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Fitchburg Restaurants offering Takeout &/or Delivery Service re: COVID-19

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Fitchburg Restaurants offering takeout & Delivery Service during this COVID-19 Mandated shutdown

Italian


Mexican/ Spanish

American

BBQ

Pizza/ Subs

Greek

Seafood

Chinese

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COVID-19 Fitchburg Related Updates

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I will update this Blog post with the latest posts from my Council Facebook Page.
Follow that on FB here

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McTaggarts Pond Dam Alternatives Analysis

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McTaggarts Pond Dam Alternatives Analysis has been completed.
We have two feasible options: Remove the Dam or Rehabilitate and Maintain the Dam.
Option 1: Dam Rehabilitation
Cost: $3.4M plus about $7k per year annually for operation and maintenance.

Option 2: Removing of the Dam
Basic Removal: $1.39M
Complete Removal: $2M
Unlikely but a Possibility of Active Sediment Management needed: $861k

What are your thoughts?

McTaggarts on the Public Works Committee 2.25.2020: the vote was 4-1 to give leave to withdraw at the Public Works Committee; Schultz, Fleming, Van Hazinga & Beauchemin voted to give Leave to Withdraw (basically vote against the petition), Couture voted against giving it leave to withdraw (essentially voting in favor of repairing the dam)

 


Photo by Marcel Trembley

Photo by Marcel Trembley

2020 2-25 mctaggarts study1
2020 2-25 mctaggarts study2
McTaggarts Abutters

McTaggarts Abutters

Longsjo Middle School Update

Longsjo Middle School Update:

longsjo school logo.png

I met this morning with School and City officials for a tour of Longsjo and concurrent discussion of the recent and ongoing concerns raised by our parents and residents.

Attending was:

  • myself, Councilor Squailia ;-)

  • Councilor Van Hazinga of Ward 4

  • Pete Stephens and Aidan Horgan of the School Committee

  • Superintendent Bob Jokela

  • Director of Finance and Operations Craig Challifoux (who was the former Longsjo Principal for 13 years)

  • Current Principal Shigehito Tanaka

  • Athletic Director Craig Antocci

  • FPS Communications Director Chad Garner

  • Mark from the Maintenance Staff

  • David Semenz, Director of Nutrition Services

  • Board of Health Director Steve Curry

  • Building Commissioner Mark Barbadoro.

We met in the Library and started the tour at the Fourth Floor, where there was the most significant damage from the Roof leakages. I am told all the classrooms are now repaired from the roof leaking damage, and we looked at a couple. One ESL classroom the teacher noted that she had spent weeks scraping and sanding and repainting the room...and it looked really nice with a light blue paint and colorful drapes over the windows. Another classroom was shown with white walls and ceiling... pretty standard.

86397433_2703331799774302_1273605365455388672_o.jpg

It was discussed that the Roofs, cupola, and associated gutter/fascia are now fully repaired... and it does look so much nicer approaching from the Academy Street side.

2020-02-13 Longsjo Middle School.jpg

We then visited the Gym…. the place was quite warm…that started a discussion on the heat in the building… basically the problem is that it is either too HOT or too COLD… this is due to an old set of boilers that heat the school…one large boiler…one small… it is easier to keep the boilers running than to switch on and off….and less likely to incur breaking down. School officials recognize this problem, have done what they can to repair the existing boilers…but are working with the MSBA (Massachusetts School Building Authority) to replace the boilers—-with perhaps more smaller boilers that would allow for better control, greater efficiency, and more redundancy (if one were to break down—-they could fix it while the other boilers compensated without going without heat completely).
Then we discussed the general condition of the gym—- including the basketball hoops. Our new Athletic Director, Craig Antocci discussed the issues and the plans… the main problem with the basketball hoops on the sides with the wooden backboards are they are not true ‘breakaway rims’… and kids tend to jump up and grab the rim…and then they bend and break. He is working on replacing all the hoops with breakaway rims, which require new reinforcement plates added to the backboards, and then new rims… he says he is on it once the basketball season ends (which is soon) he will then be able to retrofit the new hoops on the backboards.

78341517_2567292433355162_15377950014701568_n.jpg
Longsjo Basketball Hoop

The padding on the walls was noted are shabby and old. Prone to rip easy and crumble as the plastic/vinyl is old. Craig says he plans to replace all the padding with a newer padding material that is less likely to rip and is more resistant to vandalism.

The ceiling tiles were noted as looking really terrible. I was told that the flat roof had been leaking for many years, even after being replaced some 10 years ago… largely it still leaked because the main roof had so many leakages and problems, that water would get under the new flat roof still and leak and cause damage. Now that the main roof has been completely repaired, and the little leaks patched on the flat roof, i am told it does not leak anymore, and should not leak. So now they could replace the ceiling tiles.
It was then suggested that there are many other needs in other schools…. as you can see that replacing all the ceiling tiles in the old 1930’s gym would be an expensive project, i requested that they please just replace the missing tiles with a like material, and remove the obviously damaged tiles and replace those with a like material.

We discussed the stairway down to the restrooms from the gym..the video taken and it looking very grimy and dirty. I was told by the Principal that he went down there last week and it looked clean. Ward 4 Councilor noted there is a difference between worn and old and filthy and dirty.
I asked how often we do deep cleaning, where we can remove the grimy look and feel—- and Mark from building maintenance noted they do that on an as needed basis generally in the Summer.

Image capture from video posted in Discussing Fitchburg Now of stairway down from Gym leading to restrooms.

Image capture from video posted in Discussing Fitchburg Now of stairway down from Gym leading to restrooms.

We then visited the Cafeteria and discussed the protocol for pest control with David Semenza of Sodexo… he notes there are logs for every instance that a food worker sees an insect or rodent, and those sightings would then generate a protocol for pest control. He noted that there are not unusual high number of logs in the kitchens and food service areas for rodents or pests for Longsjo compared to other schools.

Longsjo Cafeteria

Longsjo Cafeteria

We then discussed the concern of the roaches and mice in the other areas of the building.

It was noted that they have an Integrated Pest Management plan for the schools: https://sites.google.com/fitchburg.k12.ma.us/fitchburg/about-us/integrated-pest-management-plan

and that they plan on doing a pest application during this school vacation week. It was then noted that they used to do applications on an ‘as-needed’ basis, but have now switched to a 4 times per year application basis from now on. They then mentioned the basement being a source of difficulty in eradicating these pests…and offered a tour of the basement (which i gladly agreed to). It was also noted the difficulty in generally eradicating pests as food are left in classrooms and lockers….and pests love our food… I asked if we could afford the best course of treatment for eradicated these pests…and was told it is not a budget issue, it’s just a difficult problem to eliminate completely in old buildings like this…

Image of cockroach in a bathroom from parent at Longsjo posted on Discussing Fitchburg Now

Image of cockroach in a bathroom from parent at Longsjo posted on Discussing Fitchburg Now

We then went down to the basement, looked at the large boilers, a door to the exterior parking garage area, old equipment storage…but did look rather clean and dry for a basement… it was noted however that there are many feet of crawlspaces and short tunnel areas that used to be used as ventilation and heating tunnels …which are no longer used for that—-but instead can act as rodent highways under the school! The pest control people I’m told get in all that area and crawl to apply their pesticides….


In April 2019 we appropriated $100k to remove asbestos in the basement of Longsjo to replace a Water Main Pipe.

In the basement: L t R: David Semenza (Sodexo), Superintendent Jokela, Councilor Sam Squailia, Craig Challifoux Director of Finance and operations and former Longsjo Principal, and Ward 4 Councilor Andy Van Hazinga

In the basement: L t R: David Semenza (Sodexo), Superintendent Jokela, Councilor Sam Squailia, Craig Challifoux Director of Finance and operations and former Longsjo Principal, and Ward 4 Councilor Andy Van Hazinga

We then returned to the Library to conclude discussions. I noted the condition of the ceiling tiles, filthy black stains surrounding the supply air grilles—indicative of dirty ductwork or a lack of filter maintenance.

Library ceiling

Library ceiling

Mark from building maintenance noted that he has personally cleaned the ceiling tiles before, I asked if the ductwork is being cleaned or is scheduled to be cleaned…he noted that the filters were recently replaced. It appears that the ductwork is in need of professional cleaning and a regular schedule of filter replacement needs to be enacted. The ceiling looks pretty dirty at all the supply grills and the returns are not clean either…

On the awful looking Pleasant Street Overhang…

I was told a few months ago the work would be completed by Thanksgiving…

It was noted that they tried to get an Architect or Engineer to quote the job…but could not find any that wanted the job.

They also tried to get a company to bid the job to fix the overhang …and no one wanted the job.

They then discussed doing the remedial work to test for asbestos, clean it up, and make it look presentable to be done by their own staff.

This overhang has looked like this for over 10 years.
I was not given an estimated date for fixing this.

An Indoor Air Quality Assessment report in 2010 shows the broken decrepit Academy Street Overhang
https://archives.lib.state.ma.us/bitstream/handle/2452/426388/ocn954243031-2010-08-fitchburg.pdf?sequence=1&isAllowed=y

Other Concerns noted:

Auditorium area, 2nd floor hoarding junk?
Mark from maintenance noted that that area is for storage of auditorium equipment and supplies for replacement. When a seat breaks, they store the new replacement supplies to repair them up there. He noted he believed it was neatly stacked….and it was noted by the Principal that that is not junk…it is useful items.

Sinks broken in restrooms? Doors?

Mark from maintenance noted these are fixed on a regular and on going basis …when they are reported as broken, they fix them.

Same with the doors, it was noted Principal Tanaka that there was a streak of vandalism in the 5th grade bathroom, including damaging the stall doors, so he temporarily closed it, repaired the doors, and opened it back up.

Dismissal procedure

It was noted that the new procedure was working well, except when parents choose not to abide by the rules of the pickup lot, and instead attempt to pick up their student in front of the building—this causes a dangerous situation for students and should be avoided.

As to supervision, it was noted everyday is Officer Figueroa out front, and a staff person at the end of the street to ensure safe dismissal.

Reporting issues at the school
It was suggested by the principal that when they are made aware of issues, they work to remedy them. If there is a sighting of a pest, or a broken item, it is requested to report these to the principal or a staff person/teacher so the problem can be remedied.

Arthur M Longsjo Middle School
98 Academy Street
Fitchburg MA 01420
978-343-2146

tanakas@fitchburg.k12.ma.us
http://longsjo.fitchburg.k12.ma.us

Landscaping around the school

The concerns of a lack of maintenance during the summer and fall time were acknowledged, and it was noted that when requested or reported, that the grass will be mowed or leaves removed….

Longsjo Logo.JPG

I hoped this summary helps address some of the concerns and questions from parents. Please contact me anytime with other questions or concerns.

What is next?

They are applying for funding to replace doors, windows and boilers at Longsjo.
Replacing the old windows on the South side especially will greatly help with the building’s ability to avoid unnecessary heat gain through old windows.
Boiler replacement will help with control and efficiency.


More background info on Longsjo:

Mass EDU School Profile

http://profiles.doe.mass.edu/general/general.aspx?orgtypecode=6&orgcode=00970315

Longsjo Middle School 2016 MSBA Summary Report:

Arthur M Longsjo Middle School

  • Type of School: Middle

  • Year built: 1940

  • 2016/2017 enrollment: 559 students

  • Total gross square footage: 194,495 sf

  • Square footage/Student: 347.9 sf per student

  • Classroom count: 36 classrooms

  • Students/classroom: 15.5

  • Building condition: 4 (worst)

  • Capacity rating: Under capacity

  • General environment conditon: 1 (Best)



Strategic Facilities Planning Study - January 2016

Pages relating to Longsjo

Longsjo PTO

meets 6pm on the first Tuesday of the month at the Library


Group link on FB: https://www.facebook.com/groups/467996250819405/




City Council Orders relating to Longsjo:

2017 2-07
25-17. Resolved: Having convened in an open meeting on February 7, 2017, the City Council of Fitchburg, in accordance with its charter, by-laws, and ordinances, has voted to authorize the Superintendent to submit to the Massachusetts School Building Authority the Statement of Interest dated by February 17, 2017, for the Longsjo Middle School located at 98 Academy Street, which describes and explains the following deficiencies and the priority category(s) for which Fitchburg may be invited to apply to the Massachusetts School Building.Authority in the future a Priority 5 application to upgrade the roof, windows, and boilers; and hereby further specifically acknowledges that by submitting this Statement of Interest, the Massachusetts School Building Authority in no way guarantees the acceptance or the approval of an application, the awarding of a grant, or any other funding commitment from the Massachusetts School Building Authority, or commits the City of Fitchburg or its School District to filing an application for funding with the Massachusetts School Building Authority.


2018 2-6

At tonight's City Council Meeting, we will be voting on a $2M loan order for 'repairs to school buildings'. With the conditions of Longsjo coming to the forefront of discussions in November 2017, a study was just completed a few weeks ago in January that outlines an estimate for the Longsjo roof repair & replacement.
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In the details, it notes in a separate letter from FPS that the plan is for the Longsjo Roof replacement and repairs, where they plan to Replace the Original Slate Roof with Asphalt Shingles, Replace the gutters and Repair the cupola. Total estimated cost per report is $1.3M.
It's also recommended in the roof report they replace the EPDM (Rubber) roofs (not noted in School Department Letter) adding that to the total cost is $1.67M 🏫

017-18. LOAN ORDER: That $2,000,000.00 be appropriated to pay
costs of rehabilitation, improvements, and making extraordinary repairs to school buildings, as outlined in the enclosed Loan Order.

2018 05-01

122-18. ORDERED THAT: There be and hereby is appropriated the sum of NINETY-FIVE THOUSAND AND 00/100 DOLLARS ($95,000.00)same to be charged against AVAILABLE FUNDS and credited to SCHOOL DEPARTMENT, CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS for the purpose of completing the audio-video upgrade to the Fitchburg High School Auditorium($20,000.00) and of replacing the vacuum pump at the Longsjo School ($75,000.00)

2018 11-8
276-18. ORDERED THAT: There be and hereby is transferred from within the sum of TWO HUNDRED SEVENTEEN THOUSAND AND 00/100 DOLLARS ($217,000.00) same to be charged against RESERVE FOR OTHER MUNICIPAL PURPOSES, CAPITAL EXPENSES and credited to CAPITAL PROJECTS, LONGSJO SCHOOL ROOF REPLACEMENT for the purpose of replacing the roof and gutters.

MassDOT FY20 Complete Streets Grants Rd 2- $399.6k to Fitchburg

Thank you to MassDOT for choosing Fitchburg to host your Complete Streets awards ceremony this Tuesday morning at the Fitchburg State University IdeaLAB!
Many many awards given---with Fitchburg receiving $399.6k grant for largely funding Main Street/Boulder Drive One way Each Direction main Street project, and $78k to improve Electric Ave for walking and biking including our mid-block crossing access to Coggshall park that council approved recently!
Mayor DiNatale and Senator Dean A. Tran accepted our award with MassDOT Highway Admin Jonathan Gulliver, Lt Gov Karyn Polito, Transportation Secretary Stephanie Pollack and Councilors Beauchemin, Walsh and myself attending. --- MassDOT's Highway Admin Jonathan Gulliver took a nice pic with my favorite ward 2 Councilor and I to celebrate =)

As a member of the MassDOT Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Board for the State I am aware of and have been learning so much about the need for safe multi-modal travel for not only our community equity and climate resilience but for our economic development into the future. Statistics are showing that people want to live, work and invest in a community that allows them to walk and bike safely for recreation, work and short trips-- Fitchburg with our diverse population is positioning our infrastructure to meet the needs now and into the future by embracing roads that are not only safe for cars...but for all people.

Here are the details of what this $399.6k Complete Streets grant and $125.9k of our CDBG/Chap90 monies is funding:

  1. Main Street Corridor Improvements (Blossom/Cushing to Boulder Dr/Central St)
    Install Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacon(s); Upgrade and Install Regulatory and Wayfinding Signage for Continuity, Install plastic flex posts to delineate the yellow painted median on Main Street at Cushing/Blossom, Install Bumpout/Curb Extensions to Reduce Pedestrian Crossing Distance and transition to bicycle lanes, Revise Crosswalk Configuration to increase side street pedestrian visibility,
    Install Ladder Type Crosswalks, Install ADA/AAB compliant curb ramps with detectable warning panels, Sidewalk Repair
    (Eliminate Obstructions and Repair Vertical Separation> 0.25 inches)
    $86,449.53 CDBG, Ch. 90
    $274,832 Complete Streets

  2. Boulder at Putnam Parking Garage - Pedestrian Crossing Installation
    Install Ladder Type Crosswalks, Install ADA/AAB compliant curb ramps with detectable warning panels, Minor Sidewalk repair, Install RRFB and Pedestrian Crossing Signage
    $13,841.16 CDBG
    $46,138 Complete Streets

  3. Electric Avenue - Pedestrian & Bicycle Improvements
    Install Pedestrian Signage - Continuity throughout City; RRFB nstallation at midblock Bicycle & Pedestrian Crossing; Improve Mid-Block Crossing between Coggshall Park and
    Coggshell Crossing; Revise Wayfinding Signage to indicate transition from multi use path to shared road for bikes; Upgrade sidewalk between end of multi use path and park entrance; Provide Pedestrian Connectivity to Coggshall Park-ADA/AAB compliant curb ramps with detectable warning panels
    $25,668.28 Ch. 90 funds
    $78,894 Complete Streets funds

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Save the Pool at Fitchburg State University

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Information on the Proposed Closure of the Fitchburg State University Pool will be added here and updated as I get information:

FSU Pool

Board of Trustees Meeting discussing Pool Closure

January 28, 2020 at the Board of Trustees Meeting at 8:00 AM.  The location is at the Presidents' Hall - Mazzaferro Center, 291 Highland Avenue, Fitchburg, MA. 

 

Info Letter:

Swimming enthusiast, we need your support for Preserve the Pool (PtP) Committee from drowning. We have 48 hours of time left to save the pool at Fitchburg State University from being destroyed forever.

The community and students must stand united against closing the pool at Fitchburg State University. You all a have a voice - join us on January 28, 2020 at the Board of Trustees Meeting at 8:00 AM. The location is at the Presidents' Hall - Mazzaferro Center, 291 Highland Avenue, Fitchburg, MA.

Those that are unable to attend, please make your voices be heard by reaching out to the following individuals - Senator Tran, State Representatives Higgins and Hay, Mayor DiNatale, Mayor Mazzarella, President Lapidus, and Jay Bry, Vice-President of Finance and Administration at Fitchburg State University.

Speak out loud and clear that you do not agree with Fitchburg State University in closing their pool forever. The perception is that the decision has all ready been made without the facts and Aquatics Experts speaking to the Board of Trustees. Not having the facts from the experts in the field, shows the committee and community that the University is not willing to meet face-to-face to discuss these issues. Does this not sound familiar in losing your skating rink Fitchburg Community? How much more is the community going to lose before we all stand up and say this is enough Fitchburg State University?

This Committee has worked endless hours working on recommendations and solutions for Fitchburg State University to keep this valuable asset open. Once this pool is gone, it is gone forever. Our swim teams/clubs, athletic/workouts and rehabilitation, aerobic classes, lifeguard training, and lap swimmers will have no where to go.

Please do not let your hard earned tax money be mismanaged by Fitchburg State University. Destroying a million dollar pool just because they can, shows a lack of vision and future revenue stream from the potential outside sources.

Please be part of the solution, and stand up along side Preserve the Pool (PtP) Committee. Our voices in numbers can make a difference.

Thank you,

Nancy Foss-Yasko, MBA

Preserve the Pool (PtP) Committee, Chair

Sentinel & Enterprise Article

Local representatives chime in to save FSU pool

Fitchburg State University officials have closed the pool used by local and regional schools for swim meets SENTINEL & ENTERPRISE/FILE

By Daniel Monahan | dmonahan@sentinelandenterprise.com | Sentinel & Enterprise

PUBLISHED: January 22, 2020 at 6:01 pm | UPDATED: January 22, 2020 at 6:03 pm

FITCHBURG — For months, residents have been calling on Fitchburg State University officials to keep the Recreation Center Pool open. But to their dismay, mechanical issues have left the facility closed for weeks and local athletes have been forced to swim elsewhere.

Now, several state legislators are throwing their weight behind the issue, joining the chorus of voices advocating for the pool’s repair and reopening.

On Jan. 14, Sen. Dean Tran wrote a letter addressed to FSU President Richard Lapidus expressing his continued support for the reopening of the pool.

“This facility, which has been in operation for almost two decades, has provided many benefits to the local community,” Tran wrote. “Swim teams and recreational swimmers routinely made use of the pool for their weekly practices and activities. Closure of this pool has forced the relocation of these groups to other facilities, creating an overall negative impact on our community.”

Tran continued, saying that while there are significant hurdles to reopening the facility, he is committed to assisting the university in whatever way possible to get the job done.

“Providing a common gathering place for local swimming enthusiasts and teams is essential for both the university and community as a whole,” he added.

Lapidus said the pool’s closing in early December is only temporary and he hopes to find a permanent solution soon.

University officials have expressed concern about a lack of revenue and declining attendance at the facility. Their concerns extend to the price tag associated with fixing the pool that was built in 2000.

Supporters of the pool deny those assertions and instead argue the pool is a great asset to local students, clubs, and programs. They also would assert the pool has been mismanaged, under marketed, and has the potential to make additional revenue through offered programs or rentals.

Rep. Natalie Higgins also expressed her support for the pool and the residents fighting to keep it open.

“I am very proud of the advocacy efforts of the FSU community and larger Fitchburg and Leominster community coming together to save the pool,” said Higgins in a statement. “I remain hopeful that President Lapidus and the Board of Trustees will work with them to come up with a plan to repair and maintain the pool, as it is an important resource in the Twin Cities.”

Rep. Stephan Hay reportedly sent a letter to the university in support of the pool, but did not respond to a request for comment.

Nancy Foss-Yasko, chair of the Preserve the Pool Committee, said she’s happy to have the legislators’ support but her main goal is to get the pool up and running again.

However, she said, the university is making it increasingly difficult to achieve that goal.

The committee and several student athletes attended a Board of Trustees meeting on Nov. 5, prior to the pool’s closing, to show their support for the facility.

At the meeting, university officials promised the issue would be formally placed on the agenda for its meeting on Jan. 28.

University Director of Public Relations Matthew Bruun said an oral report about the pool will be given by Lapidus during the board’s meeting.

Foss-Yasko said she hoped the committee would be giving the presentation and that the university was trying to silence their efforts.

“This is just not right,” she said. “We’ve been putting together our own presentation together and this is just so frustrating to be essentially shut out like this.”

“As always, there will be an opportunity for public comment at the opening of the meeting,” Bruun said. “The issue is not going to be on the agenda as an action item, as any operational decisions about the facility will be made by university administration.”

Fass-Yasko said the university has demonstrated gross incompetence in its handling of the pool issue.

“The pool has been mismanaged for years, resulting in this atrocity,” said Foss-Yasko. “I and the many taxpayers of the commonwealth are outraged at the negligence and poor administration exhibited by the university.”

In a recent Letter to the Editor, committee member Stephen Holt said the university hasn’t been cooperative during the process.

“Instead of allowing us to be part of the solution, FSU has pushed us aside,” said Holt. “We speculate that FSU has its own agenda of permanently closing the pool.”

Holt said the pump replacement costs are low when compared with the money spent on landscaping in front of the building.

According to Foss-Yasko, the committee was told by university officials that the pool needs $400,000 in additional funding for the repairs. However, she said no estimate was provided to confirm the price tag.

“We owe this to the community to uncover what the true issues are, before it is too late,” she wrote in a letter. “ Once this pool is destroyed, there is no turning back.”

Letter of Support from Senator Tran’s Office

January 14, 2020

Dr. Richard Lapidus
Fitchburg State University
160 Pearl Street
Fitchburg, MA 01420-2697

Dear Dr. Lapidus,

We are writing to express our continued support for reopening the Fitchburg State University pool. This facility, which has been in operation for almost two decades, has provided many benefits to the local community. Swim teams and recreational swimmers routinely made use of the pool for their weekly practices and activities. Closure of this pool has forced the relocation of these groups to other facilities, creating an overall negative impact on our community.

While significant hurdles remain in overcoming the reopening of this facility, we are committed to assisting in whatever capacity possible. Providing a common gathering place for local swimming enthusiasts and teams is essential for both the university and community as a whole.

Thank you for your thoughtful consideration of this matter. Please do hesitate to reach out to us should we be of any further assistance.

Sincerely,

Senator Dean A. Tran
Assistant Minority Whip
Worcester and Middlesex District


Letter of support from Representative Natalie Higgins:


January 27, 2020

President Richard S. Lapidus
Fitchburg State University
160 Pearl Street
Fitchburg, MA 01420

President Lapidus:

I wanted to thank you for taking the time to discuss the issue of the pool closure at Fitchburg State University last
week. Over the past four months, I have met with many Leominster residents, including students and seniors, that
have found the pool to be an invaluable resource in their sports training and competition as well as promoting their
health and wellbeing. However, they have experienced a lack of communication from FSU leadership and have
struggled to discern what FSU leadership requires in a show of support to save the pool.

I am thankful that Jay Bry met with the advocates to listen to their concerns regarding the potential closure. Howeverthat meeting produced no path forward, except for an ambiguous commitment to be open minded about the pool
closure from the FSU Administration. At the end of the meeting, I asked Mr. Bry to provide the advocates from the
Preserve the Pool Committee with clear metrics so that they can show the community interest in maintaining the
pool, and as quickly as possible, the total cost of repair, so that funding could be secured through the community, or
the state delegation. We have yet to see any clear documentation that details the proposed cost of the repairs.

I understand that Fitchburg State University has a long list of capital needs to be addressed and has an ambitious planto invest in downtown Fitchburg, but maintaining this 19-year-old pool deserves to be considered a priority. Not onlyhas this impacted access for the FSU community, but also the Adult Learners of the Fitchburg Area (ALFA) and area
high school students who were members of the Leominster High School Coop Swim Team.

I hope that you will reconsider closing the pool and work with the community to maintain and grow this asset for
Fitchburg State University and the larger community.

Sincerely,
Natalie Higgins

November 2019 letter from Save the Pool Committee to FSU President

Sentinel & Enterprise Article

Residents fighting to save Fitchburg State University pool

By Daniel Monahan | dmonahan@sentinelandenterprise.com | Sentinel & Enterprise

PUBLISHED: November 4, 2019 at 6:55 pm | UPDATED: November 5, 2019 at 12:12 pm

FITCHBURG — The Fitchburg State University Recreation Center Pool, used by local and regional schools for swim meets, is reportedly in danger of closing down; but a group of concerned residents and alumni are fighting to keep it open.

Though Fitchburg State University has not officially announced that the pool will be closing, groups who frequent the facility believe the facility is heading in that direction.

The school is reportedly concerned about the price tag associated with potential repair costs, a lack of revenue and declining attendance at the pool.

Nancy Foss-Yasko, a university alumni, said she was tipped off about the potential closing after discovering that the pool’s heating system wasn’t working correctly and might need important repairs.

As a regular user of the facility, Foss-Yasko was alarmed by the news and quickly formed the Concerned User Committee for Continuing Operation Committee, made up of other alumni and regular pool attendees. She is also the sitting chairperson.

The committee’s primary goal is to understand why the pool would be closing and to offer the university suggestions for preservation and improved operation.

“We’re trying to give them solutions to the problem, but we don’t know what the problem is exactly because no one will tell us,” said Foss-Yasko. “It’s just going to be a shame if we lose this pool.”

Beverly Cronin, a university alumni who frequents the facility, said she was told the university is not committed to keeping the pool open.

“It’s just a beautiful space and I really don’t want it to shut down,” said Cronin. “It’s a good resource for the community and promotes healthy living and a healthy lifestyle.”

In the interest of preserving the pool, the committee met with university Vice President of Finance and Administration Jay Bry on Friday. State Sen. Dean Tran (R-Fitchburg), Rep. Natalie Higgins (D-Leominster) and Fitchburg Mayor Stephen DiNatale were also in attendance.

According to Stephen Holt, a committee member, the group offered several solutions that would provide additional revenue to the university and help maintain the pool. Options included youth swimming classes, membership programs, exercise programs and rentals.

The committee contends the pool, built in 2000, is a valuable asset to the community and the replacement cost would run Fitchburg State about $1 million.

According to Foss-Yasko, the committee was told by university officials that the pool needs $400,000 in additional funding for the repairs. However, she said no estimate was provided to confirm the price tag.

She said the water heater appears to be broken because the water temperature is currently sitting at about 70 degrees, when it should be nearly 8 degrees higher.

Foss-Yasko said the university offered the following explanations as to why the pool might be closing in the future: poor attendance, low student interest and it does not meet the competitive collegiate standard length of 25 meters.

However, she said there is plenty of interest from both the public and external swimming teams. She said the university would benefit financially from opening the pool up to public use.

Foss-Yasko said the university could do more to promote the pool and help it bring in more revenue.

“The only way things will work out is if the university opens the pool up the community,” she said.

Several committee members said Fitchburg State University officials have not been forthcoming with details about potential pool repairs or the looming closure.

Francis Freel has been the coach for a local combined swim team for about five years and regularly schedules meets at the facility.

Freel said he wants Fitchburg State University to be transparent about its intentions for the pool and the problems it’s facing.

“It’s an asset to the community but it’s just not being promoted or marketed well,” said Freel. “I would just hate to see financial issues rob these kids of the team they’ve helped build.”

Members of the committee said they understand the pool is university property but they believe losing the pool would negatively impact the city and surrounding towns.

“It’s their choice. It’s their pool, their property, and I respect that,” said Freel. “I don’t feel there’s any maliciousness behind their intentions, we’d just like to know so we can make other plans.”

Freel’s swim team includes students from Leominster High School, Fitchburg High School, Lunenburg High School, Monty Tech, North Middlesex and Parker Charter School.

“If we had to relocate, we’re going to lose people and I’d hate for that to happen,” he said.

Jay Bry and other university officials could not be reached for comment despite repeated attempts.

https://www.sentinelandenterprise.com/2019/11/04/residents-fighting-to-save-fitchburg-state-university-pool-reportedly-on-life-support/

Committee to Save the Fitchburg State University Pool

https://www.facebook.com/savefitchburgstatepool/

Fitchburg State University Recreation Services

Swimming Pool

Our pool is 25 yards long and 6 lanes wide. If you're a lap swimmer, we offer kickboards, pull buoys and fins. For aquatic fitness we also offer aquajoggers, aquatic dumbbells and noodles. Our pool hours fluctuate depending on the time of year, so be sure to check out our updated pool hours. For your safety we have lifeguards on staff whenever the pool is open.

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https://www.fitchburgstate.edu/offices-services-directory/recreation-services/

Fitchburg City Hall Construction

Councilors were presented an update to the construction renovation of Fitchburg City Hall —-or the “Taj Mahal” as the Mayor referred to it ;-)—- at our December 17th Council Meeting. Here are the slides:

Here is the FATV coverage of the meeting with presentation at the beginning of the meeting starting around 15 minutes.

December 20th Construction Tour

Councilors and Councilors-Elect were invited to a construction tour of the New old Fitchburg City Hall building and old Bank of America Building- New Legislative Council Chambers building on Friday December 20th, 2019.

City Council Chambers Building- Legislative Building (Old Bank of America)

2019 2-12 Plans presented to Planning Board

2018 12-18 City Hall Construction Renovation Plans presented to Council

December 18, 2018 Meeting of First Presentation of City Hall construction.

My questions 55:33

More discussions on the City Hall Project linked below

Sam Squailia Public Comments to City Council Against City Hall Expense without proper planning starts at 1:53:25

Sam Squailia Public Comments to City Council Against City Hall Expense without proper planning starts at 16:52

February 6, 2018 FATV coverage of City Council Vote

004-18 vote begins at 36:13 8-1 vote (Squailia against)

Sentinel Article February 5, 2018

Fitchburg City Council faces key vote on City Hall project

By Elizabeth Dobbins | edobbins@lowellsun.com | Lowell Sun

PUBLISHED: February 5, 2018 at 12:00 am | UPDATED: July 11, 2019 at 12:00 am

FITCHBURG — Over the course of a single term on City Council, each councilor weighs in on scores of issues, but few will match the impact of Tuesday night’s vote to give final approval on a $22.5 million renovation of “old” City Hall.

The $22.5-million loan order is the final piece needed to fund the project.

“This is pretty much a done deal once the vote is finalized,” said City Council President and Ward 4 Councilor Michael Kushmerek.

Supporters say the renovation would be a game-changing investment in the city’s downtown and key to economic revitalization.

Opponents point to the deteriorating condition of other city infrastructure, such as roads and schools, and say the project is a luxury the city can’t afford right now.

Chances look good for those who want to bring City Hall back to 718 Main St., which housed municipal government for 150 years until a beam cracked in 2012.

At a Committee-of-the-Whole meeting earlier this month, the body voted in favor of the loan order in at 8-1 vote, with At-Large Councilor Sam Squailia casting the only “nay.” At-Large Councilor Anthony Zarrella, whose father owns a business on Main Street, recused himself.

The vote total repeated itself at a City Council meeting the following week when the body approved a smaller $1 million loan order funding the project.

https://www.sentinelandenterprise.com/2018/02/05/fitchburg-city-council-faces-key-vote-on-city-hall-project/

Sentinel & Enterprise Article 1-12-2018

Voices raised for, against Fitchburg City Hall renovation
Council hears from residents on $23.5 million project

'It was standing room only in the Memorial Middle School library as residents, public officials and local leaders weighed in on the proposed $23.5 million City Hall renovation Thursday night.

Of the 50 people who spoke during the comment period, about 30 expressed support for renovation. Most of the remainder spoke against putting money toward the project, at least this year.

The City Council, in an 8-1 vote, turned down a petition signed by about 50 residents calling for an extended public comment period on the proposal. Only At-Large City Councilor Sam Squailia voted in favor of the proposal.

Following the comments from both the public and city councilors, the Council as a Whole recommended a $1 million appropriation and $22.5 million loan order to the City Council. To pass, the council must vote on the proposals twice: at the upcoming City Council meeting on Tuesday and again on Feb. 6. Squailia was the only councilor to vote against the recommendations.'

https://www.sentinelandenterprise.com/2018/01/11/voices-raised-for-against-fitchburg-city-hall-renovation/#ixzz53yhD7HH7

January 11, 2018 Special City Council Meeting Part 1

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January 9, 2018 City Council Meeting

Fitchburg City Councilors weigh in on recent school building issues

By Elizabeth Dobbins PUBLISHED: January 9, 2018 at 12:00 a.m. | UPDATED: July 11, 2019

City councilors want schools better prepared to combat cold weather

A challenging first week back continued into a tough second as a burst sprinkler head caused administrators to close Longsjo Middle School on Monday, making it the third school in the district to cancel classes due to damages since Jan. 2.

The school will also be closed Tuesday, as ceiling tiles affected by the leak undergo testing for asbestos, according to Fitchburg Schools Superintendent Andre Ravenelle.

Some city councilors blame days of historically cold weather for the closures, others point to the need for more dollars spent on school repairs. Several want more answers.

At-Large Councilor Sam Squailia who believes the problems might be caused by a combination of issues.

"The sheer amount of problems that we're having with a very large number of our school buildings show, to me, that we have a maintenance issue," she said. "Regular upgrades to schools and proper maintenance is going to be crucial going into the future."

The proposal -- which will appear on City Council agendas for discussion this Tuesday and Thursday -- is phrased by some opponents of the City Hall project as a choice between it or fixing the schools.

During a presentation to City Council (Nov 2017) City Auditor Calvin Brooks described a means of funding that could pay for the City Hall, fund $6 million of the proposed $31.3 million public library renovation project and pay the city's portion ($12M) of a $60 million renovation to Crocker Elementary School.

...Squailia argues the City Hall project will make a difference in funding, especially if the Crocker location becomes not just an elementary school, but a school for kindergarten through eighth graders, as school officials have recently suggested.

"If we need more money for Crocker, does that come out of the school budget? Does that come out of the six million for the library?" asked Squailia. "The $22 million borrowing for the City Hall affects the amount we can borrow for all other municipal projects. One could make the argument we are putting City Hall before the schools."

But Kushmerek, as well as some other councilors, aren't convinced and say these issues should be evaluated individually and in context.

"We can't be too reactive to what's happened in the past month,"

https://www.sentinelandenterprise.com/2018/01/09/fitchburg-city-councilors-weigh-in-on-recent-school-building-issues/

Sentinel & Enterprise Article January 7, 2018

Petition pushes to delay Fitchburg City Hall vote

By Elizabeth Dobbins | edobbins@lowellsun.com | Lowell Sun

PUBLISHED: January 7, 2018 at 12:00 am | UPDATED: July 11, 2019 at 12:00 am

FITCHBURG — Over four dozen people signed a petition asking City Council to approve an extended public comment process regarding the proposed $23.5 million City Hall renovation.

“I don’t think City Council has been particularly responsive to citizens, so if the informal email and calling doesn’t work then you’re looking at the formal mechanism. (It’s) an attempt to raise issues, raise concerns,” said Stacey Fenton, a Fitchburg resident who collected signatures and submitted the petition with her partner Robert O’Brien.

The petition — which will come before the City Council on Tuesday — makes two requests.

First, the four newly elected City Councillors “be fully briefed” by the architectural firm Lamoureux Pagano & Associates, which completed the study outlining five options for City Hall and presented their findings to prior City Council in mid-November.

Second, the petition requests three public meetings held with a 14-day notice and “adequate advertising” through newspapers, the city’s website, electronic road signs and other venues. Both viewpoints should be given 30 to 45 minutes to present their case, the petition reads.

O’Brien said the petition is a response to the public process of weighing the City Hall project last year, which he called “sneaky,” noting he believes the advertising for the November meeting on the project met legal requirements, but did not adequately inform the public.

“I don’t think unsatisfied begins to cover it with an issue of this magnitude,” O’Brien said. “Saying that I was unsatisfied is like saying the sailors at Pearl Harbor were unsatisfied about the early warning on Dec. 7.”

City Council President Michael Kushmerek said, though meeting attendance was relatively low at about 50 people, the November presentation to councilors and the public was advertised on the city’s website, in the newspaper and on “numerous” Facebook sites. The City Council also moved from its usual venue in Memorial Middle School to an auditorium at Fitchburg State University to accommodate a larger crowd.

More notice, better advertising and improved awareness of the project’s price tag would bring hundreds of the people to meetings, said O’Brien. He also noted the city’s website where information was previously posted was difficult to use.

Kushmerek said City Council will likely elect to move voting on this petition to the Committee-of-the Whole meeting on Thursday.

“All petitions are always referred to committees,” he said.

The petition was moved on the agenda to be read before the reading of two City Hall-related agenda items, which propose funding for the City Hall. If the petition is approved, the discussion of these later two agenda items could be delayed, according to Kushmerek.

“If councilors vote to (approve the petition), while we might not necessarily be bound in that moment to do so, I think the council would generally adhere to (the request),” he said.

Even if the petition is not passed, Kushmerek said the public will still have three opportunities to comment on the project before City Council takes a votes: once at the Thursday Committee-of-the-Whole meeting and two more times at separate readings during City Council meetings.

Addressing the second part of the petition about briefing new councilors, Kushmerek said the four City Councilors who were sworn in this year were all present at the November presentation and have also been briefed by city officials on the project. These officials are also expected to make a similar presentation at the Thursday meeting, he said.

Fenton and O’Brien both oppose the City Hall project, which they say will use funding better spent toward tens of millions in repairs to the city’s schools. O’Brien said he has a middle school student in the district’s schools.

Their complaints come after several months of public concern regarding the school district’s infrastructure, spurred this fall by severe roof leaks at Longsjo Middle School, which caused the closure of the building’s top floor. The concerns continued this week with the temporary closure of two elementary schools and several classrooms in two other district schools following damage sustained during the freezing temperatures.

Though city officials have previously said Fitchburg has the debt capacity to pay for the City Hall, Crocker Elementary School and a portion of the Fitchburg Public Library renovation projects, the two petitioners point to needs at other schools and say a new City Hall is a luxury.

“We have something in 166 Boulder that is good enough,” Fenton said. “For a hard scrabble working-class city, ‘good enough’ for right now is fine. We need to get onto the schools.”

Fenton said even if City Hall is approved, she believes she will see a change the conversation in the city.

“I think there’s been an assumption as citizens that these things were being taken care of for us and I think a lot of people are waking up to the fact they do not share the same values as we do,” she said. “Even if the appropriation passes … I think there will be an ongoing conversation about what the future of Fitchburg should be. Where we put our money and what we hold dear.”

Regarding the City Hall Loan Order on the 11/21/2017 City Council agenda:
'As per legal requirements for advertising and the current city council schedule would undoubtedly continue this Order into the new 2018 City Council', It has been determined by Bond Counsel, that the current City Council cannot start deliberation on a Loan Order, and have the new 2018 City Council vote on the same loan order.
Therefore, they are likely to withdraw the loan order, and resubmit in the new year, on January 4th 2018.

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I start speaking at 16:53

November 15, 2017 Special City Council Meeting and Public Forum presenting City Hall feasibility study

I start speaking at Public Comment Starting 1:54:20

Wallace Towers $10M MODPhase Grant - with Cake!

So glad I could attend today to support our The Fitchburg Housing Authority!! With this money the director said we'll be able to gut many units, provide better heating and modernize our units to allow our elder population to age in place---providing more accessibility for our residents and better living conditions!
Plus---again---there was cake =) 🍰🎂

Fitchburg's Wallace Tower, on Wallace Ave across from the YMCA is getting approx $10.1M from State grants from MODphase (Modernizing Public Housing And Supporting Elders initiative) which launched in 2016 to improve and preserve public housing around the commonwealth.

“It’s a great nexus of public housing and health care,” said Fitchburg Housing Authority Executive Director Douglas Bushman. Bushman said the money will help jump-start several rehabilitation projects that address capital needs and improve accessibility for aging-in-communities at Wallace Tower. “It’s a program that’s going to help senior citizens that live in public housing age in place,” he said. “So they can live their lives in the communities that they love, surrounded by their friends and family.”

The Fitchburg Housing Authority will modernize the 130-unit, high-rise elderly development built in 1973, including upgrading 13 accessible units to current code.

Fitchburg plans to coordinate existing health care programs with new nutritional and socialization programs to promote aging-in-community in this downtown development with access to local amenities.

This year, the state awarded $23.5 million grant funding to housing authorities in Amesbury, Beverly, Chelmsford, Fairhaven, Fitchburg, Lexington, and Lowell.

https://www.sentinelandenterprise.com/2019/12/19/fitchburg-housing-authority-receives-10-million-for-wallace-tower-upgrade

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Salute to outgoing Councilors Clark, Donnelly & Kaddy

At Tuesday's Council Meeting we honored outgoing councilors Clark (absent) Kaddy and Donnelly with clapping and speeches and special proclamations ---and this spiffy group photo =) Combined they had 40+ years of service and experience to the city; Clark serving '06-'20, Donnelly '00- '08 and '16-'20, and Kaddy serving '04-'20. Thanks to them for their service to our city

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40th Anniversary celebration of the CJ Durkin Apartments & $500k Grant Award Announcement

I attended the 40th Anniversary celebration of the CJ Durkin Apartments at 50 Day St Fitchburg this week-- What a great gathering of people and a great event ---and bonus... there was cake =D
We celebrated our 40th anniversary of the Durkin Apartments---which are operated by The Fitchburg Housing Authority​ for our Seniors and Disabled population; and 6 family members of CJ Durkin came -- with grandson Judge Thomas Durkin from Vermont and son Thomas H Durkin from Falmouth.
The Housing Authority board attended, Disability commission as well as a representative from MOC, myself as a city councilor and the mayor.
We also celebrated a grant of $500k for the Durkin apartments from DHCD to remodel 9 units for ADA Accessibility, remove hallway barriers and more.

Fitchburg Access Television (FATV)​ attended and recorded the event for broadcast here: https://videoplayer.telvue.com/player/yycCAZPb0NN3zj2o5qio-YFMNC43NjCG/media/531392

"Clarence J. Durkin was born in 1896 and was involved in a plethora of organizations for many years.

After enlisting in the Volunteer Militia in 1913 and later serving in World War I, Durkin married Katherine Shea and had six children.

Durkin served as a commissioner and as chairman of the Fitchburg Housing Authority from 1948 to 1978. As the Labor Representative he was instrumental in establishing that the FHA was to serve veterans, their families, the elderly and disabled of Fitchburg.

He assisted with organizing the Fitchburg Civic Days and its Parade Committee, for which he served as Chief of Staff and Grand Marshal, and was named Fitchburg Citizen of the Year in 1970.

Thomas H. Durkin, Durkin’s son, said his father was both a proud and humble man who never stopped caring about others.

He recalled a winter day when he was 10 years old and his father took him to help a neighbor. After fixing the neighbor’s wood furnace, and on the way home, his father told him about the importance of helping people who are in need.

“This dedication to family, community, and country was a hallmark of his entire career,” he said.

Honorable Judge Thomas Durkin, C. J. Durkin’s grandson, said his grandfather was a leader to his family and to the world. He said there was always a lesson to be learned when you were with him."

Sentinel Article: https://www.sentinelandenterprise.com/2019/12/12/celebrating-40-years-at-c-j-durkin-apartments-with-500000-grant/

Saturday December 7th in Fitchburg

Downtown trees are lit for the season 🎄

Fitchburg Art Museum Fitchburg Farmers Market vendors farmers and kids ornaments ❤ Grabbed a pic with the girls and Paul DePalo running for our Governors Council. Senator Edward J. Markey joined so tons of people came too 🎉

St. Joseph Christmas Fair today! I got a Christmas Cactus and got a bunch of raffles I'm soon to win 🍀

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Caldwell Home Extended Care Elder Care Services at 10 Prospect St

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Today I visited the open house for the Caldwell Home Extended Care Elder Care Services at 10 Prospect St in Fitchburg---right behind First Parish Church of Fitchburg near the Upper Common!
I got the tour of the home from owner Marlaine Young who took a pic with me =) This gorgeous home serves as an extended care living facility---with a more personal approach than a typical nursing home facility.
The rooms are spacious, bright and WARM with gorgeous views to Prospect St and the downtown Fitchburg towards Rollstone Hill. Homecooked meals are provided by the staff and they try to accommodate to the residents tastes---talking about the different spices and ingredients they use to try to relate to their residents memories of their homes.
Residents can bring their own furniture---or the house is fully furnished as no extra charge. They administer medication with a nurse on staff, have dieticians available and practice wound care management. Chair lifts make going up and down the stairs easy--or there are 4 rooms on the first floor available as well. The kitchen is spacious and welcoming.
Caldwell House provides a safe home environment---that does not feel like a hospital---for any senior that is not safe to be home alone, those with dementia or alzeimers, or those in need of hospice or respite care.
The city has recently required many expensive upgrade to the home--including a new fire alarm system with egress lighting and notifications--- and the work is now complete and they are advertising again to offer their services to more residents in the community. They have capacity for 6 more residents. Contact them for a tour if you are interested in a space for your loved one knowing they will be well cared for.

Their website with more information is located here:
https://www.caldwellresthome.com/
(978) 345-5827

About Caldwell Home
Residents of CALDWELL HOME enjoy all the amenities of refined living along with the security of a highly professional and courteous staff. One low monthly rate provides each person with 24 hour personal assistance. There are no hidden or additional charges for extra services, and all of the following services are included:

Medication Administration
24 hour Personal Care, including bathing and dressing
Nutritious, Complete Meal Service
Assistance with Ambulation, as needed
Social and Religious Activities
Laundry Service
Short Term Respite Care
Hospice
Wheelchair Accessible

Our spacious private rooms, some with fireplaces, are available to be furnished with personal items if desired. Family fare is served in our dining room where each residents personal tastes are considered in the planning of our weekly menus. We also feature a wrap-around patio where our residents enjoy the pleasures of outdoors with security and safety.

Our most impressive quality is our size. By serving only 10 residents, we ensure that each person receives ample attention to his/her needs for assistance and socialization. Each resident can feel secure that our caregivers will anticipate his/her personal desires, and keep his/her best interests in mind.

You are invited to call for a personal tour of CALDWELL HOME. Our Administrators/Owners will be happy to discuss your personal needs and our accommodations with you.

Privately Owned and Operated by:
Alice Jercha, R.N.
Marlaine Young

10 Prospect St.
Fitchburg, MA 01420
TEL: (978) 345-5827
FAX: (978) 345-5681

Our Father's House Open House, Tour & Q&A 11-23-19

Our Father's House reached out to help organize an Open House of their Shelter at 53 Lunenburg Street, Fitchburg.

Their entire staff will be present during the shelter open house hours of 10am-2pm on Saturday November 23rd; where they will be available to give tours of the shelter, discuss the work they do, and answer any community concerns or questions--- or even how you can get involved to help.

They can accommodate up to 20 people at one time....so there should be plenty of space available for you through the hours of 10am-2pm.... please join us and learn more about Our Father's House Emergency & Transitional Shelter.

Crossing Over Sober House at the ZBA Meeting

Attended the Zoning Board of Appeals meeting tonight with the long discussion regarding the Crossing Over sober home. The board ending up voting to note the family unit allowance, and allow "Reasonable Accomodations" for their use to allow up to 12 persons throughout the 3 separate units in the 3 family house...with accommodation to allow their existing 13 residents to remain until one person leaves to get back down to the allowed 12 persons.
Approx. 57 people in support.

K9 Hangos Swearing in

⭐ Our newest and CUTEST member of the Fitchburg Police Department, K9 Hangos 🐕👮‍♂️with handler officer Lambert, gets sworn in by our City Clerk in his native tongue of Czech.
Hangos was born March 20, 2018 in Hungary and is a mix of German Shepherd and Belgian Malinois.
Hangos is certified in patrol operations, and soon will be certified in narcotics.
Welcome to Fitchburg Hangos! I'll try my best not to pet you... 🙃