Angelo D'Emilia

Angelo D'Emilia is a former American politician who served as a member of the Massachusetts House of Representatives, representing the 8th Plymouth district. This district encompasses several communities, including Bridgewater, Raynham, and a portion of Easton. D'Emilia is affiliated with the Republican Party and completed his last term in 2011. His political career was marked by his involvement in various legislative committees and his engagement in local issues, including real estate and community development.

Early life and career

Angelo D'Emilia was born and raised in Bridgewater, Massachusetts, where he has spent his entire life. His educational journey culminated at Bridgewater-Raynham High School, from which he graduated in 1984. Following high school, D'Emilia pursued a career in masonry, becoming an apprentice bricklayer. This early vocational training laid the foundation for his future entrepreneurial endeavors in the construction and real estate sectors.

In 1987, D'Emilia took a significant step by founding Spartago Masonry, a business that specialized in masonry work. His entrepreneurial spirit led him to expand this venture into Spartago Enterprises in 1998, which evolved into a general contracting operation. Through this business, D'Emilia engaged in various construction projects, contributing to the local economy and gaining valuable experience in managing a business. Additionally, he ventured into real estate development, notably establishing Downtown Mini-Storage in Bridgewater, which further diversified his business portfolio.

D'Emilia's background in construction and real estate not only provided him with practical skills but also offered him insights into the needs and concerns of local residents regarding housing and community development. This experience would later inform his approach to public service and legislative priorities.

Legislative service

D'Emilia's entry into politics began with his announcement in April 2010 that he would run for the 8th Plymouth seat in the Massachusetts House of Representatives. This seat was previously held by Representative David Flynn, who had decided to retire at the end of his term. D'Emilia's candidacy was notable for the absence of primary opposition, allowing him to focus on the general election campaign against Democratic candidate Patricia Lawton.

During the campaign, D'Emilia faced scrutiny regarding his residency status in Bridgewater, as he was also listed as the primary resident of a property in nearby Lakeville, Massachusetts. This issue was highlighted in local media, raising questions about his eligibility to represent the district. However, despite the media attention, there were no legal challenges to his residency status, allowing him to continue his campaign unimpeded.

In the general election, D'Emilia secured victory, receiving a majority of the votes cast against Lawton. His election marked the beginning of his term in the Massachusetts House of Representatives, where he became involved in various legislative activities and committees.

Throughout his time in office, D'Emilia served on several important committees, including the Joint Committee on Community Development and Small Businesses, the Joint Committee on Ways and Means, the House Committee on Personnel and Administration, and the House Committee on Ways and Means. His participation in these committees allowed him to influence legislation related to economic development, fiscal policy, and community issues, reflecting his background in business and real estate.

D'Emilia's legislative record included support for significant policy initiatives. He voted in favor of casino gambling, a contentious issue in Massachusetts, which aimed to expand the state's gaming industry. Additionally, he sought to amend the compact between the Commonwealth and the Mashpee Wampanoag tribe, advocating for a deadline to secure land into trust. This effort demonstrated his engagement with local tribal issues and his interest in economic development opportunities for the region.

Another notable aspect of D'Emilia's legislative service was his support for the "Three Strikes" bill, a piece of legislation aimed at addressing repeat offenders in the criminal justice system. His voting record on such issues highlighted his commitment to public safety and crime reduction.

In the lead-up to the 2012 election, D'Emilia faced a challenge from Marilee Kenney Hunt, a candidate from Bridgewater. This electoral contest underscored the competitive nature of local politics and the importance of community engagement in the legislative process.

Policy focus and district

As a representative of the 8th Plymouth district, D'Emilia's policy focus was shaped by the unique needs and characteristics of the communities he served. The district includes Bridgewater, Raynham, and a portion of Easton, each with its own distinct demographic and economic profiles. D'Emilia's background in business and real estate provided him with a perspective on the challenges faced by constituents, particularly in areas related to economic development, housing, and community infrastructure.

D'Emilia's involvement in local business initiatives and real estate development informed his legislative priorities, particularly in advocating for policies that would support small businesses and promote economic growth. His participation in the Joint Committee on Community Development and Small Businesses allowed him to address issues pertinent to local entrepreneurs and the overall economic landscape of the district.

Moreover, D'Emilia's engagement with community issues extended beyond economic development. His legal actions, including a lawsuit against the Town of Bridgewater regarding a disputed parcel of land, illustrated his commitment to local governance and property rights. The lawsuit centered on allegations that the town had violated legal protocols in its efforts to secure the land for conservation purposes, as D'Emilia claimed to have a purchase-and-sale agreement for the parcel. This legal dispute highlighted the complexities of local land use and the importance of adhering to established legal frameworks in municipal decision-making.

Overall, D'Emilia's tenure in the Massachusetts House of Representatives was characterized by his focus on economic development, community engagement, and legislative participation. His background in business and real estate, coupled with his commitment to local issues, shaped his approach to public service and his interactions with constituents. After completing his last term in 2011, D'Emilia's contributions to the 8th Plymouth district and the Massachusetts legislature remain a part of the local political landscape.