Monthly Archives: May 2014

The boutique environmental law firm of Mackie Shea O’Brien, PC, has been recognized again as one of the top environmental law groups in Massachusetts in the 2014 edition of Chambers USA: America’s Leading Lawyers for Business.
Chambers reported MSO is a “strong choice for matters pertaining to solid and hazardous waste” and is “well regarded in the dispute arena, including in appeals of permits and cleanup costs.”  Chambers reported the firm is “a force in licensing and enforcement defense” and is “recognized for its strong relationships with federal and state regulators.”  Chambers quoted sources saying the MSO team is “expert, efficient and cost effective” and “a tremendous value.”

Each of the firm’s shareholders, Thomas A. Mackie, John F. Shea, and Michelle N. O’Brien, was highlighted as a leader in the environmental bar.  Chambers noted Michelle O’Brien represents clients in environmental litigation and enforcement proceedings and quoted a source saying she is “very thorough and very forward thinking.”  Tom Mackie is lauded by the market for his expertise in matters relating to solid waste, and a practice that includes regulatory compliance and insurance coverage.  John Shea is recognized for his considerable capabilities in matters related to wetland, water and hazardous waste law.  Sources report that “there’s nothing he hasn’t seen or done.”

Selection for recognition by Chambers USA is an honor.  Chambers conducts independent research that includes interviews with clients, written questionnaires, and interviews with peers.  Chambers ranks law firms and attorneys based on specific qualities such as technical legal ability, professional conduct, and client service, among others.

Mackie Shea O’Brien, PC concentrates in environmental, land use, and renewable energy law and related litigation.  The firm’s office is located in the Back Bay of Boston.

Benjamin Levesque, P.E., BCEE joined Tighe & Bond, Inc. this week as a senior project manager who will work out of the firm’s Worcester, Massachusetts office. A civil and environmental engineer, he has more than 15 years of experience in the water and wastewater industry. During this time, he has collaborated with more than 20 eastern Massachusetts and Rhode Island municipalities to design and improve their water and wastewater systems.

Levesque has worked on a variety of water and wastewater infrastructure projects including bench and pilot scale projects. He also has designed gravity sewer and wastewater pumping stations, water mains, booster stations and water treatment plants to meet the unique needs of a wide range of clients.

Levesque earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Engineering from the University of New Hampshire, and his Master of Science in Environmental Engineering from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst.  He holds professional registrations in Massachusetts and Rhode Island, and also has the distinction of being recognized as a Board Certified Environmental Engineer (BCEE) by the American Academy of Environmental Engineers.

His professional memberships include the American Water Works Association (AWWA), Water Environment Federation (WEF), New England Water Environment Association (NEWEA), New England Works Association (NEWWA), Massachusetts Water Works Association (MWWA), and Barnstable County Water Utilities Association (BCWUA).

A resident of North Attleborough, MA, Levesque is also a representative town meeting member in that community.