Politics & Government

Senator Ross Disappointed In Power Restoration Efforts

Note: The following is a press release from the office of State Senator Richard Ross.

Senator Richard Ross (R-Wrentham) would like to inform his constituents of various issues related to the aftermath of Hurricane Irene. His office has been continuously fielding calls from local officials and constituents from several towns, regarding various issues in the wake of the storm– most prominently, the power outages. At this time, more than half of the towns in Senator Ross’ district are still without power. Additionally, local officials have reported that their calls to National Grid have gone unanswered.

“I am greatly disappointed with this lack of communication between National Grid and municipalities,” said Senator Ross. “I find it unacceptable that local officials have no access to information regarding power restoration and safety concerns in their communities.”

Senator Ross has been in contact with Governor Patrick’s office and the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA), as well as National Grid and NSTAR. He has sent several letters to National Grid and NSTAR on behalf of the towns who have alerted his office to specific communication and public safety issues. Each letter was also sent to Governor Patrick’s office.  Senator Ross also requested a comprehensive list of all power outages in the cities and towns in his district, as well as the Plans of Action for restoring power and addressing safety issues in these communities.

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Senator Ross would like to make his constituents aware of various programs that some towns are offering to help their residents who are still without power.

Wayland has opened the town transfer station so residents can dump their debris for free. Wayland residents are also able to charge their cell phones at the Wayland Police Station.

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Norfolk has also made their transfer station open to residents to collect brush, through Saturday from 8:00am to 7:00pm. In addition, residents who are without phone service are encouraged to add their cell phone numbers to the ‘reverse 911’ service, Connect CTY, by visiting virtualnorfolk.org or calling the Town Administrator at (508) 440-2855. The phone line sends out blasts with safety information for residents.

The City of Attleboro has opened an emergency shelter at the La Salette Shrine on Park Street for residents without power who use oxygen or medical equipment. The shelter is staffed with medical personnel and will offer food, cots and power.

Additionally, King Philip Middle School will be hosting a pizza and pasta dinner on August 31st, from 5:00pm to 8:00pm. The locker rooms and showers will also be available, but residents must bring their own soap and towels. The event is free, but donations are welcome.

Please contact the office of Senator Ross at (617) 722 -1555 or Richard.Ross@masenate.gov with questions or for more information.


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