E-Newsletter
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.
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

David is a native of Worcester and graduated from Holy Name High School. He is a member of the dean’s list at Fitchburg State University and also volunteers at Special Olympics. As part of his internship, David is learning a variety of aspects of the Chamber and its affiliates. He has been gaining hands on learning experience by assisting with drafting press releases, helping to organize special events and supporting the launch of the Chamber’s new Gift Local Initiative.
“We are excited to welcome David as part of our team this semester,” said Roy M. Nascimento, President & CEO of the Chamber. “He is a bright and ambitious student who will benefit from his time working with our members and supporting the advancement of North Central Massachusetts. I have no doubt that he will make a positive contribution to our organization.”
David was connected to the Chamber through Fitchburg State University’s Internship program, which allows students to explore a career field and gain relevant work experience, apply academic learning to real world situations, and build critical thinking, problem solving, communication, and professional skills. Please contact the Chamber at 978-353-7600 ext. 244 for more information.

Gift Local cards are available for sale to the public in any amount and are used like cash exclusively at participating businesses in North Central Massachusetts. The card is the perfect gift for the upcoming holidays, or for birthdays, employee recognition programs, teacher appreciation gifts, graduations, or just to say thank you. Gift card recipients can redeem their cards at nearly 40 local establishments, including many of the finest restaurants, retail stores, salons, service providers, and more in North Central Massachusetts. The cards may be reloaded for convenience and used throughout the year.
“This is a great resource for small businesses throughout North Central, we’re thrilled to be part of a program that can help grow our business and support the local economy,” said Rick Walton, owner of the Gardner Ale House.
“Signing up to participate in the Gift Local Gift Card program was a no-brainer for us,” said Steven Duvarney, owner of Duvarney & Company Jewelers in Clinton and Fitchburg “We’re excited to participate and think it’s a great opportunity to engage new customers as well as support the local economy.”
Participating merchants will be featured in the Gift Local’s marketing program and on the website www.giftlocalmass.com. Gift cards are also the gift of choice among many employers looking for gifts for their employees and clients. The Chamber will also be introducing a bulk Gift Local Gift Card purchasing program that helps local businesses better reward and incentivize their employees.
The typical profile for a Gift Local Card buyer would be someone who is looking to support local businesses, but may not know the recipient’s taste in food, fashion or merchandise and wants to give the recipient the gift of choice among various options throughout the community. Gift cards overall have also been growing in popularity as gifts with over $138 billion spent annually on them in the United States. Research shows that 93% of U.S. Shoppers receive or buy a gift card every year and gift card users tend to spend 25% more at locations when using a gift card in comparison with shopping with cash or a regular credit/debit card.
“Currently there is nothing like the Gift Local Gift Card in North Central Massachusetts. It’s an exciting opportunity for local businesses to grow their customer base as well as broaden their appeal,” said Roy Nascimento, President and CEO of the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce. “This program is a perfect way to support small businesses while still giving people the flexibility to shop around as they please.”
Gift Local Cards can be purchased at the Chamber office located at 860 South Street in Fitchburg), Monday to Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.; the Johnny Appleseed Visitors’ Center located on Route 2 West in Lancaster, Monday to Sunday from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.; and online at www.giftlocalmass.com.
For more information or to enroll in this exciting new program, please contact Lauren Goulet at 978.353.7600 ext. 222 or at .
The Fitchburg City Council has again voted to reduce the property tax impact on commercial, industrial and personal property. At the annual Property Tax Classification hearing, the council recognized the importance of supporting small businesses and eventually move toward a single tax rate.
The North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce attended the hearing and provided testimony on why it is important to reduce the tax burden on businesses
“Cities have many tools to approaching smart and successful economic development strategies. The property tax shift toward a single tax rate is one of the most effective ways to show businesses that a city is truly invested in growing its commercial base,” President and CEO Roy Nascimento told the councilors.
Through a spirited discussion, Councilor Marcus DiNatale noted that Fitchburg has the fifth highest commercial tax rate. That high tax rate does not attract businesses to Fitchburg, DiNatale added.
Ultimately, the councilors voted 8-2 in favor of reducing the burden on commercial property owners. Commercial property tax owners will still modest increases, but at a lower value than if there was no change. For fiscal year 2017, commercial property owners will see an average increase of $173.24 – had there been no change, the average increase would be $308.20.
Councilors Amy Green and Joel Kaddy, both small business owners, recognized that despite the fact that they would be paying higher taxes on their homes, tax increases on businesses would be an impediment to economic growth.
Property Tax Roll Call Vote Results
Motion to reduce the property tax shift from 118% to 116%
| Councilor | Position |
| Michael Kushmerek | Support |
| Dean Tran | Oppose |
| Paul Beauchemin | Support |
| Tom Donnelly | Support |
| Joel Kaddy | Support |
| Marcus DiNatale | Support |
| Jeff Bean | Support |
| Amy Green | Support |
| Jody Joseph | Oppose |
| Angelo Bisol | Absent* |
*Councilor Bisol was not able to attend the meeting but sent in a letter of support
Background on Property Tax Classification Hearings
Each year, communities hold Property Tax Classification Hearing to determine the rates at which residential, commercial, industrial and personal property are taxed. There are two models for property taxes: single rate and dual rate. The single rate means that both residential properties and commercial properties are taxed at the same rate. A dual rate system means that one group – typically businesses, shoulders more of the tax burden pays a higher rate of taxes based on a property’s assessed value.
A single rate tax system has come to be the best model for business friendly communities. Many argue that a higher tax rate for commercial properties does not create a business friendly environment.
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This next class coming up, “NRA Home Firearm Safety (with Live-Fire Segment)”, was primarily scheduled during the week for all our real estate, salon, and shift people, or anyone who really needs to work weekends. It is a MA state prerequisite to apply for your LTC/FID.
This class is scheduled for Wednesday, August 30th and runs from 9am to 4:30pm.
COST: $125
LOCATION: South Fitchburg Hunting and Fishing Club
60 Warren Road
Townsend, MA 01469
For those who already have their LTCs, we have the Advanced Handgun Level-1 on Thursday, August 31st from 9am to 1pm.
COST: $90
LOCATION: South Fitchburg Hunting and Fishing Club
60 Warren Road
Townsend, MA 01469
You need your own equipment, including a non-closing OWB holster and 100 rounds of factory-made ammunition for this advanced handgun class.
To register for either of these classes call Bruce at 508-864-7473.
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.
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.
CapEx Facility Services & Construction · Leominster, MA
TaraVista Behavioral Health Center · Harvard, MA
DRS Power Technology, Inc. · Fitchburg, MA
AIS · Leominster, MA