Posted on May 4, 2016
DEVENS --- The Regional Housing Network (RHN) has recognized MHP with a public service award for its work on rural policy issues, which has led to the establishment of a Rural Policy Advisory Commission that will advise the Baker Administration and the state legislature.
RHN presented the award to MHP Executive Director Clark Ziegler at RHN's annual conference on May 4 at the Devens Conference Center. Also recognized were MHP Senior Advisor Rita Farrell and Community Assistance Coordinator Carsten Snow.
RHN also recognized state Sen. Dan Wolf with a public service award for his role in sponsoring legislation that Gov. Charlie Baker signed in July 2015 establishing the rural commission.
Always active in supporting affordable housing in rural communities, MHP began an intensive look at rural communities in 2014 that involved holding listening tours, forming a steering committee, doing data analysis and research of best rural practices in other states.
This led to the publishing of a white paper which included a series of policy recommendations that included the formation of a rural policy commission. Sen. Wolf and Rep. Stephen Kulik then sponsored legislation proposing a rural commission which Gov. Baker signed into law in the summer of 2015.
"It was no surprise that MHP took the lead on helping rural communities as it understands the value and character of all cities and towns in the Commonwealth as well as the value of bringing groups together to solve big problems," said Maureen Fitzgerald, RHN's executive director. "The work MHP did on this is an example of why they are considered a great resource for communities to use."
So far, 12 of the 15 commission members have been appointed. The first meeting is scheduled for June 10 at the Franklin Regional Council of Governments office in Greenfield.
RHN of Massachusetts is a non-profit organization whose members deliver affordable housing solutions across the state. Three of RHN's members served on the steering committee that advised MHP on its rural initiative.