The Massachusetts Ways and Means Committee has the duty of considering all legislation affecting finances for the Commonwealth.
Each year, Committee members meet at hearings held across the State, to review topics and plan the $30 billion State budget.
Months ago, Ways and Means Chairman, Brian Dempsey (D-Haverhill) announced that the 2015 budget hearing would take place in the Town of Dedham (a first for our community).
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It was on Friday, February 14, 2014 that this session was held at the Dedham Middle School. Committee members, including our own State Representative, Paul McMurtry (D-Dedham), convened at the school to discuss Health and Human Services, Elder Affairs, Veteran Affairs, Mental Health and Medicaid issues, to name a few.
The daylong event, allowing our residents and students the opportunity to see how our government functions, was a huge success. A dozen 8th grade students were chosen by Principal Debra Gately and Vice Principal Margo Fraczek to assist the legislators throughout the day.
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So proud of their effort was Representative McMurtry, that he made it a point to return to the school to personally thank each of them. “You boys and girls, along with your Principal, Vice Principal and teachers, made such an impression on my colleagues and I that I wanted to thank you myself” McMurtry told the group. “I have something very special for all of you” he continued, as McMurtry presented Principal Gately with a plaque “to display proudly for your Outstanding Leadership.”
Both the students and administrators were thrilled to be recognized and appreciated for their efforts!
Story and Photos by: Joe Kilroy
