Published: 1/12/2021 4:27:39 PM
NORTHAMPTON – Legislation that will allow for the final dissolution of the Hampshire Council of Governments has been signed into law by Gov. Charlie Baker.
The Hampshire Council of Governments, also known as HCG, was the successor to Hampshire County Government.
“It was a monumental undertaking for the entire Hampshire County delegation,” said state Rep. Natalie Blais, D-Sunderland, of the bill. “It certainly shows the power of what we can do together.”
Among its provisions, the bill transfers an estimated $5.8 million in pension liabilities from Hampshire County communities to the commonwealth. It also does this without reducing payments to HCG retirees.
The legislation was passed unanimously by voice vote in the House and Senate.
Bera Dunau can be reached at bdunau@gazettenet.com.