Chelsea has always been fortunate to have some great Representatives in the General Court of Massachusetts. For more than 20 years until 1996, Chelsea voters had Richie Voke representing them at the House Chamber. Richie was a master of bringing home the grants for Chelsea.
But as in life, Richie decided not to seek re-election in 1996 and in stepped Gene O’Flaherty, a relatively unknown and untried office holder. With the help of his family and especially his father John, Gene won the primary and election.
Gene learned the House rules quickly and just as quickly started to distinguish himself at the State House. Gene rose just as quickly through the ranks and became Chairman of the Joint Committee on the Judiciary a position that he has held for more than a decade.
Gene has become a fixture in Chelsea attending the many public events where he met the residents and learned their concerns that he brought back to the State House.
Gene’s respect from his colleagues is clearly seen when he was tapped by newly elected Boston Mayor Martin Walsh, a State Representative from Dorchester, to have Gene lead the important Corporation Counsel for the City of Boston.
Chelsea will be losing a lot of clout when Gene steps down. For more than 18 years, he has brought many of the state grants back to Chelsea that has help transform out City.
We wish Gene and his wife Tricia much success in the years to come.