Over the past few months the Hampshire Council of Governments and its staff have been subjected to considerable criticism and unfavorable media coverage.
Most disconcerting is the obfuscation of the facts, accompanied by a lack of in-depth investigation and verification. Much of what has been written has been spurred by anonymous individuals, partial information and malicious gossip.
Following two years of financial success, the council’s board granted HCG staff a one-time recognition of our teamwork, innovation and professionalism in the face of a challenging work environment. That bonus is the only one HCG staff has ever received.
We offer the purchasing co-op which is researching additional bid opportunities for new products and services. Through the co-op’s outreach with the Valley Community Development Corp., schools can purchase fruits and vegetables grown by area farmers.
Hampshire Renewables is continuing to expand, partnering with solar developers and local farms to pursue new revenue streams for local towns, businesses and individuals. The SREC program has over 1,200 residential, nonprofit, agricultural, and municipal customers.
RSVP expanded into Hampden County and honored over 600 volunteers who provided more than 100,000 hours of service to our communities. The Tobacco Free Community Partnership helps our communities, housing authorities and public buildings become smoke-free, and works to provide education to youth. HCG also provides information technology, web, accounting, and grant writing services.
HCG is funded by its own revenue. Every cent HCG earns goes back to supporting the communities of western Massachusetts.
We are not a perfect organization, but we strive to develop innovative programs and beneficial services to local communities. HCG offers a robust suite of programs and services that combine the best practices of government and the private sector to support municipalities, residents, nonprofits and businesses.
We are wholeheartedly committed to serving this mission and welcome any further discussion.
Catherine Welker
Northampton
The writer is the marketing and communications coordinator of HCG, and submitted this letter on behalf of its staff.