Connecting Policy and Community: Legislative Breakfast in Amherst

Each fall, the Amherst Area Chamber of Commerce brings together local leaders for an important conversation about the policies shaping our region. This year’s Legislative Breakfast, held at the Inn on Boltwood, created space for thoughtful dialogue, advocacy, and connection between business leaders, community organizations, and state legislators.

A Morning of Dialogue and Advocacy

Hosted by the Amherst Area Chamber of Commerce, the annual Legislative Breakfast took place on Friday, October 31, 2025 at the Inn on Boltwood (30 Boltwood Ave, Amherst). The event welcomed local business owners, nonprofit leaders, and community members to engage directly with members of the region’s legislative delegation.

Discussions focused on state and local policy issues impacting western Massachusetts, including economic growth, housing affordability, transportation, energy costs, and food security. Legislators in attendance included Senator Jo Comerford, Senator Jacob Oliveira, Representative Mindy Domb, Representative Aaron Saunders, and Representative Homar Gomez.

Key Themes from the Conversation

Against the backdrop of reduced federal support to Massachusetts—including cuts impacting programs like SNAP—legislators emphasized the need for state-level solutions and strong local collaboration. Food insecurity emerged as an urgent concern, with speakers underscoring the importance of maintaining a reliable safety net for families, children, and seniors.

State leaders also addressed:

  • The role of the state in offsetting federal funding losses

  • The importance of supporting food banks and community-based organizations

  • Housing affordability as a critical economic issue

  • Energy costs and utility rate pressures on households and small businesses

  • The need for continued investment in transportation and regional infrastructure

Throughout the discussion, collaboration between government, businesses, and nonprofits was repeatedly highlighted as essential to sustaining a healthy local economy.

 
 

A Seat at the Table for AIL

For Amherst Innovative Living, attending the Legislative Breakfast was an opportunity for staff to be present in local politics and hear directly from policymakers about issues affecting our residents and communities. Being part of these conversations helps ensure that housing providers and local employers remain engaged, informed, and active in advocating for a strong and inclusive Amherst area.

Events like this reinforce the connection between policy decisions and everyday community impact—and the importance of showing up.

Building a Stronger Region Together

Sponsored by local organizations and businesses, the Legislative Breakfast also served as a valuable networking opportunity and a reminder that a healthy economy and a healthy community go hand in hand. As Chamber leaders noted, collaboration is a civic strength—and meaningful progress happens when diverse voices come together around shared goals.

We’re grateful to the Amherst Area Chamber of Commerce for hosting this important event and for creating space for dialogue that supports the future of our region.

Amy Jewitt