This past week the staff of Merrimack Valley Planning Commission (MVPC) welcomed the Merrimack Valley’s legislative delegation to an open house at MVPC’s office in Haverhill. Members of the Massachusetts State House of Representatives and Senate were able to enjoy breakfast together and discuss key regional issues with the agency’s programmatic and administrative teams. While getting to know the staff, legislators also had the chance to learn about MVPC’s wide variety of programs and services.

The open house also provided an opportunity for MVPC staff to learn more about legislators’ policy focus areas. A packet of informational materials was provided to each legislator including individualized district maps and comprehensive legislative districts map and several legislative priorities for the region were also discussed, such as increased funding for District Local Technical Assistance (DLTA), support for a bill to establish a Merrimack River Collaborative, and implementation of the Transportation Improvement Program.

The event was a great success with many engaging conversations and a general consensus that convening at MVPC more frequently would be beneficial to everyone.  MVPC looks forward to hosting the Merrimack Valley legislative delegation again soon!