Waltham Senator and Reps add funds for Tourism Council

Spurred by Waltham’s legislative delegation, the House and Senate have voted to override a gubernatorial veto of $75,000 in funds to assist the efforts of the city’s Tourism Council.

In the spring, State Representative Tom Stanley, D-Waltham, backed by State Representative John Lawn, D-Watertown, put forth a successful amendment for the funding in the House budget. State Senator Mike Barrett, D-Lexington, added the amendment on the Senate side. But the money was nixed by Governor Charlie Baker. In response, Stanley, Lawn, and Barrett called for a veto override, which requires two-thirds approval in both chambers. Their efforts paid off, as the funding was restored.

“I am extremely pleased that the Waltham Tourism Council funding will be included in the FY16 budget,” said Stanley. “I believe that Waltham’s history, attractions, and proximity to major roadways and other tourist destinations create a unique opportunity for the WTC to promote the city and region. This funding not only benefits the Waltham economy, but those in surrounding communities and the state’s as well.”

“Financing for Steampunk and Riverfest Festivals was riding on these overrides,” Barrett said. “I’m glad we were able to come through.”

“This funding will be a great asset for the city, from making Waltham a more desirable place to visit to funding local events,” Lawn said. “This will greatly benefit local businesses and hotels, and provide revenue for all of Waltham.”

The Waltham Tourism Council promotes and sponsors many community events each year. Much of the money allocated in the state budget will go towards promoting celebrations. “The Tourism Council is crucial to getting the word out about Waltham’s amazing civic calendar,” Barrett said. “The city really comes together.”

In addition, Rep. Lawn, backed by Stanley and Barrett, successfully pushed to override a gubernatorial veto of $50,000 for a special Waltham Police drug task force. “This funding is essential for Waltham and for continuing to fight the increasing opiate abuse in the Commonwealth,” Lawn said. “I appreciate the help of Senator Barrett and Representative Stanley in ensuring this funding was provided for the people of Waltham.”

On a matter of statewide interest, the House and Senate voted to add back $500,000 in funding for a detention diversion program run by the Robert F. Kennedy Children’s Action Corps. Barrett originally added funding for the program during the Senate budget process. He then successfully called for an override of a gubernatorial veto.

The aim of the initiative is to prevent young people from re-entering the juvenile justice system. Justice Policy Institute research suggests “the detention experience may increase the odds that youth will recidivate.”

The detention diversion program provides community-based support and supervision. Barrett notes that program workers provide 24/7 case management, including coordination with probation staff, face-to-face communication and curfew checks, and weekly family check-ins.

The Governor also nixed funding for a state climatologist. But the Legislature rebutted his veto. Barrett has been pushing for funds to hire a state climatologist to advise government on the impacts of global warming. “Climate change is definitely happening and means rising oceans, extreme temperatures, and wilder storms,” Barrett said. “A climatologist will provide enormous help to state and local officials.”