An Electronic Publication of the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce
Inside this edition, you’ll discover the latest Chamber initiatives and success stories from across our region. From economic development projects and upcoming networking events to policy updates and workforce training opportunities, we’re keeping you connected to what matters most for your business and North Central Massachusetts.
June 2026
Not Yet A Member? Join the Chamber
The North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce is here to help – with trusted resources, a strong business network, and a support system to keep your business and the region moving forward
As the Commonwealth’s voters go to the polls in less than a month, we at the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce are deeply concerned about Massachusetts Ballot Question 2, which proposes to eliminate the Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System (MCAS) statewide standardized tests as a primary high school graduation requirement. While well-intentioned, this measure threatens to undermine the educational progress our state has made and could have far-reaching consequences for our students, businesses and regional economy.
MCAS has been a cornerstone of the Massachusetts education system since passage of the 1993 Massachusetts Education Reform Act. This law was a bipartisan effort resulting in significant new funding for education, accompanied by high statewide standards for learning, and a system for measuring progress. More than thirty years later, schools in Massachusetts are the envy of America, propelled from the middle of the pack to the very top of the national education rankings today. But this achievement is more than just a point of pride—it’s a key driver of our state’s economic competitiveness.
In North Central Massachusetts, we’ve seen firsthand how a strong education system attracts businesses, creates jobs and helps build thriving communities. MCAS plays a crucial role in maintaining accountability and high standards, ensuring that a Massachusetts high school diploma signifies a basic level of academic achievement.
Proponents of Question 2 argue the MCAS creates undue stress and doesn’t accurately measure student abilities. They also contend the system unfairly impacts students facing various challenges, including those with disabilities, from low-income households, and experiencing other forms of educational disadvantages. While we acknowledge MCAS isn’t perfect, we believe eliminating the state’s only graduation requirement is an overreaction that could have unintended negative consequences.
Removing the MCAS could lead to a patchwork of standards across the state, potentially exacerbating educational inequities. Without a common benchmark, it becomes challenging to ensure all students, regardless of their zip code, receive a quality education that prepares them for future success. The MCAS also serves as an important assessment tool, providing valuable data to help identify and address achievement gaps. Losing this tool could make it harder to pinpoint areas where additional resources and support are needed, ultimately disadvantaging the students who need help the most. Our region’s economic growth depends on a skilled workforce. Weakening our education standards could also make us less attractive to businesses looking to invest and expand.
Instead of scrapping the MCAS and eliminating uniform, statewide standards, we should focus on improving it. We can work to make the test more inclusive and representative of diverse learning styles while maintaining high standards. We can also enhance support systems for students who struggle with standardized tests without lowering the bar for everyone.
As business leaders, we understand the importance of measurement and continuous improvement. The MCAS has played a significant role in Massachusetts’ rise to educational prominence, benefiting students, families, and our economy.
We urge voters to consider the broader implications of Question 2 carefully. A “No” vote will help preserve the high standards that have served our students and economy so well. Abandoning uniform statewide standards and a commitment to educational excellence would be a great disservice to our young people and their future success.
Roy M. Nascimento, CCE, IOM
President & CEO
Cámara de Comercio del Norte Central de Massachusetts
North Central Massachusetts | Central Massachusetts | Massachusetts | Chamber of Commerce | North Central Massachusetts Chamber | Chamber of Commerce near me | Massachusetts Business | New England Town | Blog | Legislative Issues | MCAS Graduation Requirement | Vote NO on Question 2 | Elected Officials | Question 2 | Massachusetts Ballot Question | Local Economy Impact | Business Community | Public Affairs | Local Business
The North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce the appointment of Patrick O’Hara as Manager of Membership Recruitment and Engagement.
In this position, he will be responsible for managing marketing and outreach to prospective members while also providing superior frontline customer service and support for current members. Additionally, he will drive a membership strategy that projects the Chamber’s message/brand to all of our stakeholders.
O’Hara brings to the Chamber extensive marketing and sales experience. He has worked with businesses in Central Massachusetts for over 25 years helping them with marketing, advertising and sales strategies. Most recently, he served as Territory Sales Manager for Land.com CoStar. He previously served as a consultative salesperson at CBS Radio, WXLO, and was a manager at WCRN830 AM. He is skilled at handling enterprise accounts as well as mom and pop businesses. Over the years, he has engaged in all aspects of multimedia solutions including digital, radio, cable, tv, print, event marketing and video with specialized training in the automotive and real estate sectors.
O’Hara’s experience as a small business owner also adds valuable perspective to his role at the Chamber. He was the founder of O’Hara Management Inc., a real estate management and development firm and he also owned and operated Tempest Advertising, a full-service advertising agency with customers like Kelly’s Roast Beef, Colonial Automotive Group, Cully’s Snowmobile Ranch, and Elite Entertainment.
“I am excited to have Patrick join our team, he will be a great help in supporting our efforts to promote our members and the communities of North Central Massachusetts,” said Roy Nascimento, President & CEO of the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce. “His energy, experience and marketing knowledge will make a positive contribution to our efforts to engage business leaders and advance the regional economy.”
O’Hara holds a Bachelor’s degree in Economics from Northeastern University and has earned various Google certifications. He resides in Westminster and is actively involved in the community, most notably serving as the Founder, President, and Coach of the Ashburnham-Westminster Whalers Hockey Club.
Current members or businesses interested in learning more about the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce can reach out to Patrick O’Hara at 978.353.7600 ext. 239 or via email at .
North Central Massachusetts | Central Massachusetts | Massachusetts | Chamber of Commerce | North Central Massachusetts Chamber | Chamber of Commerce Membership | Chamber of Commerce Member Benefits | Chamber of Commerce near me | Business Associations | Business Resources
The general election is just a few weeks away and there will be two important questions you will be asked to vote on. After careful review, the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce recommends a “NO” vote on Massachusetts Ballot Questions 2 and 5. We believe these measures, if passed, could have significant negative implications for local students, our members, communities and our regional economy.
Question 2: MCAS Graduation Requirement
The Chamber opposes Question 2, which would repeal the requirement that students must achieve a certain competency level on the Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System (MCAS) exam to receive a high school diploma.
Background and why it’s important:
MCAS has been a cornerstone of the Massachusetts education system since passage of the 1993 Massachusetts Education Reform Act, helping to elevate our state from middle of the pack to having the best public education system in the country.
Bipartisan effort and strong support from the business community led to the passing of the law, resulting in significant new funding for education accompanied by high, statewide standards for learning, and a system for measuring progress and results.
Since the law was implemented, graduation rates have steadily increased, drop-out rates have declined, and since 2011, Massachusetts has ranked first in student achievement in the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP).
Under current state law, students must achieve a score of “Meeting Expectations” or higher on the English language arts and mathematics tests to graduate.
Passage of Question 2 would eliminate the MCAS as a graduation requirement with students completing coursework certified by the local school district, resulting in more than 300 different graduation standards.
If Question 2 passes, Massachusetts would be one of only three states with no statewide graduation requirement; and one of two states without a minimum statewide standard for competency in math, English, and science.
Only 1% (approximately 700)* of Massachusetts high school students do not graduate because of not passing MCAS, primarily because of language barriers and other learning challenges.
Why we recommend voting “NO”:
The MCAS requirement ensures a baseline of knowledge and skills for high school graduates entering higher education or the job market.
Repealing this requirement would lower educational standards, impacting the quality of our local talent pool and making our graduates less competitive in the global economy.
The MCAS provides valuable data for identifying and addressing educational disparities, which is crucial for ensuring equal opportunities for all students.
We should take steps to meet the needs of the 1% of students who do not pass, instead of eliminating a comprehensive system that is working for almost every student.
Relying only on different local academic requirements will exacerbate educational inequities.
A major competitive advantage for Massachusetts is the quality of our public education system, and must maintain this advantage for our youth to compete in the college admissions process and future employment.
Question 5: Tipped Employee Wages
The Chamber also opposes Question 5, which would gradually increase the wage of tipped employees until it meets the state minimum wage by January 1, 2029.
Background and why it’s important:
Under current state law, tipped workers in Massachusetts, such as wait staff and bartenders, earn a base wage of $6.75 per hour, with tips making up the difference to meet or exceed the state minimum wage which is currently $15 per hour.
Question 5 would incrementally raise the tipped minimum wage over five years until it matches whatever the standard minimum wage is in 2029.
Tips would be extra. But for the first time, restaurants would also be allowed to pool and share those tips with cooks, bookkeepers, and other back-of-the-house workers who aren’t allowed, by current law, to share in those tips.
If Question 5 passes, Massachusetts would be one of just seven states without a tipped wage credit.
Why we recommend voting “NO”:
Independent local restaurants are more than just eateries; they are cornerstones of our community’s economic and social fabric. As economic catalysts, they drive foot traffic, benefiting neighboring businesses and shaping our downtowns and business districts. Their presence can influence where people and companies choose to settle, defining the region’s character. Restaurants serve as workforce developers, providing crucial first jobs and sustainable careers, while supporting a network of local suppliers, farms and other businesses. Moreover, the meal and property taxes generated contribute substantially to funding essential municipal services and schools. In essence, our local restaurants are integral to the economic vitality and social wellbeing of our communities.
This change could significantly impact our restaurant and hospitality businesses, which are vital to our local economy and would come at a time when their industry, which has always operated on thin margins, is still rebounding from the pandemic, coping with inflation and high credit card fees, wrestling with soaring energy and insurance costs, and adapting to changes in dining habits in a work-from-home economy.
The increased labor costs may force restaurants to raise prices, reduce staff, or limit hours of operation, potentially leading to job losses and reduced economic activity.
It could potentially lead to reduced overall compensation for tipped workers if customers tip less in response to higher prices or the perception that tipping is no longer necessary.
The current system allows for flexibility and can result in higher earnings for skilled service workers during peak hours.
The concerns raised by our independent restaurant owners about possible business closures and layoffs if Question 5 passes extend beyond their industry, it could potentially affect suppliers, local tax revenues, and the broader economic stability of our communities.
The Chamber also believes complex issues, such as education standards and wage structures, are best addressed through the legislative process rather than ballot referendums. The legislative process is a more deliberative process that allows for a more thorough debate and discussion of the nuances of these issues. It also provides the ability to make amendments and adjustments based on expert testimony and stakeholder input and provides greater flexibility to respond to changing economic conditions or unintended consequences.
Ballot referendums, while an important part of our democratic process, can sometimes oversimplify complex issues and lack the flexibility needed to address unintended consequences.
How the Chamber reached its conclusion
As the general election ballot questions were announced, Chamber members shared their concerns with us about the issues, specifically those related to Question 2 and Question 5. After listening to our members concerns, we compared our current policy positions with the ballot questions. We also engaged in thoughtful discussions with those who work in our restaurants and public schools, and reviewed research on these topics with our Government Affairs Committee, which represents a diverse cross-section of our membership. The committee’s recommendations were then presented to our board of directors for approval.
While all opinions expressed throughout the review were taken into consideration, this process also ensured we understood the diverse views and voices within our business community. As our policy is to lead through consensus rather than unanimity, we are able to represent the broader interests of our membership and communities.
Ultimately, the board concluded both Question 2 and Question 5 would have numerous negative consequences for our region, thus resulting in urging members to vote “NO” on Question 2 and Question 5.
We encourage all Chamber members to carefully consider these issues and their potential impact on our students and the business community. The Chamber believes maintaining educational standards and preserving the current tipped wage system are important for the continued growth and prosperity of our region.
We welcome your thoughts and feedback on these positions. Please feel free to reach out with any questions or concerns by contacting Travis Condon, Public Affairs Manager, at 978.353.7600 ext. 224 or via email at .
*Source: Massachusetts Board of Elementary and Secondary Education
North Central Massachusetts | Central Massachusetts | Massachusetts | Chamber of Commerce | North Central Massachusetts Chamber | Chamber of Commerce near me | Massachusetts Business | New England Town | Blog | Legislative Issues | MCAS Graduation Requirement | Vote NO on Question 2| Vote NO on Question 5 | Elected Officials | Question 5 | Massachusetts Ballot Question | Tipped Employee Wages | Local Economy Impact | Business Community | Public Affairs | Local Business
¡Gracias a todos nuestros patrocinadores que ayudaron a patrocinar este pasado año del programa 2025-2026! ¡Nos sentimos verdaderamente honrados por su continuo apoyo y sus esfuerzos para que nuestra comunidad siga prosperando! View
Event
Join us for Connect North Central
Friday, November 20, 2026
8am-9am View
Event
Joint Mayor's Meeting
December 4, 2026
Chamber members are provided with the opportunity to engage with the Mayors of Fitchburg, Gardner, and Leominster who provide updates on projects and other things happening in their Cities. These events are by invitation only, please contact Travis Condon for more details. View
Event
Future Leaders of North Central: Annual Holiday Party & Ugly Sweater Competition
December 8, 2026
Bull Run Restaurant
215 Great Rd. Shirly, MA View
Event
Chamber members are provided with the opportunity to engage with the Mayors of Fitchburg, Gardner, and Leominster who provide updates on projects and other things happening in their Cities. These events are by invitation only, please contact Travis Condon for more details. View
Event
WIN TWO Ring Cameras, an iRobot Roomba, a “Mini Clean” from Get Clean Co, and a 10-Yard Dumpster Rental from Bin There Dump That—plus some small extras!
LUK, Inc. has recently received funding from the Reliant Foundation to expand their Mental Health Awareness and Suicide Prevention trainings. This is Reliant Foundation’s fourth year funding these trainings for LUK.
LUK shares Reliant Foundation’s goal to reduce stigma around mental health and substance use disorders. By raising awareness, the agency hopes to strengthen mental/behavioral health services for youth and adults, encourage individuals to strive for recovery, or support a loved one in their recovery journey.
With last year’s funding from Reliant Foundation, LUK met and surpassed their goal of training 900 individuals in mental health and suicide prevention through their ongoing partnerships with schools, PTOs, community organizations, and civic groups.
This funding from Reliant Foundation will allow LUK to continue offering a variety of trainings that vary in length, intensity, and scope, allowing training partners to select the most appropriate curriculum for their setting. The overall goal of the project is to raise awareness of mental health challenges, prevent suicide, and connect people in need to supportive services.
“LUK would like to send our gratitude to the Reliant Foundation for their continued support of our mental health training program. This program provides essential education to the community on understanding mental health symptoms in order to intervene both early and effectively,” adds LUK President & CEO Beth Barto. “This funding from Reliant Foundation helps LUK towards creating safe, healthy and resilient communities.”
LUK is thankful for Reliant Foundation’s support and looks forward to another year of offering these important trainings to the Central MA community.
LUK, Inc. is a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the safety, health, and well-being of youth, families, and adults in Central Massachusetts. As a community-based organization, LUK’s mission is to challenge and inspire youth, adults, and families to realize their unique potential through community-based prevention, intervention, education, and support services.
Rollstone Bank & Trust, Fitchburg, MA proudly acknowledges that it has, once again, received a 5-Star Superior rating from BauerFinancial, the Nation’s Premier Bank Rating Firm. A 5-Star Superior rating indicates that Rollstone Bank & Trust is one of the strongest banks in the nation, excelling in areas of capital, loan quality, profitability and more. This marks the 121st consecutive quarter that Rollstone Bank & Trust has earned this top rating, which secures it an even more elite status as a “Best of Bauer Bank”, an honor reserved solely for banks that have maintained a 5-Star rating for 25 years or longer.
“A lot of things are changing”, reflects Karen L. Dorway, president of BauerFinancial. “Rules and regulations are being retooled, technology is advancing at lightning speed, and it’s easy to feel like you’re getting lost in the fray,” she continues. “People don’t want to feel like that at their bank. When they walk into a branch, they want to feel confident that their deposits are safe, that all rules are being followed, and that their banker understands their specific needs. That’s why it’s so important to have 5-Star rated (Superior) banks, like Rollstone Bank & Trust, in our communities. We can be confident that they have our hard-earned deposits properly secured.”
Rollstone Bank & Trust was established in 1846 and has been meeting the specific needs of the people in the communities it serves for 179 years. You can be proud to call Rollstone Bank & Trust your bank.
Miembro Destacado
Custom Cleaning Service of Peabody
When the workday ends and the lights go down, Custom Cleaning Service of Peabody, Inc. gets to work. “We operate as our clients’ silent partner after business hours,” says Adam Paicos, of Templeton, who now serves as Director of Operations and oversees the company’s expansion into North Central MA. “We are not often seen, but we ensure facilities are clean, secure, and ready for business each day while serving as the eyes and ears for our clients when they are not on site.”
Discover local business stories through our Inside North Central Massachusetts Podcast series. Listen as Chamber members share their journeys, insights, and contributions to our thriving regional business community.
From Chamber events and ribbon cuttings to community celebrations and regional highlights, stay connected with what’s happening across North Central Massachusetts. Follow us on social media for the latest photos, updates, and stories.
Looking for your next opportunity? Explore current job openings from employers across North Central Massachusetts on our Jobs Board. Whether you’re starting a new career or making a change, you’ll find a variety of local positions available to help you take the next step.
Got a job you want featured? Click here to submit a job posting to our job board or email . This is a member benefit. Post jobs at no extra cost. No algorithms or budgets to manage!
