Dear Friends and Constituents of Ward 7 and the City of Springfield,
As summer arrives and we start to reopen the Commonwealth, there are many wonderful parks and hiking paths to frequent with your family. But remember, there are still risks. We are still required to wear masks and social distance when we go out. These protocols protect us and those around us. Remember to be careful as we welcome summer and start to find a "new normal".
All the Best,
City Councilor Tim Allen
COVID-19 News and Updates
I want to congratulate all of youfor following the rules, being responsible with social distancing, and wearing masks.Because we have taken responsibility, numbers are going down.But, as we start to reopen the city again over the next few months,we still need to be cautiousand continue to wear masks and be responsible about social distancing, otherwise we could be right back to where we were before with a lot of new cases.
Reopening Updates
Last week, the Baker Administration announced that the Massachusetts economy will be reopened using a four-phase approach, based on public health guidance. This is based on the risk assessed of COVID-19 transmission for various businesses and activities. Phases are named "Start", "Cautious", "Vigilant", and the "New Normal". For more information on these phases please visit https://bit.ly/2z0s8yK, Through the reopening it is still required that all residents wear a mask in public places when it is not possible to maintain proper social distance. Check out the details here https://bit.ly/3bJhv0e.
City Of Springfield News and Updates
I know many of you are concerned about theproposed water/sewer increase. We have discussed the proposed price increase at the Council level, the administration is concerned as well, and discussions are underway. The City Council met today with the management of the Water Department and we discussed many of our concerns.The official public hearing is Tuesday, June 2 at 6:00 pm. All are invited to attend the public hearing. I will get more information on this meeting (most likely online).
A Letter to the Editor from Mayor Domenic J. Sarno Regarding the Proposed Water/Sewer Changes 05/08/2020 Dear Letter to the Editor: I have voiced to the Water and Sewer Commission, while we do have one of the best water systems in the country and continued infrastructure investments and improvements are key to keeping it top notch, we are currently living in surreal/extraordinary times, in which we are all making difficult sacrifices. While we remain cognizant that we do not want a Flint, Michigan water system failure to occur here, I have urged the Water and Sewer Commission to reconsider and be reasonable to their proposed rate hike, especially to our senior citizens. I have asked them to also pursue potential Federal infrastructure funding initiatives to offset these costs and increasing the Senior Citizens discounts too.
Respectfully, Domenic J. Sarno Mayor
Welcome Summer and Stay Safe
What can you do? Visit State and City Parks
While state parks remain open and available for all to enjoy, face masks/coverings are required to protect you, other visitors, and aid in the prevention of spreading. Here is a great site from the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation -- "How to visit state parks during COVID19 Safely and Responsibly." https://bit.ly/2WHuknF
Featured Location: Nathan Bill Park
Nathan Bill Park, between Plumtree Road, Allen Street, and Eddywood Street is a great place to go and spend time with your family! Remember, take advantage of the walking trail around the perimeter of the park. We have some wonderful city resources and now more than ever is the time to utilize them! Of course as always keep your social distance and wear a mask.
Back Yard Fun
Playing in the back yard with your family is healthy, fun, and safe. Time in the sun means you're soaking up Vitamin D, just remember to wear sunscreen. Remember if you keep moving this counts as exercise with cardiovascular benefits!
In Conclusion - A Note from Tim
I would like to conclude with a special shout-out to Sister Cindy Matthews and parishioner Cheryl Cunningfrom the Holy Cross Catholic Churchon Plumtree Road. Every day, Cheryl and Cindy have been taking walks through our neighborhoods to check in on residents, to let them know that they are not alone in this time, and to see if they need anything. I join them a few days per week. Over the past few weekswe have checked in on hundreds of residents. With the churches opening soon, this effort will be winding down. A big kudos and thank you to Cindy and Cheryl for leading this effort!