Denis Guyer Blog

$5.5 MILLION ANNOUNCED TO HELP COMMUNITIES IMPACTED BY DECEMBER 2008 ICE STORM Last week, the Patrick-Murray administration released $5.5 million dollars to cities and town in Western and Central Massachusetts to reimburse costs related to the ice storm that hit much of Berkshire, Franklin and Hampshire counties one year ago. The Federal Emergency Management Agency has committed to reimbursing local towns for 75% of the costs of emergency response and cleanup due to this disaster. This additional money from the Commonwealth will be used to pick up a portion of the remaining 25% which towns are responsible for. This once in a century storm was a major burden on many communities in the 2nd Berkshire District, and these funds should help to reduce some of that strain on local finances. In addition to this funding, Governor Patrick recently signed legislation passed by the House and Senate which places new standards on public utility companies and holds them accountable if they fail to restore power in a timely manner during an emergency. On top of allowing the Department of Public Utilities to impose a fine of up to $250,000 a day if power is not restored during a state of emergency, the legislation also gives the agency new oversight and regulatory powers over utilities. The law requires all utility companies to submit emergency response plans, and the attorney general may petition the courts to place a company into receivership if they fail to take necessary actions in a disaster. Each of these tools will decrease response time after an emergency, and ensure the best possible utility service for Massachusetts residents. To view the press release sent by the Governor, which includes a list of the amount each town will receive, click on the link below:

$5.5 MILLION ANNOUNCED TO HELP COMMUNITIES IMPACTED BY DECEMBER 2008 ICE STORM

New office hours in Hinsdale In response to the constituent interest has been so high that Rep. Guyer has decided to add Hinsdale to the office hour’s schedule. Every Friday from 8:30-12:00, either Rep Guyer or his District Aide, Stephanie Gravalese-Wood, will be on hand to speak with constituents about state related issues. “Hundreds of constituents have been served through this new schedule, and I am pleased to add another town to the weekly rotation” says Rep. Guyer. Residents of any of the 22 towns that make up the Second Berkshire District are welcome. Appointments are not necessary but encouraged. Please contact District Aide, Stephanie Gravalese-Wood at 413-358-3354.

Rep Guyer Channel on YouTube In addition to being available online on Pittsfield Community Television, ‘The Denis Guyer Show” is also available on YouTube! Check out the Rep Denis Guyer Channel on YouTube for clips and soon to include events from around the Second Berkshire District and events from the State House.

Rep Denis Guyer on YouTube