Finegold Reappointed to Economic Development Planning Council

EDPC is charged with creating strategic plan to guide Massachusetts economic development policy through 2027

Senator Barry R. Finegold, who represents Tewksbury, has accepted Senate President Karen Spilka’s reappointment to Governor Maura Healey’s Economic Development Planning Council. Members of the Council provide input on and oversight of a four-year economic development plan, available here. 

“Charting a robust and inclusive path for economic development in Massachusetts requires a  willingness to listen and expertise in what our businesses need — both of which Senator Finegold has in spades,” said Spilka. “I am grateful for his service to the Council, and his steadfast commitment to creating a Commonwealth where families and businesses alike can envision a thriving future.” 

To ensure a variety of perspectives and experiences, the Council includes appointees of the House, Senate, relevant Executive Secretariats, municipal leaders, small-business owners and entrepreneurs, and leaders from key business sectors and higher education. 

Finegold, pictured above, was in Tewksbury in November addressing the Select Board on the housing bond bill and MBTA Communities law. He said Eastern Massachusetts is one of only two areas of the country where rents have not come down, and that is hurting competitiveness — an area he has insight into as chair of the Economic Development and Emerging Technologies Committee.

“My job is to help grow business in Massachusetts,” Finegold told the board. “I talk to CEOs every day. I ask them, hey, what can we do to help your business? What can we do to make you more competitive? What do you need? Housing, housing, housing, housing. That’s all they want to talk about. Their workers do not want to stay in Massachusetts.”

He stressed the need to bring new units online to keep young people in the state.

“I am grateful to have been reappointed to the Economic Development Planning Council by Senate President Karen Spilka, who is a tireless leader and advocate for citizens of the Commonwealth,” said Finegold. “I look forward to continuing my partnership with Secretary of Economic Development Yvonne Hao, on this Council and beyond.”

Besides Tewksbury, Finegold represents Andover, Amesbury, Haverhill, Merrimac, North Andover and Wilmington. He chairs the Joint Committee on Economic Development and Emerging Technologies.