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
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The North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce the promotion of Travis Condon to Director of Public Affairs.
This promotion recognizes Mr. Condon’s dedication and service to the Chamber, as well as the important role he has played within the organization. He will continue to lead the Chamber’s advocacy and public policy efforts while contributing to its economic development initiatives, strengthening the visibility of the region’s businesses and economy on Beacon Hill.
“Travis has consistently demonstrated his commitment to our organization’s mission since joining our team,” said Roy M. Nascimento, President & CEO. “His contributions to our economic development and public policy initiatives have helped strengthen the Chamber’s work throughout North Central Massachusetts. This promotion recognizes both his dedication to the Chamber and the important role he continues to play in our organization.”
Since joining the Chamber in 2020, Condon has successfully coordinated the organization’s government affairs efforts and served as a strong advocate for local businesses. His deep knowledge of the region and established relationships with leaders throughout the state have proven to be valuable assets in advancing the Chamber’s goals.
“I am honored by this recognition and grateful for the opportunity to continue serving the North Central Massachusetts business community in this new capacity,” said Condon. “I look forward to building upon our work to create a stronger economic climate for our region and to advocate effectively for our members’ interests.”
Prior to joining the Chamber, Condon served as the host and producer of the “K-Zone Morning Kommute” program at WPKZ Radio in Fitchburg. A native of Leominster, he remains active in the community, including serving on the Board of Directors of North Star Family Services, Inc. and as emcee for various community events. Condon holds a Bachelor’s Degree from Bridgewater State University in Communications and Public Relations.
Existing members or businesses interested in learning more about the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce’s government affairs efforts can reach Travis Condon at 978.353.7600 ext. 224 or via email at .
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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
Participants in the Chamber’s Community Leadership Institute pose with members of the region’s Legislative Delegation who engaged with the class throughout the day sharing the history of the legislature, and leading engaging discussions on policy and public service. The class also got the chance to interact with several cabinet members of the Healey-Driscoll Administration
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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For over a century, E.L. Harvey & Sons has been a cornerstone of waste management in Central New England. Headquartered in Westborough, Massachusetts, this full-service waste management company has evolved from humble beginnings into a trusted partner for residential, commercial, industrial, and municipal clients. Known for its comprehensive service offerings and community-first mindset, E.L. Harveyy continues to lead the way in sustainable and innovative waste solutions.
Serving a broad range of industries, E.L. Harvey provides everything from residential curbside pickup and recycling to large-scale commercial waste handling. Their services also include document shredding, and specialized recycling for industrial clients. This versatility ensures that E.L. Harvey can meet the needs of anyone who generates waste—from local homeowners to major construction sites and municipal governments.
What truly sets E.L. Harvey apart from the competition is a combination of deep-rooted local expertise, environmental stewardship, and an unwavering focus on customer satisfaction. As a locally operated company with generations of experience in Central New England, E.L. Harvey understands the unique challenges of waste management in the region. This insight, paired with a strong emphasis on sustainability and community engagement, creates a business that not only provides services but also builds lasting relationships.
The company’s workplace culture further reflects its values. Through a decentralized management model, E.L. Harvey empowers its teams to act with entrepreneurial ownership. Safety remains a top priority, alongside customer service and innovation. The company seeks individuals who are driven, self-motivated, and dedicated to upholding high standards of care—both for clients and the environment.
E.L. Harvey is deeply woven into the fabric of the North Central Massachusetts community. From sponsoring events like the Young Professionals Fashion Show Fundraiser to supporting local initiatives and providing essential waste services at community events, the company sees its role as much more than just a service provider. It’s a community partner. The team takes pride in contributing to a cleaner, stronger region through hands-on involvement and donations.
Looking ahead, E.L. Harvey is poised to remain a leader in sustainable waste management. The company is actively exploring cutting-edge technologies such as AI-driven sorting, robotics, and waste-to-energy solutions that support a circular economy. As electronic waste and sustainability demands rise, E.L. Harvey is positioning itself to meet the challenges of tomorrow while reducing its environmental impact today.
A fun fact that many might not know is that E.L. Harvey started as a cattle business back in 1911. That entrepreneurial spirit, paired with over 100 years of adaptability, is what continues to drive the company forward.
Recognized by the Worcester Business Journal as the Best Waste Removal Company in their Best of Business Awards, E.L. Harvey’s success is a testament to its hard-working team, forward-thinking leadership, and loyal customer base.
For those in need of trusted, responsible waste management, E.L. Harvey offers more than a service—they offer a partnership grounded in sustainability, community, and integrity.
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The North Central Golf Tour: Friday on the Fairway at Templewood Golf Course
July 31, 2026
Friday on the Fairway at Templewood Golf Course
July 31, 2026
Templewood Golf Course
Event Start at 1:00pm View
Event
Fore Then Pore: Golf Clinic, 9 Hole Play & End of Summer Bash
August 21, 2026
Golf Clinic, 9 Hole Play & End of Summer Bash
August 21, 2026
The Woods of Westminster
Event Start at 1:00pm View
Event
Sponsors Reception: Old Mill
August 26, 2026
Thank you to all our sponsors who help sponsor this past 2025-2026 program year! We are truly honored by your continued support and efforts to continue to make our community thrive! View
Event
Catania Oils is opening its’ doors this summer for all enthusiastic job seekers! Join us Wednesday June 25th for our 2025 Career Fair. From production roles like Machine Operators and Bulk Technicians to Packaging Engineers and Product Onboarding Specialists, Catania has your next opportunity waiting! Check out our flyer for more details, and we’ll see you there!
Date – Wednesday June 25th, 2025
Location – Catania Oils, 90 Nemco Way, Ayer, MA 01432
Time – 11am-3pm
For more information, please contact:
Josh Gallant
Talent Acquisition Specialist
978-294-8861
July 7 – July 11 is all about giving back to the communities we serve!
Red Dog Roofing is kicking off our 1st Annual Red Dog’s Roofing Week with a bang – and we’re giving away FREE ROOFS at each of our 3 locations!
Roof Giveaway Schedule:
Monday July 7th– Sarasota, FL
Tuesday July 8th– Waterford, CT
Wednesday July 9th– Fitchburg, MA
Eligibility:
Florida Giveaway – Open to residents of Sarasota, Manatee, DeSoto, and Charlotte Counties
Connecticut Giveaway – Open to all of Connecticut and Rhode Island
Massachusetts Giveaway – Open to Massachusetts and New Hampshire
Know someone who deserves a free roof?
Nominate now at www.RoofGiveaway.com
Just fill out the form – it’s that easy! Deadline for submission June 22nd – Selections made June 27th -Winners announced June 30th
We are excited to announce the launch of our new Bachelor of Science in Finance program, beginning in the 2026 academic year. As we build this program, we are committed to ensuring that our students gain not only strong academic foundations but also meaningful, real-world experience in the finance industry.
To that end, we are actively seeking to partner with local businesses and organizations to provide internship opportunities that will prepare our students for successful careers in finance. Your insights and potential involvement are incredibly valuable to us.
We kindly ask you to take a few moments to complete a brief survey regarding any finance-related internship opportunities your organization may offer, or to share your thoughts on the skills and experiences you believe are most important for future finance professionals.
Your feedback will directly influence how we shape our curriculum and internship offerings to better align with the needs of the local business community.
Thank you for your time and support in helping us prepare the next generation of finance professionals. If you have any questions or would like to discuss partnership opportunities further, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
Member Spotlight
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!
