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Date: 1/12/2022
WEST SPRINGFIELD — Having lived in West Springfield’s District 2 his entire life, Michael LaFlamme now has the honor to serve as a District 2 Councilor and be a voice for his community.
As he joins the council made up of seven incumbents and fellow newcomer Jaime Smith, LaFlamme told The Reminder some of his top priorities.
During his campaign, LaFlamme recalled hearing a variety of issues that were raised by constituents, however, the three most common issues mentioned were infrastructure, affordability and public safety.
“I took an open-ear approach,” said LaFlamme. “I wanted to see what [the] people think in District 2.”
LaFlamme noted that education seems to be a concern for those with children, whereas seniors have expressed concern with the rising costs.
He went on to say that he hopes to continue the ongoing efforts in town such as infrastructure, paving and updating roads, along with train blockages at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Bridge, also known as the Strathmore Bridge or Mittineague Bridge.
“I pay attention to all issues,” said LaFlamme. “No issue is too small.”
He said he hasn’t stopped listening since the election. He was the only candidate for the District 2 seat on the council, after former Councilor Nathan Bech chose not to run for re-election.
To prepare for his new position, LaFlamme met with Bech, who “has been gracious with his time. He has updated me with issues in my district,” said LaFlamme.
LaFlamme has also been reviewing the town charter and paying close attention to the meetings, particularly the “big debate with the recent tax shift and the pandemic; I want to eliminate the burden,” said LaFlamme.
Other challenges he sees facing the town include the pandemic itself and the toll it has taken on schools and businesses.
Prior to becoming an elected official in West Springfield, LaFlamme worked as an aide to state Rep. Michael Finn, D-West Springfield, starting in January 2015. He believes this experience has prepared him and taught him valuable information, such as how a budget works.
On Jan. 3, LaFlamme was inaugurated to the Town Council. He will serve a two-year term.
“It feels great. It’s a humbling kind of experience,” he said.
LaFlamme expressed his gratitude to his supporters through it all.
“I’m happy to be representing [the] people of District 2. I take pride in being their voice on the council.” He continued, “Constituent services is something I want to take a lot of pride in doing. I want to help navigate and be approachable.”
LaFlamme aims to be responsive and accessible for all his constituents. He asks for those with any questions or concerns to contact him directly at laflammeford2@gmail.com or 348-7043.