State Representative Dennis C. Gallagher

Happy 250th!

Representative Greg Schwartz and I spent some time today speaking with a group of State House summer interns about the work we have done this session in the House of Representatives.

We are so lucky to have such inspiring young minds helping us out this summer!

Earlier today I delivered a replica of the Declaration of Independence as printed in Salem in July of 1776 to the town clerks offices in Bridgewater and Raynham.

It is printed on a replica cotten paper by a “Franklin style” printing press that feels and looks just like the original copies printed in 1776.

Happy 250th everyone! 🇺🇸

Commonwealth Heroines are women who don’t make the news, but who truly make the difference. Every day, thousands of women perform acts that make our homes, neighborhoods, cities, and towns better places to live. The Commonwealth Heroine award is given to women of the Commonwealth who use their time, talent, spirit, and enthusiasm to enrich the lives of others in their communities.

Each year the Commission partners with state legislators to identify women who make outstanding contributions to their organizations and communities.

I was so happy to nominate Leslie Kola of Raynham for her outstanding commitment to her community and creating a lasting impact. Leslie Kola and Alda Stankewicz, co-owners of Annie’s Book Stop, have become important members of the Raynham community. They have kept the bookstore’s long-standing tradition of promoting literacy, education, and connection while making it a welcoming space for residents. Through free community nights, story times, and locally made goods, they bring people together and support creativity. They also volunteer in local schools, help teachers, students, and families, and take part in many community initiatives.

Their service and dedication have made a lasting, meaningful impact in Raynham.

State Representative Dennis Gallagher is happy to announce that the Massachusetts House of Representatives has unanimously passed a $3.5 Billion environmental bond bill, the MassReady Act, which includes $1,300,000 in targeted bond funding to the towns of Bridgewater and Raynham for water, climate, and conservation improvements. The bill will now head to the Senate for further consideration before being signed by Governor Healey.

Through the introduction of multiple amendments to the bill, Rep. Gallagher worked to secure the following investments:

$500,000 for the Town of Bridgewater for pivotal water and sewer infrastructure improvements.

$500,000 for the Town of Raynham for the replacement of the Pine Street culvert, which will improve stormwater flow, strengthen climate resiliency, and protect public safety for residents.

$100,000 for repairs to the Johnson Pond Dam in Raynham.

$100,000 for continuation of the Old State Farm Trail and Recreation area in Bridgewater.

$100,000 for development of the South Street East recreation area.

The MassReady Act has been touted by legislators as the largest environmental bond bill in Massachusetts history. Priorities addressed in the bill include water and sewer infrastructure management, flood risk reduction, improvements to local infrastructure, and open space conservation.

The historic funding secured by Rep. Gallagher reflects his ongoing priorities since taking office, including support for local water and sewer improvements and infrastructure investment. Rep. Gallagher said he will continue working with his Senate colleagues and the administration to ensure the Bridgewater and Raynham investments remain in the final legislation.

Rep. Dennis Gallagher also delivered his inaugural speech emphasizing the critical need for investments in infrastructure in the Commonwealth.

So honored to nominate Bridgewater resident David Michael for the first LGBTQ+ Commonwealth Pride Awards.

David Michael is a community advocate, volunteer leader, and champion for inclusion whose work has helped create welcoming spaces, meaningful connections, and greater visibility for LGBTQ+ individuals throughout southeastern Massachusetts.

David is the Director of Community Networking for The be; community and an active volunteer with Bridgewater Communities for Civil Rights. Professionally, David is a real estate agent serving the Southeast Massachusetts region.

Thank you for your advocacy snd dedication to our community!