Kristin Kassner Update

Dear Friends,
It’s the end of my first full week as your duly elected State Rep, and it has certainly been a whirlwind. I wanted to share with you what we accomplished this week:
After a long wait, last Friday I was sworn in by Governor Maura Healey. It was wonderful to have my husband, son, family and friends with me, as well as Lt. Governor Kim Driscoll and a welcoming committee of my new colleagues, led by my old friend Rep. Ken Gordon.
Monday we hit the ground running, with a Regional Housing briefing, followed by a meeting convened by Congressman Seth Moulton with the other newly elected State Reps from Essex County.
Monday night I met with the Topsfield Select Board and Town Manager, along with Senators Bruce Tarr and Joan Lovely, Rep. Sally Kerans, with whom I share Topsfield, and former 4th Essex State Rep Jamie Belsito. We are in the process in setting up meetings with the Town Managers and Select Boards in Georgetown, Rowley, Newbury, Ipswich and Hamilton.
Tuesday we were back in the State House for a very special event, Wear Red for Women, which brings awareness to the fact that heart disease is the #1 killer of women in this country. My colleagues and I learned about the 2 most important steps in saving lives during a heart attack.
While in the State House, I also found the House Business Office, the office of the Massachusetts Caucus of Women Legislators, and the all-important mail room run by the friendly and fabulous Tito Rosa.
We ended Tuesday back in district, with a meeting of a wonderful community coalition advocating for the Georgetown Youth Community Center.
Wednesday was full of meetings and phone calls to work on the bills that I will be filing. I am focusing on water, infrastructure, and economic development.
Wednesday night I enjoyed the Hamilton-Wenham LWV Volunteer Fair at the Community House. Our towns are fortunate to have so many dedicated volunteers addressing a variety of issues. It was energizing to see everyone!
Thursday I continued to meet with advocates and work on legislation.
Friday I met with Stephen Crane, the Ipswich Town Manager to discuss budget priorities. Then I met with Ipswich River Watershed Association Executive Director Wayne Castonguay to learn more about ongoing efforts to protect the river ecosystem that provides the water supply to 13 communities.
As much as we accomplished this week, there is still so much to do. I plan to keep you informed about our progress regularly. In the meantime, if you have any questions, or state-related issues that I can help with, please reach out to my office. My legislative aide, Christina Eckert, or I will be happy to assist you!
We will be setting up office hours soon; stay tuned!
This cannot be said often enough: thank you for coming on this journey with me, and thank you for all of your support along the way.
Best,
Kristin E. Kassner
Kristin.Kassner@mahouse.gov