Baker-Polito Administration Announces Fiscal Year 2019 Capital Investment Plan

Baker-Polito Administration Announces Fiscal Year 2019 Capital Investment Plan

$2.34 billion plan will maintain and modernize existing assets and make targeted new investments, with an increased emphasis on climate change mitigation and adaptation

BOSTON – The Baker-Polito Administration today released its Fiscal Year 2019 (FY19) Capital Investment Plan, which emphasizes care and maintenance of the Commonwealth’s existing assets while making targeted new investments to meet growing needs. The plan reflects a fiscally responsible approach to long-term planning and a continuing commitment to affordability.

The FY19 plan makes affordable investments in housing, higher education, transportation infrastructure and technology upgrades. It also reflects the Administration’s continuing commitment to strong partnerships with cities and towns with investments that help communities meet their local infrastructure needs.

To address the potential impact of climate change on the Commonwealth’s assets, the Administration also evaluated every investment for potential climate change implications. The administration has provided more than $60 million in FY19  to directly address issues related to climate change and also proposed a $1.4 billion environmental bond bill that included $300 million to respond to and prepare for extreme weather, sea level rise, inland flooding and other climate impacts.

“Our fourth capital investment plan builds on our Administration’s responsible and targeted approach to maintaining and funding critical state assets that benefit residents in every corner of the Commonwealth from maintaining our roads to investing in our schools,” said Governor Charlie Baker. “This plan addresses some of the Commonwealth’s most pressing needs to repair local infrastructure and invest in economic development opportunities for new businesses and workforce development, and also balances new development with an evaluation for climate change implications to protect the environment well into the future.”

“The Baker-Polito Administration continues our strong partnership with cities and towns through this capital investment plan, which funds more than a dozen programs that provide direct assistance to communities for local infrastructure needs,” said Lt. Governor Karyn Polito. “From technology upgrades at city and town halls to rebuilding crumbling seawalls, the Commonwealth’s communities will long benefit from these investments.”

By including a $108 million investment in South Coast Rail, this plan puts the Commonwealth on course to provide rail service for residents of Southeastern Massachusetts. The South Coast Rail project will meet the current and future demand for public transportation between Fall River/New Bedford and Boston, and will also support smart growth development in the region.

“The Administration’s approach to capital investing continues to be guided by a strong sense of fiscal responsibility and a commitment to managing the Commonwealth’s debt responsibly,” said Secretary of Administration and Finance Michael J. Heffernan. “This carefully-considered plan balances the need to invest in our Commonwealth’s infrastructure with prudent management of our long-term financial obligations.”

The $2.34 billion bond cap represents a responsible $80 million (3.5%) increase over Fiscal Year 2018, which is in line with the recommendations of the Debt Affordability Committee. The total capital investment for FY19, after accounting for non-bond-cap funding sources, will be $4.5 billion.

To view the FY19 Capital Investment Plan, visit: www.mass.gov/capital.

Within the Administration’s FY19 capital budget, projects focus on six major themes:

Responsible Asset Stewardship

The Baker-Polito Administration’s fourth capital plan is built on a fundamental commitment to repairing and modernizing the state’s existing capital assets, to avoid costly future repairs, while taking a strategic approach to new investments for future growth.

·       74 percent of the plan is dedicated to maintenance and modernization, including rebuilding, reconstructing or reconditioning existing assets

·       26 percent of the plan is dedicated to targeted growth through creation of new assets or increasing investments in priority areas

The plan funds:

·       $807 million in bond cap for maintaining and modernizing the Commonwealth’s transportation infrastructure

·       $190 million for projects on higher education campuses

·       $85 million to support maintenance and improvements at local housing authorities

·       $11 million for major improvements to skating rinks and swimming pools

·       More than $7 million in state-share of funding for a new, state-of-the-art long-term care facility for veterans at the Soldiers’ Home in Chelsea, a $200 million project that is expected to receive 65% reimbursement by the federal government

·       $3.15 million in funding for renovations at the Soldiers’ Home in Holyoke, for deferred maintenance, resiliency work, and site improvements

Supporting Local Communities

This plan also strengthens the Baker-Polito Administration’s partnership with cities and towns, which is most visible through the Community Compact program. As of May 2018, all 351 cities and towns have signed Community Compact agreements, making them eligible for technology grants funded through the capital plan, as well as other benefits.

In total, the FY19 capital plan funds more than a dozen grant programs that help local communities build libraries, improve access for people with disabilities to municipal buildings, and fund infrastructure projects that help unlock economic development opportunities.

The plan funds:

·       $200 million in Chapter 90 funding for local road and bridge repairs

·       $16.6 million to extend residential broadband internet service in underserved communities in Western Massachusetts and the Berkshires

·       $9 million for the municipal small bridge program, which funds repair and replacement of small bridges that don’t qualify for federal funding

·       $5 million for Housing Choice, a new initiative that funds capital grants to cities and towns that meet certain housing production goals and have adopted best practices that will help meet the housing needs of Massachusetts’ workforce

·       $2.5 million to help cities and towns redevelop brownfields sites

·       $2 million in Community Compact technology grants

·       $500,000 to provide state matching funds to local police departments to purchase bulletproof vests

Economic Opportunities for All

The plan provides for investments to promote economic development in every region of the Commonwealth. They include:

·       $80 million for MassWorks grants, which fund critical local infrastructure improvements that help pave the way for economic development projects

·       $35 million for dredging in Boston Harbor, and $4 million for other dredging projects to promote economic development in smaller port cities

·       $15 million for grants to high schools, community colleges and community-based nonprofits to purchase equipment that supports training for workforce development

·       $1 million for the Massachusetts Food Trust program to encourage economic opportunities in the food sector while bringing healthy food options to underserved communities

Preparing for a Changing Climate

The FY19 capital plan incorporates the goals of Executive Order 569, which was signed by Governor Baker in 2016 and outlines a comprehensive approach to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and protecting and preparing the Commonwealth for the impact of climate change. In building the capital plan, the Administration evaluated every investment for potential climate change implications.

The plan funds:

·       $55 million for transit-oriented housing, increasing the use of public transportation

·       $20.9 million for sustainability and resiliency improvements to state facilities

·       $12 million to help communities address deteriorating dams and rebuild seawalls

·       $11 million in grants to cities and towns for climate change vulnerability planning and adaptation efforts.

·       $10.9 million for more energy-efficient transit fleets

·       $5 million for a new program to accelerate energy efficiency improvements in public housing

Customer Orientation

The Baker-Polito Administration is committed to delivering efficient and secure service to the public, and this plan funds technology and other capital improvements that prioritize enhanced security and modernization of core services. The FY19 capital plan includes:

·       $17.4 million to fund a more secure IT infrastructure for all Executive branch agencies by moving to a singular, modern, secure network

·       $1.75 million to support a shared, modern, online system to better serve residents and businesses interacting with the Departments of Environmental Protection, Conservation and Recreation, and Agricultural Resources

Value Optimization

The FY19 capital plan seeks to leverage other sources of funding to maximize the value of the Commonwealth’s investments. This year’s plan leverages over $1 billion in federal funding, including over $900 million for transportation programs such as the federal-aid highway program and the Green Line Extension (GLX) project. The Boston Harbor dredging project, for example, leverages matching funds from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and Massport.

The plan also funds:

·       $5.7 million to make improvements to bicycle and pedestrian lanes, leveraging $12.3 million in federal funding sources for green transportation alternatives

·       $1.9 million in grants to public schools that complement federal grants to provide high speed internet and Wi-Fi access in schools; in FY19, the remaining 29 schools in Massachusetts that have reported a Wi-Fi need will be funded

13 ARRESTED IN JOINT STATE, FEDERAL AND LOCAL TAKEDOWN OF MAJOR OPIOID TRAFFICKING OPERATION ON NORTH SHORE

13 ARRESTED IN JOINT STATE, FEDERAL AND LOCAL TAKEDOWN OF MAJOR OPIOID TRAFFICKING OPERATION ON NORTH SHORE

Authorities seize nearly 2.6 kilograms of heroin/fentanyl, 3,000 pills and $415,000 in total

BOSTON – Thirteen people were arrested and 12 were arraigned yesterday in connection with a major heroin/fentanyl and oxycodone trafficking operation on Boston’s North Shore dismantled as part of a large-scale joint takedown by federal, state and local law enforcement, Attorney General Maura Healey announced today. Authorities seized nearly 2.5 kilograms of heroin/fentanyl, 1,900 pills and $415,000 in cash during yesterday’s takedown, and an additional 95 grams of fentanyl and 1,100 pills during the course of the investigation. 

                These charges are the result of an extensive investigation involving AG Healey’s Enterprise, Major and Cyber Crime Division, Massachusetts State Police assigned to the Commonwealth Interstate Narcotics Reduction Enforcement Team (CINRET) and the AG’s Office, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), and the Lynn, Beverly, Danvers and Peabody Police Departments.

“Heroin, fentanyl and oxycodone continue to cause hundreds of deadly overdoses across our state each year,” AG Healey said. “My office is committed to working with our partners in law enforcement to disrupt the trafficking networks that distribute these drugs onto our streets and into our communities.”

“Operations such as this one significantly degrade capabilities of local narcotics trafficking organizations,” said Colonel Kerry A. Gilpin, Superintendent of the Massachusetts State Police. “I especially recognize the work of our State Police detective units, including those attached to our new Homeland Security Division, for working with local police to do the hard work and heavy lifting of building a solid case.”

“The DEA in New England is committed to investigating and bringing to justice those who illicitly distribute oxycodone,” said DEA Special Agent in Charge Brian D. Boyle. “Opiate abuse is a major problem in Massachusetts and throughout New England. The diversion of prescription pain killers, in this case oxycodone, contributes to the widespread abuse of opiates, is the gateway to fentanyl and heroin addiction, and is devastating our communities. DEA and our law enforcement partners are dedicated to stopping this abuse. This investigation demonstrates the strength of collaborative law enforcement efforts in Massachusetts and our strong partnership with Attorney General Healey’s Office.”

            “The Lynn Police Department will continue to work with other agencies to bring an end to the opioid epidemic,” said Lynn Police Lt. Michael Kmiec.

            “I would like to praise the members of the Beverly Police Drug Control Unit and all of the agencies involved in this collaborative investigation. It shows a dedication and determination to combat the opiate epidemic throughout the Commonwealth and especially on the North Shore,” Beverly Police Chief John LeLacheur said.

            “I appreciate the hard work of all of our partners in law enforcement and in particular, the ongoing efforts of Danvers Detective Tim Williamson,” said Danvers Police Chief Patrick Ambrose. “All agencies involved continue to work together to eliminate illegal drug distribution in Danvers and the related addiction problems these sales create. These dealers negatively impact the quality of life in Danvers and surrounding communities, we are committed to disrupting their operations.”

            “We appreciate the team effort of the Massachusetts State Police and our local law enforcement partners working together to slow the flow of opiates in the North Shore area,” said Peabody Police Lt. William J. Cook. “These combined efforts will assist us in dealing with our current crisis in opiate related overdoses. Our shared resources and information assists us in combating this problem.”

The following individuals were arraigned in Peabody District Court yesterday on the following changes:

Lymbel Guerrero, 28, of Peabody 

Trafficking Heroin, 200 Grams or More (one count)

Trafficking Cocaine, 36 Grams or More (one count)

Trafficking Oxycodone, 18 Grams of More but Less Than 36 Grams (one count)  

Bail set at $500,000 cash

Aggeliki Iliopoulos, 27, of Peabody

Trafficking Heroin, 200 Grams or More (one count)

Trafficking Cocaine, 36 Grams or More (one count)

Trafficking Oxycodone, 18 Grams of More but Less Than 36 Grams (one count)

Bail set at $500,000 cash

Anthony Lavacca, 28, of Peabody

            Possession with Intent to Distribute, Marijuana (one count)

Bail set at on $50,000 cash

           

Randy Suarez, 30, of Peabody 

Charged with Trafficking Heroin, 200 Grams or More (one count)

Possession with Intent to Distribute Oxycodone (one count)

Bail set at $500,000 cash

The following individuals were arraigned in Lynn District Court yesterday on the following charges:

Frantz Adolphe, 23, of Lynn

Charged with Conspiracy to Violate Drug Laws (one count)

Trafficking Oxycodone, More Than 100 Grams but Less Than 200 Grams (one count) Bail set at $500,000 cash 

Jason Desantis, 24, of Malden

Charged with Conspiracy to Violate Drug Laws (one count)

Bail set at $5,000 cash

Erin Driscoll, 32, of Peabody

Charged with Conspiracy to Violate Drug Laws (one count)

Bail set at $7,000 cash

Richard Grullon-Santos, 25, of Lynn

Conspiracy to Violate Drug Laws (one count)

Trafficking Fentanyl, More Than 10 Grams

Bail set at $500,000 bail cash

Gregory Inuyama, 27, of Lynn

            Conspiracy to Violate Drug Laws (one count)

Possession with Intent to Distribute a Class B Drug (one count)

Bail set at $60,000 cash

Rajner Llanaj, 29, of Salem

Conspiracy to Violate Drug Laws (one count)

Bail set at $10,000 cash

Jose Luque Jr., 25, of Lynn

Conspiracy to Violate Drug Laws (one count)

Bail set at $2,500 cash

Nelson Mora, 25, of Lynn

Charged with Trafficking Oxycodone, 36 Grams or More but Less Than 100 Grams (one count)

Trafficking Fentanyl (four counts)

Conspiracy to Violate Drug Laws (one count)

Bail set at $500,000 cash

Erick Delrosario, 26, of Kearny, New Jersey, was also arrested in connection with this investigation and will be arraigned in Massachusetts at a later date.

            This investigation is ongoing. These charges are allegations and defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.

            AG Healey’s Office has been working closely with its federal, state and local partners to combat illegal drug trafficking. AG Healey formed an internal task force to more aggressively combat the heroin and prescription drug abuse crisis in Massachusetts. The AG’s Office is using a multi-faceted approach that includes education for prescribers, pursuing illegal drug traffickers and pill mills, and expanding access to recovery and treatment programs.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant Attorney General Gina Masotta and Assistant Attorney General Cesar Vega of the AG’s Enterprise, Major and Cyber Crimes Division. The case is being investigated by Massachusetts State Police assigned to the CINRET and AG Healey’s Enterprise, Major and Cyber Crime Division, the DEA, the Lynn, Beverly, Danvers and Peabody Police Departments, and AG Healey’s Digital Evidence Lab.

Tri-Caucus Announces Introduction of Health Equity and Accountability Act

Tri-Caucus Announces Introduction of Health Equity and Accountability Act

WASHINGTON, DC – The Congressional Tri-Caucus Chairs – composed of Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus (CAPAC) Chair Judy Chu (CA-27), Congressional Hispanic Caucus (CHC) Chair Michelle Lujan Grisham(NM-01), Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) Chair Cedric Richmond (LA-02) – as well as U.S. Senator Mazie Hirono (D-HI) and Congresswoman Barbara Lee (CA-13) released the following statement announcing the House introduction of the Health Equity and Accountability Act (HEAA) of 2018:

“The Health Equity and Accountability Act is a bold, comprehensive vision for addressing persistent ethnic and racial health disparities and improving health outcomes in communities of color. By building on the successes of the Affordable Care Act and improving care for the families who need it most, we can ensure that all Americans – no matter their race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, age or language background – can stay healthy. 

“The racial disparities in health care are stunning and unacceptable. Diseases such as cancer, diabetes, HIV, heart disease, and hepatitis continue to disproportionately affect African American, Latino, Asian American, Pacific Islander, and Native Hawaiian populations. And despite coverage gains made under the Affordable Care Act, Latinos and African Americans are still at a higher risk of being uninsured.

“We must address the underlying challenges that prevent underserved communities from gaining coverage and accessing high-quality health care. The Health Equity and Accountability Act is a critical step towards ensuring that all Americans have the resources and care that they need to thrive.”

BACKGROUND: The Health Equity and Accountability Act has been introduced in every Congress since 2007. This legislation reforms policies and expands federal health care resources for racial and ethnic minorities, as well as other underserved populations who face discrimination and barriers to care due to their immigration status, sex, age, ability, sexual orientation, gender identity, and English proficiency.

Reps. Chu and and Barbara Lee published an op-ed on the Health Equity and Accountability Act in The Hill today.

MAYOR WALSH ANNOUNCES THREE-YEAR PARTNERSHIP TO EXPAND THE REACH OF BOSTON'S COMMUNITY GARDENS WITH THE TRUSTEES AND TD BANK

MAYOR WALSH ANNOUNCES THREE-YEAR PARTNERSHIP TO EXPAND THE REACH OF BOSTON'S COMMUNITY GARDENS WITH THE TRUSTEES AND TD BANK

BOSTON - Wednesday, May 23, 2018 - Mayor Martin J. Walsh today announced a three-year partnership between the Mayor's Office of New Urban Mechanics, The Trustees, and TD Bank to expand the reach and highlight the role of community gardens in Boston's neighborhoods with community-driven design projects, community-building events, and skill-building workshops planned for up to 40 gardens. In the first year, the City will seek ideas for  innovative design installations at three community gardensincluding: The Trustees' Nightingale Community Garden in Dorchester, Chilcott & Granada Community Garden in Jamaica Plain, and the Fenway Victory Gardens, owned by Boston Parks and Recreation and administered and maintained by the Fenway Garden Society. The installations may support community dinners, storytelling and community conversations, performances, and interactive play. In addition, The Trustees will hold 10 community-building events and skill-building workshops at its community gardens in Dorchester, East Boston, Jamaica Plain, Mattapan, Mission Hill, Roxbury, and the South End as part of the partnership with the goal being to allow the Trustees to expand garden programming by nearly 40% with larger community-building and wellness programs. (There are more than 20 activities through Seed, Sow & Grow that bring people together for skill-building workshops and events at City Natives in Mattapan and throughout Boston. You can find a list of community-building events and skill-building workshops here.) "I am proud that Boston is home to more than 10,000 gardeners and 200 community gardens spanning 50 acres across our city," said Mayor Walsh. "This City is lucky to have great partners like The Trustees, TD Bank, and dedicated members of our community to help advance the state of our public spaces by incorporating community driven design projects like this. Together, with our communities, we are making Boston a place where the gardening community can flourish." Over the next three years, the program aims to engage and enhance up to 40 community gardens in six neighborhoods in Boston, including the following: El Jardin de la Amistad, Roxbury Eagle Hill Community Garden, East Boston Berkeley Community Garden, South End Southwest Corridor Community Farm, Jamaica Plain Windermere Community Garden, Dorchester Paul Gore & Beecher Community Garden, Jamaica Plain Worcester Community Garden, South End Mission Hill Community Garden, Mission Hill City Natives, Mattapan Woolson Community Garden, Mattapan TD Bank will serve as the presenting sponsor of the Boston Community Gardens partnership, granting a total of $225,000 over three years. "TD Bank is committed to creating a more vibrant planet and enhancing urban green spaces that bring the community together," said Mark Crandall, Regional President, Southern New England, TD Bank. "As a company with deep roots in Boston, we are excited about our partnership with the Mayor's Office and The Trustees of Reservations to enrich our community gardens. Together, we expect this three-year collaboration to provide Boston with an array of cultural, educational, and environmental programs in gardens across the city for all people to enjoy." "We are excited to partner with TD Bank and the Mayor's office to create these unique community-focused experiences in Boston community gardens," said Vidya Tikku, General Manager for The Trustees' Greater Boston region. "We have a long history of working with public and private partners here in the City of Boston and around the state to advocate for green spaces and expand urban gardening, education, and community-building. This partnership will enable us to offer neighborhood residents new and creative ways to gather, learn, and enjoy our community gardens."

Project Selected to Bring Offshore Wind Energy to the Commonwealth

Project Selected to Bring Offshore Wind Energy to the Commonwealth

Selection Would Be Single Largest Offshore Wind Project in the United States

BOSTON – The Baker-Polito Administration today announced that Vineyard Wind was selected by the Commonwealth’s Electric Distribution Companies to move forward to contract negotiations as part of the offshore wind energy procurement authorized byAn Act Relative to Energy Diversity, signed by Governor Baker in 2016. The ultimate procurement of 800 megawatts (MW) will represent the largest single procurement of offshore wind by any state in the nation. Today’s announcement is an important milestone for an initiative that will ultimately spur economic development along the coast, ensure a resilient energy future for the Commonwealth and secure progress toward greenhouse gas reduction requirements.

Additionally, through Massachusetts’ leadership in competitively soliciting for offshore wind energy, the State of Rhode Island today announced it will enter into contract negotiations with Deepwater Wind to procure 400 MW of offshore wind energy. By collaborating regionally on efforts to lower electricity costs, increase reliability, improve fuel security, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, Massachusetts and Rhode Island are working to bring a total of 1,200 MW of clean, local offshore wind to New England’s electric grid.

“Today’s announcement brings the Commonwealth one step closer to achieving our administration’s goals of creating a clean, reliable and cost-effective energy future for Massachusetts residents, and significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions to combat climate change,” said Governor Charlie Baker. “By positioning Massachusetts as a hub for the emerging offshore wind industry, this competitive procurement will ensure the Commonwealth continues to lead the nation in innovation and renewable energy generation.”

“The procurement of competitively priced and locally produced offshore wind energy will help the Commonwealth reduce greenhouse gas emissions and create economic growth while addressing the needs of our communities,” said Lieutenant Governor Karyn Polito. “This selection will allow Massachusetts to capitalize on the economic benefits of an emerging industry, creating high-quality jobs and providing cost-effective power for ratepayers.”

The Vineyard Wind bid was selected for contract negotiation based on criteria established under a Request for Proposals (RFP) previously subject to public comment, and reviewed and approved by the Department of Public Utilities. Criteria used in the evaluation of the bids included an economic evaluation of the benefits for ratepayers, the project’s ability to foster employment and economic development in the Commonwealth, and the project’s environmental impacts and the extent to which a project demonstrates that it avoids or mitigates impacts to natural resources and tourism. As a result of a stringent review, Vineyard Wind was determined to provide the greatest overall value to Massachusetts customers by delivering approximately 800 MW of offshore wind capacity per year while providing substantial ratepayer benefits.

“The procurement of 800 MW of offshore wind energy will significantly help the Commonwealth transition to a diversified energy portfolio and achieve the emissions reductions targets set forth by the Global Warming Solutions Act,” said Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary Matthew Beaton. “This nation-leading announcement is an important milestone in our procurement process to secure the largest amount of renewable energy in Massachusetts’ history, reducing energy costs and strengthening the state’s clean energy economy.”

The deployment of offshore wind will also have a benefit on the Commonwealth’s economy and workforce. A recent report by the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center  found that the deployment of 1,600 megawatts (MW) of offshore wind is estimated to create between 2,270 and 3,170 job years - defined as one person working full-time for one year - during construction over the next ten years and generate between $675 million and $800 million in direct economic output in Massachusetts. 

In order to ensure the development of offshore wind off the Massachusetts coast does not negatively impact the environment and the Commonwealth’s fishing industries, the Baker-Polito Administration has supported several offshore wind-related studies and continues to work with a Fisheries Working Group (FWG) created to ensure the commercial and recreational fishing industries are able to provide input into the federal permitting process related to offshore wind. Additionally, the Administration has communicated directly with the Department of the Interior and the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management that the siting process for wind turbines in federal waters must include consideration of natural resources and important marine ecosystems and industries. Furthermore, the Administration will work with federal agencies to establish a Southern New England Fisheries Science Panel on Offshore Wind.  The panel would be comprised of respected scientists from New England assist in the development, collection, evaluation, and peer review of scientific information relevant to the development and operations of the wind and fishing industries; identify key informational needs; and make recommendations regarding studies, surveys and monitoring that will assess key environmental and industry interaction issues.

Per statute, a competitive solicitation was announced through issuance of the RFP on June 29, 2017 for 400MW to 800MW per year, which represents approximately 2.7-3% and 5.5-6% of Massachusetts’s total annual electric load. Today’s selection of projects concludes a thorough review by the Department of Energy Resources, Eversource, National Grid and Unitil, which was closely monitored by an Independent Evaluator, jointly chosen by the Department of Energy Resources and the Attorney General, who was responsible for overseeing the process to ensure that all proposals were evaluated in a fair and nondiscriminatory manner.  

“Massachusetts is committed to leading the nation in creating a clean, affordable and resilient energy future while being a leader in the U.S. offshore wind industry,” said Department of Energy Resources Commissioner Judith Judson. “This project reduces our dependency on fossil fuels while boosting the local economy.” 

The final acceptance of the bid and award of contract is conditional upon successful contract negotiations between the parties and the regulatory approval at the Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities (DPU). At the time of contract filing with the DPU, a public report will be provided by the soliciting parties that details the evaluation process.  Separately, the Independent Evaluator will prepare and submit a detailed public report on the evaluation process and outcome.

If the bid selected to advance to contract negotiation at this stage does not successfully negotiate contracts, it may result in other bid(s) being selected to advance to contract negotiations.  Final project selection as a result of successful contract negotiation will be made public following submittal for regulatory approval. More information on the selected project, process, and timeline can be found here.

This announcement builds upon the Baker-Polito Administration’s ongoing efforts to grow the Commonwealth’s clean energy economy and meet our greenhouse gas emission reduction targets. In August 2016, Governor Baker signed into law bipartisan comprehensive energy diversification legislation requiring utilities to competitively solicit and contract for approximately 1,600MW of offshore wind and approximately 1,200MW of clean energy. Under Governor Baker’s recently filedenvironmental bond bill, DOER would be directed to create a new clean peak standard for electricity suppliers to increase the usage of clean energy during periods of high, carbon intensive, and expensive electricity demand. The administration’s new solar incentive program, Solar Massachusetts Renewable Target (SMART), will support an additional 1,600 MW of solar in Massachusetts, nearly doubling the amount installed as of today at half the estimated pricing of existing programs.

千禧世代的 亞太裔家庭照護者付出更多時間照顧親屬

AARP樂齡會報告：千禧世代的

亞太裔家庭照護者付出更多時間照顧親屬

AAPI Millennial Family Caregivers Spend More Time

Providing Care, AARP Report Finds

Click here to download the infographic.

【華盛頓哥倫比亞特區2018年5月23日訊】— AARP樂齡會最新報告《千禧世代：新一代的家庭照護者》（Millennials: The Emerging Generation of Family Caregivers）指出，美國將近4,000萬的家庭照護者中有四分之一是屬於千禧世代的年青人，報告突顯出這一代人必需承擔更大的父母、祖父母、朋友或鄰居基本生活和醫療支援，因此面臨著獨特的經歷和挑戰。根據報告，千禧世代也有更多人需要照顧罹患精神健康或情緒問題的親友，比例達到33%，而較年長的照護者這項比例僅為18%。總的來說，精神健康照護人員面臨著更高的情緒、身體和財務壓力。

除此之外，年輕照護者在工作場所也面臨挑戰，因為主管和經理對他們的理解不足。他們除了每週平均要花20多個小時照護親友外，這一代的家庭照護者大多同時身兼一份工作（73%）。然而，超過一半受訪者表示他們的照護角色對工作影響很大。

「人們常常對千禧世代有一種自我意識強烈的迷思，並構成刻板印象，使得千禧世代的照護者難以得到他們應有的認同和幫助。」AARP樂齡會多元文化領導部門亞太裔受眾副總裁郭為婉（Daphne Kwok）說：「當照顧家庭的重責落在年輕人身上時，尤其是當人際關係和專業網絡正在形成的時候，這對他們的生活造成十分關鍵的影響。」

根據該報告，大多數千禧世代照護者（65%）正在照顧一位父母或祖父母，而且超過一半照護者是家中唯一提供照護的支柱。千禧世代也是迄今為止最多元化的家庭照護者群體。

• 大約百分之八的千禧世代家庭照護者是亞太裔，但他們卻佔所有亞太裔照護者總數三分之一（30%）。
• 大多數的亞太裔照護者是女性（64%）。
• 同樣是屬於千禧世代的一群，亞太裔家庭照護者比其他人付出“更多時間” 照顧親友（每週提供護理時間超過20小時），亞太裔家庭照護者此項的比例為31%，一般家庭照護者僅26%。

千禧世代被定義為出生於1980年至1996年的人群。該報告中所使用的數據主要基於2015年的美國照護研究。

詳閱報告請瀏覽網站：https://www.aarp.org/ppi/info-2018/millennial-family-caregiving.html

查詢更多關於家庭照護的資源及信息、以及AAPI樂齡會的照護準備指南請瀏網站： www.aarp.org/caregiving。

WASHINGTON, DC, May 23, 2018 — One-in-four of the nearly 40 million family caregivers in America is a millennial. AARP’s latest report, “Millennials: The Emerging Generation of Family Caregivers,” spotlights the unique experiences and challenges this generation faces as more support a parent, grandparent, friend or neighbor with basic living and medical needs. According to the report, millennials are more likely to care for someone with a mental health or emotional issue — 33 percent compared to 18 percent of older caregivers. Overall, mental health caregivers face higher emotional, physical and financial strain.

Younger caregivers also face challenges in the workplace because they are less understood by supervisors and managers. On top of spending an average of more than 20 hours a week in their caregiving role, this generation of family caregivers is the most likely to be employed (73 percent). More than half say their caregiving role affected their work in a significant way, says the report.

“The myth that millennials are self-involved is a stereotype that makes it challenging for millennial caregivers to get the recognition and help they need,” said Daphne Kwok, AARP Vice President of Multicultural Leadership, Asian American and Pacific Islander Audience Strategy. “When the responsibilities of caring for family falls on its younger members, it impacts them at a pivotal point in their lives when personal relationships and professional networks are being formed.”

According to the report, most millennial caregivers (65 percent) care for a parent or grandparent and more than half are the only one in the family providing this support. Millennials are also the most diverse group of family caregivers to date.

• About eight percent of millennial family caregivers are AAPI, but they make up about three-in-ten (30 percent) of all AAPI caregivers.
• The majority (64 percent) of AAPI millennial family caregivers are women.
• AAPI millennial family caregivers are more likely to be a “higher hour” caregiver (providing care more than 20 hours a week) than the average millennial caregiver, 31 percent compared to 26 percent.

Millennials are defined as those born between 1980 and 1996. Data from the report is based primarily on the 2015 Caregiving in the U.S. study.

To read the full report, visit: https://www.aarp.org/ppi/info-2018/millennial-family-caregiving.html

Visit www.aarp.org/caregiving for more resources and information on family caregiving, including AARP’s Prepare to Care Guides.

CAPAC Chair Chu Applauds Publication of National Park Service’s Asian American and Pacific Islander Theme Study

CAPAC Chair Chu Applauds Publication of National Park Service’s Asian American and Pacific Islander Theme Study

WASHINGTON, D.C. – In 2013, Department of Interior Secretary Ken Salazar led the endeavor of developing a theme study focused on the historical and cultural contributions of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders in America. Today, the U.S. Department of Interior hosted an event with Asian and Pacific Islander Americans in Historic Preservation to celebrate the completion of this publication entitled Finding a Path Forward: Asian American Pacific Islander National Historic Landmarks Theme Study, which will serve as a guiding document to preserve Asian American and Pacific Islander cultural and historic sites of national significance. Congresswoman Judy Chu, Chair of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus (CAPAC), released the following statement:

“At a time where America’s national monuments, preservation sites, and landmarks are under increased scrutiny, it is important now more than ever to protect and preserve areas that reflect and celebrate the diversity of America’s rich culture and history.  That is why I am so proud to celebrate the much-anticipated publication of the National Park Service’s Asian American and Pacific Islander theme study during Asian Pacific American Heritage Month.

“The sites identified in this theme study reflect the rich history and cultural contributions of the Asian American and Pacific Islander community, from historic temples and schools to World War II Japanese American confinement sites. They tell the tale of individual experiences that simply cannot be told in words, and memorialize specific times in history that shaped who we are as a nation.

“I commend the National Park Service, Dr. Franklin Odo, and all of the individuals involved in this multi-year effort to shed light on critical AAPI sites that are integral to our nation’s diverse history.”

Finding a Path Forward: Asian American Pacific Islander National Historic Landmarks Theme Study can be found on the National Park Service website.

WGBH慶亞裔傳統月邀成功亞裔企業家分享經驗(圖片)

Celebration of Asian Pacific American Culture 

Tues., 5/22, 7pm–9pm at WGBH Studios.

Join us for WGBH’s 10th annual celebration of Asian Pacific American culture with specially selected films and programs airing this month on WGBH 2, WGBX 44 and World, our national documentary and information channel. 

This year, the event will spotlight Asian American entrepreneurs who have risen to the top of their respective industries and remain civically engaged in their communities. Leaders from a variety of sectors will share their personal experiences and journeys to professional success with the event attendees. 

Liz Cheng, general manager of WGBH Television and the World Channel, will moderate the discussion with panelists Yvonne Hao, COO and CFO of Pill Pack, Mohamad Ali, President and CEO of Carbonite and Ian So, CEO, co-owner and co-founder of Chicken and Rice Guys. Panelists will offer real-world advice to event attendees.