Local business leaders lobby in Boston

CHICOPEE, Mass. (WWLP) - A concentrated effort to improve prosperity and the economy here in western Massachusetts. Local business people lobbied lawmakers during Wednesday's Beacon Hill Summit.

It's not everyday that local businesses get to speak with members of the state executive and their legislators, but this power summit is meant to make those important connections happen.

Senator Gale Candaras hosted the Springfield, Holyoke and Chicopee Chambers of Commerce Wednesday to give a voice to the business interests of western Massachusetts. "We want to hear from them, what we can do to help them as businesses grow and prosper."

"I think it's very helpful for them to hear directly what some of the challenges are that face us," said Charles Rucks, Executive Director of Springfield Neighborhood Housing Services,"and for us to hear some of the very positive things that's going on here in the legislature in support of the effort in Springfield."

A popular topic? Healthcare cost containment, how to keep Medicaid and employee insurance liabilities down. The Commissioner of Revenue spoke about fair tax collection practices and emphasized the importance of commerce.

Representative Joe Wagner was optimistic that resort casinos will help. He will chair a hearing on expanded gambling next Wednesday. "What I'm suggesting is that if there is a competitive process, Western Massachusetts is going to have to step up and be as competitive or more competitive than other regions hoping to establish casino gambling."

Senator Candaras says the challenge moving forward will be making cuts to vital programs to balance the budget. She says supporting business growth is a way to bring more prosperity to the state.