Optimism about Chicopee's future

CHICOPEE, Mass. (WWLP) - Chicopee Mayor Michael Bissonnette delivered some good news to his community Wednesday morning.

The mayor gave his State of the City Address to the members of the Chicopee Chamber of Commerce at the Castle of Knights. Bissonnette said that the city has remained stable throughout the national economic crisis. He points to a balanced budget, a surplus rainy day fund, and continued economic growth.

"We've been able to weather that storm with no layoffs, continuing to build our surplus, making sure our utilities, water, sewer and electric keep their rates down,” he said.

The key, according to Bissonnette, has been to diversify Chicopee’s economy. "We have a diversified economy and diversified tax base. It's not all residential, it's not all manufacturing, it's not all commercial, so we're able to spread the burden."

Bissonnette told 22News that he is confident there will be no major cuts to Westover Air Reserve Base. The Pentagon is proposing cutting the base’s C-5 cargo planes by half, though no final decision has been made.

The mayor also said that he is betting a resort casino will be located in the Greater Springfield area to boost the local economy.