streets they believe should be placed on the DPW’s 2009 Priority List. The DPW annually develops a Priority List for road resurfacing and related work. The City anticipates spending approximately $700,000 this year which is funded through our Chapter 90 State Aid for Highways. Every year, Councilor Jourdain makes it a point to seek the input from his constituents in developing the city’s Priority List. “Over the years, I have been very successful in getting scores of streets in need of resurfacing and sidewalk replacement placed on the DPW’s Priority List,” said Jourdain. Councilor Jourdain is the most senior member of the Finance Committee and has secured tens of millions of dollars in new streets and sidewalks during his tenure on the City Council. “I continue to put my experience to work for the taxpayers by making sure their needs are met.”
If a constituent knows of a street or sidewalk that needs to be replaced, please contact him at (413) 538-5519 or email him at Kevin.Jourdain@verizon.net.
# # #
Monday, July 6, 2009
Mayor Hamilton Dies and is Remembered!
There is sad news from Texas tonight: former Mayor Hamilton passed away this afternoon.
I served my first term on the City Council with Bill and he was a very hard working Mayor who was exceptionally smart and shrewd. He was very helpful to me personally when he pushed to get me elected as a rookie and for that I am eternally grateful. He did a fine job for the city and was not one to be swayed by what was popular even when it looked like it might cost him his seat.
Alot of people do not remember the Override days of 1991. From that low point in city finances, Bill emerged as a real leader for change and it is why the people of the city elected him. While we agreed most of the time, there were exceptions and he always made sure to tell me what he thought. I liked his style although I can say it did not work for all of my colleagues. He was fair and a straight shooter.
Not to be out done, he would be the first to remind everyone of his very talented and gifted wife, Rosemary, who was a Mt. Holyoke graduate. Very sharp lady and very charming.
One of Bill's favorite lines from Shakespeare that he particularly loved to quote towards those who seemed to have forgotten what he delivered from time to time was from King Lear, "Sharper than a serpent's tooth are these the children of ingratitude!" I loved that line and he said it with a certain flair that just made you laugh even if it was directed your way.
Holyoke was lucky to have Bill as our Mayor for 5 years (1991-1996). I know he enjoyed his son, Mark, very much and relocated to Texas from his home on Eastern Promenade to be with him. Mark is quite accomplished as well.
Bill will be remembered fondly and it was a pleasure to have known him. Requiescat in pace.
Former Holyoke Mayor William Hamilton dies in Texas following heart attacks
By MIKE PLAISANCE
mplaisance@repub.com
HOLYOKE - Former Mayor William A. Hamilton, whose tough-minded management was credited with turning around the city during a recession died Monday in Texas. He was 86.
His son Mark F. Hamilton said in a telephone interview that William Hamilton collapsed in his Austin apartment, suffered two cardiac arrests and was pronounced dead at the hospital at 12:11 p.m.
He won a special election for mayor in June 1991. After winning in 1993, Hamilton lost the mayoral seat in an upset in November 1995 to Daniel J. Szostkiewicz, a former city councilor who was nearly three-times younger than Hamilton.
"He died peacefully, with my wife and I at his side," Mark Hamilton said.
Hamilton was mayor here during hard financial times and generally his cost-cutting measures and tightness with the public buck were credited with helping the city through its financial crisis.
Hamilton grew up in the city's Churchill section, and served a term as an alderman in the 1960s.
Later as a businessman with Monsanto Co., Hamilton traveled the world before returning to Holyoke to retire.
He invented a railroad car for Monsanto operations that dumped loads through the bottom rather than having to lift the car up and rotate it.
Hamilton was an iconoclast here - and the Shakespeare-quoting Hamilton probably would have preferred the label "iconoclast" over merely "rebel."
He was a registered Republican mayor in a city run by Democrats.
He pushed to put a gambling casino-resort on Mount Tom, even though that position cost him support of voters in Ward 7 who opposed gaming in their ward.
Hamilton opposed having the city take over the hydroelectric dam here from a utility company, a step later favored in a non-binding referendum by the voters by about a four to one margin.
Among the economic development in his administration was the one-third increase in the size of the Holyoke Mall at Ingleside and development of Holyoke Crossings, a retail block adjacent to the mall.
Disturbing New Development in Holyoke Public Library Child Porn Investigation!
From Channel 3 News comes this very disturbing report:
Allegations of Child Porn Cover Up at Holyoke Library
http://www.cbs3springfield.com/news/local/49743542.html/
By Matthew Campbell
Story Published: Jul 2, 2009 at 11:07 PM EDT
Story Updated: Jul 2, 2009 at 11:13 PM EDT
An assistant librarian blew the whistle on a patron who is accused of downloading child porn. But she didn't stop there. She speaks out against the higher-ups who, she says, tried to sweep the incident under the rug.
It was a December day at the Holyoke Library. Patrons were using the computer, until raw pornographic images pop up.
But the centerfold on the screen was a toddler.
"They were very sexually explicit photographs of a little girl, probably 3 or 4 years old. You couldn't see his face, but you could clearly see hers. It was almost like she was looking right at you," Wessels says.
Shocked, and staring back at the girl on the screen, were the patron, the assistant library director, and her boss, director, Maria Pagan.
"She thought by restarting the computer, that would take care of it," Wessels says.
Assistant Library Director, Carla Wessels, alleges her boss tried to delete the images and keep the incident quiet, by not reporting it.
"She kept saying over and over, the police are going to want to know a name. And she told me to just relax," Wessels says.
But Wessels couldn't. The images haunted the 5 year librarian.
"When I went home, Friday night after work, I was still really affected. All day through work all I could see were those images," Wessels says.
And that's when she decided to blow the whistle. It was 3 days later on a Monday morning.
"First thing when I got in, in the morning, I went into her office, and said pretty much the same thing when I called her Friday night. And she gave me the same response that the police are going to want to know a name and she even brought up the Patriot Act saying that as a library, we need to keep patrons names and addresses confidential," Wessels says.
Fearing the incident would never be reported, Wessels called police. Holyoke's Cyber Crimes unit seized the computer.
Hours later, the images Maria deleted were resurrected. The photos were brought back to life and the man who allegedly surfed for them was identified.
29 year old Michael Houle, who lives a block away from the library and the elementary school across the street, was arraigned on multiple counts of child pornography possession.
"I'm just trying to do what's right and to have people in the higher lever of authority than me not want to be on my side or tell me I did the right thing, is sad," Wessels says.
So CBS 3 went to the people in power, visiting Maria Pagan at her home, and Chairwoman of the Board, Ellen Moriarty.
After repeated attempts, CBS 3 caught up with Pagan at the library.
"What about the allegations that you told the librarians not to do anything about it," we asked.
"That's what they're saying, I'm not going to say either way," Pagan says.
The Library Director still would not admit timing was an issue.
"The police was called, right," Pagan says. "The person was caught, so time doesn't matter," she states.
But Police Chief Anthony Scott says timing is everything.
"If they deleted files, it would've caused problems, but because of the actions of the assistant librarian, we were able to get the info and secure the computer," Scott says.
But when asked by CBS 3, Pagan is still unsure police involvement was the right thing to do.
"Did you follow the manual that day," we asked.
"Didn't even think of doing it," Pagan states.
"Why not," we respond.
"It was just a reaction," she says.
"Do you regret not calling police earlier," we ask.
"Probably, probably," Pagan says, shrugging us off.
After the incident, the library conducted it's own investigation. The results aren't public, because under city law, drafted in the 1900s, the library is treated as a private organization.
"The library is separate. It's run by a board of trustees," confirms Holyoke Mayor Michael Sullivan.
We ask Pagan more questions.
"Is child safety or the reputation of the library more important?"
"Child safety," she responds.
"Then why didn't you call police as soon as you saw those pictures," we ask.
"It was probably a reaction. That's just it," Pagan says.
But Wessels is afraid it won't be the last time, she'll be calling police.
"I think it could easily happen again," Wessels says.
Our investigation discovered no changes at the library. Sex offender posters are not put up. There are no new firewalls in the library computers, nor are there any new policies for dealing with illegal activities.
Allegations of Child Porn Cover Up at Holyoke Library
http://www.cbs3springfield.com/news/local/49743542.html/
By Matthew Campbell
Story Published: Jul 2, 2009 at 11:07 PM EDT
Story Updated: Jul 2, 2009 at 11:13 PM EDT
An assistant librarian blew the whistle on a patron who is accused of downloading child porn. But she didn't stop there. She speaks out against the higher-ups who, she says, tried to sweep the incident under the rug.
It was a December day at the Holyoke Library. Patrons were using the computer, until raw pornographic images pop up.
But the centerfold on the screen was a toddler.
"They were very sexually explicit photographs of a little girl, probably 3 or 4 years old. You couldn't see his face, but you could clearly see hers. It was almost like she was looking right at you," Wessels says.
Shocked, and staring back at the girl on the screen, were the patron, the assistant library director, and her boss, director, Maria Pagan.
"She thought by restarting the computer, that would take care of it," Wessels says.
Assistant Library Director, Carla Wessels, alleges her boss tried to delete the images and keep the incident quiet, by not reporting it.
"She kept saying over and over, the police are going to want to know a name. And she told me to just relax," Wessels says.
But Wessels couldn't. The images haunted the 5 year librarian.
"When I went home, Friday night after work, I was still really affected. All day through work all I could see were those images," Wessels says.
And that's when she decided to blow the whistle. It was 3 days later on a Monday morning.
"First thing when I got in, in the morning, I went into her office, and said pretty much the same thing when I called her Friday night. And she gave me the same response that the police are going to want to know a name and she even brought up the Patriot Act saying that as a library, we need to keep patrons names and addresses confidential," Wessels says.
Fearing the incident would never be reported, Wessels called police. Holyoke's Cyber Crimes unit seized the computer.
Hours later, the images Maria deleted were resurrected. The photos were brought back to life and the man who allegedly surfed for them was identified.
29 year old Michael Houle, who lives a block away from the library and the elementary school across the street, was arraigned on multiple counts of child pornography possession.
"I'm just trying to do what's right and to have people in the higher lever of authority than me not want to be on my side or tell me I did the right thing, is sad," Wessels says.
So CBS 3 went to the people in power, visiting Maria Pagan at her home, and Chairwoman of the Board, Ellen Moriarty.
After repeated attempts, CBS 3 caught up with Pagan at the library.
"What about the allegations that you told the librarians not to do anything about it," we asked.
"That's what they're saying, I'm not going to say either way," Pagan says.
The Library Director still would not admit timing was an issue.
"The police was called, right," Pagan says. "The person was caught, so time doesn't matter," she states.
But Police Chief Anthony Scott says timing is everything.
"If they deleted files, it would've caused problems, but because of the actions of the assistant librarian, we were able to get the info and secure the computer," Scott says.
But when asked by CBS 3, Pagan is still unsure police involvement was the right thing to do.
"Did you follow the manual that day," we asked.
"Didn't even think of doing it," Pagan states.
"Why not," we respond.
"It was just a reaction," she says.
"Do you regret not calling police earlier," we ask.
"Probably, probably," Pagan says, shrugging us off.
After the incident, the library conducted it's own investigation. The results aren't public, because under city law, drafted in the 1900s, the library is treated as a private organization.
"The library is separate. It's run by a board of trustees," confirms Holyoke Mayor Michael Sullivan.
We ask Pagan more questions.
"Is child safety or the reputation of the library more important?"
"Child safety," she responds.
"Then why didn't you call police as soon as you saw those pictures," we ask.
"It was probably a reaction. That's just it," Pagan says.
But Wessels is afraid it won't be the last time, she'll be calling police.
"I think it could easily happen again," Wessels says.
Our investigation discovered no changes at the library. Sex offender posters are not put up. There are no new firewalls in the library computers, nor are there any new policies for dealing with illegal activities.
Thursday, June 25, 2009
Jourdain selected to Key Post on Values for 2010 Convention!
City Councilor Kevin Jourdain, who is a member of the Platform Committee of the 2010 Massachusetts Republican Party Convention, was selected by Platform Chairman Matt Kinnaman to Chair the Sub-Committee on Values.
Councilor Jourdain stated upon the announcement of his selection, "I wish to thank Chairman Kinnaman for this great honor and responsbility. I look forward to working hard to ensure our Party's Platform continues to reflect America's core values for education, entrepreneurship and moral responsbility."
The 2010 Republican State Convention will be held next year in Worcester, Mass.
Councilor Jourdain stated upon the announcement of his selection, "I wish to thank Chairman Kinnaman for this great honor and responsbility. I look forward to working hard to ensure our Party's Platform continues to reflect America's core values for education, entrepreneurship and moral responsbility."
The 2010 Republican State Convention will be held next year in Worcester, Mass.
Holyoke First Bloggers' Poll Results: 79% say they would definitely use newly Proposed Train Terminal!
Holyoke First Blogger's Poll results:
79% say they would definitely use the newly proposed Commuter Rail Line slated to come to Holyoke.
Thank you for all who participated! I appreciate your opinion.
79% say they would definitely use the newly proposed Commuter Rail Line slated to come to Holyoke.
Thank you for all who participated! I appreciate your opinion.
Friday, June 12, 2009
A Great Day for Holyoke!!
Let me first say thank you to Governor Patrick in his instrumental role in delivering the new computer center for Holyoke. The infusion of $100 million in capital to our downtown and the scores of jobs that will be associated with this project is just the shot in the arm our great city needs. "Industria et Copia" is our motto and from the Latin it means the Industry and Supply or Resources to meet that industry. Holyoke today in partnership with numerous corporate and academic heavyweights from throughout the Commonwealth has once again been the place where big things can happen and is meeting the needs of our newest industries.
As your City Councilor, I will do everything in power to make sure Holyoke prepares for our newest partner and make sure they receive the open arms they deserve. I will also be continuing to work hard to make sure this project spring boards the city to new opportunities.
It is a great day indeed for many of us who have been working so hard to revitalize our downtown. My hat is off to all involved!
Here is today's story from the Republican:
Holyoke to be hub of high tech
Friday, June 12, 2009
By KEN ROSS
kross@repub.com
HOLYOKE - Gov. Deval L. Patrick and the presidents of the University of Massachusetts, Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Boston University joined numerous officials and residents Thursday to announce plans to build an $80-million to $100-million high performance computer center in the city, which will also harness the talent of Cisco Systems and EMC Co.
"It's a landmark collaboration," Patrick said during the press conference held in a standing-room-only conference room in the city's public library.
Many others also touted the high-tech facility, which will house a large number of high-speed computers and serve as a location for cutting-edge collaborative computer research in climate change, biofuels, life sciences, clean energy and other research which relies heavily on computation.
"This (project) will advance the commonwealth as a world research leader," UMass President Jack M. Wilson said.
"For these universities to remain at the forefront, this center is key," MIT President Susan Hockfield said.
Boston University President Robert Brown also praised the collaborative nature of the project. "A partnership like this is breaking new ground in the commonwealth," he said.
All the parties involved in the project gathered Thursday to sign a letter of intent to work collaboratively on the project. Officials will now spend the next 120 days (putting the deadline at Sept. 19) creating an action plan for the project, including discussing possible site locations, financing for the project and creating a timeline for construction, according to a statement issued by Patrick.
The state has not committed a specific amount of money for the project, Patrick said. The same is true for the other parties involved in the project, which Patrick stated is estimated to cost between $80 million and $100 million to build.
Patrick said he hopes the universities or private companies like Cisco Systems or EMC Corp. take the lead in funding such a facility. Other universities and companies have also expressed an interest in being part of the collaboration, Patrick said, but he declined to be specific.
Exactly how many jobs will be created by the facility also has not been determined, Patrick and others said. However, Mayor Michael J. Sullivan said earlier this week he estimated the facility will "produce thousands of jobs." Sullivan remained optimistic Thursday. "The sky's the limit now," he said.
Sullivan added he did not know who will technically own the property, an issue which would make a difference in terms of property taxes. Educational institutions are exempt from paying city property taxes.
And while the exact location for the facility has not been selected, Sullivan reiterated that the facility would be located downtown near the city's canals. "Along one of the three canals is the optimum place," Sullivan said.
Several officials touted the low-priced, environmentally conscious electricity created mainly by city-owned turbines powered by the Connecticut River as one of the key reasons why they chose to locate the facility in Holyoke.
"The use of green technology is a key feature here," Patrick said.
The governor, Wilson, Hockfield and others talked about the city's high-speed fiber optic network as another reasons why they chose to locate the facility in Holyoke.
"We quickly realized Holyoke is just the place for this" facility, Wilson said.
More than 100 people attended the press conference, including many residents, politicians and business leaders. All of them cheered and clapped loudly throughout the press conference.
"It (the new facility) designates the city of Holyoke as a place that's open to high tech," said Brendan Ciecko, the founder and president of Ten Minute Media, a Holyoke-based Internet marketing company. "It's really a mammoth step forward."
Sullivan agreed. Asked what he thought the project meant in terms of the city's future and it's image, he said, "I think it makes a big difference."
Or when asked to rate the project on a scale of one to 10, Patrick said, "This is a 12. This is what the whole commonwealth and country needs."
©2009 The Republican
© 2009 MassLive.com All Rights Reserved
As your City Councilor, I will do everything in power to make sure Holyoke prepares for our newest partner and make sure they receive the open arms they deserve. I will also be continuing to work hard to make sure this project spring boards the city to new opportunities.
It is a great day indeed for many of us who have been working so hard to revitalize our downtown. My hat is off to all involved!
Here is today's story from the Republican:
Holyoke to be hub of high tech
Friday, June 12, 2009
By KEN ROSS
kross@repub.com
HOLYOKE - Gov. Deval L. Patrick and the presidents of the University of Massachusetts, Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Boston University joined numerous officials and residents Thursday to announce plans to build an $80-million to $100-million high performance computer center in the city, which will also harness the talent of Cisco Systems and EMC Co.
"It's a landmark collaboration," Patrick said during the press conference held in a standing-room-only conference room in the city's public library.
Many others also touted the high-tech facility, which will house a large number of high-speed computers and serve as a location for cutting-edge collaborative computer research in climate change, biofuels, life sciences, clean energy and other research which relies heavily on computation.
"This (project) will advance the commonwealth as a world research leader," UMass President Jack M. Wilson said.
"For these universities to remain at the forefront, this center is key," MIT President Susan Hockfield said.
Boston University President Robert Brown also praised the collaborative nature of the project. "A partnership like this is breaking new ground in the commonwealth," he said.
All the parties involved in the project gathered Thursday to sign a letter of intent to work collaboratively on the project. Officials will now spend the next 120 days (putting the deadline at Sept. 19) creating an action plan for the project, including discussing possible site locations, financing for the project and creating a timeline for construction, according to a statement issued by Patrick.
The state has not committed a specific amount of money for the project, Patrick said. The same is true for the other parties involved in the project, which Patrick stated is estimated to cost between $80 million and $100 million to build.
Patrick said he hopes the universities or private companies like Cisco Systems or EMC Corp. take the lead in funding such a facility. Other universities and companies have also expressed an interest in being part of the collaboration, Patrick said, but he declined to be specific.
Exactly how many jobs will be created by the facility also has not been determined, Patrick and others said. However, Mayor Michael J. Sullivan said earlier this week he estimated the facility will "produce thousands of jobs." Sullivan remained optimistic Thursday. "The sky's the limit now," he said.
Sullivan added he did not know who will technically own the property, an issue which would make a difference in terms of property taxes. Educational institutions are exempt from paying city property taxes.
And while the exact location for the facility has not been selected, Sullivan reiterated that the facility would be located downtown near the city's canals. "Along one of the three canals is the optimum place," Sullivan said.
Several officials touted the low-priced, environmentally conscious electricity created mainly by city-owned turbines powered by the Connecticut River as one of the key reasons why they chose to locate the facility in Holyoke.
"The use of green technology is a key feature here," Patrick said.
The governor, Wilson, Hockfield and others talked about the city's high-speed fiber optic network as another reasons why they chose to locate the facility in Holyoke.
"We quickly realized Holyoke is just the place for this" facility, Wilson said.
More than 100 people attended the press conference, including many residents, politicians and business leaders. All of them cheered and clapped loudly throughout the press conference.
"It (the new facility) designates the city of Holyoke as a place that's open to high tech," said Brendan Ciecko, the founder and president of Ten Minute Media, a Holyoke-based Internet marketing company. "It's really a mammoth step forward."
Sullivan agreed. Asked what he thought the project meant in terms of the city's future and it's image, he said, "I think it makes a big difference."
Or when asked to rate the project on a scale of one to 10, Patrick said, "This is a 12. This is what the whole commonwealth and country needs."
©2009 The Republican
© 2009 MassLive.com All Rights Reserved
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
Saturday, May 9, 2009
The Legendary Councilor Jack Whelihan dies: He will always be remembered!
Councilor dies, Holyoke grieves
Friday, May 08, 2009
By KEN ROSS
kross@repub.com
HOLYOKE - Longtime City Councilor John E. Whelihan died on Wednesday, prompting an outpouring of emotion from officials who knew him well.
"The City Council will not be the same without him," said Councilor Kevin A. Jourdain. "Jack loved Holyoke, and Holyoke loved Jack."
Mayor Michael J. Sullivan agreed, "His dedication to city service is unparalleled. He's going to be missed."
Councilor Joseph M. McGiverin said, "I've served with him for 30 years. I'm deeply saddened by his passing. Our condolences go out to his family."
Whelihan, 70, announced recently that he was not running for re-election. He sat on the council for 32 of the last 40 years.
He was not at Tuesday's council meeting during which McGiverin reported that Whelihan was undergoing surgery. He asked the members to pray for him.
Whelihan was first elected to the council in 1969. The longtime Postal Service worker said last month that he never planned to serve so long on the council.
"I just got on for a few years," he said. "But it changed everything."
Whelihan had thought about joining the police force. But if he did, he said, he would have had to resign from the council.
"I got involved in the political scene, and I really liked politics to start with," he said.
So, rather than join the police force, Whelihan stayed with the Post Office and the council.
According to McGiverin, he was "a tremendous fighter for homeowners, for the middle class." He said, "When he took on an issue, he fought tenaciously until it was solved. You always knew where he stood. He made you work hard."
Jourdain agreed, "He was a tireless fighter for our seniors and those who did without."
Whelihan's current term on the council was set to expire next Jan. 3. The council is responsible for appointing someone to fill his vacant seat, said McGiverin.
He said he has no idea if or when the council will fill the post.
"We have no intention of doing that," McGiverin added. "Our first thoughts are with the family."
©2009 The Republican
© 2009 MassLive.com All Rights Reserved.
Thursday, April 23, 2009
Holyoke First Bloggers oppose 19 cent Gas Tax Increase!
Holyoke First Bloggers voted 75% to 25% against Governor Patrick's proposed 19 cent Gas Tax Increase in a recent Holyoke First Poll.
Thank you for all who participated!
Thank you for all who participated!
Councilor Jourdain turns in Signatures: Certified for November Ballot!
I would like to thank everyone who took the time to sign my nomination signatures to seek another term as your City Councilor At Large. The Registrar of Voters informed me that my signatures were certified and that I am on the ballot.
I look forward to once again running a very dynamic and energetic campaign! I want to once again personally thank you for your past support and please once again ask for your vote to continue to be your advocate and fiscal watchdog on the City Council.
In these tough times, experience and proven leadership can make all the difference in the world. With a new mayor and several new City Councilors likely to fill upcoming vacancies, it will be important to have someone who has the education and experience to provide the stability the city needs to watch over its finances.
I would deeply appreciate you spreading a kind word on my behalf to your family and friends. If you would like to volunteer on my campaign, please give me a call at 538-5519 or email me at kevin.jourdain@verizon.net.
I look forward to once again running a very dynamic and energetic campaign! I want to once again personally thank you for your past support and please once again ask for your vote to continue to be your advocate and fiscal watchdog on the City Council.
In these tough times, experience and proven leadership can make all the difference in the world. With a new mayor and several new City Councilors likely to fill upcoming vacancies, it will be important to have someone who has the education and experience to provide the stability the city needs to watch over its finances.
I would deeply appreciate you spreading a kind word on my behalf to your family and friends. If you would like to volunteer on my campaign, please give me a call at 538-5519 or email me at kevin.jourdain@verizon.net.
Mass Highway announces $24 million rehabilitation of the Willimansett Bridge!
The Mass Highway Department recently announced the $24 million rehabiliation of the Willimansett Bridge between Holyoke and Chicopee. This is very welcome news that I wanted you to be aware of.
There was a design hearing on April 16th. The 793 foot bridge carries 15,000 cars per day. No timeline for work completion has been released yet.
There was a design hearing on April 16th. The 793 foot bridge carries 15,000 cars per day. No timeline for work completion has been released yet.
City Assessors turn in Cell Phones!
I recently received a letter from Chief Assessor Anthony Dulude informing the Council that the Assessors were relinquishing their taxpayer funded cell phone at a cost of $180 per month.
As you know as a Holyoke First follower, I called for a top to bottom review of all taxpayer funded cell phones in the city. The school superintendent recently stated he needs all of his 49 cell phones at a cost of over $2000 per month. I turned that over to the School Committee to police.
The Tax Collector and others cell phones will be eliminated shortly and placed on a rotational, as needed basis if they should happen to be out of town and need it for emergency contact with their offices.
I am thankful that the Assessors have taken a leadership role in recognizing city government needs to control all costs.
As your fiscal watchdog at City Hall, I will continue to monitor and report any savings to tax payers that can and should be implemented.
As you know as a Holyoke First follower, I called for a top to bottom review of all taxpayer funded cell phones in the city. The school superintendent recently stated he needs all of his 49 cell phones at a cost of over $2000 per month. I turned that over to the School Committee to police.
The Tax Collector and others cell phones will be eliminated shortly and placed on a rotational, as needed basis if they should happen to be out of town and need it for emergency contact with their offices.
I am thankful that the Assessors have taken a leadership role in recognizing city government needs to control all costs.
As your fiscal watchdog at City Hall, I will continue to monitor and report any savings to tax payers that can and should be implemented.
Jourdain attends meeting on "Creating a Vision for Holyoke's 4 Lower Wards"
The City of Holyoke is undertaking a comprehensive planning study of the Flats, Churchill, South Holyoke, Prospect Heights and Downtown areas to create a plan/vision for Holyoke's Urban Core to thrive and prosper.
The Planners involved with the study have been meeting with various stakeholders to discuss:
1) What is your vision for the study area?
2) What interests do you or your organization have in the study area?
3) What things need to happen now?
4) Who needs to be involved to make this plan a success, now and during implementation?
I recently attended one of the sessions they held for City Councilors and it is very interesting and they were gauging our thoughts on setting the future priorities in the target area. The City Council will have to approve whatever plan they ultimately develop.
One of the questions asked was what do we hear from our constituents? I told them several points. If you have thoughts or suggestions on these questions listed above, please contact me so I can make sure those are passed along to the appropriate people.
The Planners involved with the study have been meeting with various stakeholders to discuss:
1) What is your vision for the study area?
2) What interests do you or your organization have in the study area?
3) What things need to happen now?
4) Who needs to be involved to make this plan a success, now and during implementation?
I recently attended one of the sessions they held for City Councilors and it is very interesting and they were gauging our thoughts on setting the future priorities in the target area. The City Council will have to approve whatever plan they ultimately develop.
One of the questions asked was what do we hear from our constituents? I told them several points. If you have thoughts or suggestions on these questions listed above, please contact me so I can make sure those are passed along to the appropriate people.
Finally a Proposal from Pleasant Crossing!
The City Council recently received a proposal from Eric Suher of Pleasant Crossing for the parcel located at the corner of Pleasant & Hampden Sts. The City sold him this parcel more than 4 years ago and little of anything has taken place there.
I called upon the city to recall the property under the Reverter Clause of our sale which allows the city to take it back and sell it to someone else if the buyer did not put the property back into reuse within the 2 years promised.
His proposal calls for the building of a commerical building with two drive thru facilities. One section will be a bank and the other a coffee shop.
I am glad to see this property will soon be generating some much needed added tax revenue and add some jobs as well. I will continue to monitor this project on your behalf.
His proposal was sent to the Ordinance Committee for a hearing.
I called upon the city to recall the property under the Reverter Clause of our sale which allows the city to take it back and sell it to someone else if the buyer did not put the property back into reuse within the 2 years promised.
His proposal calls for the building of a commerical building with two drive thru facilities. One section will be a bank and the other a coffee shop.
I am glad to see this property will soon be generating some much needed added tax revenue and add some jobs as well. I will continue to monitor this project on your behalf.
His proposal was sent to the Ordinance Committee for a hearing.
DPW releases latest list of Trees to be removed!
The DPW recently released a list of 43 Trees to be removed in 2009 from throughout the city. If you want to know if your tree is on the list or if you have a public tree that you feel is unsafe and should be removed, please contact me.
City Council awards Proclamation to Holyoke High School Hockey Team!
At our March 17 meeting, the City Council awarded a Proclamation to our Holyoke High School Hockey Team in recognition of winning the 2009 Division 3A State Championship. My colleagues and I are so proud of the Team, the coaches and their supportive families for this enormous accomplishment.
It was great to see everyone come to the City Council Chambers and receive this important recognition on behalf of a very proud City!
I am always proud at how much our City continues to accomplish; especially, people from my alma mater, Holyoke High.
It was great to see everyone come to the City Council Chambers and receive this important recognition on behalf of a very proud City!
I am always proud at how much our City continues to accomplish; especially, people from my alma mater, Holyoke High.
City Council Happenings from March 17, 2009 Meeting
At our March 17, 2009 Meeting, there were several discussed items of interest:
1) Council approved $175,000 in additional Police Overtime.
The Police Department is averaging over $15,000 per week in overtime. Police OT has continued to run very high and Holyoke spends one of the highest per capita costs for police operations in all of Massachusetts and well above national averages. We are very fortunate to have an outstanding and well trained police force; however, the department, in these leaner times, has to be very careful on what it is spending. Overtime unlike base pay is one area the department can save in order to guard against layoffs come July 1. The House Ways and Means Budget that was recently released proposes the elimination of state reimbursement of the Quinn Bill (impact of appx. $500K) and the Shannon Grant (appx. $600K) for a total loss of $1.1 million. It is for this reason, I supported reducing the weekly amount of non-Court OT for the remainder of this Fiscal Year.
2) Council and Mayor approve new Traffic Light at corner of Jarvis Avenue & Easthampton Rd.
By a vote of 10-4 (Lisi, Lopez, Pluta & Brunelle; Devine absent) there will be a new traffic signal as recommended by the City Engineer and state Highway officials to allow a safer and smoother flow of traffic at this busy intersection. This light will also enable cars entering from Jarvis Avenue and Woodmar Glen to have a much safer commute. By improving this intersection, there is also the spinoff benefit of encouraging cars to avoid Old Jarvis Avenue and to use the main road for their commute. Any benefit on reducing the traffic on Old Jarvis Ave. should come as welcome news to those neighbors. I was happy to vote in favor of this major improvement that has been sought for many years.
3) Council adopts Home Rule Petition on City Charter that allows public to have their choice of who they want to serve on any potential Charter Commission.
The Mayor opposes allowing the public to have the right to vote for whoever they want to the Charter Commission by excluding any candidate who also runs for another municipal office. Therefore, the people that the public has entrusted to serve on their City Council and School Committee and who are on top of the issues will not be allowed to run and be elected even if the public wants them. The Council passed by a vote of 12-2 (O'Neill & Keane voted no) the revision to allow anyone to run but the Mayor vetoed the Pro-Democracy measure. Since it is a Charter Revision, the Mayor's signature is required and the revision was defeated.
4) Council passes its FY 2009 Community Development Block Grant Recommendations totalling $1.328 million and the HOME program Recommendations totalling $572,962.
For more details or if you have a specific program or activity interested, please contact me.
1) Council approved $175,000 in additional Police Overtime.
The Police Department is averaging over $15,000 per week in overtime. Police OT has continued to run very high and Holyoke spends one of the highest per capita costs for police operations in all of Massachusetts and well above national averages. We are very fortunate to have an outstanding and well trained police force; however, the department, in these leaner times, has to be very careful on what it is spending. Overtime unlike base pay is one area the department can save in order to guard against layoffs come July 1. The House Ways and Means Budget that was recently released proposes the elimination of state reimbursement of the Quinn Bill (impact of appx. $500K) and the Shannon Grant (appx. $600K) for a total loss of $1.1 million. It is for this reason, I supported reducing the weekly amount of non-Court OT for the remainder of this Fiscal Year.
2) Council and Mayor approve new Traffic Light at corner of Jarvis Avenue & Easthampton Rd.
By a vote of 10-4 (Lisi, Lopez, Pluta & Brunelle; Devine absent) there will be a new traffic signal as recommended by the City Engineer and state Highway officials to allow a safer and smoother flow of traffic at this busy intersection. This light will also enable cars entering from Jarvis Avenue and Woodmar Glen to have a much safer commute. By improving this intersection, there is also the spinoff benefit of encouraging cars to avoid Old Jarvis Avenue and to use the main road for their commute. Any benefit on reducing the traffic on Old Jarvis Ave. should come as welcome news to those neighbors. I was happy to vote in favor of this major improvement that has been sought for many years.
3) Council adopts Home Rule Petition on City Charter that allows public to have their choice of who they want to serve on any potential Charter Commission.
The Mayor opposes allowing the public to have the right to vote for whoever they want to the Charter Commission by excluding any candidate who also runs for another municipal office. Therefore, the people that the public has entrusted to serve on their City Council and School Committee and who are on top of the issues will not be allowed to run and be elected even if the public wants them. The Council passed by a vote of 12-2 (O'Neill & Keane voted no) the revision to allow anyone to run but the Mayor vetoed the Pro-Democracy measure. Since it is a Charter Revision, the Mayor's signature is required and the revision was defeated.
4) Council passes its FY 2009 Community Development Block Grant Recommendations totalling $1.328 million and the HOME program Recommendations totalling $572,962.
For more details or if you have a specific program or activity interested, please contact me.
Sunday, March 15, 2009
Council unanimously adopts Jourdain resolution on Stimulus Funds!
At our March 3, 2009 City Council meeting, I was happy to file the following resolution on behalf of the people of Holyoke to our state and federal legislators to get our fair share of the federal stimulus dollars earmarked for Massachusetts.
My resolution which was co-sponsored by Councilor John Whelihan was adopted unanimously.
Ordered,
Whereas, Holyoke has expended approximately $24 million on wastewater treatment renovations and upgrades to comply with state and federal environmental regulations regarding combined sewer overflows;
Whereas, Holyoke is among the very poorest communities in the Commonwealth and the 225% increase in sewer rates to fund the improvements has been very difficult for residents to manage;
Whereas, current federal law requires that the federal government pay at least 55% [$13.2 million] of any required improvements yet Holyoke has not received this assistance;
Be it further resolved, that the Holyoke City Council respectfully requests our state and federal legislators to provide Holyoke with these funds or as much as possible from the six to nine billion dollars in stimulus funds currently earmarked for Massachusetts. This relief would enable us to lower rates and directly impact our local economy.
Meeting date: March 3, 2009
My resolution which was co-sponsored by Councilor John Whelihan was adopted unanimously.
Ordered,
Whereas, Holyoke has expended approximately $24 million on wastewater treatment renovations and upgrades to comply with state and federal environmental regulations regarding combined sewer overflows;
Whereas, Holyoke is among the very poorest communities in the Commonwealth and the 225% increase in sewer rates to fund the improvements has been very difficult for residents to manage;
Whereas, current federal law requires that the federal government pay at least 55% [$13.2 million] of any required improvements yet Holyoke has not received this assistance;
Be it further resolved, that the Holyoke City Council respectfully requests our state and federal legislators to provide Holyoke with these funds or as much as possible from the six to nine billion dollars in stimulus funds currently earmarked for Massachusetts. This relief would enable us to lower rates and directly impact our local economy.
Meeting date: March 3, 2009
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
Inside the Rail News: Councilor Elaine Pluta takes out Papers for Mayor!
Holyoke First News: This just in...Councilor Elaine Pluta took out nomination papers for Mayor yesterday morning at 10:30am. Holyoke First was able to obtain a brief statement from Councilor Pluta on her candidacy:
"Holyoke is going to need tough, experienced leadership to make difficult decisions on behalf of the City of Holyoke in these very challenging times. As a committed and knowledgeable public official, I can provide this leadership. My experience working on the City Council, and as a Mayoral and Congressional Aide will assist me in creating a seasoned administration for the Office of Mayor." City Councilor Elaine Pluta
Stay Tuned...More developing on this big story!
"Holyoke is going to need tough, experienced leadership to make difficult decisions on behalf of the City of Holyoke in these very challenging times. As a committed and knowledgeable public official, I can provide this leadership. My experience working on the City Council, and as a Mayoral and Congressional Aide will assist me in creating a seasoned administration for the Office of Mayor." City Councilor Elaine Pluta
Stay Tuned...More developing on this big story!
76% of HOLYOKE FIRST Bloggers oppose a Trash Fee!
In a recent HOLYOKE FIRST Poll, 76% of Bloggers opposed Mayor Sullivan's suggestion of possibly creating a Trash Fee.
Councilor Jourdain commented on the poll, "it does not surprise me that Holyokers would be against this very bad idea." Councilor Jourdain further stated that City Hall needs to stop thinking of new ways to take the citizens money and do a better job spending the money they are being given more wisely. "Holyoke families live on a budget and so should City Hall!"
Councilor Jourdain co-filed a City Council resolution with Councilor John Whelihan to have your City Councilors take a stand on a new trash fee. The measure is currently in the Finance Committee where Jourdain and Whelihan are members. The sponsors will seek a roll call vote on the measure.
Councilor Jourdain commented on the poll, "it does not surprise me that Holyokers would be against this very bad idea." Councilor Jourdain further stated that City Hall needs to stop thinking of new ways to take the citizens money and do a better job spending the money they are being given more wisely. "Holyoke families live on a budget and so should City Hall!"
Councilor Jourdain co-filed a City Council resolution with Councilor John Whelihan to have your City Councilors take a stand on a new trash fee. The measure is currently in the Finance Committee where Jourdain and Whelihan are members. The sponsors will seek a roll call vote on the measure.
City Council goes on Record against a Gas Tax Increase!
Holyoke - The Holyoke City Council at its March 3, 2009 meeting voted 13-2 to oppose Gov. Deval Patrick's proposed 19 cents per gallon gas tax. Holyoke joined the Agawam City Council in opposing the enormous increase.
City Councilor at Large Kevin Jourdain released the following statement in opposition to the gas tax hike: "When Holyokers are hurting and doing their very best to make ends meet, now is not the time to saddle their families with more taxes." Jourdain further commented, "what makes this outrageous tax increase even worse is the fact that it is entirely designed at giving a tax break to the people of Boston and their Big Dig project which has already cost Holyokers thousands in lost tax revenues and lost transportation dollars!"
City Councilor at Large Kevin Jourdain released the following statement in opposition to the gas tax hike: "When Holyokers are hurting and doing their very best to make ends meet, now is not the time to saddle their families with more taxes." Jourdain further commented, "what makes this outrageous tax increase even worse is the fact that it is entirely designed at giving a tax break to the people of Boston and their Big Dig project which has already cost Holyokers thousands in lost tax revenues and lost transportation dollars!"
Thursday, February 12, 2009
Councilor Jourdain takes out nomination papers for Re-Election!
Friends,
On January 12th, I took out nomination papers to once again serve you as one of your eight City Councilors at Large. It has been my pleasure since 1994 to be your fiscal watchdog and advocate on the City Council. I will once again be running an energetic campaign for re-election.
Over the last two years, I created this blog as one more way to serve you, listen to your concerns and to make your City Hall a little more transparent.
There is so much uncertainity in the world and the greater national fiscal crisis is hitting home to so many of our citizens. Government resources are down and people's needs are up but like Holyokers together we will get through these trying times as we always have: better and stronger.
I feel that my leadership skills and financial acumen are needed now in City Hall more than ever. In November, we will also be electing a new Mayor and I am committed to making his or her transition as smooth as possible.
Holyoke has so much to look forward to and goals yet to be achieved. All people live at a given hour for a given purpose and our generation shall not fail to meet its highest expectations.
I wish you and your loved ones the very best for 2009. I again respectfully ask for one of your 8 votes for Councilor At Large.
Please never hestitate to call me at 538-5519 or email at kevin.jourdain@verizon.net if I can answer a question, provide you with assistance or if you have a concern.
With warmest regards,
Kevin A. Jourdain
On January 12th, I took out nomination papers to once again serve you as one of your eight City Councilors at Large. It has been my pleasure since 1994 to be your fiscal watchdog and advocate on the City Council. I will once again be running an energetic campaign for re-election.
Over the last two years, I created this blog as one more way to serve you, listen to your concerns and to make your City Hall a little more transparent.
There is so much uncertainity in the world and the greater national fiscal crisis is hitting home to so many of our citizens. Government resources are down and people's needs are up but like Holyokers together we will get through these trying times as we always have: better and stronger.
I feel that my leadership skills and financial acumen are needed now in City Hall more than ever. In November, we will also be electing a new Mayor and I am committed to making his or her transition as smooth as possible.
Holyoke has so much to look forward to and goals yet to be achieved. All people live at a given hour for a given purpose and our generation shall not fail to meet its highest expectations.
I wish you and your loved ones the very best for 2009. I again respectfully ask for one of your 8 votes for Councilor At Large.
Please never hestitate to call me at 538-5519 or email at kevin.jourdain@verizon.net if I can answer a question, provide you with assistance or if you have a concern.
With warmest regards,
Kevin A. Jourdain
Cellular phone bills targeted
Cellular phone bills targeted
Thursday, February 12, 2009
By KEN ROSS
kross@repub.com
HOLYOKE - City officials looking to save every penny have found a place to pinch a few: cell phones.
Faced with an annual bill of approximately $50,000 for 106 phones, the city recently did what many savvy consumers are doing now - bargaining for a lower price.
According to David A. Martins, chief procurement officer for the city, Holyoke was able to negotiate an estimated 25 to 35 percent cut in its monthly cell phone bill with Sprint, the city's cell phone provided. But that bill might end up being even lower. That's because Martins is negotiating with several cell phone companies to see if the city can get an even lower rate.
"We're looking at some major cuts come July 1," Martins said Tuesday.
The issue came into the public spotlight late last month when City Councilor Kevin A. Jourdain filed an order with the council to review the city's cell phone usage. As part of the order, Jourdain included the monthly cell phone bill for the period ending Dec. 12. The detailed bill included exactly how much employees spent during that one-month period.
The highest single cell phone bill was for Assessor Anthony Dulude, who's city-paid cell phone bill that month was $182.84. He was followed by:
School Superintendent Eduardo Caballo: $100.74.
Tax Collector Robert F. Kane, $85.01
City Solicitor Karen Betournay, $84.97.
Mayor Michael J. Sullivan, $80.08
The bill also included totals by department. The highest was the School Department. Not including Caballo, the School Department paid $1,722.47 for 48 phones (an average of $35.88 per phone) that month.
The next highest was the Police Department, which spent $490.76 on 20 phones ($24.53 per phone) that month. Next came the fire department, which spent $309.55 on 12 phones ($25.79 per phone) that month.
Other department expenditures include:
Department of Public Works, 4 phones, $178.88 total, $44.72 per phone.
Parks Department, 8 phones, $176.62 total, $22.07 per phone.
Building Department, 3 phones, $121.53 total, $40.51 per phone.
The council referred the order to review the bill to the council's Finance Committee. The committee was scheduled to meet on Wednesday, but no discussion about the order was expected because, Jourdain said, the council was still waiting to hear back from city department heads about the bill. The council also wants to receive detailed call-by-call records for every phone. They have already received such records from the police and school departments, Jourdain said.
"We want to make them aware of it," Jourdain said Tuesday. "Is it really necessary to have all these phones? It's a big bill."
Jourdain added, "That (the city's total monthly cell phone bill) seems like a lot of money to me... We need to question a lot of things we took for granted in the past."
Martins said Tuesday that his office began negotiating with Sprint for a lower bill before Jourdain filed the order. Still, Martins said he understands and appreciates Jourdain's concern, given the current economic climate.
Martins added that each department head decides its own cell phone budget. He simply negotiates the lowest rate possible for all the city's cell phones.
"What I do is combine them in one shared plan," he said.
Martins added he hopes to get an even lower rate for the next fiscal year, which begins July 1. That's because the current business climate is so competitive given the current economic downturn.
©2009 The Republican
© 2009 MassLive.com All Rights Reserved
Thursday, February 12, 2009
By KEN ROSS
kross@repub.com
HOLYOKE - City officials looking to save every penny have found a place to pinch a few: cell phones.
Faced with an annual bill of approximately $50,000 for 106 phones, the city recently did what many savvy consumers are doing now - bargaining for a lower price.
According to David A. Martins, chief procurement officer for the city, Holyoke was able to negotiate an estimated 25 to 35 percent cut in its monthly cell phone bill with Sprint, the city's cell phone provided. But that bill might end up being even lower. That's because Martins is negotiating with several cell phone companies to see if the city can get an even lower rate.
"We're looking at some major cuts come July 1," Martins said Tuesday.
The issue came into the public spotlight late last month when City Councilor Kevin A. Jourdain filed an order with the council to review the city's cell phone usage. As part of the order, Jourdain included the monthly cell phone bill for the period ending Dec. 12. The detailed bill included exactly how much employees spent during that one-month period.
The highest single cell phone bill was for Assessor Anthony Dulude, who's city-paid cell phone bill that month was $182.84. He was followed by:
School Superintendent Eduardo Caballo: $100.74.
Tax Collector Robert F. Kane, $85.01
City Solicitor Karen Betournay, $84.97.
Mayor Michael J. Sullivan, $80.08
The bill also included totals by department. The highest was the School Department. Not including Caballo, the School Department paid $1,722.47 for 48 phones (an average of $35.88 per phone) that month.
The next highest was the Police Department, which spent $490.76 on 20 phones ($24.53 per phone) that month. Next came the fire department, which spent $309.55 on 12 phones ($25.79 per phone) that month.
Other department expenditures include:
Department of Public Works, 4 phones, $178.88 total, $44.72 per phone.
Parks Department, 8 phones, $176.62 total, $22.07 per phone.
Building Department, 3 phones, $121.53 total, $40.51 per phone.
The council referred the order to review the bill to the council's Finance Committee. The committee was scheduled to meet on Wednesday, but no discussion about the order was expected because, Jourdain said, the council was still waiting to hear back from city department heads about the bill. The council also wants to receive detailed call-by-call records for every phone. They have already received such records from the police and school departments, Jourdain said.
"We want to make them aware of it," Jourdain said Tuesday. "Is it really necessary to have all these phones? It's a big bill."
Jourdain added, "That (the city's total monthly cell phone bill) seems like a lot of money to me... We need to question a lot of things we took for granted in the past."
Martins said Tuesday that his office began negotiating with Sprint for a lower bill before Jourdain filed the order. Still, Martins said he understands and appreciates Jourdain's concern, given the current economic climate.
Martins added that each department head decides its own cell phone budget. He simply negotiates the lowest rate possible for all the city's cell phones.
"What I do is combine them in one shared plan," he said.
Martins added he hopes to get an even lower rate for the next fiscal year, which begins July 1. That's because the current business climate is so competitive given the current economic downturn.
©2009 The Republican
© 2009 MassLive.com All Rights Reserved
Holyoke First Poll: Holyokers Top Priorities for 2009
Holyoke First Bloggers voted:
31% Passing Lowes and more economic development
26% A new senior center
19% The problems in Treasurer's office
19% Rebuilding the downtown
18% The school department
16% The Mayor's Race
16% Improving our image and marketing the city
15% Watching our budget & keeping down taxes
15% Library Renovation Project
14% Public Safety & Crime Prevention
9% More investment in infrastructure
Thank you for everyone who participated.
31% Passing Lowes and more economic development
26% A new senior center
19% The problems in Treasurer's office
19% Rebuilding the downtown
18% The school department
16% The Mayor's Race
16% Improving our image and marketing the city
15% Watching our budget & keeping down taxes
15% Library Renovation Project
14% Public Safety & Crime Prevention
9% More investment in infrastructure
Thank you for everyone who participated.
Friday, January 23, 2009
State probes missing excise taxes from Holyoke collector's office
State probes missing excise taxes from Holyoke collector's office
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
By JEANETTE DeFORGE
jdeforge@repub.com
HOLYOKE - About $82,000 is missing from the Tax Collector's office, a department already plagued with accusations of mismanagement and sexual harassment.
The state inspector general's office is investigating to see if the problem is an accounting error or if the money has been stolen, said Mayor Michael J. Sullivan.
"I'm hoping against hope this is an accounting faux pas," Sullivan said. "That doesn't seem likely."
A spokesman for Inspector General Gregory W. Sullivan declined comment saying it is against the office's policy to verify any investigations.
If the investigation shows evidence of theft, it will be turned over to state Attorney General Martha M. Coakley or Hampden County District Attorney William M. Bennett, Michael Sullivan said.
The money is believed to be missing from receipts from overdue vehicle excise taxes which are typically paid in person with cash or credit cards. The office took in about $770,000 last year in late payments, Sullivan said.
Most of the missing money was believed to have been paid between July and October but some is missing after that, he said.
Still, all tax accounts will be examined since financial practices in the office have been questioned by the state Department of Revenue, independent auditing company Melanson Heath & Co. and the inspector general, he said.
"It is hard to say it is from any one account because reconciliation accounting seems to be very fluid," he said.
Tax Collector Robert F. Kane said he was following a recommendation to improve financial safeguards when he found the missing money. He said he immediately reported it to Sullivan.
"I did an analysis of where they (the accounts) should be and it just didn't look right," Kane said.
Kane told Sullivan of the problem in late December. Sullivan said he immediately contacted auditors from Melanson Heath & Co. and asked them to examine the accounts. About 10 days later, the company reported they too found about $82,000 was missing.
Thursday he met with the Inspector General's office to ask them to investigate.
For years the treasurer's office and the tax collector's office has been criticized for having a lack of controls and other problems. The Inspector General's office and the Department of Revenue conducted separate financial management reviews in 2007 and 2008 and warned city officials the problems could make them vulnerable to theft.
Over the past six months, the tax collector's office has had other problems as well. The Deputy Tax Collector Jacquelynne M. Williams filed a complaint with the Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination Sept. 25 alleging Kane had sexually harassed her.
Then she filed a sexual harassment lawsuit against the city Dec. 31.
The city fired Williams a few days before Christmas for "nonattendance at work," Sullivan said. Her firing had nothing to do with the missing money, he said.
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
By JEANETTE DeFORGE
jdeforge@repub.com
HOLYOKE - About $82,000 is missing from the Tax Collector's office, a department already plagued with accusations of mismanagement and sexual harassment.
The state inspector general's office is investigating to see if the problem is an accounting error or if the money has been stolen, said Mayor Michael J. Sullivan.
"I'm hoping against hope this is an accounting faux pas," Sullivan said. "That doesn't seem likely."
A spokesman for Inspector General Gregory W. Sullivan declined comment saying it is against the office's policy to verify any investigations.
If the investigation shows evidence of theft, it will be turned over to state Attorney General Martha M. Coakley or Hampden County District Attorney William M. Bennett, Michael Sullivan said.
The money is believed to be missing from receipts from overdue vehicle excise taxes which are typically paid in person with cash or credit cards. The office took in about $770,000 last year in late payments, Sullivan said.
Most of the missing money was believed to have been paid between July and October but some is missing after that, he said.
Still, all tax accounts will be examined since financial practices in the office have been questioned by the state Department of Revenue, independent auditing company Melanson Heath & Co. and the inspector general, he said.
"It is hard to say it is from any one account because reconciliation accounting seems to be very fluid," he said.
Tax Collector Robert F. Kane said he was following a recommendation to improve financial safeguards when he found the missing money. He said he immediately reported it to Sullivan.
"I did an analysis of where they (the accounts) should be and it just didn't look right," Kane said.
Kane told Sullivan of the problem in late December. Sullivan said he immediately contacted auditors from Melanson Heath & Co. and asked them to examine the accounts. About 10 days later, the company reported they too found about $82,000 was missing.
Thursday he met with the Inspector General's office to ask them to investigate.
For years the treasurer's office and the tax collector's office has been criticized for having a lack of controls and other problems. The Inspector General's office and the Department of Revenue conducted separate financial management reviews in 2007 and 2008 and warned city officials the problems could make them vulnerable to theft.
Over the past six months, the tax collector's office has had other problems as well. The Deputy Tax Collector Jacquelynne M. Williams filed a complaint with the Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination Sept. 25 alleging Kane had sexually harassed her.
Then she filed a sexual harassment lawsuit against the city Dec. 31.
The city fired Williams a few days before Christmas for "nonattendance at work," Sullivan said. Her firing had nothing to do with the missing money, he said.
$1 million Deficit: Jourdain keeps tabs on School Spending & Misguided Priorities
Holyoke school board members miffed by City Council's advice to cut raises for administrators
by The Republican Newsroom
Wednesday January 21, 2009, 8:30 PM
By JEANETTE DeFORGE
jdeforge@repub.com
HOLYOKE - The City Council is recommending school officials trim their budget by putting off raising salaries for administrators, but the School Committee said that simply won't help.
In a recent meeting, members also questioned why the City Council was getting involved in the school budget.
"I think this order is disrespectful and misguided and the response is far too polite, but we should be polite," said Margaret M. Boulais, a School Committee member.
The City Council order, which passed 14-1, recommended the School Committee freeze all salaries of administrators who earn above $75,000 a year.
Superintendent Eduardo B. Carballo's response explained 90 percent of the administrators who fall into that category are vice principals and department heads who are represented by the Holyoke Teachers' Association union and have an existing contract that dictates their raises.
Even principals, who are not in a union, have multiyear contracts which cannot be broken, he said.
But City Councilor Kevin A. Jourdain said he proposed the order mostly focusing on the two highest-paid employees, Carballo and Patricia A. Cavanaugh, executive director of finance and operations.
He argued the School Committee hiked Carballo's pay by $5,800 to $151,000 in October, even though this year's budget is in deficit by about $1 million.
That raise was retroactive to 2007, a year when Carballo did not see a salary hike, and the 4 percent increase was the same as teachers received.
While understanding Boulais' comment, member Mary C. Plant said she preferred to send the letter explaining the contracts to the City Council.
Jourdain said council members know the School Committee by state law oversees the School Department budget but said the City Council does have a role to play because school officials have requested extra money from the council in the past to balance the education budget.
"Their job is becoming my job because they are always coming to us to look for money," he said.
He said he is especially concerned the school administration offices have not moved from the rented floors at 57 Suffolk St. to H.B. Lawrence School, even though the School Committee voted to do so a year ago, which is estimated to save about $400,000 a year in a combination of rent, maintenance and utility costs.
The School Committee is planning to request money to finish a study to see how much money has to be spent in renovations to move the main computer server and create offices.
Jourdain said he expects serious budget cuts citywide for the next fiscal year that starts in July and he feels the School Committee, which oversees the largest portion of the budget, has to cut more.
by The Republican Newsroom
Wednesday January 21, 2009, 8:30 PM
By JEANETTE DeFORGE
jdeforge@repub.com
HOLYOKE - The City Council is recommending school officials trim their budget by putting off raising salaries for administrators, but the School Committee said that simply won't help.
In a recent meeting, members also questioned why the City Council was getting involved in the school budget.
"I think this order is disrespectful and misguided and the response is far too polite, but we should be polite," said Margaret M. Boulais, a School Committee member.
The City Council order, which passed 14-1, recommended the School Committee freeze all salaries of administrators who earn above $75,000 a year.
Superintendent Eduardo B. Carballo's response explained 90 percent of the administrators who fall into that category are vice principals and department heads who are represented by the Holyoke Teachers' Association union and have an existing contract that dictates their raises.
Even principals, who are not in a union, have multiyear contracts which cannot be broken, he said.
But City Councilor Kevin A. Jourdain said he proposed the order mostly focusing on the two highest-paid employees, Carballo and Patricia A. Cavanaugh, executive director of finance and operations.
He argued the School Committee hiked Carballo's pay by $5,800 to $151,000 in October, even though this year's budget is in deficit by about $1 million.
That raise was retroactive to 2007, a year when Carballo did not see a salary hike, and the 4 percent increase was the same as teachers received.
While understanding Boulais' comment, member Mary C. Plant said she preferred to send the letter explaining the contracts to the City Council.
Jourdain said council members know the School Committee by state law oversees the School Department budget but said the City Council does have a role to play because school officials have requested extra money from the council in the past to balance the education budget.
"Their job is becoming my job because they are always coming to us to look for money," he said.
He said he is especially concerned the school administration offices have not moved from the rented floors at 57 Suffolk St. to H.B. Lawrence School, even though the School Committee voted to do so a year ago, which is estimated to save about $400,000 a year in a combination of rent, maintenance and utility costs.
The School Committee is planning to request money to finish a study to see how much money has to be spent in renovations to move the main computer server and create offices.
Jourdain said he expects serious budget cuts citywide for the next fiscal year that starts in July and he feels the School Committee, which oversees the largest portion of the budget, has to cut more.
Wednesday, January 7, 2009
Early hopefuls take out papers
Wednesday, January 07, 2009
By KEN ROSS
kross@repub.com
HOLYOKE - The municipal election may be 11 months away, but the campaign season is already under way.
On Monday, the first day on which residents could take out nomination papers to run for office, several did so for several offices, including retired Police Lt. Eva M. O'Connell. She plans to run for mayor.
Four incumbent office-holders, including At-large Councilors Patricia C. Devine and Peter R. Tallman, Ward 1 Councilor Donald R. Welch, and City Clerk Susan M. Egan, also took out nomination papers.
O'Connell is the only potential candidate to take out papers for mayor so far.
Two residents who had said they were considering runs for mayor, City Councilors Diosdado Lopez and Kevin A. Jourdain, said later they will not seek the office.
"I really landed a great job here," Jourdain said on Monday, explaining his decision. "I made a commitment to the Sisters of Providence, and it's an exciting new challenge."
Last November, Jourdain, 37, was named a senior financial analyst for the Sisters of Providence.
Lopez, 44, said he made his decision after talking with his family.
"I talked to my family, and I'm not doing it," he said.
Mayor Michael J. Sullivan repeated that he will not run for re-election in November.
"I made the decision, and it's time for me to move on," he said.
Sullivan said he hopes that several people decide to run for the post he has held since 1999.
"Maybe we'll have an exciting election season," he said.
Councilors James. M. Leahy and Elaine A. Pluta said they have not ruled out running for mayor.
"I'm still weighing my decision," Pluta said on Monday.
Leahy said he met with friends and family last week to discuss whether to run for re-election as a councilor or for mayor.
People interested in running for mayor must obtain 250 signatures by July 28, and submit them to the clerk's office.
The mayor's post pays $85,000 a year.
By KEN ROSS
kross@repub.com
HOLYOKE - The municipal election may be 11 months away, but the campaign season is already under way.
On Monday, the first day on which residents could take out nomination papers to run for office, several did so for several offices, including retired Police Lt. Eva M. O'Connell. She plans to run for mayor.
Four incumbent office-holders, including At-large Councilors Patricia C. Devine and Peter R. Tallman, Ward 1 Councilor Donald R. Welch, and City Clerk Susan M. Egan, also took out nomination papers.
O'Connell is the only potential candidate to take out papers for mayor so far.
Two residents who had said they were considering runs for mayor, City Councilors Diosdado Lopez and Kevin A. Jourdain, said later they will not seek the office.
"I really landed a great job here," Jourdain said on Monday, explaining his decision. "I made a commitment to the Sisters of Providence, and it's an exciting new challenge."
Last November, Jourdain, 37, was named a senior financial analyst for the Sisters of Providence.
Lopez, 44, said he made his decision after talking with his family.
"I talked to my family, and I'm not doing it," he said.
Mayor Michael J. Sullivan repeated that he will not run for re-election in November.
"I made the decision, and it's time for me to move on," he said.
Sullivan said he hopes that several people decide to run for the post he has held since 1999.
"Maybe we'll have an exciting election season," he said.
Councilors James. M. Leahy and Elaine A. Pluta said they have not ruled out running for mayor.
"I'm still weighing my decision," Pluta said on Monday.
Leahy said he met with friends and family last week to discuss whether to run for re-election as a councilor or for mayor.
People interested in running for mayor must obtain 250 signatures by July 28, and submit them to the clerk's office.
The mayor's post pays $85,000 a year.
LOWES PASSES!
Wednesday, January 07, 2009
By KEN ROSS
kross@repub.com
HOLYOKE - A proposal to build a Lowe's store in the city moved one step closer Tuesday after a vote by the City Council to rezone the property where developers want to build the store.
"I'm pleased," said Jay Fisher, development director for S.K. Properties, the West Hartford, Conn.-based company that agreed to buy the 18.2-acre parcel from Holyoke Gas & Electric for $3 million on Feb. 26 provided the land is rezoned.
The council voted 11-4 in favor of rezoning the land on Whiting Farms Road from industrial to business general. Councilors Rebecca Lisi, Diosdado Lopez, Elaine A. Pluta and John E. Whelihan cast the dissenting votes.
An official from Lowe's, Robert B. Jess, was at Tuesday's meeting but declined to comment on the vote. Jess serves as a senior site development manager at Lowe's Saratoga Springs, N.Y., office. At previous meetings, Jess has said the new store would create an estimated 80 full-time and 65 part-time jobs.
Construction of the new store will not begin immediately, Fisher said.
First, developers must go through the approval process, including creating a site plan for the project, Fisher said. Exactly how long the approval process will take has not been determined, Fisher said. As a result, he said he did not have a time line for when work would begin or be completed on the store.
The council was scheduled to vote on the zone change at its Dec. 16 session. But the vote was tabled because of several legal questions.
The main question the council wanted answered before Tuesday's meeting was whether condominium owners at a complex on Whiting Farms Road were considered abutters of the proposed project.
If they were so considered, City Council President Joseph M. McGiverin said there was some question about whether the condominium owners were properly notified about the public hearing.
In addition, if the condominium owners were considered abutters, they would have been able to sign a petition opposing rezoning the 18.2-acre parcel on Whiting Farms Road from industrial to business general.
On Dec. 18, the city's law department determined that only the condominium owners directly abutting the property are considered abutters.
How many people are considered abutters had a significant impact on the vote itself. That is because if 20 percent of abutters had signed a petition opposing the zone change, a "super majority" vote by the 15-member City Council would have been necessary.
Since some people removed their names from a petition submitted Dec. 12, less than 20 percent of abutters signed the document. As a result, only 10 councilors needed to vote for the zone change. A super majority would have required 12 votes.
By KEN ROSS
kross@repub.com
HOLYOKE - A proposal to build a Lowe's store in the city moved one step closer Tuesday after a vote by the City Council to rezone the property where developers want to build the store.
"I'm pleased," said Jay Fisher, development director for S.K. Properties, the West Hartford, Conn.-based company that agreed to buy the 18.2-acre parcel from Holyoke Gas & Electric for $3 million on Feb. 26 provided the land is rezoned.
The council voted 11-4 in favor of rezoning the land on Whiting Farms Road from industrial to business general. Councilors Rebecca Lisi, Diosdado Lopez, Elaine A. Pluta and John E. Whelihan cast the dissenting votes.
An official from Lowe's, Robert B. Jess, was at Tuesday's meeting but declined to comment on the vote. Jess serves as a senior site development manager at Lowe's Saratoga Springs, N.Y., office. At previous meetings, Jess has said the new store would create an estimated 80 full-time and 65 part-time jobs.
Construction of the new store will not begin immediately, Fisher said.
First, developers must go through the approval process, including creating a site plan for the project, Fisher said. Exactly how long the approval process will take has not been determined, Fisher said. As a result, he said he did not have a time line for when work would begin or be completed on the store.
The council was scheduled to vote on the zone change at its Dec. 16 session. But the vote was tabled because of several legal questions.
The main question the council wanted answered before Tuesday's meeting was whether condominium owners at a complex on Whiting Farms Road were considered abutters of the proposed project.
If they were so considered, City Council President Joseph M. McGiverin said there was some question about whether the condominium owners were properly notified about the public hearing.
In addition, if the condominium owners were considered abutters, they would have been able to sign a petition opposing rezoning the 18.2-acre parcel on Whiting Farms Road from industrial to business general.
On Dec. 18, the city's law department determined that only the condominium owners directly abutting the property are considered abutters.
How many people are considered abutters had a significant impact on the vote itself. That is because if 20 percent of abutters had signed a petition opposing the zone change, a "super majority" vote by the 15-member City Council would have been necessary.
Since some people removed their names from a petition submitted Dec. 12, less than 20 percent of abutters signed the document. As a result, only 10 councilors needed to vote for the zone change. A super majority would have required 12 votes.
Friday, January 2, 2009
Happy New Year 2009!!
On behalf of the entire Jourdain Family to you and yours, our very best for a healthly and propserous 2009!
All the best,
Kevin
All the best,
Kevin
Tuesday, December 30, 2008
Take a Ride on Mountain Park Flyer!
Take a Ride on Mountain Park Flyer! Brings back alot of great memories to the good old days at Mountain Park.
Check out the video under my "Videos worth watching" Section! (2nd one down)
Enjoy the Ride!
Check out the video under my "Videos worth watching" Section! (2nd one down)
Enjoy the Ride!
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
Jourdain works to stop DPW's 1st Ever Retroactive Sewer Fee Hike!
Bills contain retroactive hike
Monday, December 22, 2008
By KEN ROSS
kross@repub.com
HOLYOKE - City sewer users might be surprised to find their latest bill includes a retroactive rate increase, something that upset one city councilor.
"The public should only have to pay on the old rate," said Councilor Kevin A. Jourdain Wednesday, referring to latest sewer use bill. "We didn't pass that rate (increase) until two weeks ago."
But, Public Works Superintendent William D. Fuqua said the department needed to raise rates as soon as possible to avoid a possible budget shortfall.
"We're concerned we are running a deficit," Fuqua said Thursday. "Further delaying (the rate increase) would have increased that risk."
On Dec. 2, the council voted 8-6 in favor of raising the sewer rates by 74 cents, or 15.8 percent, from $4.66 per 1,000 gallons to $5.40 per 1,000 gallons. The latest sewer bill mailed to residents is for use between Aug. 7 and Nov. 6, Jourdain said.
Fuqua said his department does not normally retroactively raise rates. "It's not been the practice," he said, "but there's nothing that says it can't be for retroactive use."
The retroactive increase was needed, in part, Fuqua added, because the council "took so long to set the rate." Fuqua first requested a rate increase in August. On Sept. 2, the council voted 7-6 in favor of an identical increase. But, because the motion requires a two-thirds majority vote, the increase was not approved.
Fuqua said his office had not received any complaints about the latest sewer use bill as of Thursday.
Control over who sets the city's sewer use rate has been an issue for several months. Normally, the Board of Public Works recommends a rate increase, which is then voted on by the City Council.
All that changed on Dec. 2, when the council voted 13 - 1 in favor of an ordinance which gives the council the power to adjust sewer rates instead of solely accepting or rejecting the Board of Public Works' recommendation.
"If we don't have the power to dispute the rate, what is the point of approving it," asked Councilor Rebecca Lisi at the Dec. 2 meeting.
"This way, we will have more control over the department and it will lead to more accountability and more transparency," Jourdain said at the Dec. 2 meeting.
The rate increase was needed mainly to help pay off $6 million of debt for the sewage treatment plant, and $3 million for a combined sewer overflow abatement project on Mosher Street, Fuqua has said.
©2008 The Republican
Update: Councilor Jourdain has reviewed the ordinance language with the City Clerk who agreed that the ordinance change specifically says the new rate does not take effect until adopted. It was the full intention of the City Council that this rate did not take effect until date of adoption as written in ordinance. The leadership of the DPW is attempting to twist the long held interpretation of the ordinance to your detriment.
Councilor Jourdain also has referred the matter to the Law Department for their review and legal opinion. No department of the city has ever issued retroactive rate increases and this matter is being followed very closely on your behalf as ratepayers. Now that the Council controls rate setting authority - additional remedy measures are available to the Council if this outrageous decision is allowed to stand. Updates to follow here at Holyoke First!
Monday, December 22, 2008
By KEN ROSS
kross@repub.com
HOLYOKE - City sewer users might be surprised to find their latest bill includes a retroactive rate increase, something that upset one city councilor.
"The public should only have to pay on the old rate," said Councilor Kevin A. Jourdain Wednesday, referring to latest sewer use bill. "We didn't pass that rate (increase) until two weeks ago."
But, Public Works Superintendent William D. Fuqua said the department needed to raise rates as soon as possible to avoid a possible budget shortfall.
"We're concerned we are running a deficit," Fuqua said Thursday. "Further delaying (the rate increase) would have increased that risk."
On Dec. 2, the council voted 8-6 in favor of raising the sewer rates by 74 cents, or 15.8 percent, from $4.66 per 1,000 gallons to $5.40 per 1,000 gallons. The latest sewer bill mailed to residents is for use between Aug. 7 and Nov. 6, Jourdain said.
Fuqua said his department does not normally retroactively raise rates. "It's not been the practice," he said, "but there's nothing that says it can't be for retroactive use."
The retroactive increase was needed, in part, Fuqua added, because the council "took so long to set the rate." Fuqua first requested a rate increase in August. On Sept. 2, the council voted 7-6 in favor of an identical increase. But, because the motion requires a two-thirds majority vote, the increase was not approved.
Fuqua said his office had not received any complaints about the latest sewer use bill as of Thursday.
Control over who sets the city's sewer use rate has been an issue for several months. Normally, the Board of Public Works recommends a rate increase, which is then voted on by the City Council.
All that changed on Dec. 2, when the council voted 13 - 1 in favor of an ordinance which gives the council the power to adjust sewer rates instead of solely accepting or rejecting the Board of Public Works' recommendation.
"If we don't have the power to dispute the rate, what is the point of approving it," asked Councilor Rebecca Lisi at the Dec. 2 meeting.
"This way, we will have more control over the department and it will lead to more accountability and more transparency," Jourdain said at the Dec. 2 meeting.
The rate increase was needed mainly to help pay off $6 million of debt for the sewage treatment plant, and $3 million for a combined sewer overflow abatement project on Mosher Street, Fuqua has said.
©2008 The Republican
Update: Councilor Jourdain has reviewed the ordinance language with the City Clerk who agreed that the ordinance change specifically says the new rate does not take effect until adopted. It was the full intention of the City Council that this rate did not take effect until date of adoption as written in ordinance. The leadership of the DPW is attempting to twist the long held interpretation of the ordinance to your detriment.
Councilor Jourdain also has referred the matter to the Law Department for their review and legal opinion. No department of the city has ever issued retroactive rate increases and this matter is being followed very closely on your behalf as ratepayers. Now that the Council controls rate setting authority - additional remedy measures are available to the Council if this outrageous decision is allowed to stand. Updates to follow here at Holyoke First!
Friday, December 19, 2008
81% of Bloggers feel Leadership of Schools deserve failing grade!
In a recent Holyoke First Blog Poll, 81% of poll takers stated that they were not happy with the current leadership of the Holyoke Public Schools and feel it is time for a change.
19% felt they were doing a good job.
Thank you for all the participated in poll.
19% felt they were doing a good job.
Thank you for all the participated in poll.
Jourdain announces support for Lowes: Will cast YES vote on January 6!
Dear Constituent,
On January 6, 2009, an important vote is going to take place before the City Council that has generated a great deal of interest from throughout the city. I am speaking of course of the zone change proposal for Konover Developers to build a new Lowe's on Whiting Farms Road. The land is currently owned by the Holyoke Gas & Electric Department after it acquired the property from Holyoke Water Power and NorthEast Utilities when the G&E purchased the Dam. This beautiful 18.7 acre parcel is a gem and located in the very valuable Ingleside section of our city. The property is currently zoned for industrial uses and the developer is requesting that the City Council vote to change the zone to commerical to allow Lowe's to be built.
I attended numerous public hearings and have spoken to every neighbor that wished to speak to me. I have also listened to all Holyokers throughout the city regarding the impact of this project on the city. I am overwhelmed by the thoughtful and articulate comments made to by people of good will on both sides of the issue. Many of the people who called me, I have known for many years. I deeply value everyone's opinions on this issue but the time is near for the vote and you deserve to know where I stand on this issue.
After studying the issue carefully and weighing the pros and cons, I have decided to cast my vote of YES in favor of the zone change and allow Lowe's to come to Holyoke.
In the midst of the most fragile economy our nation has faced in 50 years that is in recession, Holyoke's workers deserve the 150+ jobs that will come from this project. The city will reap $350,000+ in new tax revenue per year. The Holyoke Gas & Electric Department will also receive $3 million which the Manager has assured me will be used for economic development of the downtown and for electric and gas rate stabilization. When Holyoke voters voted to acquire the Dam in 1995 and in the final pact that acquired this property - the sale of these lands were contemplated and deemed necessary to pay the bonds for the Dam. The Dam purchase has been a huge success for the city and so will Lowe's be.
Economic and planning officials for the city have also assured me that the will hold the developer's feet to the fire to make the necessary traffic improvements to ensure the orderly flow of traffic along Whiting Farms Road. These improvement requirements may range as high as an additional $1 million from the developer. There is currently 13,000 cars a day that travel the road according to experts. The city needs to think out of the box and think big on the long term solutions to ensure the reasonable flow of traffic through our highly desirable commerical sector at Ingleside.
I am also reminded by the fact that it will take 3 years after our approval for the opening of a Lowe's. This gives us time to get it right and put in motion a plan that will Grow Holyoke and also improve traffic and protect our neighborhoods.
It continues to be my pleasure to serve you on the City Council. Thank you for your trust and the opportunity.
On January 6, 2009, an important vote is going to take place before the City Council that has generated a great deal of interest from throughout the city. I am speaking of course of the zone change proposal for Konover Developers to build a new Lowe's on Whiting Farms Road. The land is currently owned by the Holyoke Gas & Electric Department after it acquired the property from Holyoke Water Power and NorthEast Utilities when the G&E purchased the Dam. This beautiful 18.7 acre parcel is a gem and located in the very valuable Ingleside section of our city. The property is currently zoned for industrial uses and the developer is requesting that the City Council vote to change the zone to commerical to allow Lowe's to be built.
I attended numerous public hearings and have spoken to every neighbor that wished to speak to me. I have also listened to all Holyokers throughout the city regarding the impact of this project on the city. I am overwhelmed by the thoughtful and articulate comments made to by people of good will on both sides of the issue. Many of the people who called me, I have known for many years. I deeply value everyone's opinions on this issue but the time is near for the vote and you deserve to know where I stand on this issue.
After studying the issue carefully and weighing the pros and cons, I have decided to cast my vote of YES in favor of the zone change and allow Lowe's to come to Holyoke.
In the midst of the most fragile economy our nation has faced in 50 years that is in recession, Holyoke's workers deserve the 150+ jobs that will come from this project. The city will reap $350,000+ in new tax revenue per year. The Holyoke Gas & Electric Department will also receive $3 million which the Manager has assured me will be used for economic development of the downtown and for electric and gas rate stabilization. When Holyoke voters voted to acquire the Dam in 1995 and in the final pact that acquired this property - the sale of these lands were contemplated and deemed necessary to pay the bonds for the Dam. The Dam purchase has been a huge success for the city and so will Lowe's be.
Economic and planning officials for the city have also assured me that the will hold the developer's feet to the fire to make the necessary traffic improvements to ensure the orderly flow of traffic along Whiting Farms Road. These improvement requirements may range as high as an additional $1 million from the developer. There is currently 13,000 cars a day that travel the road according to experts. The city needs to think out of the box and think big on the long term solutions to ensure the reasonable flow of traffic through our highly desirable commerical sector at Ingleside.
I am also reminded by the fact that it will take 3 years after our approval for the opening of a Lowe's. This gives us time to get it right and put in motion a plan that will Grow Holyoke and also improve traffic and protect our neighborhoods.
It continues to be my pleasure to serve you on the City Council. Thank you for your trust and the opportunity.
Inside the Rail: Jourdain wins major victory for Ratepayers!
Holyoke - At the December 2, 2008 Council meeting, there was good news and bad news for those residents who are concerned about the runaway costs of the Sewer Department and their greedy requests for more and more rate increases.
In an 8-6 vote, the Council voted to increase the current sewer rate from 4.66/1000 gallons to $5.40/1000 gallons. The Roll Call was:
Voting for the 15% increase: Brunelle, Devine, Keane, Leahy, McGee, McGiverin, O'Neill and Welch
Voting against the increase: Jourdain, Lisi, Lopez, Pluta, Tallman and Whelihan. Councilor Purington was away at an out of town meeting but had voted against the increase in committee.
The rising rates are emphasizing the depth of the mistake that was the privatization plan. Under public control, there would have been far greater stability in rates as well as transparency in the costs. Unfortunately, the public is forced to pay for the mistake of the mayor and his Council supporters on this issue even though 57% of voters rejected this approach.
Now, to the good news! The plans of the purported experts that were hired by the mayor to advocate for privatization have not come to fruition. Projections of modest increases in the sewer rates that were originally billed have now morphed into a proposed chart of unconscionable future increases that the Sewer Department wishes to thrust upon the people with rates ending in the area of 7.50-8.00/1000 gallons.
To derail this outrageous schedule that would simply crush most lower and middle income residents, Councilor Jourdain filed an amendment to Chapter 90-90 of the Holyoke Code of Ordinances that would take the rate setting authority away from the DPW and place it with the City Council. This common sense measure makes your elected City Councilors directly responsible for setting the rates and directly accountable to the voters.
Councilor Jourdain was proud to announce that his ordinance change passed 13-1 and was signed by Mayor Sullivan into law. Only Joe McGiverin voted against allowing greater accountability of the sewer rates by the City Council.
"I could not be more proud of the quick action of my colleagues on this common sense reform measure that will require Councilors to take greater control over the rising costs of the operations of the sewer plant," Councilor Jourdain stated. Jourdain remarked, "The adoption of this law is a huge victory for ratepayers who now will have greater say through their elected representatives to make sure the sewer plant does not overspend and does not overcharge."
In an 8-6 vote, the Council voted to increase the current sewer rate from 4.66/1000 gallons to $5.40/1000 gallons. The Roll Call was:
Voting for the 15% increase: Brunelle, Devine, Keane, Leahy, McGee, McGiverin, O'Neill and Welch
Voting against the increase: Jourdain, Lisi, Lopez, Pluta, Tallman and Whelihan. Councilor Purington was away at an out of town meeting but had voted against the increase in committee.
The rising rates are emphasizing the depth of the mistake that was the privatization plan. Under public control, there would have been far greater stability in rates as well as transparency in the costs. Unfortunately, the public is forced to pay for the mistake of the mayor and his Council supporters on this issue even though 57% of voters rejected this approach.
Now, to the good news! The plans of the purported experts that were hired by the mayor to advocate for privatization have not come to fruition. Projections of modest increases in the sewer rates that were originally billed have now morphed into a proposed chart of unconscionable future increases that the Sewer Department wishes to thrust upon the people with rates ending in the area of 7.50-8.00/1000 gallons.
To derail this outrageous schedule that would simply crush most lower and middle income residents, Councilor Jourdain filed an amendment to Chapter 90-90 of the Holyoke Code of Ordinances that would take the rate setting authority away from the DPW and place it with the City Council. This common sense measure makes your elected City Councilors directly responsible for setting the rates and directly accountable to the voters.
Councilor Jourdain was proud to announce that his ordinance change passed 13-1 and was signed by Mayor Sullivan into law. Only Joe McGiverin voted against allowing greater accountability of the sewer rates by the City Council.
"I could not be more proud of the quick action of my colleagues on this common sense reform measure that will require Councilors to take greater control over the rising costs of the operations of the sewer plant," Councilor Jourdain stated. Jourdain remarked, "The adoption of this law is a huge victory for ratepayers who now will have greater say through their elected representatives to make sure the sewer plant does not overspend and does not overcharge."
Inside the Rail: Council passes Resolution to School Dept: High Priced Administrators need to lead by example!
Councilor Jourdain was proud to announce that the City Council voted 14-1 on a voice vote (Councilor Devine voted no) to pass a resolution he offered to send a strong message to School Department Administrators earning over $75,000 per year: you need to lead by example.
Jourdain noted that there has been many calls for sacrifice and hiring freezes by the senior leadership of the schools at 57 Suffolk Street. Yet, despite closing multiple schools, declining enrollment and the new competition of a charter school, the Top Brass at School Headquarters earning over $75,000; specifically, the Business Administrator and the Superintendent have continued to take hefty payraises.
Everyone deserves a fair wage and a good pay but enough is enough with the six figure salaries for people who are calling on their subordinates to make sacrifices. The school committee needs to stop with the payraises for those over six figures who should have no problem managing on what they are receiving currently. Leadership demands greater sensitivity to the financial condition of the schools.
Jourdain also renewed his support for his colleagues on the Finance Committee who have been trying for months to get a written line item budget for the school department.
Jourdain noted that there has been many calls for sacrifice and hiring freezes by the senior leadership of the schools at 57 Suffolk Street. Yet, despite closing multiple schools, declining enrollment and the new competition of a charter school, the Top Brass at School Headquarters earning over $75,000; specifically, the Business Administrator and the Superintendent have continued to take hefty payraises.
Everyone deserves a fair wage and a good pay but enough is enough with the six figure salaries for people who are calling on their subordinates to make sacrifices. The school committee needs to stop with the payraises for those over six figures who should have no problem managing on what they are receiving currently. Leadership demands greater sensitivity to the financial condition of the schools.
Jourdain also renewed his support for his colleagues on the Finance Committee who have been trying for months to get a written line item budget for the school department.
Inside the Rail: Tax Classification: Jourdain defends Homeowners and wins victory for tax fairness!
At Tuesday's meeting, City Councilor Kevin Jourdain made an impassioned speech on behalf of the city's seniors and working families and fought back a bold move to place an enormous new tax increase on homeowners.
Councilor Jourdain seconded the motion of Ward 2 City Councilor Diosdado Lopez for a residential rate of $14.25 per thousand of property value. The motion passed 8-7.
Besides Lopez and Jourdain, Councilors Pluta, Lisi, Whelihan, McGee, Tallman and Brunelle fought valiantly to protect the people. Several Councilors lead by Ward 3 Councilor Tony Keane, Ward 7 Councilor Jay O'Neill and Councilor At Large Patti Devine pushed to lower the taxes of the Holyoke Mall and the remaining commerical sector and shift that burden on the homeowners.
Councilor Jourdain in advocating the lower rate for homeowners emphasized that residential values, unlike the commerical, are still above market value and based on 2007 sales even though we all know what has happened to the housing market in 2008 and what will happen in 2009.
Jourdain also pointed out that in the midst of the worst economic downturn in 50 years with unemployment rampant, homeowners simply could not afford the approximately $200 a year increase the other side had planned for them.
Councilor Jourdain stated, "I wish taxes could stay fixed this year but the Mayor's decision to raise the tax levy by $2 million for the 9th year in a row has increased the size of the pie that needs to be sliced up for both homeowners and businesses to pay." The tax rates adopted by the Council under the Lopez/Jourdain proposal for 2009 are $14.24 Residential and $35.15 Commerical/Industrial/Personal Property. The new 2009 Home and Commerical Values are now available at the Assessor's Office for people who would like to calculate their 2009 bill. The Assessor's Office phone number is 322-5550 for more information.
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
Holyoke Real Estate & Virtual Tour Added!
Interested in Buying a home in Holyoke or taking a Virtual Tour of the City? Here is a site to take a look at:
http://www.holyokemarealestate.com/
http://www.holyokemarealestate.com/
Thank You Veterans!
This morning, I had the pleasure of attending the Holyoke Veteran's Day Ceremonies at the War Memorial. It was a beautiful event. This year is extra special because it commerates the 90th anniversary since the signing of the Armistice that ended World War I, which unfortunately was not the war to end all wars.
The United Veterans of Holyoke paid tribute to 3 wonderful Holyokers this year:
Ralph Lefebvre as Veteran of the year
Ron Dietrich as Public Safety Official of the Year
Attorney Maurice Ferriter as Citizen of the Year.
Each of these fine gentlemen have made a tremendous contribution to our city, state and nation and they were all very deserving of their awards. These 3 great veterans each continue in the long lineage of fine veterans that have come from Holyoke. Holyoke holds the remarkable distinction as a smaller city of being home to 3 Congressional Medal of Honor Receipents.
Sen. Knapik, Rep. Kane, Mayor Sullivan and City Council President Joe McGiverin all extended their best wishes and presented the award receipients with additional commerations on behalf of the city and state.
The Mountain View Baptist Church Choir delivered yet another beautiful and uplifting performace in honor of both God and Country.
All in attendance also gave special recognition to a fellow Holyoker who just returned after serving 2 years in Iraq.
I have been pushing for several years now for the restoration of the Civil War monument in Veterans Park. This signature monument commerates Holyoke's War Dead from this tragic internal war to keep our nation together. Recently, the City Council passed a resolution I introduced requesting that the monument be restored from the park restoration funds Holyoke will be receiving as part of the Intra-Model project across the street. Mayor Sullivan announced today at the ceremony today that the monument is going to be restored to its former glory and the monies will be put in place to make that happen. If you see Mayor Sullivan, please be sure to thank him for supporting our veterans and preserving our monuments to their memory!
I was very proud to share in this patriotic event and extend my best wishes to all of our veterans, both past and present. If you enjoy your freedom, take a minute to thank a Vet! If you missed the event, strongly consider putting it in your calendar next year - you will be glad you did.
The United Veterans of Holyoke paid tribute to 3 wonderful Holyokers this year:
Ralph Lefebvre as Veteran of the year
Ron Dietrich as Public Safety Official of the Year
Attorney Maurice Ferriter as Citizen of the Year.
Each of these fine gentlemen have made a tremendous contribution to our city, state and nation and they were all very deserving of their awards. These 3 great veterans each continue in the long lineage of fine veterans that have come from Holyoke. Holyoke holds the remarkable distinction as a smaller city of being home to 3 Congressional Medal of Honor Receipents.
Sen. Knapik, Rep. Kane, Mayor Sullivan and City Council President Joe McGiverin all extended their best wishes and presented the award receipients with additional commerations on behalf of the city and state.
The Mountain View Baptist Church Choir delivered yet another beautiful and uplifting performace in honor of both God and Country.
All in attendance also gave special recognition to a fellow Holyoker who just returned after serving 2 years in Iraq.
I have been pushing for several years now for the restoration of the Civil War monument in Veterans Park. This signature monument commerates Holyoke's War Dead from this tragic internal war to keep our nation together. Recently, the City Council passed a resolution I introduced requesting that the monument be restored from the park restoration funds Holyoke will be receiving as part of the Intra-Model project across the street. Mayor Sullivan announced today at the ceremony today that the monument is going to be restored to its former glory and the monies will be put in place to make that happen. If you see Mayor Sullivan, please be sure to thank him for supporting our veterans and preserving our monuments to their memory!
I was very proud to share in this patriotic event and extend my best wishes to all of our veterans, both past and present. If you enjoy your freedom, take a minute to thank a Vet! If you missed the event, strongly consider putting it in your calendar next year - you will be glad you did.
Saturday, October 25, 2008
Mayor seeks to select new School Superintendent on his way out the door!
Mayor Sullivan looks to tie hands of new Mayor to bring real change to schools
Mayor Sullivan announced this week that he is forming a committee to select a new School Superintendent by January 2010 when he leaves office. Traditionally, school officials who retire leave at the end of the school year; therefore, if the new Superintendent is starts prior to Mr. Carballo's departure, our cash strapped school dept. will be forced to pay two salaries during the interim.
I am also disappointed that Mayor Sullivan is seeking to make this major appointment on his way out the door and tie the hands of the new mayor from determing the head of the schools. It is the new mayor who will have to work side by side with this new person to turn the schools around.
Let us not forget that it was Mayor Sullivan that brought Mr. Carballo to lead the schools and the new Mayor should have the opportunity to bring real change to the school's leadership. After his recent pay raise, Mr. Carballo is now receiving the highest pay ever paid a Superintendent at $151,000 per year while the schools are suffering their greatest financial crisis in a generation.
The new mayor should not have to be tied to the Sullivan-Carballo approach to education. So why would we, as a city, want a lame-duck mayor picking the Superintendent and then having him or her trained by Mr. Carballo? That is not a new approach: that is same old, same old.
The Republican had a recent article on this issue, here it is below if you have not seen it already:
Holyoke school chief to retire in 2010
By JEANETTE DeFORGE jdeforge@repub.com HOLYOKE - Superintendent Eduardo B. Carballo has announced he will be retiring in 2010, mostly to give the School Committee plenty of time to fine his replacement. Carballo has told committee members on several occasions he plans to retire in about 18 months. This week he repeated his plans to officials from the State Department of Elementary and Secondary Education who were visiting the city. At that time he will be 62 and will be ready to give up his job, which pays about $151,000 a year.
Carballo took over as Holyoke superintendent in 2002, he said. Carballo said he announced his retirement so far in advance to give city officials plenty of time to find a replacement to head up the challenging school district, which is underperforming and one of the poorest in the state.
"The mayor has already put together a working committee, I told him I will be there and help in any way I can," Carballo said. A committee of School Committee members, teachers and the City Council president has already started meeting to talk about ways to find a new superintendent, said Mayor Michael J. Sullivan, who serves as School Committee chairman.
He said it is important to begin the process now because he would like to have a new superintendent selected by January 2010 so the new candidate can work with Carballo before taking over. "I appointed an ad-hoc committee to create a succession plan," he said.
The committee, which includes teachers, parents and politicians, was asked to develop ideas on how Holyoke can best find a superintendent. It may write a search plan proposal, but it was not a requirement, Sullivan said.
"I can say there was a lot of public input in the last process, I hope any committee is open to input from all facets of the community," he said. The School Committee will make the final decision on who is hired as the next superintendent, but it can also name search committees that can include teachers, parents and other residents, Sullivan said.
Officials from the state Department of Elementary and Secondary Education said they are also interested in participating, Sullivan said. "I think that is fair because they are so heavily invested in the city of Holyoke," he said. Since the schools were declared underperforming the state has spent about $4.5 million on efforts to improve student scores.
Mayor Sullivan announced this week that he is forming a committee to select a new School Superintendent by January 2010 when he leaves office. Traditionally, school officials who retire leave at the end of the school year; therefore, if the new Superintendent is starts prior to Mr. Carballo's departure, our cash strapped school dept. will be forced to pay two salaries during the interim.
I am also disappointed that Mayor Sullivan is seeking to make this major appointment on his way out the door and tie the hands of the new mayor from determing the head of the schools. It is the new mayor who will have to work side by side with this new person to turn the schools around.
Let us not forget that it was Mayor Sullivan that brought Mr. Carballo to lead the schools and the new Mayor should have the opportunity to bring real change to the school's leadership. After his recent pay raise, Mr. Carballo is now receiving the highest pay ever paid a Superintendent at $151,000 per year while the schools are suffering their greatest financial crisis in a generation.
The new mayor should not have to be tied to the Sullivan-Carballo approach to education. So why would we, as a city, want a lame-duck mayor picking the Superintendent and then having him or her trained by Mr. Carballo? That is not a new approach: that is same old, same old.
The Republican had a recent article on this issue, here it is below if you have not seen it already:
Holyoke school chief to retire in 2010
By JEANETTE DeFORGE jdeforge@repub.com HOLYOKE - Superintendent Eduardo B. Carballo has announced he will be retiring in 2010, mostly to give the School Committee plenty of time to fine his replacement. Carballo has told committee members on several occasions he plans to retire in about 18 months. This week he repeated his plans to officials from the State Department of Elementary and Secondary Education who were visiting the city. At that time he will be 62 and will be ready to give up his job, which pays about $151,000 a year.
Carballo took over as Holyoke superintendent in 2002, he said. Carballo said he announced his retirement so far in advance to give city officials plenty of time to find a replacement to head up the challenging school district, which is underperforming and one of the poorest in the state.
"The mayor has already put together a working committee, I told him I will be there and help in any way I can," Carballo said. A committee of School Committee members, teachers and the City Council president has already started meeting to talk about ways to find a new superintendent, said Mayor Michael J. Sullivan, who serves as School Committee chairman.
He said it is important to begin the process now because he would like to have a new superintendent selected by January 2010 so the new candidate can work with Carballo before taking over. "I appointed an ad-hoc committee to create a succession plan," he said.
The committee, which includes teachers, parents and politicians, was asked to develop ideas on how Holyoke can best find a superintendent. It may write a search plan proposal, but it was not a requirement, Sullivan said.
"I can say there was a lot of public input in the last process, I hope any committee is open to input from all facets of the community," he said. The School Committee will make the final decision on who is hired as the next superintendent, but it can also name search committees that can include teachers, parents and other residents, Sullivan said.
Officials from the state Department of Elementary and Secondary Education said they are also interested in participating, Sullivan said. "I think that is fair because they are so heavily invested in the city of Holyoke," he said. Since the schools were declared underperforming the state has spent about $4.5 million on efforts to improve student scores.
Lowe's Poll Results Final
In an overwhelming response to the question of whether a Lowe's should be located on Whiting Farms Road, the results are finally in:
Over 600 Blog Visitors cast a vote and by a thin margin, voters stated that they did not want a Lowes located on Whiting Farms Road.
Here's how you voted:
53% Voted NO
47% Voted YES
Thank you all for participating in this important poll.
Over 600 Blog Visitors cast a vote and by a thin margin, voters stated that they did not want a Lowes located on Whiting Farms Road.
Here's how you voted:
53% Voted NO
47% Voted YES
Thank you all for participating in this important poll.
Monday, October 20, 2008
Holyoke Education Turnaround Plan Criticized
The Republican
By JEANETTE DeFORGE jdeforge@repub.com HOLYOKE - The State Board of Education Monday evening questioned if an investment of $4.5 million and hiring a private firm has really helped the city's underperforming schools improve. Superintendent Eduardo B. Carballo met with the state board and representatives from a America's Choice Inc., the company, to discuss efforts made to improve schools since Holyoke became the first city district to be named underperforming in the state in 2004.
The review is part of a larger discussion the state board and the state Department of Elementary and Secondary Education is having about assessing districts, holding them accountable and offering assistance as the number of failing schools across the state is growing, said Education Commissioner Mitchell D. Chester.
"We thought it would be useful to look at Holyoke in particular," since the state has been working with the district for four years and invested $4.5 million in the effort, Chester said.
Holyoke was one of two school systems to be declared underperforming in November 2004 because of its low Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment Systems scores. Following the decision, officials for city schools and the state Department of Education developed a plan to improve performance.
A main part of the plan was to hire America's Choice on the state's recommendation. The company mainly introduced a specialized reading and writing program to the district, had a representative work full-time in the city for at least a year, trained teachers and purchased materials, Carballo said.
Smaller amounts of the money also went to provide specialized training for administrators one year and created a program for transient students, which was cut back this year because of budget cuts.
But during the presentation from the company, a Board of Education member pointed to a chart showing the English scores and questioned if hiring a private company worked.
"The ELA (English) chart is flat for '02 to '08," said Jeff Howard, a board member and president of The Efficacy Institute, of Waltham. "What should we expect to see on this chart for '09 and 2010 given the investment and the lives of the students?"
Representatives from America's Choice acknowledged that scores have remained flat and said they would have changed some things, such as concentrating more on students learning English sooner.
In his presentation, Carballo talked about constant budget cuts, which this year forced the city to close three schools and lay off dozens of teachers.
He also said the number of students who do not speak English continues to increase and transient students range from 35 percent to 45 percent in most schools. But he said many changes, including bringing in America's Choice, has been positive.
Redistricting so most students attend a school in their neighborhood and converting schools to kindergarten to grade eight has also helped. "Some things that happened in the district (were) a little bit disjointed and crazy," he said.
By JEANETTE DeFORGE jdeforge@repub.com HOLYOKE - The State Board of Education Monday evening questioned if an investment of $4.5 million and hiring a private firm has really helped the city's underperforming schools improve. Superintendent Eduardo B. Carballo met with the state board and representatives from a America's Choice Inc., the company, to discuss efforts made to improve schools since Holyoke became the first city district to be named underperforming in the state in 2004.
The review is part of a larger discussion the state board and the state Department of Elementary and Secondary Education is having about assessing districts, holding them accountable and offering assistance as the number of failing schools across the state is growing, said Education Commissioner Mitchell D. Chester.
"We thought it would be useful to look at Holyoke in particular," since the state has been working with the district for four years and invested $4.5 million in the effort, Chester said.
Holyoke was one of two school systems to be declared underperforming in November 2004 because of its low Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment Systems scores. Following the decision, officials for city schools and the state Department of Education developed a plan to improve performance.
A main part of the plan was to hire America's Choice on the state's recommendation. The company mainly introduced a specialized reading and writing program to the district, had a representative work full-time in the city for at least a year, trained teachers and purchased materials, Carballo said.
Smaller amounts of the money also went to provide specialized training for administrators one year and created a program for transient students, which was cut back this year because of budget cuts.
But during the presentation from the company, a Board of Education member pointed to a chart showing the English scores and questioned if hiring a private company worked.
"The ELA (English) chart is flat for '02 to '08," said Jeff Howard, a board member and president of The Efficacy Institute, of Waltham. "What should we expect to see on this chart for '09 and 2010 given the investment and the lives of the students?"
Representatives from America's Choice acknowledged that scores have remained flat and said they would have changed some things, such as concentrating more on students learning English sooner.
In his presentation, Carballo talked about constant budget cuts, which this year forced the city to close three schools and lay off dozens of teachers.
He also said the number of students who do not speak English continues to increase and transient students range from 35 percent to 45 percent in most schools. But he said many changes, including bringing in America's Choice, has been positive.
Redistricting so most students attend a school in their neighborhood and converting schools to kindergarten to grade eight has also helped. "Some things that happened in the district (were) a little bit disjointed and crazy," he said.
Sunday, October 5, 2008
Video Up Link Feature Added!
Friends, it is my pleasure to add a great new feature to Holyoke First and that is a new video uplink that will permanently be located on my blog. I will feature important and educational video works worthy of your time and thought.
Thank you again for taking the time to visit my website which is my commitment to you to keep you fully informed of my work as your elected representative, as well as, the inner workings of your city government!
Thank you again for taking the time to visit my website which is my commitment to you to keep you fully informed of my work as your elected representative, as well as, the inner workings of your city government!
Saturday, October 4, 2008
Councilor Jourdain files 2 orders related to Sewer Rate Issues
These 2 Orders Filed for October 7, 2008 Meeting.
ORDER 1:
Ordered, That the following changes in Sec 90-90 be adopted:
Sec. 90-90. Sewer use charge.
(a) Generally. The City Council (board of public works) shall establish a sewer use charge by ordinance; any change in such charge shall come after a public hearing held by the City Council (board of public works), to provide the funds necessary to provide and maintain sewage treatment and sewage works, pay the debt service thereon, and maintain a reasonable reserve as determined by the City Council (board of public works), but which will not exceed 25 percent of the annual budget. The sewer use charge shall be assessed against the owner of every property connected to the municipal sewage works. The charge shall be billed to property owners on a quarterly basis at the rate determined by the City Council (board of public works), multiplied by the number of gallons of metered water charged to the property owner. The board of public works shall collect all monies due the city as a result of the sewer use charge established by this section.
(b) Rate; payment. The rate shall be $4.66 per 1,000 gallons of water metered with a minimum quarterly rate of $5.00. Said rate shall be in effect until such time as the City Council shall approve a change in rate. (board of public works requests a change in rate and such change in rate receives city council approval.) All charges or bills shall be due and payable 30 days after issue and charges or bills remaining unpaid after such due date shall be charged interest thereon at a rate of 14 percent per year as provided in M.G.L.A. c. 40, § 21E.
ORDER 2:
Ordered, That the Law Department render a legal opinion if DPW has the authority to charge certain select commercial or industrial ratepayers a rate different than all other sewer ratepayers when the ordinance Sec 90-90 clearly establishes one rate for all ratepayers and further states, “The sewer use charge shall be assessed against the owner of every property connected to the municipal sewage works.”
ORDER 1:
Ordered, That the following changes in Sec 90-90 be adopted:
Sec. 90-90. Sewer use charge.
(a) Generally. The City Council (board of public works) shall establish a sewer use charge by ordinance; any change in such charge shall come after a public hearing held by the City Council (board of public works), to provide the funds necessary to provide and maintain sewage treatment and sewage works, pay the debt service thereon, and maintain a reasonable reserve as determined by the City Council (board of public works), but which will not exceed 25 percent of the annual budget. The sewer use charge shall be assessed against the owner of every property connected to the municipal sewage works. The charge shall be billed to property owners on a quarterly basis at the rate determined by the City Council (board of public works), multiplied by the number of gallons of metered water charged to the property owner. The board of public works shall collect all monies due the city as a result of the sewer use charge established by this section.
(b) Rate; payment. The rate shall be $4.66 per 1,000 gallons of water metered with a minimum quarterly rate of $5.00. Said rate shall be in effect until such time as the City Council shall approve a change in rate. (board of public works requests a change in rate and such change in rate receives city council approval.) All charges or bills shall be due and payable 30 days after issue and charges or bills remaining unpaid after such due date shall be charged interest thereon at a rate of 14 percent per year as provided in M.G.L.A. c. 40, § 21E.
ORDER 2:
Ordered, That the Law Department render a legal opinion if DPW has the authority to charge certain select commercial or industrial ratepayers a rate different than all other sewer ratepayers when the ordinance Sec 90-90 clearly establishes one rate for all ratepayers and further states, “The sewer use charge shall be assessed against the owner of every property connected to the municipal sewage works.”
Councilor Jourdain files 3 orders related to the Holyoke Retirement System
On September 2, 2008, Councilor Jourdain filed 3 orders related to the Holyoke Retirement System. Included is the current Status of these orders. Updates to follow.
JOURDAIN Ordered, that a Representative of the Governor’s office and/or PERAC be invited before the Finance Committee for an informational session to discuss the advantages and disadvantages of the city joining our retirement system with the state.---> Received and referred to the Finance Committee.
JOURDAIN Ordered, that the Holyoke Housing Authority and Retirement Board please provide copies to the City Council as soon as possible of all memorandum, email, minutes, legal opinions, letters, correspondence, votes, or other documents related to the elimination of John Counter’s position at the Housing Authority, his apparent “termination” and his request for an enhanced pension as a result of the elimination of his position. Please also provide the name of his former title. If any documents are being held back as not “public documents”, please indicate which documents and on what basis the document(s) is being withheld. This request is made under Section 48 of the City Charter. That this order be sent to HHA & Retirement Board with a copy to the Public Service Committee.---> Received and referred to the Finance Committee.
JOURDAIN Ordered, that pursuant to Section 48 of the Charter that Dan Owens of the Retirement Board or his designee please provide a financial analysis for the City Council illustrating what John Counter’s pension would have been based upon: (1) a normal superannuation retirement payable now based on his age, years of service and his pay rate versus (2) the pension he will be receiving now under Ch 32, § 10 (2) (a) as a result of his position being abolished by the Housing Authority. Please give an annual breakdown as well as a lifetime payout analysis assuming benefit ends at age 85 under both scenarios. That this order be sent to the Retirement Board with a copy to the Public Service Committee.---> Received and referred to the Finance Committee.
JOURDAIN Ordered, that a Representative of the Governor’s office and/or PERAC be invited before the Finance Committee for an informational session to discuss the advantages and disadvantages of the city joining our retirement system with the state.---> Received and referred to the Finance Committee.
JOURDAIN Ordered, that the Holyoke Housing Authority and Retirement Board please provide copies to the City Council as soon as possible of all memorandum, email, minutes, legal opinions, letters, correspondence, votes, or other documents related to the elimination of John Counter’s position at the Housing Authority, his apparent “termination” and his request for an enhanced pension as a result of the elimination of his position. Please also provide the name of his former title. If any documents are being held back as not “public documents”, please indicate which documents and on what basis the document(s) is being withheld. This request is made under Section 48 of the City Charter. That this order be sent to HHA & Retirement Board with a copy to the Public Service Committee.---> Received and referred to the Finance Committee.
JOURDAIN Ordered, that pursuant to Section 48 of the Charter that Dan Owens of the Retirement Board or his designee please provide a financial analysis for the City Council illustrating what John Counter’s pension would have been based upon: (1) a normal superannuation retirement payable now based on his age, years of service and his pay rate versus (2) the pension he will be receiving now under Ch 32, § 10 (2) (a) as a result of his position being abolished by the Housing Authority. Please give an annual breakdown as well as a lifetime payout analysis assuming benefit ends at age 85 under both scenarios. That this order be sent to the Retirement Board with a copy to the Public Service Committee.---> Received and referred to the Finance Committee.
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