Page 13 - BusinessWest November 10, 2021

Community Spotlight
Monson Pursues New Growth Opportunities
By Mark Morris
It’s a classic small-town balancing act. As Monson leaders look forward to new infra- structure and energy projects, many resi-
dents also want to maintain a small-town feel. But progress is important, Town Administra- tor Jennifer Wolowicz says. With the town about
to receive $1.7 million from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), and a team at Town Hall looking
“There are plenty of projects we could pursue that serve only part of the community, but everyone benefits from improved roads, water, and sewers.”
at ways to use those funds, she favors infrastruc- ture projects because she believes they offer the best return on investment.
“There are plenty of projects we could pursue that serve only part of the community, but every- one benefits from improved roads, water, and sewers,” Wolowicz said, adding that she is grate- ful the town has until 2026 to spend the ARPA
funds. “That timetable allows us to be thoughtful in how we use the money.”
In April, Wolowicz was appointed full-time Town Administrator after working in the position since February in an interim capacity. When she first came on board, Town Hall was closed to the public due to COVID-19 mandates while the staff inside were busy trying to figure out how to pro- vide the services residents needed. Some town business moved online, but many residents pre- fer to pay their bills in person, so Wolowicz and her staff installed drop boxes and even offered some outdoor service.
“With a little education and reassurance, we helped people figure out different ways to get business done,” she said.
These days, Town Hall is fully open. The Mon- son Select Board has relaxed mask mandates
in general, but they are still required in schools. Wolowicz pointed out that COVID numbers have been trending lower than in the past, and cur- rently, 56% of residents have been vaccinated.
Meanwhile, back in January, Andrew Sur- prise became the new CEO of the Quabaog Hills Chamber of Commerce, which covers 15 towns in the region, including Monson. Surprise admits that, in the past, the chamber had been losing touch with local communities. To address that, he has begun reaching out to Monson businesses
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COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT
NOVEMBER 10, 2021 13
Monson
at a glance
YEAR INCORPORATED: 1775
POPULATION: 8,560
AREA: 44.8 square miles
COUNTY: Hampden
RESIDENTIAL TAX RATE: $18.12
COMMERCIAL TAX RATE: $18.12
MEDIAN HOUSEHOLD INCOME: $52,030
MEDIAN FAMILY INCOME: $58,607
TYPE OF GOVERNMENT: Select Board, Open Town Meeting
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