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Lieutenant Governor, Legislators, continue Bernat Mill relief efforts
December 11, 2007 ... As the Commonwealth continues the recovery efforts stemming from July’s Bernat Mill Complex fire, Lt. Governor Timothy Murray will join with Sen. Richard T. Moore, D-Uxbridge, Rep. Paul Kujawski, D-Webster, and Rep. Jennifer Callahan, D-Sutton, to host an open meeting regarding the site’s potential redevelopment at the Town Hall on Thursday, December 20th at 2:30pm. “Governor Patrick, Lt. Governor Murray and the entire administration have been especially responsive to the town’s needs resulting from this tragic fire,” said Moore. “We’re especially fortunate that the Lt. Governor, given his experience with economic development in Worcester, is taking such an active leadership role in helping Uxbridge to turn a disaster into an economic asset for the downtown area. The fire event clearly got the attention of a number of state agencies who can and will be helpful in the redevelopment process.” "As we move forward, the continued support from state government is essential,” said Kujawski. “The team effort put forth to provide relief from the Governor, Lt. Governor, Senate, House and local officials cannot let the people effected by this tragedy down. The rebuilding of this downtown development is and will be a top priority." "I am pleased that progress continues at the Bernat Mill, as we begin to look towards the future and consider various options for redevelopment and continuing the partnership between State Agencies, the Legislature and Governor's Office," said Callahan. "It is fitting that as we approach the New Year there are new beginnings on the horizon for Uxbridge." The Commonwealth has been extremely active in recent months responding to the summer disaster. Various state agencies have joined with local officials and community leaders to relocate businesses, school programs, and plan for Uxbridge’s future economic development opportunities. In October, the Legislature approved a $577,186 package to provide relief for damages associated with the fire, including reimbursements for the 66 communities that responded. More recently, in an effort to further alleviate financial burdens to Uxbridge, the Legislature authorized the town to abate the property taxes associated with the Complex. The meeting, which is open to the public, will focus on economic development opportunities associated with both the Bernat site as well as Uxbridge in general. |
