Representative Todd M. Smola

Party: Republican

District: 1st Hampden, Massachusetts

Towns Represented: Brimfield, Holland, Palmer, Sturbridge, Wales, Ware, and Warren

Todd Smola began his political career at age 19 when he ran for a seat on the Palmer Planning Board, becoming the youngest elected member in Palmer's history. Three years later, he became the youngest elected member on the Palmer Board of Selectmen, serving both positions simultaneously. In 2001, he was recruited by State Representative Reed V. Hillman to serve as Chief Legislative Aide, a position he held until 2004. That year, he ran for the State House to replace the retiring Hillman and has represented the 1st Hampden District since 2005.

Education

• Palmer High School, Class of 1995
• Associates Degree in Liberal Arts, Holyoke Community College
• Bachelor of Science Degree in Geography and Regional Planning, Westfield State College

Political Experience

Previous Positions:
- Palmer Planning Board
- Palmer Board of Selectmen ; Chairman
- Pioneer Valley Planning Commissioner
- Education Liaison, Palmer Public Schools
- Chief Legislative Aide to State Representative Reed V. Hillman

Current Committee Assignments:
- Ranking Member, Joint Committee on Public Service
- Ranking Member, Joint Committee on Telecommunications, Utilities and Energy
- Member, Joint Committee on Veterans and Federal Affairs
- Member, Joint Committee on Municipalities and Regional Government
- Member, Joint Committee on Tourism, Arts and Cultural Development