Report of the Board Selectmen 2009
The year 2009 will be remembered as one of the most challenging of financial times for cities, towns and families as well.
The Board of Selectmen prepared a budget which cut operational expenditures in nearly every department, while insuring that essential services were not interrupted.
The Board worked diligently with the School District and our legislative officials as they faced increased economic uncertainty as well. Selectmen supported an increase in the school assessment in the amount of $71,922.00.
Cognizant of the need to utilize tax dollars conservatively, the Board asked for and was supported at Town Meeting for substantial capital outlays for both the repair of the South Longyard Road Culvert Headwall and the purchase of the former Suburban Chevrolet for a new DPW facility. South Longyard Road was re-opened after being closed for just over a year. The renovated DPW facility should be fully operational by spring of 2011 and will fully accommodate DPW needs into the foreseeable future.
The reconstruction of Honey Pot Road addressed resident’s concerns regarding proper storm water drainage and safe travel along this scenic way.
Nicholson Hill Road is scheduled for much needed improvements and the engineering phase of reconstruction will begin in 2010.
Selectmen plan to resume a Sidewalk Improvement Program which includes repairs to existing sidewalks and new installations where appropriate.
The Board prepared to examine the feasibility for a Phase II Sewer Program and line extension in Westfield. All potential grant and loan options will be considered along with citizen input before any project will be undertaken.
Plans for a Senior Center Addition moved ahead with the selection of an architect and design funded almost entirely with grant monies. Plans to seek addition grants for the actual construction are moving forward.
In conjunction with the Park and Recreation Commission, DPW, Conservation Commission and other boards the Board prepared to accept and open Phase I of the Rail to Trail scheduled for spring 2010. Phase II construction bringing the trail from Point Grove Road to the Westfield City line is scheduled to begin in the spring of 2010.
The Board remains committed to helping our citizens achieve their goals and aspirations. Economic uncertainty and reductions in state aid only reinforce our efforts to find the best value for our residents. As always, we are receptive to citizen input and ideas. We welcome participation at all levels and look forward to working with the many citizen boards, committees, commissions and groups.
We extend our thanks to many volunteers and staff who contribute their valuable time and innovation which is what makes Southwick such a nice place to live.
A special thanks to Karl, Cindy, Robin, and Gail.
Respectfully submitted,
Arthur G. Pinell, Chairman
David A. St.Pierre, Vice-Chairman
Nicholas Boldyga, Clerk