BOSTON — Holyoke Mayor Joshua Garcia was named Mayor of the Year on Oct. 3 by the Northeast Renewable Energy Coalition at the organization’s annual awards gala at Liberty Hotel in Boston. The award was presented to Garcia by Massachusetts Lt. Gov. Kim Driscoll.
Garcia was recognized for his leadership in advancing clean energy initiatives in Holyoke and for positioning the city to be a hub for sustainable innovation.
Holyoke Gas & Electric (HG&E) also won top honors at the gala, receiving the Utility of the Year award for its role in attracting clean tech industries to the city. Northeast Renewable Energy Coalition Executive Director Kristin Rode cited HG&E’s success at providing reliable, low-cost electricity sourced from the Connecticut River to serve energy-intensive industries seeking clean, green, inexpensive power.
Garcia characterized the awards as “testament to the resilience and ingenuity of Holyoke’s development strategy.” He cited the growing interest of startups and entrepreneurs impressed by the city’s vision of a clean energy economy. “It’s also the commitment of Holyoke’s residents and neighborhood activists, including our small businesses, who have won these awards. Their support and contribution to making Holyoke an innovator in energy conservation has been extraordinary.”
The Northeast Renewable Energy Coalition’s Mayor of the Year award celebrates municipal leaders who exemplify excellence in promoting renewable energy adoption, community engagement, and economic development through sustainable practices. Garcia was selected from a field of finalists, marking the first time a Massachusetts mayor has received the distinction.
“Holyoke was once known as the Paper City. But now we’re the Innovation City, powered by affordable and renewable energy that draws cutting-edge industries and that will continue to help us attract businesses that want these benefits,” Garcia added. “This recognition will help spread the word that Holyoke can provide much more affordable and cleaner energy than the big utility suppliers can.”
Friday’s event capped Massachusetts Clean Energy Week, during which the state’s leadership in renewables is showcased. Northeast Coalition teams visited Holyoke and HG&E twice in the lead-up to the awards event.
