Wednesday, September 20, 2017
Mayor Domenic J. Sarno, Hampden County Sherriff Nick Cocchi, Superintendent of Schools Daniel Warwick and Patrick Sullivan, Director of Parks, Buildings and Recreation Management, toured John J. Duggan Academy this afternoon to review the painting and restoration work completed in the gymnasium and auditorium. Sherriff Cocchi and his management team were on site to review the work performed and discuss how work on maintenance projects in parks, public buildings and throughout the city can be further enhanced.
Mayor Domenic J. Sarno stated, “We are grateful to Sherriff Nick Cocchi in continuing the legacy of this program. The program has a 24-year history with the City of Springfield, saving the residents millions of dollars and ensuring our residents that are part of the program are learning vital skills to be active members of their community. We see the Community Service Program as a win-win situation. The offenders get the benefit of disciplined work as well as acquiring fundamental workplace skills, and the community receives the benefit of accomplished projects. We are excited to bring this program to a higher standard under the leadership of Sheriff Cocchi.”
Sheriff Nick Cocchi said, “It’s an honor to continue this partnership and collaboration with the City of Springfield and to have the inmates give back to the community, while saving the taxpayer money. Importantly, the inmates are learning valuable and marketable workforce development skills that they will be able to use when once they re-enter the community.”
Executive Director Patrick Sullivan stated, “I am grateful to Sherriff Nick Cocchi for having the trust in our city and department to be part of this community restitution program. I would like to thank my internal team led by Pete Krupszek and Jon Carrigan for coordinating this work with the Sheriff’s team. The crew’s work assignments include park maintenance, carpentry on park structures, cleaning, painting schools in the summer, and de-brushing across the city. The work of the Sheriff and his teams is very important to the city and the Park and Facilities Divisions. This auditorium has sat vacant for many years and now the improvements will allow a positive atmosphere to use this space for school and community programs. The work accomplished in parks and public buildings has enabled the department to ensure the public facilities are returned for their intended use.”
School Superintendent Dan Warwick stated, “The work completed across the city by the Sheriff’s Department and the facilities staff has been tremendous. Over $17.2 million of improvements have been completed this summer and this is testament to the Mayor’s commitment to the school district. We look forward to working with Sherriff Cocchi and his team, for the students and teachers will benefit for years to come by the quality of work being completed in our school buildings. “
