The First Light Shellfish Farm is almost finished. The multi-million-dollar grant from U.S. Fish and Wildlife revived the project that has languished since 2009. Vice Chairman 
Carlton Hendricks, Jr. said it should be finished early, in a matter of weeks with over $100k to spare. He said that money will be spent on a manager and finishing the interior. The building is framed up. Coolers, freezers, clam counters stainless steel sinks will then follow. The project will generate 15 new jobs also boasting a fish market that has long been discussed and now materializing. Hendricks led the collaborative effort that salvaged the shellfish farm18 months ago. It’s expected to jumpstart an essential part of the Tribe’s economic development strategy.
Most significant is the fact the operation is a federally certified Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point or HACCP facility — a food safety management system. That was all important to getting the project back on track. It will also serve a dual purpose of cleaning the bay and preventing fish contamination.
The two million oysters and clams planted at Punkhorn Point in Popponesset Bay, will generate, more work for the fishermen, fish to sell at the tribal fish market and in the wholesale marketplace.
We also need to thank Jason Steading Director and Dale Oakley assistant Director and Tribal members David, Jr and CheNulKa Pocknett, Nathan Mills, Robert Andrade and Natural Resources Chairman Buddy Pocknett for their heavy lifting. It’s part of the continued efforts to keep the essential Tribal fishing economy alive. The Shellfish farm will not only create jobs it will generate added income for Tribal members.
Also on the horizon is the restoration of the Parsonage that will be coming to fruition thanks
Every generation of Mashpee Wampanoag remembers the landmark yellow Parsonage sitting atop the hill since 1849. It’s long overdue for a facelift.
to the lobbying efforts of Council Secretary Cassie Jackson and Vice Chair Hendricks. The two worked the halls of the US Capitol lobbying US Senator Elizabeth Warren and Congressman Bill Keating for an appropriation of $1.6 million to retore the deteriorating historic site that has gone untouched for decades. More positive action for one of our historic symbols.
Dealing with the issues that are killing Tribal members is another leadership priority. Henricks has led the efforts to intercept the drug overdose epidemic and homelessness in our community. “The Men’s Healing Lodge “will be up and running by Mid-February. The Vice Chair gives credit to the many Tribally owned businesses and members for their assistance. The Sober House is designed as a refuge for rehabilitation. The Del Sol project will help to stem our homeless problem.
These are very serious issues that have been neglected for nearly14 years. Because of these initiatives, we are starting to take care of ourselves again.
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