Curtis recognized by fellow ambassadors for decade of outstanding service and dedication to chamber members in the North Central region

Amanda Curtis, Economic Development Coordinator at the City of Leominster, has been named the 2025 Ambassador of the Year by the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce. The announcement was made during the chamber’s Annual Meeting on June 12, 2025.

Chamber Ambassadors are valued volunteers to the Chamber who serve as the face of the organization in the community. They assist the Chamber with communications to new and existing members, participate in ribbon cuttings and help connect members at various Chamber events. Curtis was voted Ambassador of the Year by her fellow Chamber Ambassadors at their May meeting.

“We are grateful to Amanda for her extraordinary dedication and active involvement in the Chamber over the past decade as we work to advance our goals throughout the 27 communities that comprise our region,” said Roy Nascimento, president and CEO, North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce. “Amanda has been an exceptional Ambassador, known for her tireless energy, infectious sense of humor, and genuine care for our business community. Her commitment has never wavered, even as her career has taken her to different organizations.”

What makes this recognition particularly special is that this marks the second time Curtis has earned the Ambassador of the Year honor during her ten-year tenure with the Chamber. Throughout this time, she has worked at three different companies yet maintained her unwavering dedication to serving as a Chamber Ambassador, demonstrating remarkable loyalty to the organization and the North Central Massachusetts business community.

Curtis currently serves as Economic Development Coordinator for the City of Leominster, where she works to attract new businesses and support existing ones in the community. Her professional experience in economic development, combined with her deep knowledge of the Chamber’s members and programs, makes her an invaluable connector and advocate for regional business growth.

A lifelong resident of the North Central Massachusetts region, Curtis was born in Leominster and grew up in Winchendon, graduating from Murdock High School. She earned an associate degree in Human Services from Mount Wachusett Community College and a bachelor’s degree in Interdisciplinary Studies from Fitchburg State University. Curtis brings extensive experience in community outreach and communications to her role, having previously served as Community Outreach Specialist at UMass HealthAlliance-Clinton Hospital and in various roles at LUK, Inc., where she recruited volunteer mentors for local youth. Her commitment to community service extends beyond her professional work – she has served as a personal mentor for over six years, previously chaired the Chamber’s HYPE (Helping Young Professionals Emerge) program, and served on the Board of Trustees for Mount Wachusett Community College from 2016 to 2019. She has also served on various non-profit boards and committees in Leominster and Fitchburg for over 20 years. Curtis joined the City of Leominster staff in 2021, bringing her enthusiasm for connecting people and businesses with her deep love for the community where her extended family has roots.

“Serving as an Ambassador offers me a unique opportunity to connect more deeply with Chamber members while also developing meaningful relationships with businesses throughout our region,” said Curtis. “Through ribbon cuttings, new member events and other networking opportunities, I’m able to see firsthand the incredible advantages and support our Chamber brings to its members and our entire region. It’s been an honor to serve in this capacity for ten years.”

Business leaders interested in learning more about the Chamber’s Ambassador program or becoming involved as volunteers are encouraged to contact the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce at 978.353.7600 ext. 239. The Ambassador program provides meaningful opportunities to connect with fellow business professionals while supporting the growth and success of the regional business community.

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Advocacy continues to remain at the forefront of the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce’s efforts to advance the region and support our member businesses.

Federal Affairs

Trade Policy: President Donald Trump continues to utilize increased tariffs as part of his foreign policy, with frequent announcements, retractions, and pauses affecting various industries and countries. In May, the Trump administration backed away from the threat to impose 50% tariffs on imports from the European Union, extending the deadline from June 1 to July 9 to allow for continued negotiations between Washington and the 27-nation bloc. The administration also announced an agreement with China to temporarily suspend most tariffs on each other’s goods, with the trade agreement reducing tariffs between both countries from 145% to 30%. The Chamber actively monitors these rapidly evolving developments through our congressional delegation and partners with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce to advocate for member interests in trade policy discussions. We have engaged with member businesses to assess tariff impacts and continue ensuring local business concerns reach federal policymakers as these policies shift.

Tax Policy Updates: On May 22, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” (H.R. 1), which now moves to the U.S. Senate for consideration. The comprehensive legislation extends and expands many provisions from the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, including making the 37% top individual tax rate permanent, increasing standard deductions through 2028, and enhancing the Section 199A qualified business income deduction from 20% to 23%. Key business provisions include extending 100% bonus depreciation through 2029, making permanent the Section 163(j) interest deduction improvements, and restoring immediate deductibility of domestic research and development costs under Section 174 for tax years 2025-2029. The bill also raises the state and local tax (SALT) deduction cap to $40,000, introduces new $1,000 credits for children, and includes various business-friendly provisions such as increased depreciation limits and expanded opportunity zones. The Chamber has joined a nationwide coalition led by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce advocating for key business tax provisions in this legislation. This coordinated effort aims to provide businesses with long-term certainty, encourage continued investment, and support sustained economic growth.

STATE AFFAIRS

State Budget: The Chamber continues to closely monitor and engage the region’s legislative delegation throughout the state budget process to protect business interests and identify opportunities for our regional economy. On May 22, the Massachusetts Senate passed its $61.4 billion FY2026 budget, increasing state spending more than 6% over the current fiscal year, with nearly two-thirds of the increase attributed to higher MassHealth caseloads.

Like the House version, the Senate budget rejected Governor Healey’s proposed tax increases and maintains the state’s $8.1 billion stabilization fund without drawing from it. Both branches proceeded with typical spending approaches despite ongoing concerns about potential federal funding cuts, with Senate leaders stating they would not “freeze in place” waiting for clarity from Washington. Key differences between House and Senate versions include education funding levels, transportation investments, and policy provisions such as prescription drug price controls and liquor license reforms. A Conference Committee will now negotiate the final budget, with the Chamber advocating for provisions that support economic growth in North Central Massachusetts.

Housing: The Healey-Driscoll Administration continues implementing initiatives from their Affordable Homes Act to address the Commonwealth’s housing crisis. In April, they established the state’s first-ever Office of Fair Housing to support fair housing initiatives and collaborate with other agencies to advance fair housing policies and programs.

On May 14, the Administration’s Devens Housing Working Group unanimously approved their final report outlining strategies for increased housing production in Devens. The group was tasked with developing a plan to help meet the estimated 6,300 new homes needed in the region by 2035. Their detailed report examines zoning bylaw modifications to allow and promote housing development in the Devens Innovation and Technology Center, including adaptive reuse of historic buildings at Vicksburg Square. Given housing’s critical importance to regional economic development, the Chamber has been actively monitoring this process by attending public meetings and engaging with stakeholders.

The Chamber successfully partnered with the North Central Massachusetts Association of REALTORS® for our 8th annual Real Estate Summit, working closely with the administration to secure Ed Augustus, Secretary of the Office of Housing and Livable Communities, as a keynote speaker. Secretary Augustus briefed attendees on the Commonwealth’s first comprehensive housing plan and ongoing measures to achieve the ambitious target of creating at least 220,000 new housing units statewide by 2035. This summit provided valuable insights for our members on state housing policies and their potential impact on local development opportunities.

Energy: For years, the Chamber has advocated for meaningful solutions to reduce energy costs and increase competitiveness for North Central Massachusetts businesses, as our region continues to face the highest energy rates in Massachusetts. On the heels of an executive order targeting utility costs earlier this year, Governor Healey announced the Energy Affordability, Independence & Innovation Act in May at a press conference in Leominster that was attended by Chamber staff. The bill includes several key reforms: eliminating and reducing certain charges on utility bills, creating more accountability for utilities, preventing unnecessary costs from being passed to customers, and reducing barriers to new nuclear technologies. The administration estimates these changes will save Massachusetts customers approximately $10 billion over 10 years. We’re encouraged to see attention focused on this critical issue affecting both our families and businesses.

The Chamber has also been engaged on the state’s electric vehicle mandate, known as the Advance Clean Cars II (ACC II) rule. This rule originally required that 35% of new vehicle sales be electric or hybrid starting with 2026 models. In response to concerns raised by the Chamber and other business groups about market readiness and charging infrastructure, the state announced in May 2025 that it will provide manufacturers with a two-year grace period for 2026 and 2027 model years. During this period, manufacturers must still make traditional vehicles available to dealers and report on their efforts to promote electric vehicles and expand charging networks. The state will also provide additional funding for public fleet electric vehicles and charging infrastructure. The Chamber continues to monitor to ensure it balances environmental goals with practical business and consumer needs.

Workers’ Compensation: In Mid-May, the Massachusetts Commissioner of Insurance Issued a decision rejecting a proposed 7.1 % increase in the cost of workers’ compensation insurance in Massachusetts for the period beginning July 1, 2025. According to the Healey-Driscoll Administration is expected to save Massachusetts businesses nearly $80 million.

State Elections: The 2026 Massachusetts gubernatorial race continues developing with Governor Maura Healey announcing her reelection bid in February, followed by two former Baker administration officials launching Republican campaigns: Mike Kennealy in April and Brian Shortsleeve in May. Kennealy, former Housing and Economic Development Secretary, focuses on affordability, education, and transportation issues, while Shortsleeve, former MBTA chief administrator, emphasizes cutting spending and reducing taxes. Other potential Republican candidates include Worcester County Sheriff Lew Evangelidis and attorney John Deaton. State Senator Peter Durant has confirmed he will not pursue a gubernatorial run, choosing instead to focus on his reelection to the legislature. The election is scheduled for November 2026.

Civic Engagement Programs: In April, our Community Leadership Institute class participated in an immersive State House experience, including tours of both legislative chambers guided by Senator Cronin and Representatives Higgins, Kilcoyne, and Zlotnik. The class engaged with high-ranking officials including Secretary of State Bill Galvin, former Economic Development Secretary Yvonne Hao, Tourism Director Kate Fox, and former legislator Jen Flanagan during a leadership roundtable discussion. Additionally, our Director of Public Affairs, Travis Condon, participated in the 89th Citizens’ Legislative Seminar at the State House after being nominated by Senator John Cronin. The two-day program covered legislative history, processes, budgeting, and included simulated hearings and Senate sessions. These educational opportunities strengthen our understanding of the legislative process and enhance our advocacy efforts on behalf of regional business interests.

LOCAL AFFAIRS

Sterling Zoning: Following a detailed process that included resident and stakeholder input, Sterling’s town planner and Planning Board developed updated zoning to enhance economic development, aligned with One North Central priorities. The Chamber submitted testimony supporting three key changes to streamline permitting and double potential commercial space through updated performance zone regulations. Town residents voted in favor of the changes at their Annual Town Meeting in May.

The Fairgrounds: In April, the Chamber announced support for the proposed Fairgrounds development in Leominster. Support for the project came following a review of the economic impact analysis, infrastructure improvements, traffic studies, and current project plans, and its alignment with our One North Central Regional economic development plan. The project has the potential to serve as an anchor attraction to support tourism growth, offer economic competitiveness with infrastructure improvements and transportation enhancements, and transform an environmental liability into a community asset while generating economic activity for the region.

Government Affairs Committee: The Chamber’s Government Affairs Committee is reviewing the current public policy agenda and will present potential changes at their next meeting with the intention of bringing an updated version, if necessary, before the Chamber’s Board of Directors in September.

Stay Informed and Engaged: The Chamber’s advocacy work on federal, state, and local levels directly impacts your business environment. We continuously represent member interests in policy discussions to foster economic growth and reduce regulatory burdens. We encourage you to stay engaged with these important issues and share your feedback on how government policies affect your business.

For more information about any of these government affairs updates or to discuss specific policy concerns, please contact Travis Condon, Director of Public Affairs at 978.353.7600 or via email at .

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The North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce and its economic development arm, the North Central Massachusetts Development Corporation (NCMDC), recognized several small businesses and individuals at the Second Annual Entrepreneur Awards Reception and Resource Showcase, held at the Doubletree by Hilton in Leominster on March 20, 2025.

The awards celebrated entrepreneurship in the region and showcased successful NCMDC clients who are helping to advance the region’s economy and communities.

“Our entrepreneurs represent the true meaning of determination, innovation and success,” said Roy M. Nascimento, president and CEO, North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce and the North Central Massachusetts Development Corporation. “With numerous nominations for this year’s awards, all of our entrepreneurs are worthy of recognition as their contributions to the community and growth of the region’s economy are invaluable and remarkable, especially when combined with their grit, determination and dedication as successful business owners.”

The Entrepreneurship Success Award recognized Albert Deshler, owner of AD Quality EMS Training, Inc., located in Lancaster. Opening a business during a global pandemic is no small feat, but with perseverance and dedication, Deshler overcame the challenge and has since expanded from a single location to six locations, while also creating 36 jobs. Through his expertise and commitment to high-quality EMS education, he is strengthening communities, training lifesavers, and making a lasting impact in emergency medical services.

The Community Impact Award recognized Nancy Bray, owner of Diamond Hearts Studios, located in Gardner. Bray, with her husband, Sean, recently opened the studio, offering a creative space dedicated to art, community and expression for all ages and skill levels. Since opening just five months ago, Bray has collaborated with community outreach programs, peer recovery groups, school organizations, and nonprofits, all while helping to raise funds for important causes.

The Dream Big Award went to Christine Konich, owner of Simply Sweet by Christine, in Leominster. A self-taught baker and cake artist with nearly 20 years of experience, Konich immigrated from Indonesia, became a U.S. citizen in 2016, and successfully navigated the challenges of being in immigrant, minority and woman entrepreneur toward running a thriving business.

In addition to the recognition, these three small businesses also took home cash awards of $500 each.

During the program, the Chamber also presented its Community Partner of the Year and Banker of the Year awards.

The Small Business Development Center at Clark University was recognized as the Community Partner of the Year for its support and active partnership with the NCMDC in working with startup businesses to provide guidance in the development of business plans and creating projections for future success. Through their work, entrepreneurs can obtain financing and start the business on a positive note.

The Banker of the Year was presented to Austin Brooks of TD Bank. Brooks serves as Small Business Relationship Manager at TD Bank and plays a key role in connecting entrepreneurs with funding, which earned him recognition as the top referral source for NCMDC lending among bankers this past year. In addition to this professional work, Brooks established the Russell Brooks Foundation as part of his community project for the Chamber’s Community Leadership Institute in 2022. The Foundation provides crucial support to families navigating the challenges of cancer treatment to ensure children and loved one can still experience the magic of the holidays.

Special thanks to Premier and Award Recipient Sponsor Fitchburg State University, Corporate Sponsor Fidelity Bank, and Supporting Sponsors bankHometown, Rollstone Bank & Trust, Main Street Bank, Workers’ Credit Union, and TD Bank. The bag sponsor was Fitchburg Rotary East, and XLO 104.5 was Media Sponsor.

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The North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce actively monitors policy developments at federal, state, and local levels to protect and advance both member interests and critical regional priorities. Our advocacy ensures your voice is heard on issues affecting business operations, regulatory burdens, economic development, and regional competitiveness. Below is our latest update on key government affairs issues.

FEDERAL AFFAIRS

Trade Policy
President Donald Trump continues to utilize increased tariffs as part of his foreign policy, with frequent announcements, retractions, and pauses affecting various industries and countries. In a significant development, the Trump administration recently announced an agreement with China to temporarily suspend most tariffs on each other’s goods. The trade agreement will reduce “reciprocal” tariffs between both countries from 125% to 10%. The Chamber is actively engaging with members to understand tariff impacts on local businesses and monitoring developments through our partnerships with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and our congressional delegation.

Tax Policy
House Republicans passed a framework in early April to align with the Senate on its budget reconciliation bill, enabling congressional committees to begin developing policy details. Current priorities include making the tax credits from President Trump’s first-term Tax Cuts and Jobs Act permanent. The administration has also proposed eliminating taxes on tipped and overtime wages as well as social security benefits.

Chamber Leadership Council
Our March Leadership Council meeting featured Stephen McAllister, Vice President of the Eastern Region for the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, who shared insights on Washington’s political landscape and priorities including tax reform, regulatory reform, and tariffs. Jim Whitney of the Whitney Companies also presented a proposal to transform the former Leominster landfill into a horse racing and entertainment complex.

STATE AFFAIRS

State Budget Process
The Chamber closely monitors the state budget process to protect business interests and identify opportunities and challenges for our regional economy. The House approved a $61.5 billion FY2026 budget on May 1, rejecting Governor Healey’s proposed tax increases while maintaining level funding for municipal aid. The Senate has now unveiled its competing budget with different priorities in education, housing, and healthcare funding. These variations are significant as they directly impact business costs, workforce development resources, and local economic conditions. Once Senate deliberations conclude, a Conference Committee will negotiate the final budget in June, with the Chamber advocating for provisions that support economic growth in North Central Massachusetts.

Legislative Briefing
In March, we convened our Annual Legislative Briefing with regional legislators to discuss our FY2025 priorities for small business support, tourism, education, and workforce development. The meeting showcased the Chamber’s past year accomplishments and provided updates on our One North Central Initiatives.

Housing
The Healey-Driscoll administration announced Massachusetts’ first comprehensive housing plan in February, targeting an increase of at least 222,000 housing units by 2035. The Devens Housing Production Working Group has been established to address our region’s housing needs, with a focus on the Devens Innovation and Technology Center area including Vicksburg Square. Chamber representatives have been attending their monthly public meetings. In April, Chamber staff were on hand as Governor Maura Healey toured a number of mixed-use developments in downtown Fitchburg, while announcing $18 million in Housing Development Incentive Program (HDIP) awards to create housing in six gateway cities across the state. Included in the awards is funding for two developments in downtown Fitchburg.

Energy
National Grid and Unitil customers received $50 bill credits in April following a Governor’s executive order that also includes initiatives to eliminate unnecessary charges, expand discount programs, and review existing energy programs. Despite federal policy shifts, Massachusetts continues advancing alternative energy initiatives. In February, Secretary Hao announced the state’s Climatetech Plan at WPI, where Chamber representatives participated in a roundtable discussion on the plan and economic development.

Community Leadership Institute State House Visit

In April, our Community Leadership Institute class participated in an immersive State House experience, including tours of both legislative chambers guided by Senator Cronin and Representatives Higgins, Kilcoyne, and Zlotnik. The class engaged with high-ranking officials including Secretary of State Bill Galvin, former Economic Development Secretary Yvonne Hao, Tourism Director Kate Fox, and former legislator Jen Flanagan during a leadership roundtable discussion.

State Elections
The 2026 Massachusetts gubernatorial race is taking shape with Governor Maura Healey announcing her reelection bid in February. Former Baker administration Secretary Mike Kennealy launched his Republican campaign in April, focusing on affordability, education, and migration issues. Other potential Republican candidates include former MBTA official Brian Shortsleeve, Worcester County Sheriff Lew Evangelidis, and executive and GOP mega-donor Michael Minogue. State Senator Peter Durant recently announced he will not pursue a gubernatorial run, choosing instead to focus on his current legislative responsibilities.

Citizens’ Legislative Seminar
Our Director of Public Affairs, Travis Condon, participated in the 89th Citizens’ Legislative Seminar at the State House after being nominated by Senator John Cronin. The two-day program covered legislative history, processes, budgeting, and included simulated hearings and Senate sessions.

LOCAL AFFAIRS

Sterling Zoning
Sterling’s town planner and Planning Board have developed updated zoning to enhance economic development, aligned with One North Central priorities. The Chamber has submitted testimony supporting three key changes to streamline permitting and double potential commercial space through updated performance zone regulations. These zoning changes will be presented at Sterling’s Annual Town Meeting on May 5.

Mayor’s Meetings
The Chamber continues productive engagement with regional mayors, recently meeting with Leominster Mayor Dean Mazzarella. We have a joint meeting scheduled in June with all three mayors from Leominster, Fitchburg, and Gardner.

Regional Advocacy
The Chamber continues to represent business interests across several key regional initiatives, ensuring your voice is heard in critical planning discussions. We’re actively involved in Fitchburg’s Blue/Green Downtown project, serve in leadership for the Montachusett Joint Transportation Committee, participate in the Regional Transportation Council, and monitor city council meetings in Fitchburg and Leominster. These efforts are essential to securing infrastructure improvements, influencing transportation priorities, and protecting tourism funding that directly impacts your business climate and regional economic development.

Government Affairs Committee
The Chamber’s Government Affairs Committee continues to hold hybrid meetings and will soon select a new chair following John DiNapoli’s retirement from Unitil in March.

STAY INFORMED AND ENGAGED

The Chamber’s advocacy work on federal, state, and local levels directly impacts your business environment. We continuously represent member interests in policy discussions to foster economic growth and reduce regulatory burdens. We encourage you to stay engaged with these important issues and share your feedback on how government policies affect your business.

For more information about any of these government affairs updates or to discuss specific policy concerns, please contact Travis Condon, Director of Public Affairs at 978.353.7600 or via email at .

Top Photo Caption: Chamber Member, Paul Tocci Jr., a previous Housing Development Incentive Program (HDIP) awardee, talks about the impact of the program and plans to build additional housing units in Fitchburg during Governor Maura Healey’s recent tour of downtown Fitchburg and announcement of this year’s HDIP awardees with state and local officials.

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