Easthampton public meetings in 2025

Contributory Retirement Board

The Board will discuss personnel matters in executive session and process retirement intents and deduction rollovers. The meeting includes the approval of new members and the November trial balance.

• Executive session regarding involuntary retirement application of Sandra Krauss
• Executive session regarding Section 91A 2024 excess earnings for Daniel Regan
• Intent to retire for James Kwiecinski (City Council)
• Approval of new members Salem Derby (Mayor) and Nicole Kana (School Department)
• Review of PERAC Audit 2019-2022 and FY 2027 appropriation approval

Senior Center Building Committee

The Senior Center Building Committee will discuss potential sites for the new senior center, including a Riverside offer from Mayor Derby, further investigation of the Park Street site, and a legal opinion on Highland Avenue. The committee will also consider a request to issue an Architect RFP for design services. The meeting includes public speak and approval of minutes.

• Discussion of Riverside site offer from Mayor Derby
• Review of Park Street site with further investigation
• Legal opinion on Highland Avenue site
• Request for Architect RFP details and process
• Approval of minutes from previous meeting

Community Preservation Act Committee

The Easthampton Community Preservation Act Committee will vote on a $23,500 dog park design application. They will also discuss account balances, the preservation plan including project lists from Pascommuck, the Agricultural Commission, and the Conservation Commission, and receive updates on open projects and state funding.

• Vote on Dog Park Design Application – $23,500
• Discussion of Account Balances
• Pascommuck Project List review
• Agricultural Commission Project update
• Conservation Commission Project List and Open Space Fund Announcements

City Council - Ordinance Committee

The Easthampton City Council Ordinance Committee will consider updates to the city’s short‑term rental ordinance, including a cap of 50 units and new registration requirements. The committee will also review the Affordable & Fair Housing Partnership’s zoning ordinance recommendations. In addition, members will vote to amend Exhibit A to add the position of Public Safety Dispatch Director.

• Short‑term rental general ordinance updates (caps, registration, provisional permits)
• Review of Affordable & Fair Housing Partnership’s zoning ordinance recommendations
• Amend Exhibit A (Classification of Employees) to add Public Safety Dispatch Director

School Department - Easthampton High School Council

The Easthampton High School Council will meet to conduct a final review of the anti-bullying plan and flow chart, review the School Improvement Plan, and discuss budget priorities for the upcoming period.

• Final review of anti-bullying plan & flow chart
• Review of School Improvement Plan
• Review of Budget Priorities

City Council

The City Council will meet on December 17 with no public hearings scheduled. Key agenda items include a proposal to adopt a state law that would let the council increase school appropriations with a two-thirds vote, a proposed increase in vital statistics fees, and discussions on short-term rental zoning amendments and sandwich board sign regulations. The council will also receive committee reports and consider reappointments to boards and commissions.

• City Council Action Request to adopt Ch. 329 of the Acts of 1987 for school funding
• City Clerk’s proposal to increase vital statistics fees
• Rescinding of borrowing authorizations for CitySpace restoration & Honeywell Energy Conservation Project
• Short-term rental zoning ordinance amendments – definitions and table
• Review of sandwich board sign regulations in City and Zoning Ordinance

City Council - Public Safety Committee

The City Council Public Safety Committee will meet to discuss ongoing infrastructure and pedestrian safety. The committee is reviewing traffic rules and orders for updates and evaluating safety on West Street.

• Review of Traffic Rules & Orders for outdated or inconsistent language
• Traffic and pedestrian safety on West Street
• Quarterly review of Public Safety departments
• Roadway, infrastructure, and pedestrian safety items

Board of Assessors

The Easthampton Board of Assessors will meet to review and sign motor vehicle abatements and the 2025-15 motor vehicle commitment. They will also review and sign Fiscal Year 2026 exemptions for seniors, surviving spouses, veterans, the blind, and Community Preservation Act purposes, and discuss the FY2026 overlay and recap sheet. The agenda includes approval of prior minutes, public comment time, and an update from the principal assessor.

• Motor Vehicle Abatements: review and sign end-of-month abatements
• Motor Vehicle Commitment 2025-15: review and sign
• Fiscal Year 2026 exemptions (Senior, Surviving Spouse, Veteran, Blind, Community Preservation Act): review and sign
• Fiscal Year 2026 Overlay and Recap Sheet: discuss

Planning Board

The Planning Board is holding a public hearing for Joe Kelley's application for a special permit and a stormwater permit to construct 14 dwelling units (three duplexes and eight single-unit structures) on a 12.1-acre lot at 283 Loudville Road. The board will also consider minutes and other procedural items. No other substantive actions are scheduled.

• Public hearing on Joe Kelley's request for a special permit (Sections 8.3, 12.7) and stormwater permit (Section 12-76) to build 14 units at 283 Loudville Road (Map 120, Parcel 35) in the R-35 Zoning District
• Project includes 3 duplex and 8 single-unit structures with roadway and infrastructure improvements on a 12.1-acre lot
• The lot also includes portions of 279 Loudville Road (Map 120, Parcel 37) and vacant parcel to the north (Map 120, Parcel 18)

Council on Aging

The Council on Aging meeting will review and vote on updating its board bylaws to match changes approved by the City Council in 2025. The committee will also discuss member absenteeism and status, and provide updates on a new celebration program and advocacy legislation and grant opportunities. The meeting includes routine items such as acceptance of minutes and a public comment period.

• Bylaws Review: amend COA Board bylaws dated 2019 to align with 2025 City Council changes
• Membership: discuss and vote on member absenteeism and status
• Advocacy update: information on Act relative to councils on aging and state grant requests

Development & Industrial Commission

The Easthampton Development & Industrial Commission will approve the October meeting minutes, receive updates from the Planning Department, and then discuss two policy proposals. One proposal concerns the vacant building registration fee schedule ($500 first year, $750 second year, $1,000 thereafter) for downtown storefronts. The other proposes amending the Zoning Ordinance to add a definition and use category for short‑term rentals. Additional discussion will cover support for renters and meeting time barriers.

• Review vacant building registration fee structure: $500 first year, $750 second year, $1,000 each subsequent year
• Consider amendment to Zoning Ordinance to add “Short-Term Rental” term and use category
• Wayfinding Grant update from Planning Department
• Shared Streets and Spaces Grant support discussion
• Discussion on supporting renters in town and meeting time as a barrier to membership

Easthampton Cultural Council

The Easthampton Cultural Council will meet to review grant applications for 2026. The body will also receive updates on 2025 grantees, the ECC Annual Project, and Easthampton City Arts.

• Review of 2026 Grant Applications
• 2025 grantee updates
• ECC Annual Project update
• Easthampton City Arts update
• Financial report

City Council - Appointment Committee

The City Council Appointment Committee will review and vote on a slate of mayoral reappointments and new appointments to various municipal boards, commissions, and committees. The meeting also includes discussion of a proposal to create an Appointment Committee Handbook and ongoing vacancy recruitment efforts.

• Reappointment of Mark Tanner as City Solicitor (term to 12/31/26)
• Reappointment of Robert Newton to Aquifer Protection Committee (12/31/28)
• New appointment of Michael Czerwiec to Barnes Aquifer Committee (12/31/28)
• Reappointment of Anthony Karella as Plumbing & Gas Inspector (12/31/28)
• New appointment of Josh Rosenblatt to Zoning Board of Appeals (12/31/28)

9/11 Tribute Committee

This is a procedural organizational meeting for the 9/11 Committee. The committee will review expectations, select leadership, and set the date for the next meeting. No substantive decisions or public hearings are scheduled.

• Review committee expectations
• Select committee leadership
• Set next meeting date

Housing Authority

The Easthampton Housing Authority holds a special meeting to consider Resolution 2025-6, which would approve Change Amendment #9 to a Contract for Financial Assistance (CFA) in the amount of $345,227. The meeting is held via Zoom and is open to the public.

• Resolution 2025-6 – Approve Change Amendment #9 to CFA Contract 5001 for $345,227

Commission on Disability

The Easthampton Commission on Disability will discuss updates to the accessibility ordinance, review subcommittee reports, and address the need to recruit new members. They will also plan future events including World Disability Day and schedule speakers.

• Accessibility ordinance update (short list)
• Recruiting issue – need new members
• World Disability Day event ideas for next year
• Community Survey subcommittee update
• Future speaker idea/requests

Easthampton City Arts Public Art Subcommittee

The Public Art Subcommittee will review the Community Mosaic Mural Project 2026 at Union Street, including an RFP and fundraising ideas. They will also discuss the Power to the People utility box project with Pasqualina and others. New business includes the Walls of Easthampton mural festival for 2027 and a Veterans Memorial Mural for 2026. The next meeting on January 7, 2026 is cancelled.

• Community Mosaic Mural Project 2026 RFP and fundraising at Union St location
• Power to the People utility box discussions with Greg Nuttleman and M. Poole
• Have A Heart For Public Art date confirmation and maintenance funds
• Union Street bike racks darker gradation update
• New business: Walls of Easthampton Regional Mural & Community Arts Festival 2027

Licensing Board

The Licensing Board will hold public hearings for a wide range of license renewals, including alcohol, entertainment, and amusement devices. The board will also consider a change of manager for Om Valley Farm and a reconsideration application for BigE’s.

• Section 12 and 15 alcohol license renewals for multiple establishments
• Entertainment license renewals for 13 venues
• Amusement device license renewals for 5 establishments
• Class II Dealership renewals, including Matt’s Ent Inc which has not uploaded required documents
• Change of manager application for Om Valley Farm

Agricultural Commission

The Easthampton Agricultural Commission will meet on December 9, 2025, to discuss the upcoming Community Preservation Act deadline and outreach efforts. The meeting also includes approval of previous minutes, public comment, and new business brainstorming.

• Discussion about upcoming Community Preservation Act deadline
• Requesting/offering help to Pete Westover's AGCOM outreach
• Approval of minutes from June 10, 2025
• New business brainstorming
• Public speak

The Agricultural Commission held a brainstorming session about city‑owned land, leasing rates, and potential projects for CPA funding. They reviewed the 2018 Preservation Plan and identified priority areas such as Park Hill, Florence Road, and Mt. Tom. No formal actions or votes were taken.

Rent Study Committee

The Rent Study Committee will hear a presentation on the state of housing in Easthampton and explore the Boston Home Rule Petition model. Members will revisit interest in subcommittees, including one to draft a legislative petition seeking state approval for local rent stabilization and another to study other renter protections.

• Presentation on State of Housing in Easthampton and Boston Home Rule Petition model
• Discussion of creating a legislative petition to request state approval for rent stabilization
• Consideration of subcommittee to study additional actions to protect and support renters
• Public speak period (15 minutes)
• Approval of prior meeting minutes

The Rent Study Committee approved the minutes from the previous meeting by a vote of 4‑0‑2. The motion was made by David Boyle and seconded by Councilor Denham, with Carolyn Cushing and Janna Tetrault abstaining because they were not present at the prior meeting. No other formal actions were decided; the committee discussed subcommittees, housing data, and plans to seek a Boston speaker for the next meeting.

• Approved prior meeting minutes (vote 4-0-2)
• Adjourned meeting (motion passed)
• Scheduled next meeting for Jan 6, 2026 at 6 pm

Housing Authority

The Commissioners will meet to approve the FY2026 budget and review November financial reports. The body will also discuss the search for a new Executive Director and a potential green space restoration project.

• Resolution 2025-5 to approve the FY2026 Budget
• Approval of change order for fish # 087091
• Discussion and possible vote to hire a consultant for the Executive Director search
• Discussion of the Easthampton City CPA Preservation Plan and Green Space Restoration project
• Acceptance of November treasurer and income statement reports

Conservation Commission

The Easthampton Conservation Commission will meet to review active environmental permits, including stormwater and invasive plant management projects, and address enforcement actions for properties on South Street and East Street.

• Enforcement actions for Gawle and DeMarinis properties
• Active permits for Ferry Street Mill redevelopment
• Active permits for Beacon Solar project on Florence Road
• Active permits for Moove In Storage expansion
• Active permits for Tasty Top mixed-use development

The Conservation Commission voted to approve the minutes from the November 10 and November 24 meetings. The motion passed unanimously. The meeting then adjourned by unanimous vote.

• Approved November 10 and November 24 minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

School Committee - Finance Subcommittee

The Easthampton School Committee Finance Subcommittee will meet on December 8, 2025. The meeting will include updates on the FY26 budget and on the development of the FY27 proposed budget. The agenda also provides time for public comment, other business, and scheduling future meetings.

• Update on FY26 Budget
• Update on developing FY27 Proposed Budget
• Public Comment
• Other Business
• Next Meeting Dates

The Finance Subcommittee approved the acceptance of a $29,063 MA FRESH Grant to expand the Mountain View School garden program into middle school grades. The committee also approved the November 26 payroll ($663,399.57) and accounts payable ($508,799.05) with one abstention each. A vote on the November 18 meeting minutes was postponed.

• Approved acceptance of MA FRESH Grant $29,063 (6-0-0)
• Approved school payroll dated 11/26/2025, $663,399.57 (5-0-1, one abstention)
• Approved accounts payable dated 11/26/2025, $508,799.05 (5-0-1, one abstention)
• Postponed vote on minutes of 11/18/2025 meeting

Affordable & Fair Housing Partnership

The Affordable & Fair Housing Partnership will approve October meeting notes and discuss materials for a tabling event at the Farmers Market on January 11, 2026. Public comment is accepted until 6:15 p.m.

• Discussion and preparation of materials for Farmers Market tabling on January 11, 2026
• Approval of October 2025 meeting minutes

The board postponed approval of the October meeting minutes because the minutes were not available. Members discussed materials for a January 11 farmers‑market tabling, assigning tasks such as drafting an Abundant Housing one‑pager by Dec. 31 and providing a Way Finders Donahue Report summary. Janna Tetreault agreed to respond to a planning‑department request for CPA‑funding priorities. No votes were recorded.

• Approval of October meeting minutes postponed (no vote)
• Draft Abundant Housing one‑pager by Dec 31
• Develop casual interview questions for community engagement (suggested by L. Rothschild)
• J. Tetreault to provide one‑pager on Way Finders Donahue Report
• J. Tetreault to provide list/summary of current affordable housing developments
• K. Jamrog‑McQuaid to bring table tent with Easthampton data to market
• Sean from Abundant Housing to staff table with materials and treats at market
• J. Tetreault to respond to Eva Gerstle’s email about CPA‑funding priorities

Board of Public Works

The Board of Public Works will continue its discussion of proposed water and sewer rates for fiscal years 2027, 2028, and 2029. The meeting also includes public comment, approval of prior meeting minutes, and the director’s report. No final votes are listed on the agenda.

• Continued discussion of Water Sewer Rates for FY27, FY28 & FY29
• Approval of the November 19, 2025 meeting minutes
• Public Speak period for resident comments
• Director’s report

The Board approved the November 19, 2025 meeting minutes. A motion to keep the water‑sewer rates discussion on the agenda was adopted. The meeting was adjourned at 5:15 p.m.

• Approved November 19, 2025 meeting minutes (2-0)
• Approved motion to keep water‑sewer rates discussion on agenda (2-0)
• Approved adjournment of the meeting (2-0)

School Committee - Policy Subcommittee

The School Policy Subcommittee is meeting to discuss two substantive items: facility use policies and pathways exploration. The meeting also includes a public speak period. No votes or decisions are specified on the agenda.

• Discussion of facility use policies
• Discussion of pathways exploration

Historical Commission

The Historical Commission will hold a public hearing and discuss future projects that may involve Community Preservation Act (CPA) funding. The body will also review updates regarding 3 Ferry Street and Easthampton Histories – Mount Tom.

• Public hearing for review and potential action
• Planning for future projects involving CPA funding
• Update on 3 Ferry Street
• Discussion on Easthampton Histories – Mount Tom

City Council

The City Council will hold public hearings on accepting a $425,000 PARC grant for the All-Wheels Park at Millside Park, a Land and Water Conservation Trust Grant for the Nonotuck Park Spray Park, and proposed amendments to the short-term rental zoning ordinance. The council will also consider rescinding borrowing for CitySpace restoration and the Honeywell Energy Conservation Project, and a proposed increase in vital statistics fees.

• Public hearing to accept $425,000 PARC grant for Easthampton All-Wheels Park at Millside Park (total project $750,000)
• Public hearing to accept Land and Water Conservation Trust Grant for Nonotuck Park Spray Park
• Public hearing on Short-Term Rental zoning ordinance amendments (definitions and table)
• Rescinding borrowing authorizations for CitySpace restoration and Honeywell Energy Conservation Project
• Proposal to increase vital statistics fees (City Clerk's Office)

The Easthampton City Council opened public hearings and then unanimously approved two grant resolutions: one for the All-Wheels Park project costing $750,000 and another for the Nonotuck Spray Park renovation costing $529,000. Both resolutions authorize the mayor or designee to file grant applications and permit the city to borrow the full amounts needed. No vote was taken on the proposed short‑term rental ordinance, which was left for future consideration.

• Opened public hearings (unanimous)
• Approved All-Wheels Park grant resolution (unanimous)
• Authorized borrowing $750,000 for All-Wheels Park (unanimous)
• Approved Nonotuck Spray Park grant resolution (unanimous)
• Authorized borrowing $529,000 for Spray Park renovations (unanimous)
• Short‑term rental ordinance discussion not voted; will be revisited later

City Council - Appointment Committee

The committee will consider one new mayoral appointment and 18 mayoral reappointments to various city boards and commissions. Members will also discuss a proposed Appointment Committee Handbook and a Code of Conduct for appointed members.

• New appointment: Leslie Sharr to Commission on Disability
• 18 mayoral reappointments including Planning Board, Council on Aging, and Historical Commission
• Proposal for Mayor and Clerk to create an Appointment Committee Handbook
• City Council Action Request regarding a Code of Conduct for Appointed Members

The committee approved the November 18, 2025 meeting minutes with a 2‑0 vote. It approved sending the code of conduct to the full City Council, also 2‑0. It recommended Leslie Sharr for the Commission on Disability, 2‑0. It recommended the re‑appointment of twenty individuals to various boards and committees, 2‑0.

• Approved November 18, 2025 minutes (2-0)
• Approved sending code of conduct to full City Council (2-0)
• Approved Leslie Sharr appointment to Commission on Disability (2-0)
• Approved re‑appointments of 20 board and committee members (2-0)
• Adjourned meeting (2-0)

City Council - Rules & Government Relations Committee

The Rules & Government Relations Committee will consider a resolution supporting reclassification of a water operator's retirement. The committee will also reorganize subcommittees and elect a chair and clerk, and vote on the 2026 City Council meeting calendar. The agenda includes approval of past meeting minutes and a public speak period.

• Resolution supporting water operator retirement reclassification
• Subcommittee reorganization and election of Chair and Clerk
• Approval of City Council 2026 Meeting Calendar
• Approval of minutes from past meetings

Nashawannuck Pond Committee

The Nashawannuck Pond Committee will hold a public meeting to discuss shoreline stabilization, WinterFest, the Farmers Market, and the Pond Management Plan. No votes or decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Shoreline Stabilization
• WinterFest
• Farmers Market
• Pond Management Plan

The committee approved the minutes from the 11/3/2025 meeting unanimously. The City Council voted unanimously to fund shoreline stabilization at a cost of $78,020. The committee paid GZA $4,850 (50%) for construction plans and approved a $36 purchase for a new event sign. A certificate of insurance was obtained for the Farmers Market on 12/14 and 12/21.

• Approved meeting minutes from 11/3/2025 (unanimous)
• City Council approved $78,020 shoreline stabilization (unanimous)
• Paid GZA $4,850 (50%) for construction plans
• Approved purchase of new sign for horse‑drawn wagon rides ($36)
• Obtained COI for Farmers Market on 12/14 and 12/21

Easthampton City Arts Coordinating Committee

The Easthampton City Arts Coordinating Committee will meet to approve October minutes, review updates on the Art Walk and marketing, and discuss the MCC Cultural District Initiative and Easthampton Futures Project.

• Approval of October minutes
• Review of Art Walk and ECA Marketing updates
• MCC Cultural District Initiative discussion
• Easthampton Futures Project discussion
• Next meeting scheduled for January 5th

City Council - Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will discuss several financial actions, including rescinding borrowing authorizations for the CitySpace restoration and Honeywell Energy Conservation Project. They will also consider accepting a PARC Grant for the Easthampton All-Wheels/Skate Park and a Land and Water Conservation Fund Grant for the Nonotuck Park Spray Park. Quarterly fiscal reports from the City Auditor and approval of past minutes are also on the agenda.

• Rescinding borrowing authorizations for CitySpace restoration and Honeywell Energy Conservation Project
• Acceptance of PARC Grant for the Easthampton All-Wheels/Skate Park
• Acceptance of Land and Water Conservation Fund Grant for Nonotuck Park Spray Park
• Quarterly fiscal reports from the City Auditor
• Approval of minutes from past meetings

Contributory Retirement Board

The Easthampton Retirement Board will approve minutes, discuss FY2027 appropriation and legal services RFP, and act on member-related items including an accidental disability application, intent to retire of Suzanne Colby, Medex increase effective Jan 2026, buyback, fund transfers, refund, new members, trial balance, and warrant. An executive session is planned for the disability application under personnel exemption.

• Executive session for accidental disability application of Richard Blomstrom
• Intent to retire of Suzanne Colby, Executive Assistant (28 years, 4 months)
• Medex increase effective January 1, 2026
• Approval of new members: David Callahan, Ryan Chenevert, Claire Lunetta
• PERAC audit for 2019-2022

The board unanimously approved Warrant #11 for $569,080.87. It also approved several member‑related actions, including stipends for the new Treasurer Brooke Johnson and split stipends for interim and assistant treasurers, buybacks for Ian Maclaren and Edward Kennedy, and refunds and transfers of deductions for various retirees. New members David Callahan, Ryan Chenevert, and Claire Lunetta were approved, and the August‑October trial balances were accepted.

• Approved Warrant #11 for $569,080.87 (unanimous)
• Approved Accidental Disability for Richard Blomstrom (unanimous)
• Approved split stipend for Interim and Assistant Treasurers Jan‑July 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved full stipend for Treasurer Brooke Johnson effective Aug 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved buyback for Ian Maclaren (unanimous)
• Approved military buyback for Edward Kennedy (unanimous)
• Approved transfer of deductions (unanimous)
• Approved new members David Callahan, Ryan Chenevert, and Claire Lunetta (unanimous)

Senior Center Building Committee

The Council on Aging Building Committee will vote on the top two sites for a new senior center and discuss hiring an architect and a funding request. The meeting will be held at 50 Payson Ave. and online.

• Vote on top 2 sites for Senior Center
• Discussion on architect hiring costs
• Discussion on Request for Appropriation
• Hybrid meeting at 50 Payson Ave.
• Review of Planner's site report

The Senior Center Building Committee approved the September 24, 2025 minutes with an 11‑0‑0 vote. No other actions were taken; the meeting was then adjourned unanimously.

• Approved September 24, 2025 minutes (11-0-0)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Conservation Commission

The Easthampton Conservation Commission will hold a hybrid meeting with no public hearings. They will consider a certificate of compliance for the Allen Street parking expansion and stormwater project, review several enforcement actions, and receive updates on numerous active permits including housing developments, a large-scale solar project, and infrastructure improvements. The commission will also discuss the wetlands ordinance and community preservation priority projects.

• Certificate of Compliance for Easthampton Housing Authority, Allen Street (parking expansion and stormwater management)
• Enforcement actions: J. Gawle (37 South Street), G&F Fiordalice (476 East Street), F. DeMarinis (93 Northampton Street Rear), J. Gawle & Signal Energy (50 Florence Road)
• Compliance update for new 18-unit housing development at 69 and 73 Loudville Road
• Compliance update for Beacon Solar large-scale solar project at 50 Florence Road
• Compliance updates for new housing developments at 35 Pleasant Street (Norwich Properties) and 385 Main Street (The Community Builders)

The Conservation Commission voted unanimously to issue a Certificate of Compliance for the Allen Street parking and stormwater project (MassDEP File #151-0326). Commissioners also approved the proposed 2026 meeting schedule and passed a motion to adjourn the meeting unanimously. The Commission agreed to move forward with a template letter to the Governor and DEP regarding draft WPA changes.

• Issue Certificate of Compliance for Allen Street project (unanimous)
• Approve 2026 meeting schedule (unanimous)
• Pass motion to adjourn meeting (unanimous)
• Plan to issue template letter to Governor and DEP on draft WPA changes

Board of Public Works

The Board of Public Works will meet to discuss water and sewer rates for fiscal years 2027, 2028, and 2029. The meeting also includes a director's report and the approval of previous meeting minutes.

• Continued discussion of Water Sewer Rates for FY27, FY28 & FY29

The Board approved the November 5, 2025 meeting minutes after a motion by Thomas Malsbury, with Thomas Malsbury and Leya Strode voting yes and Gilson Hogan not voting. The Board then adjourned the meeting at 5:21 p.m. following a motion by Thomas Malsbury, seconded by Leya Strode, with all three members voting yes.

• Approved November 5, 2025 meeting minutes (2-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 5:21 p.m. (3-0)

School Department - Easthampton High School Council

The Easthampton High School Council will hold a meeting on November 19, 2025, to follow up on the Bullying Prevention Plan and review the School Improvement Plan. Both items are listed as topics to be discussed, with allocated times of 30 and 15 minutes respectively.

• Follow-up on Bullying Prevention Plan (30 mins)
• Review of School Improvement Plan (15 mins)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will determine if revised plans for a Comprehensive Permit at 385 and 391 Main St are insubstantial. The board will decide if these changes require reopening a public hearing.

• Review of revised plans for 385 and 391 Main St (The Community Builders)

City Council

The City Council will conduct public hearings regarding the FY ’26 Tax Classification and procedures for managing abandoned funds. The body will also consider a supplemental appropriation for a veteran's dental bill and the approval of a 2026 meeting calendar.

• Public hearing on Assessors FY ’26 Tax Classification
• Public hearing on alternative procedure for managing abandoned funds (unclaimed checks)
• Supplemental appropriation of $85.00 for Veteran’s Dental Bill
• Acceptance of Land and Water Conservation Trust Grant for Nonotuck Park Spray Park
• Acceptance of PARC Grant for the Easthampton All-Wheels Park

The council unanimously adopted the Board of Assessors' recommendation for a single tax rate classification for Fiscal Year 2026. It also unanimously approved an alternative procedure for managing abandoned funds, transferred $85 to pay a veteran's dental bill, and approved a resolution supporting workers' collective bargaining rights. Additionally, the council suspended its rules to reopen public speak and closed the public hearings.

• Adopted Board of Assessors recommendation for single tax rate classification for FY 26 (unanimous)
• Adopted M.G.L. Ch. 200A Sec. 9A as amended for managing abandoned funds (unanimous)
• Transferred $85 from FY26 account to FY25 account to pay veteran dental bill (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution in Support of Workers’ Collective Bargaining Rights (unanimous)
• Suspended City Council Rules to re‑open Public Speak (unanimous)
• Closed the Public Hearings (unanimous)
• Opened the Public Hearings (unanimous)
• Approved October 8, 2025 minutes (Councilors Schmidt and Newton abstained)

City Council

The City Council will hold a special meeting to nominate and vote on a replacement for the Precinct 4 City Councilor, following the election of the previous councilor as mayor. The nominee is Amanda Newton, the Councilor-Elect, to serve until the end of the current term on Dec. 31, 2025. A swearing-in will follow at the full council meeting at 6:00 p.m.

• Nomination of Amanda Newton for Precinct 4 City Councilor
• Council vote to fill vacancy until Dec. 31, 2025
• Swearing in of new councilor at 6:00 p.m. full council meeting

The council closed nominations for the vacant Precinct 4 seat. It then unanimously appointed Councilor‑Elect Amanda Newton to serve as Precinct 4 City Councilor until December 31, 2025. The meeting was adjourned unanimously.

• Closed nominations for Precinct 4 Council seat (unanimous)
• Appointed Amanda Newton as Precinct 4 City Councilor until Dec 31, 2025 (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

City Council - Appointment Committee

The committee will discuss new mayoral appointments to the 9/11 Committee, Commission on Disability, and TNGDI Committee. Members will also review a proposed Code of Conduct for appointed members and the creation of an Appointment Committee Handbook.

• Mayoral appointments to 9/11 Committee: Caroline White, Michael Tautznik, Rebecca Bell
• Mayoral appointment to Commission on Disability: Leslie Sharr
• Mayoral appointments to TNGDI Committee: Mia Lauer, Keith Aron, Hunter Freitag, Mona Huntley, Tyler Carson-Eisenman, Francis Skryzniarz
• Proposal for Mayor and Clerk to create an Appointment Committee Handbook
• City Council Action Request regarding a Code of Conduct for appointed members

The council approved past meeting minutes from March 31, October 6, October 20, July 7 and September 15. It also approved appointments to the 9/11 Committee and the TNGDI Committee, including nine individuals with terms ending in 2026 or 2028. All motions were adopted with recorded vote tallies.

• Approved March 31, Oct 6, Oct 20 minutes (2-0-1)
• Approved July 7 and Sep 15 minutes (3-0)
• Approved appointments of Caroline White, Rebecca Bell, Michael Tautznik to 9/11 Committee (3-0)
• Approved appointment of Keith Aron to TNGDI Committee (3-0)
• Approved appointment of Mia Lauer to TNGDI Committee (2-0-1)
• Approved appointments of Hunter Freitag, Mona Huntley, Tyler Carson-Eisenman, Francis Skryzniarz to TNGDI Committee (3-0)
• Approved motion to adjourn (3-0)

Board of Assessors

The Easthampton Board of Assessors will consider several exemption and abatement items, including motor vehicle abatements and recommitments, and FY2025 exemptions for seniors, surviving spouses, veterans, blind individuals, and the Community Preservation Act. The board will also receive a principal assessors update and allow up to 15 minutes of public speaking. The meeting concludes with scheduling the next meeting.

• Motor Vehicle Abatements End of Month – Review, Sign
• Motor Vehicle Recommitments – Review, Sign
• FY2025 Senior, Surviving Spouse, Veteran, Blind and Community Preservation Act Exemptions – Review, Sign
• Principal Assessors Update
• Public Speak Time – up to 15 minutes (3 minutes per person per subject)

The Board of Assessors approved the meeting minutes, the motor‑vehicle abatements for 2024 and 2025, the Fiscal Year 2026 Preservation Act exemptions, and the 61B land‑tax lien for Vogel Eric J. Each motion passed unanimously with a 3‑0 vote. The meeting was then adjourned at 5:10 p.m.

• Approved meeting minutes (3‑0)
• Approved motor‑vehicle abatements for 2024 ($284.85) and 2025 ($659.22) (3‑0)
• Approved Fiscal Year 2026 Preservation Act exemptions (3‑0)
• Approved 61B land‑tax lien for Vogel Eric J (3‑0)
• Adjourned meeting (3‑0)

Council on Aging

The Council on Aging will review the Director's report regarding assistance stoppages and potential new health programs. The body will also receive an update on the building project and a proclamation for Family Caregiver Month.

• Response to SNAP and fuel assistance stoppages and changes
• Consideration of brain health and dementia programs
• Transportation program assessment
• Building Project Update
• Family Caregiver Month Proclamation

The council approved the November 18 minutes with a 5‑0‑2 vote. The meeting was then adjourned by a unanimous motion. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved meeting minutes (5-0-2)
• Adjourned meeting unanimously

Easthampton Cultural Council

The Easthampton Cultural Council will hear public comment, approve October minutes, and receive updates on 2025 grantees, social media, and Easthampton City Arts. The council will discuss and vote on reimbursing Felicia Jadczak for Gmail/website hosting, and continue reviewing 2026 grant applications. New business and the ECC Annual Project update are also on the agenda.

• Vote on reimbursing Felicia Jadczak for Gmail and website hosting costs
• Continued review of 2026 grant applications
• Financial report and discussion of 2025 grantee updates
• Social media and marketing updates
• Easthampton City Arts update

The council unanimously approved the October 2025 meeting minutes. They also approved reimbursing Felicia Jadczak for Gmail and website hosting costs. Steve was assigned to post information about the council’s current grant deliberation process. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved October 2025 minutes (all approve)
• Approved reimbursement for Felicia Jadczak's Gmail/website hosting (all approve)
• Assigned Steve to post about current grant deliberation process

Housing Authority

The Easthampton Housing Authority board will consider motions to approve financial statements, affirmative action goals, and accept monthly reports. They will also vote on accepting a certificate of completion for a parking project and approving low bids for roof replacement and renovation.

• Approve 3rd quarter financial statements
• Approve affirmative action goal
• Accept certificate of substantial completion for parking project ($13,293.52)
• Approve low bid for roof replacement (Building 10)
• Approve low bid for renovation at Lussier Circle

Contributory Retirement Board

The Easthampton Retirement Board will consider holding an executive session. The session would address a request for proposals for legal fees related to interviewing or hiring applicants through a preliminary screening committee. The chair may declare an open meeting detrimental before proceeding.

• Executive session request to consider RFP for legal fees for hiring applicants

Manhan Rail Trail Committee

The Manhan Rail Trail Committee will approve the minutes from the October 20, 2025 meeting and allow public speak time. It will discuss the FY 2027 trail maintenance budget. The committee will also receive updates on trail maintenance, consider new trail etiquette signage, and talk about a donation platform.

• Approval of October 20, 2025 meeting minutes
• Discussion of FY 2027 trail maintenance budget
• Trail maintenance update
• Consideration of trail etiquette signage
• Discussion of donation platform

Commission on Disability

The Easthampton Commission on Disability will meet on November 13, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. in Conference Room 1, 50 Payson, and via Google Meet. The agenda includes approval of minutes, a public speaking segment, sub‑committee updates, and a short‑list review of the accessibility ordinance. The commission will also discuss ideas for the World Disability Day event on Dec 3 and consider recruiting new members. The meeting will conclude with setting the date for the next meeting in December.

• Approve minutes from the previous meeting
• Review short‑list update to the accessibility ordinance
• Discuss ideas for the World Disability Day event on Dec 3
• Address recruiting need for new commission members
• Set date for the next meeting in December

Historical Commission

The Historical Commission is holding a public hearing to consider a demolition request for the property at 336 Main Street. The agenda includes an applicant presentation, public comments, and potential commission action.

• Public hearing on demolition request for 336 Main Street

City Council - Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will discuss rescinding borrowing authorizations for the CitySpace restoration and Honeywell Energy Conservation Project, and consider a supplemental appropriation of $85.00 for a veteran's dental bill. The committee will also receive quarterly fiscal reports from the City Auditor and approve prior meeting minutes.

• Rescinding of borrowing authorizations for CitySpace restoration and Honeywell Energy Conservation Project
• Supplemental appropriation of $85.00 for a veteran's dental bill
• Quarterly fiscal reports from the City Auditor
• Approval of minutes from past meetings

City Council - Ordinance Committee

The Ordinance Committee will discuss and consider proposed zoning amendments to regulate short-term rentals, including a citywide cap of 50 units, registration requirements, and operational standards. They will also review the Affordable Housing Partnership's zoning recommendations, evaluate residency requirements for committee membership, and consider adding a Public Safety Dispatch Director position.

• Review of proposed short-term rental ordinance with 50-unit cap
• Consideration of zoning amendment regarding sandwich board signs
• Review of Affordable & Fair Housing Partnership's zoning recommendations
• Proposal to add Public Safety Dispatch Director to employee classification
• Discussion of residency requirements for committee membership

The Ordinance Subcommittee voted 3-0 to adopt the discussion items presented. The committee then voted 3-0 to adjourn the meeting. No substantive approvals, denials, or policy changes were made.

• Adopt discussion items (3-0)
• Adjourn meeting (3-0)

Parks & Recreation Commission

This meeting will include public comment, discussion of Community Preservation Act (CPA) projects including a dog park, skate park via PARC grant, and spray park via LWCF grant, along with a CPA Master Plan. The commission will review the FY26 budget, park programs like HarvestFest and family skating, and park facilities updates including the pickleball expansion grand opening and new city playground designs. Ongoing items include historical designation and a property inventory.

• FY26 Budget discussion
• CPA Dog Park submission
• Skate Park – PARC Grant
• Spray Park – LWCF Grant
• Pickleball Expansion Grand Opening

The commission discussed several projects, including the dog‑park CPA submission, skate‑park and spray‑park grant applications, and the FY 26 budget. No votes or approvals were recorded; the Finance Committee was asked to draft a resolution for the skate‑park grant, and contracts for the historical designation were noted as signed.

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will hold a public hearing on a Request for Determination of Applicability for road work on Parsons/Ferry Street, including replacement paving and construction of a new sidewalk. Enforcement actions on four properties, open space updates, and compliance updates for numerous active projects are also on the agenda. General business includes a wetlands ordinance discussion and review of preliminary FEMA flood maps.

• Public hearing for Parsons/Ferry Street road work and new sidewalk (Map 135, Lots 165-170) filed by VHB for City of Easthampton
• Enforcement actions: J. Gawle (37 South Street), G & F Fiordalice (476 East Street), F. DeMarinis (93 Northampton Street Rear), J. Gawle & Signal Energy (50 Florence Road)
• Wetlands Ordinance Discussion
• Compliance updates for housing developments: 18-unit at Loudville Road, new development at 35 Pleasant Street, and 385 Main Street
• FEMA Preliminary Maps Discussion

The commission approved a Negative Determination type 3 for the Ferry Street road repaving and new sidewalk, with a 48‑hour construction notice and required erosion controls. Commissioners also agreed to move forward with white all‑caps signage for the conservation area, pending accessibility verification. The minutes from the October 20 meeting were accepted and the meeting was adjourned.

• Issued Negative Determination type 3 for Ferry Street sidewalk project (unanimous)
• Approved moving forward with white all‑caps signage (unanimous, pending accessibility check)
• Accepted minutes from 10/20/2025 meeting (unanimous)
• Adjourned the meeting (unanimous)

School Committee - Finance Subcommittee

The Finance Subcommittee will meet to receive updates on the FY25 end-of-year report and the FY26 budget. The body will also discuss the development of the proposed FY27 budget.

• FY25 End of Year Report update
• FY26 Budget update
• FY27 Proposed Budget development

The Easthampton School Committee Finance Subcommittee met on November 10, 2025 and reviewed FY’25 and FY’26 updates, unanticipated expenses, out‑of‑district tuition costs, abandoned student‑activity funds, and a software acquisition proposal. No formal actions or votes on those items were taken. The meeting ended with a motion to adjourn, made by Linda Markee, seconded by Laura Scott, and passed unanimously.

• Motion to adjourn passed unanimously

Rent Study Committee

The Rent Study Committee is meeting to establish its structure and subcommittee focus. The committee is considering a legislative petition to the state to allow Easthampton to implement rent stabilization and reviewing other ways to support renters.

• Discussion of a legislative petition for state-allowed rent stabilization
• Review of actions to protect and support renters
• Discussion regarding Eversource connection to committee focus

The Rent Study Committee approved the minutes from the previous meeting with a 4‑0‑2 vote, Councilor Denham and David Boyle abstaining. Members unanimously approved Kiam Jamrog‑McQuaid as chair and Donna Cuipylo as vice‑chair. The committee agreed that the new chair will give a presentation at the next meeting. No other business was taken.

• Approved prior meeting minutes (vote 4-0-2, Denham and Boyle abstained)
• Approved Kiam Jamrog‑McQuaid as Chair (unanimous)
• Approved Donna Cuipylo as Vice‑Chair (unanimous)
• Agreed Chair will present at next meeting

Easthampton Community Garden

The Easthampton Community Garden Committee will hold a regular meeting with reports on operations, outreach, and finances. The main new business is a vote to confirm that only Easthampton residents are eligible for garden plots, along with a review of the application document for the next year. Old business includes a discussion of the mulch pile jumping worms project.

• Vote on restricting plot eligibility to Easthampton residents only
• Review and update of the garden application document
• Discussion of mulch pile jumping worms project
• Treasurer's report with endorsement of purchase orders and budget overview
• Committee reports on operations, outreach, pathing, donation garden, pollinators, volunteer hours, governance, and compost

Board of Public Works

The Board of Public Works will hold a continued discussion on proposed water and sewer rates for fiscal years 2027, 2028, and 2029. The meeting also includes public comment, approval of previous minutes, and a director's report. No rate figures or decisions are specified in the agenda.

• Continued discussion of water and sewer rates for FY27, FY28, and FY29
• Approval of October 1, 2025 meeting minutes
• Director’s report from the Department of Public Works

The Board of Public Works approved the October 1, 2025 meeting minutes, with Thomas Malsbury and Leya Strode voting YES and Gilson Hogan not voting. The motion carried. Afterwards the Board voted to adjourn the meeting at 5:38 p.m., which also carried.

• Approved October 1, 2025 meeting minutes (2 YES, 1 N/A)
• Adjourned meeting at 5:38 p.m. (unanimous)

Easthampton City Arts Public Art Subcommittee

The subcommittee will discuss the Community Mosaic Mural Project 2026, including location ideas, funding, and a request for proposals. They will also review the Power to the People utility box project and hear updates on Union Street bike racks. New business includes planning for the Walls of Easthampton festival in 2027 and a Veterans Memorial Mural in 2026.

• Review of Power to the People utility box project with discussions with Greg Nuttleman and Amy Jonquist, and M. Poole's proposal
• Community Mosaic Mural Project 2026 – Pulaski Park visit, location ideas, funding, and RFP
• Union Street bike racks – darker gradation applied
• New business: Walls of Easthampton Regional Mural & Community Arts Festival 2027
• New business: Veterans Memorial Mural 2026

The subcommittee unanimously approved the October 1 minutes. It decided to use the Union Street public‑art pad by the bike path for the mosaic mural. The committee set a $10,000 artist fee, established a rough project timeline, and will release a request for proposals in early January. Members were assigned follow‑up tasks such as contacting the public works director and a metal worker.

• Approved October 1 minutes (unanimous)
• Decided to use Union Street public‑art pad by bike path
• Approved $10,000 artist fee and project timeline
• Committed to release RFP in early January

Historical Commission

The Easthampton Historical Commission will review the Ferry Street redevelopment project, including a historical panel review and demolition of a boiler building. The meeting also includes updates on the Town Clock, School Reuse, and the nomination of Brookside Cemetery for the National Register of Historic Places.

• Review of Ferry Street redevelopment and boiler building demolition
• Discussion of Brookside Cemetery National Register nomination
• Evaluation of Main Street and East Street cemeteries
• Consideration of Historic Sign Program
• Discussion of Demo Delay Bylaw

City Council

The City Council will hold public hearings on a proposed ordinance prohibiting biosolids application on city property and on three Community Preservation Act appropriations: $200,000 for affordable housing on Ferry St., $78,020 for Nashawannuck Pond retaining wall, and $75,000 for town clock assessment. The council will also consider mayoral appointments and various committee reports.

• Public hearing on ordinance banning biosolids on municipal property
• CPA supplemental appropriation of $200,000 for 90+ affordable housing units on Ferry St.
• CPA $78,020 for rebuilding Nashawannuck Pond retaining wall and fishing access point
• CPA $75,000 for assessment and restoration design of the Town Clock
• Mayoral appointments (4) and committee reports on finance, public safety, and ordinances

The council opened public hearings, then approved three supplemental appropriations: $200,000 for Ferry Street affordable housing, $78,020 for the Nashawannuck Pond retaining wall, and $75,000 for the Town Clock design. It also passed an ordinance prohibiting the application of biosolids on city‑owned property and corrected minor typographical errors in that ordinance. The Finance Committee voted 3‑0 to update the wording of the fire and ambulance donation accounts.

• Opened public hearings (unanimous)
• Approved $200,000 appropriation for Ferry Street Affordable Housing (unanimous)
• Approved $78,020 appropriation for Nashawannuck Pond Retaining Wall (unanimous)
• Approved $75,000 appropriation for Town Clock Design (unanimous)
• Approved City Ordinance prohibiting biosolids on municipal property (unanimous)
• Corrected typographical errors in the biosolids ordinance language (unanimous)
• Closed public hearings (unanimous)
• Finance Committee voted 3‑0 to update wording of Fire and Ambulance donation accounts (unanimous)

School Committee - Policy Subcommittee

The Easthampton School Policy Subcommittee will review proposed and current policies for KG building use, transportation, competency determination, and graduation requirements. The subcommittee may make motions to forward these items to the full committee.

• KG, KG-3, KG-2 Building Use Policies
• EE- Transportation Policies
• IKFE- Competency determination
• IKF- Graduation Requirements
• Review of MASC suggested policy

Nashawannuck Pond Committee

The Nashawannuck Pond Committee will meet to discuss several ongoing items, including shoreline stabilization, the upcoming WinterFest event, and the Farmers Market. The agenda also includes approval of previous minutes and a pond management plan. No new business items are listed.

• Discussion of Shoreline Stabilization project
• Planning for WinterFest event
• Review of Farmers Market operations
• Update on Pond Management Plan

The Nashawannuck Pond Steering Committee approved the minutes from the 10/6/2025 meeting. It approved holding the farmer’s market on 12/14 and 12/21. The committee approved $78,020 for shoreline‑stabilization work and moved the item to a public hearing before City Council on 11/5. It also approved Clay Hill Farm’s hour extension for $800 and selected Riff’s Joint as the WinterFest food truck.

• Approved 10/6/2025 meeting minutes (all in favor)
• Approved farmer’s market dates for 12/14 and 12/21
• Approved $78,020 shoreline‑stabilization funding (all in favor) and moved to public hearing 11/5
• Approved Clay Hill Farm hour extension for $800
• Approved Riff’s Joint as WinterFest food truck

Easthampton City Arts Coordinating Committee

The committee will meet to receive updates on the Art Walk and gallery submissions. Members will discuss art space development, arts advocacy, and the Easthampton Futures Project.

• Art Walk updates
• ECA Gallery Submissions
• Public Art and ECA Fundraiser updates
• Art Space development discussion
• Easthampton Futures Project discussion

School Department - Mountain View School Council

The Mountain View School Council will meet to approve October minutes, review and provide feedback on the Bullying Prevention and Intervention Plan, discuss the Bias Response Toolkit, discuss intentional use of technology, and review MCAS data to develop School Improvement Plan goals.

• Approval of October meeting minutes
• Bullying Prevention and Intervention Plan review and feedback
• Bias Response Toolkit discussion
• Discussion on intentional use of technology
• MCAS data review and SIP goal development

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will review and sign motor vehicle abatements, recommitments, and various tax exemptions for Fiscal Year 2025. The board will also discuss recommendations for the Fiscal Year 2026 Tax Classification Hearing. An executive session is scheduled regarding an Appellate Tax Board case.

• Motor vehicle abatements and recommitments review
• FY2025 Senior, Surviving Spouse, Veteran, Blind and Community Preservation Act Exemptions
• 61A Land Tax Liens review
• FY2026 Tax Classification Hearing recommendations
• Executive session for an Appellate Tax Board case

The Board of Assessors approved the meeting minutes and several financial items, including 2025 motor vehicle abatements and 2020 motor vehicle recommitments. They accepted FY2026 exemptions for seniors, surviving spouses, veterans, blind and community preservation. The board also approved two 61A land tax liens and adopted the FY2026 tax classification recommendations, setting a single tax rate with no open‑space, residential, or small‑commercial discounts.

• Approved meeting minutes (2-0)
• Approved 2025 motor vehicle abatements $6,266.04 (2-0)
• Approved 2020 motor vehicle recommitments $53.83 (2-0)
• Approved FY2026 senior/veteran/blind/community preservation exemptions (3-0)
• Approved Molitoris 61A land tax lien at 95 Park Hill Road (3-0)
• Approved Haber 61A land tax lien at 36 Lyman Street (3-0)
• Approved FY2026 tax classification recommendations (single rate, no discounts) (3-0)
• Adjourned meeting (3-0)

City Council - Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will discuss and vote on several financial items, including supplemental appropriations from the Community Preservation Act for affordable housing, a retaining wall, and a town clock restoration. They will also consider a request to adopt a state law for managing abandoned funds, and a $529,000 borrowing authorization for Nonotuck Park Spray Park renovations. Continuing business includes quarterly fiscal reports and rescinding prior borrowing authorizations.

• $200,000 supplemental appropriation for 90+ affordable housing units on Ferry St
• $78,020 for rebuilding the Nashawannuck Pond retaining wall and fishing access point
• $75,000 for assessment and restoration design of the Town Clock
• Request to adopt G.L. Ch. 200A, §9A for alternative management of abandoned funds
• $529,000 borrowing for Nonotuck Park Spray Park renovations

The Finance Committee approved a $200,000 supplemental appropriation to build over 90 affordable housing units on Ferry Street. Additional appropriations were approved for a pond retaining wall ($78,020), a historic town clock study ($75,000), and a new procedure for unclaimed funds. The committee also adopted updated language for fire and ambulance donation accounts, endorsed a single tax rate recommendation, and authorized $529,000 for a spray‑park renovation.

• Approved minutes from Oct 14, 2025 (3-0)
• Approved $200,000 for 90+ affordable housing units on Ferry St (3-0)
• Approved $78,020 for Nashawannuck Pond retaining wall and fishing access (3-0)
• Approved $75,000 for Town Clock assessment and restoration design (2-0)
• Approved adoption of G.L. Ch. 200A, §9A for managing abandoned funds (3-0)
• Approved updated language for Fire and Ambulance donation accounts (2-0)
• Approved single‑rate tax recommendation and request for public hearing (2-0)
• Approved $529,000 for Nonotuck Park Spray Park renovations (2-0)

Contributory Retirement Board

The Contributory Retirement Board will meet to approve the trial balance and warrant #10. The board is scheduled to discuss a request for proposal for legal services and a cyber security insurance plan.

• Approval of Request for Proposal (RFP) for legal services
• Approval of cyber security insurance carrier
• Transfer of funds for Nicole LaChapelle and Aaron Duffany
• Approval of new members David Kris and Jordan Dunham
• Executive session regarding accidental disability application of Carrie Baker

The Easthampton Contributory Retirement Board met on October 28, 2025 and, after an executive session, approved several items unanimously. Decisions included an accidental disability benefit for Carrie Baker, a cyber‑security incident response plan with $3,312 annual insurance, and a legal services RFP posting. The board also approved new members, transfer of deductions, the July trial balance, and a $603,593.87 warrant before adjourning.

• Approved accidental disability for Carrie Baker (unanimous)
• Approved cyber security incident response plan and $3,312 insurance (unanimous)
• Approved posting of legal services RFP (unanimous)
• Approved transfer of deductions for Nicole LaChapelle and Aaron Duffany (unanimous)
• Approved new members David Kris and Jordan Dunham (unanimous)
• Approved July trial balance (unanimous)
• Approved Warrant #10 for $603,593.87 (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 2:35 pm (unanimous)

Senior Center Building Committee

The Council on Aging Building Committee will discuss the feasibility of a new Senior Center and review an Ad Hoc Committee report. The meeting will also address the committee's public speaking policy and meeting length.

• Review of Ad Hoc Committee Report
• Site Feasibility and Building Considerations
• Public Speak Policy of Committee Decision
• Meeting Length Decision
• Next meeting: November 24, 2025

The Senior Center Building Committee unanimously approved the September 29, 2025 minutes. It adopted a public‑speak policy limiting agenda item three to a total of 10 minutes, with one minute per speaker. The committee set the next meeting length to 1 hour and 15 minutes. The meeting was adjourned with a unanimous vote.

• Approved September 29, 2025 minutes (11-0-0)
• Adopted public‑speak policy: 10‑minute limit, 1 minute per speaker (unanimous agreement)
• Set next meeting length to 1 hour 15 minutes (unanimous agreement)
• Adjourned meeting (10-0-0)

Affordable & Fair Housing Partnership

The Easthampton Affordable & Fair Housing Partnership will approve the September meeting notes and discuss a series of tabling events at the Eastworks Farmers Market on specific dates from November through March. The board will receive updates from the Planning Department and the Ordinance Committee regarding zoning recommendations. The meeting will also cover any other items and remind members of the upcoming schedule, noting no November meeting and a December 1 meeting at 6 p.m.

• Approve September meeting notes
• Discuss tabling at Farmers Market – dates: Nov 16, 23, 30; Dec 7, 14, 21; Jan 11, 25; Feb 8, 22; Mar 8, 22 at Eastworks
• Planning Department updates
• Update on Ordinance Committee and Zoning recommendation report
• Reminder: No November meeting; next meeting Dec 1 2025 at 6 p.m.

The group approved the September meeting minutes. Members agreed to sign up for a Farmers Market tabling on Jan 11 to raise affordable‑housing awareness. Chair Tetreault will contact Abundant Housing Massachusetts for handouts, and City Planner Manuel will apply for a technical‑support grant for the Housing Production Plan.

• Approved September meeting notes (motion passed)
• Scheduled Farmers Market tabling for Jan 11 (agreement)
• Chair will contact Abundant Housing Massachusetts for handouts (action)
• Planner will apply for technical‑support grant for Housing Production Plan (action)
• Motion to adjourn passed (motion passed)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold public hearings for five appeals against Building Commissioner decisions. These appeals concern whether short-term rental homes are permitted uses under the city's Zoning Ordinance.

• Appeal regarding short-term rental at 14 Taft Ave
• Appeal regarding short-term rental at 132 West St
• Appeal regarding short-term rental at 134 West St
• Appeal regarding short-term rental at 14-16 Arlington St
• Appeal regarding short-term rental at 25-27 Green East

City Council

The Easthampton City Council will vote on several items, including a $200,000 Community Preservation Act appropriation to build 90+ affordable housing units at 11‑15 Ferry Street. The council will also accept a Land and Water Conservation Fund grant for the Nonotuck Spray Park renovation, adopt a school‑district funding amendment, and review supplemental appropriations for software maintenance, legal advertising, and a Nashawannuck Pond retaining wall. Public hearings and committee reports will accompany these actions.

• Vote to accept the Land and Water Conservation Fund Grant for the Nonotuck Spray Park Renovation & Improvement Project
• Adopt Ch. 329 of the Acts of 1987 to increase the total amount appropriated for the school district
• Supplemental appropriations: $598.00 for software yearly maintenance and $350.04 for legal ad and printing expenses
• Approve $200,000 CPA appropriation for construction of 90+ affordable housing units on Ferry Street
• Approve $78,020 CPA appropriation for rebuilding the Nashawannuck Pond retaining wall and fishing access point

The council unanimously transferred $598.00 and $350.04 from the FY26 budget to pay FY25 software maintenance and legal ad invoices. It referred the $529,000 Land and Water Conservation Fund grant for the Nonotuck Spray Park renovation to the Finance Committee. The council also approved several committee extensions, appointed two members to city boards, and scheduled a public hearing on short‑term rental zoning amendments for December 3, 2025.

• Transfer $598.00 from FY26 to pay FY25 software maintenance invoice (unanimous)
• Transfer $350.04 from FY26 to pay FY25 legal ad invoice (unanimous)
• Refer $529,000 LWCF grant for Nonotuck Spray Park renovation to Finance Committee (unanimous)
• Grant Finance Committee a 90‑day extension for CitySpace restoration and Honeywell project (unanimous)
• Grant Public Safety Committee a 90‑day extension for Traffic Rules language changes (unanimous)
• Appoint Bonnie McCloud to Cultural Council (term 10/22/2028) and City Arts Committee (term 12/31/2026) (unanimous)
• Appoint Cyril Slemaker to Commission on Disability (term 12/31/2026) (unanimous)
• Set public hearing Dec 3, 2025 to review short‑term rental zoning amendments (unanimous)

City Council - Ordinance Committee

The Ordinance Committee will call the meeting to order, allow public speak time, and consider any new business. The primary action is the approval of minutes from previous meetings dated April 28, June 9, June 10, July 17, Aug. 21, Aug. 28, Sept. 16, and Oct. 7. No specific policy items are listed on the agenda.

• Call to Order
• Public Speak Time
• Approval of minutes from April 28, 2025
• Approval of minutes from June 9, 2025
• Approval of minutes from June 10, 2025

The Ordinance Subcommittee approved the minutes from eight previous meetings (4/28, 6/9, 6/10, 7/17, 8/21, 8/28, 9/16, 10/7). The motion passed with a 3-0 vote. No other actions were taken.

• Approved minutes for 4/28, 6/9, 6/10, 7/17, 8/21, 8/28, 9/16, 10/7 (3-0)

Planning Board

The Easthampton Planning Board will convene a hybrid meeting to adopt minutes from the previous session and hold a public hearing. No specific projects, rezoning actions, or contracts are listed on the agenda.

Council on Aging

The Council on Aging will vote on accepting minutes from September and hear a director's report on service statistics and transportation. Old business includes an update on the building project at 50 Payson Ave and discussion of the senior tax work-off lottery. No new business is on the agenda. The meeting is hybrid at 50 Payson Ave, Conference Room 1.

• Vote to accept minutes from September meeting
• Director's report with service and program stats update
• Building project update at 50 Payson Ave (15 minutes)
• Senior tax work-off lottery discussion if ready (10 minutes)
• Lunch forum topic discussion (5 minutes)

The council approved the minutes from the September 16, 2025 meeting with a 5‑0 vote. A motion to adjourn the October 21 meeting was passed unanimously. No new business or public comments were taken.

• Approved September 16 minutes (5-0-0)
• Adjourned meeting unanimously

Development & Industrial Commission

The Easthampton Development & Industrial Commission will hold a remote meeting to discuss possible actions on a Vacant Storefront Ordinance, a short-term rental proposal, and a Chamber of Commerce program for high school students. The agenda also includes updates from the Planning Department and approval of September meeting minutes. No votes are scheduled; all items are for discussion only.

• Follow-up discussion on Vacant Storefront Ordinance – review of language
• Discussion of short-term rental proposal
• Chamber of Commerce program for high school students
• Updates from Planning Department
• Approval of September meeting minutes

The Development & Industrial Commission approved the September 16 minutes with a unanimous vote. Updates were given on a Wayfinding Phase II grant, ongoing construction projects, and tax‑credit awards. Members discussed the Vacant Storefront Ordinance, agreeing to defer any condemnation action on the Moriarty building until a billing system is established, and noted that short‑term rental definitions will be added to the zoning ordinance after further research. The meeting was adjourned unanimously.

• Approved September 16 minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Easthampton Cultural Council

The Easthampton Cultural Council will discuss updates on 2025 grant final reports, a financial report, and social media marketing. They will also begin organizing the review process for 2026 grant applications, including sharing a review spreadsheet and planning deliberation over the next two meetings. The meeting is largely procedural with no major decisions expected.

• Approval of September meeting minutes
• 2025 grantee updates and final reports
• Financial report for the council
• Social media and marketing updates
• Discussion of 2026 grant applications and review process

City Council - Appointment Committee

The City Council Appointment Committee will consider new mayoral appointments to several boards and committees, including the 9/11 Committee, Commission on Disability, Cultural Council, ECA, and the TNGDI Committee. The agenda also includes continuing business on vacancy review/recruitment and a proposal for an Appointment Committee Handbook.

• Appointment of Caroline White and Michael Tautznik to the 9/11 Committee through 12/31/26
• Appointment of Cyril Slemaker to the Commission on Disability through 12/31/26
• Appointment of Bonnie McLoud to the Cultural Council (3-year term) and to the ECA (through 12/31/26)
• Appointment of Mia Lauer, Keith Aron, Hunter Freitag, and Mona Huntley to the TNGDI Committee through 12/31/28
• Discussion of ongoing vacancy review/recruitment and a proposal for a committee handbook

The Appointment Committee approved the amended October 6 minutes (2‑0). It recommended and approved Cyril Slemaker for the Commission on Disability and Bonnie McLoud for both the Easthampton Cultural Council and the ECA (each 2‑0). The committee also voted to continue new business at the November 10 meeting (2‑0) and adjourned (2‑0).

• Amended October 6 minutes approved (2-0)
• Cyril Slemaker appointed to Commission on Disability (2-0)
• Bonnie McLoud appointed to Easthampton Cultural Council (2-0)
• Bonnie McLoud appointed to ECA (2-0)
• Continue new business to November 10 meeting (2-0)
• Motion to adjourn passed (2-0)

Conservation Commission

The Easthampton Conservation Commission will hold its regular meeting to review public hearing notices for two development projects, consider several enforcement actions and open‑space updates, and discuss a proposed wetlands ordinance. The meeting will also include routine items such as confirming the recording, reviewing compliance updates for active permits, and adjourning.

• Public hearing notice for a new housing development at 385 Main Street (Berkshire Design Group on behalf of The Community Builders, Inc.)
• Public hearing notice for an abbreviated resource area delineation at Torrey Street and 14 Pine Hill Road (Fleetwood Environmental for Sovereign Builders Inc.)
• Enforcement actions for properties including 37 South Street (EO‑2013‑001) and 476 East Street (EO‑2022‑002)
• Discussion of a wetlands ordinance under General Business
• Compliance update for Beacon Solar, LLC at 50 Florence Road – large‑scale solar project (MassDEP File #151‑314)

The Conservation Commission voted unanimously to issue an Order of Conditions for the housing development at 385 Main Street (MassDEP File 151-0330). It also unanimously approved an Order of Resource Area Delineation for the Torrey Street and Pine Hill Road parcel (MassDEP File 151-0336). The commission accepted the September meeting minutes and scheduled a discussion of the Boruchowski Parcel for the November 10 meeting.

• Approved Order of Conditions for 151-0330 housing project (unanimous)
• Approved Order of Resource Area Delineation for 151-0336 parcel (unanimous)
• Accepted minutes from 9/15/2025 and 9/29/2025 (unanimous)
• Requested revised snow storage plan to shrink area near wetland
• Stated Certificate of Compliance for 50 Florence Road will not be issued until invasive species are fully treated
• Scheduled Boruchowski Parcel discussion for November 10 meeting
• Approved draft sign for Oliver Street Woods
• Motion to adjourn passed (unanimous)

Manhan Rail Trail Committee

The committee will conduct the annual meeting of the Friends of the Manhan Rail Trail. Members will review the 2026 meeting calendar and discuss ongoing trail issues. The meeting includes a review of trail etiquette signage and concerns regarding the Lovefield Street intersection.

• Annual Meeting of the Friends of the Manhan Rail Trail
• Review of 2026 meeting calendar
• Trail maintenance updates regarding trash and graffiti removal
• Trail etiquette signage
• Lovefield Street intersection concerns

Community Preservation Act Committee

The Community Preservation Act Committee will consider a $23,500 application for a Dog Park design. They will also review administrative items, account balances, and project updates including a completed SprayPark grant and new Pickleball Courts. The meeting includes a public speak opportunity and continued discussion on the Preservation Plan.

• Dog Park Design Application for $23,500
• Valley CDC $50,000 mortgage subsidy update
• SprayPark receiving Land Water Conservation Fund Grant
• Pickleball Courts completed
• Preservation Plan discussion

The committee approved the minutes from September 15th with a vote of 6‑0‑2 (two abstentions). Later, the meeting was adjourned by a unanimous motion. No other motions were decided.

• Approved September 15th minutes (6 AYE, 2 abstain)
• Adjourned meeting (8 AYE)

Rent Study Committee

The Rent Study Committee is meeting to confirm its purpose and focus and to discuss logistics and meeting cadence going forward. This is an initial organizational session with no specific policy items or votes scheduled.

• Public speak opportunity for residents
• Confirmation of committee purpose and focus
• Discussion of committee logistics and meeting cadence

The committee confirmed its purpose and focus as outlined in the city council resolution. Members agreed to hold future meetings on Mondays and Wednesdays, generally starting after 5 PM. Councilor Jadczak will verify open‑meeting law requirements and share that information. The meeting was adjourned by a unanimous vote.

• Confirmed committee purpose and focus (discussion, no vote)
• Agreed to schedule meetings on Mondays and Wednesdays, after 5 PM (discussion)
• Councilor Jadczak to follow up on open‑meeting law requirement (action)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous vote)

City Council - Public Safety Committee

The October 15, 2025 meeting of the City Council Public Safety Committee has been cancelled. No decisions or discussions will take place.

• Meeting cancelled; no items were considered.
• Agenda had included roadway and pedestrian safety items and review of Traffic Rules & Orders.

School Department - Easthampton High School Council

The Easthampton High School Council will meet to conduct introductions and review the purpose and scope of school councils. The body will also discuss the Bullying Prevention Plan.

• Discussion of Bullying Prevention Plan

City Council - Finance Committee

The City Council Finance Committee will consider approval of minutes from prior meetings, a communication from the mayor, and public comments. It will vote on supplemental appropriations of $598.00 for yearly software maintenance and $350.04 for legal advertising and printing expenses for FY 25. The committee will also review quarterly fiscal reports from the City Auditor and discuss rescinding borrowing authorizations for the CitySpace restoration and Honeywell Energy Conservation projects. The date for the next meeting is to be determined.

• Approve $598.00 supplemental appropriation for yearly software maintenance (FY 25 invoice)
• Approve $350.04 supplemental appropriation for legal advertising and printing expense (FY 25 invoice)
• Review quarterly fiscal reports from the City Auditor
• Consider rescinding borrowing authorization for CitySpace restoration project
• Consider rescinding borrowing authorization for Honeywell Energy Conservation project

The committee approved the minutes from the September 10 and September 24 meetings. It then approved a $598 supplemental appropriation for Software Yearly Maintenance and a $350.04 supplemental appropriation for legal advertising ($279.58) and printing ($70.46). All motions passed unanimously with a 3-0 vote. The meeting was adjourned at 5:41 pm.

• Approved September 10 and September 24 minutes (3-0)
• Approved $598 supplemental appropriation for Software Yearly Maintenance (3-0)
• Approved $350.04 supplemental appropriation for Legal Advertising and Printing (3-0)
• Adjourned meeting (3-0)

Housing Authority

The Easthampton Housing Authority will hold a special virtual meeting on October 10, 2025 to consider a single item: Resolution #4, which would accept the authority's 2025 State Annual Plan. No other business is scheduled. The public may listen via phone or Zoom.

• Resolution #4: Accept the Easthampton Housing Authority 2025 State Annual Plan

The Easthampton Housing Authority held a special meeting on October 10, 2025. Present were Chairperson Church, Vice Chairperson Jennison, Commissioner Nodurf, and Sharon Kimble; Commissioners Boyle and Burnham were absent. The board voted to accept the 2025 State Annual Plan, with all three voting members in favor and no opposition. The meeting adjourned at 12:35 p.m.

• Approved 2025 State Annual Plan (unanimous)

Commission on Disability

The Easthampton Commission on Disability will meet on October 9, 2025, to discuss updates to the accessibility ordinance, a community survey subcommittee, and recruitment of new members. The agenda also includes planning for World Disability Day on December 3 and future speaker topics. Routine items include roll call, minutes approval, and public speak.

• Update on accessibility ordinance
• Community Survey subcommittee update
• Recruiting new members for the commission
• World Disability Day event ideas (Dec 3)
• Future speaker requests (mod, 988)

Historical Commission

The Historical Commission will consider a demolition application for 336 Main Street, including a determination of historical significance and scheduling a public hearing. The meeting also includes discussion of a chimney removal at 1 Northampton Street, redevelopment at 3 Ferry Street, and updates on cemetery projects and the Historic Sign Program.

• 336 Main Street demolition application and determination of historical significance
• 1 Northampton Street chimney removal opinion
• 3 Ferry Street redevelopment
• Brookside Cemetery NR Nomination and Main Street/East Street cemeteries evaluation
• Discussion of Demo Delay Bylaw

Licensing Board

The Licensing Board will open the meeting, approve the September 2025 minutes, and hold public hearings on multiple special one‑day event applications. Requests include Riverside Industries for 10/23/25, New City Brewery for 10/12/25 and 10/18/25, Abandoned Building Brewery for 10/18/25, and TipTop Wine Shop. The board will also review a transfer of license for Three Zs to Ivaan 333, Inc and manager change applications for Om Valley Farm and BigEs.

• Riverside Industries – special one‑day event request for 10/23/25
• New City Brewery – special one‑day event requests for 10/12/25 and 10/18/25
• Abandoned Building Brewery – special one‑day event request for 10/18/25
• TipTop Wine Shop – special one‑day event request
• Transfer of license application for Three Zs to Ivaan 333, Inc

The Licensing Board approved the minutes for August and September 2025. It also approved several special‑event licenses, a license transfer, a manager change, and a cash‑bar fundraiser, all with unanimous support.

• Approved minutes for August & September 2025 (all in favor)
• Approved Riverside Industries special one‑day license for 10/23/25 (all in favor)
• Approved New City special one‑day license for 10/12/25 Harvest Fest (all in favor)
• Approved New City special one‑day license for 10/18/25 10th anniversary party (all in favor)
• Approved Abandoned Building Brewery special one‑day license for 10/18 (all in favor)
• Approved transfer of license application for Three Zs to Ivaan 333, Inc (all in favor)
• Approved BigE’s change of manager (all in favor)
• Approved RCA fundraiser cash bar (all in favor)

City Council

The City Council will hold public hearings on several supplemental appropriations, including $5,830 for the auditor's salary, $105,918.59 for repairs to the Public Safety Complex generator, and a $16,250 interdepartmental transfer for AFSCME union positions. Council members will also vote on an action request to adopt Chapter 329 of the Acts of 1987, which would let the Council and School Committee increase the total amount appropriated for the school district by a two‑thirds vote. A resolution supporting higher education is also on the agenda.

• $105,918.59 to fund repairs to the Public Safety Complex generator
• $5,830.00 from the Reserve Fund to the Auditor Salary
• $16,250.00 interdepartmental transfer to fund reinstated AFSCME Union positions
• City Council Action Request to adopt Ch. 329 of the Acts of 1987 for school district funding increase
• Resolution in Support of Higher Education

The council unanimously transferred $5,830 from the Reserve Fund to cover additional auditor hours. It also approved a $105,918.59 transfer to repair the Public Safety Complex generator. A $16,250 transfer funded reinstated AFSCME union hours across several departments. The public hearing on adopting Chapter 329 of the Acts of 1987 was continued to the November 19 meeting.

• Approved $5,830 transfer from Reserve Fund to Auditor Salary (unanimous)
• Approved $105,918.59 transfer from General Stabilization to FY26 Safety Complex Generator Repairs (unanimous)
• Approved $16,250 transfer from Contributory Re‑ment to police, fire, technology, and Council on Aging positions (unanimous)
• Approved September 3, 2025 City Council minutes (8‑0 unanimous)
• Approved September 17, 2025 City Council minutes (8‑0, Councilor Riley abstained)
• Voted to continue public hearing on adopting Ch. 329 of the Acts of 1987 to Nov 19, 2025 (unanimous)
• Voted to close the public hearings (unanimous)
• Voted to take a five‑minute recess (unanimous)

Parks & Recreation Commission

The Easthampton Parks & Recreation Commission will review and adopt the FY26 budget for parks and recreation. It will also discuss several capital projects, including a dog park application, skate park, spray park, and updates to the CPA Master Plan. Additional agenda items cover park program updates, upcoming community events, and facility maintenance reports.

• FY26 Parks & Recreation budget
• Dog Park CPA application
• Skate park project discussion
• Pickleball expansion – construction update
• New city playground designs

The commission unanimously approved the September 10 minutes. It authorized the demolition of the maintenance building outbuilding, with permits already secured. The commission confirmed the pickleball courts are completed, scheduled a ribbon‑cutting on 10/9 at 11 am, and noted the project came in $6,000 under budget.

• Approved September 10 minutes (unanimous)
• Authorized demolition of maintenance building outbuilding (permits obtained)
• Confirmed pickleball courts completed and ribbon‑cutting set for 10/9 at 11 am
• Recorded project under budget by $6,000

Planning Board

The Easthampton Planning Board will hold a joint public hearing with the City Council Ordinance Subcommittee to consider adding a definition and regulations for Short-Term Rentals to the zoning ordinance. They will also review an ANR plan to divide a 4-acre parcel at 0 Mineral St into two lots.

• Joint public hearing on adding 'Short-Term Rental' definition and use to zoning ordinance
• ANR request by Thomas J. Gaughan Jr. to divide 4-acre parcel at 0 Mineral St into two lots (2.52 and 1.45 acres) in R-35 district

City Council - Ordinance Committee

The Planning Board and City Council Ordinance Committee will hold a joint public hearing to consider adding a definition of 'Short-Term Rental' to the zoning ordinance and regulating its use. Also on the agenda is a request for approval of a minor subdivision dividing a 4-acre parcel at 0 Mineral Street into two lots.

• Public hearing on amending Zoning Ordinance §2.1 to define 'Short-Term Rental' and adding it to Table 5-1 of Use Regulations with standards and conditions
• ANR request by Thomas J. Gaughan Jr. to divide a ~4-acre parcel at 0 Mineral St (Map 123, Lot 14, R-35 district) into 2.52-acre and 1.45-acre lots along an intermittent stream

The Ordinance Committee discussed creating a Department Head position for the inter‑community dispatch center, funded by a $112,000 grant. No vote was recorded; the committee decided to table the proposal and revisit it at the November 5 meeting. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Tabled dispatch department head proposal for next meeting
• Adjourned meeting (motion by Kwaczinski, seconded by Smith)

City Council - Ordinance Committee

The Ordinance Committee will discuss several proposed ordinance changes and policy reviews, including a temporary moratorium on using sewage sludge/biosolids on municipal property, zoning amendments for short-term rentals, and residency requirements for committee membership. They will also review the Ordinance Review Committee's final report and the Affordable & Fair Housing Partnership's zoning recommendations.

• Temporary moratorium on use of sewage sludge/fertilizer in Easthampton
• Proposal prohibiting application of biosolids on municipal property
• Short-term rental zoning ordinance amendments (definitions and table)
• Amend Exhibit A (Classification of Employees) to add Public Safety Dispatch Director
• Review of Affordable & Fair Housing Partnership’s zoning ordinance recommendations

The Ordinance Committee discussed creating a Department Head position for the inter‑community dispatch center, noting a $112,000 grant that could fund the role for three years. No vote was recorded; the committee decided to table the proposal and revisit it at the November 5 meeting. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Tabled proposal to hire a Department Head for dispatch (no vote recorded)

Housing Authority

The Easthampton Housing Authority will meet to accept the 2025 State Annual Plan. The board will also consider change orders for electrical service and concrete slab removal.

• Resolution# 4: Accept the Easthampton Housing Authority 2025 State Annual Plan
• Fish # 087091 Change order #1 for Electrical Service for Maintenance BLDG
• Fish# 087085 Change order for Partial Concrete Slab Removal

The board considered Resolution #4 to accept the Easthampton Housing Authority 2025 State Annual Plan. Commissioner Nodurf moved to approve and Vice‑Chairperson Jennison seconded. Chairperson Church voted nay, and the resolution was not adopted. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Resolution #4 to accept 2025 State Annual Plan rejected (Chairperson Church voted nay)

City Council - Appointment Committee

The City Council Appointment Committee will review and potentially approve four mayoral appointments to city boards and commissions. The committee will also discuss a proposed code of conduct for appointed members of boards, committees, and commissions.

• Roxanne Mariani-Prall appointed to Board of Assessors (term through 12/31/2026)
• Gilson Hogan appointed to Board of Public Works (term through 12/31/2027)
• Matt Keyser appointed to Commission on Disability (term through 12/31/2027)
• Charles Duffy appointed to Veterans Council (term through 12/31/2027)
• Continuing business: City Council request for a Code of Conduct for appointed members

The Appointment Committee approved the minutes from the July 7 meeting (2‑0). It then recommended and approved the appointments of Roxanne Mariani‑Prall to the Board of Assessors, Gilson Hogan to the Board of Public Works, Matt Keyser to the Commission on Disability, and Charles Duffy to the Veterans Council, each with a 2‑0 vote. All appointments have term expirations on December 31 of the indicated years.

• Approved July 7 meeting minutes (2‑0)
• Recommended and approved Roxanne Mariani‑Prall to Board of Assessors (2‑0)
• Recommended and approved Gilson Hogan to Board of Public Works (2‑0)
• Recommended and approved Matt Keyser to Commission on Disability (2‑0)
• Recommended and approved Charles Duffy to Veterans Council (2‑0)

School Committee - Policy Subcommittee

The School Committee Policy Subcommittee will hear public comments and consider three policy items. They will clarify an AI policy, review a competency determination policy suggested by MASC, and examine graduation requirements for possible revision. Each item requires a motion to move it to the full committee for further action.

• Public Speak – opportunity for community input
• AI policy clarification – address student questions, motion to full committee
• KFE competency determination – review MASC suggested policy, motion to full committee
• Graduation Requirements – review and possibly revise, motion to full committee
• Adjournment

Nashawannuck Pond Committee

The Nashawannuck Pond Committee will hold a public meeting on October 6, 2025, to discuss shoreline stabilization, WinterFest, and potential grants. The meeting will take place at the Public Safety Complex on Payson Avenue.

• Approval of previous meeting minutes
• Discussion of shoreline stabilization
• Review of WinterFest plans
• Discussion of grants
• Review of Pond Management Plan

The Nashawannuck Pond Steering Committee approved the September 8 meeting minutes and confirmed Farmer’s Market dates of December 14 and 20. The committee voted unanimously to fund $78,020 for shoreline stabilization and retaining wall restoration, pending further review by City Council and the finance committee. Several items, including the Pond Management Plan and silt‑in‑gabion weir discussion, were placed on hold for future meetings.

• Approved meeting minutes from 9/8/2025 (motion by Elaine, seconded by Paul, unanimous)
• Approved Farmer’s Market dates 12/14 & 12/21
• Approved $78,020 funding for shoreline stabilization (all in favor)
• Barley straw removal completed on 10/6 with permission from Allison Ryan
• Held Pond Management Plan discussion for future agenda
• Held silt in gabion weir discussion for future agenda
• Confirmed WinterFest date for 2/14
• FONP placed a $50 deposit for event space use

Easthampton City Arts Coordinating Committee

The Easthampton City Arts Coordinating Committee will hold a routine meeting to approve prior minutes, hear public comments, and receive updates on local arts events. Discussions will focus on the Easthampton Futures Project public input form and the committee's fundraiser and budget. No major votes or financial approvals are on the agenda.

• Updates on Art Walk, Poetry at Park Hill Orchard, Public Art, and Cultural Chaos 2026
• Easthampton Cultural Council Report
• Discussion of Easthampton Futures Project: Public Input Form
• Discussion of ECA Fundraiser and Budget

School Department - Mountain View School Council

The Mountain View School Council will hold its first meeting of the school year, focusing on introductions, roles, and responsibilities. The council will review the 24-26 School Improvement Plan goals and the Bullying Prevention and Intervention Plan. Members will also discuss potential topics for the year.

• Review of 24-26 School Improvement Plan Goals
• Bullying Prevention and Intervention Plan review
• Assignment of note takers
• Discussion of council's yearly topics

Easthampton Community Garden

The Community Garden Committee will meet to discuss a strategic plan for the coming years and review various operational reports. The body is scheduled to approve a budget report and an eligibility document and application.

• Approval of budget report and purchase orders
• Approval of Eligibility Document and Application
• Mulch pile and compost delivery plan for spring
• Mulch pile jumping worms project
• Potluck scheduled for October 11th

The Community Garden Committee unanimously accepted the September minutes and approved the Treasurer's report. A motion was passed that participants 18 years or older may work without supervision, while minors must have a parent sign and be present. The meeting was adjourned unanimously and the next meeting was set for November 6.

• Accepted September minutes (unanimous)
• Approved Treasurer's report (unanimous)
• Adopted age policy: 18+ unsupervised, under 18 require parent sign‑in and presence (unanimous)
• Scheduled potluck for October 11 with rain‑date alternate location (decision noted)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)
• Set next meeting date: November 6 at 7 p.m.

Board of Public Works

The Board of Public Works will hold a regular meeting on October 1, 2025. The main substantive item is a discussion of water and sewer rates, with no specific proposal listed. The board will also hear a director's report and vote on the previous meeting's minutes.

• Discussion of water and sewer rates (no specific figures or proposals listed)

The board approved the minutes from the September 3, 2025 meeting. The board voted to keep the discussion of water and sewer rate increases for fiscal years 2027‑2029 on the agenda. The meeting was adjourned at 5:38 p.m.

• Approved September 3, 2025 minutes (2‑yes vote)
• Kept water & sewer rate discussion for FY27‑FY29 on agenda (2‑yes vote)
• Adjourned meeting at 5:38 p.m. (2‑yes vote)

Easthampton City Arts Public Art Subcommittee

The Easthampton City Arts Public Art Subcommittee will discuss the Community Mosaic Mural Project 2025/26, including location ideas for the Municipal Building's front entrance, funding, and a request for proposals. The committee will also review the Power to the People utility box proposal and receive updates on bike rack painting reimbursement and a plaque installation. New business includes planning for the Walls of Easthampton regional mural festival in 2027 and a Veterans Memorial Mural in 2026.

• Community Mosaic Mural Project 2025/26 – location ideas, funding, and RFP for Municipal Building front entrance
• Power to the People utility box – discussion of Pasqualina's talks with Greg Nuttleman and M. Poole's proposal
• Reimbursement for 01027 Main Street bike rack painting
• Plaque installed on Peter O. Zearian sculpture
• Walls of Easthampton, Regional Mural & Community Arts Festival 2027

The Easthampton City Arts Public Art Subcommittee unanimously approved the September 3 minutes. Members agreed to visit Pulaski Park before the next meeting to evaluate it for the mosaic mural and confirmed that no reimbursement is owed to the community member who painted the 01027 bike rack. The committee assigned follow‑up tasks, including contacting Public Works about a cement pad for the suggestion box and applying a darker paint coat to Union Street bike racks.

• Approved September 3 minutes (unanimous)
• Decided to visit Pulaski Park before next meeting
• Determined no reimbursement needed for bike‑rack painter
• Pasqualina to contact Greg Nuttelman about cement pad dimensions
• Pasqualina to discuss project funding and paint choice with Amy Johnquist
• Bob to measure box base dimensions and contact Michael Poole
• Planned additional darker paint coat on Union Street bike racks
• Pasqualina to ask artists for firm installation date for Storyscape vent

School Committee - Policy Subcommittee

The Finance Subcommittee intended to review the FY25 end‑of‑year report and discuss the FY26 budget, along with scheduling future meetings and other business. However, the meeting was cancelled, so none of these items were formally addressed.

• Update on FY25/End of Year Report
• EPSD FY26 Budget – update and discussion
• Scheduling upcoming meetings
• Other Business
• Next Meeting Dates

Veteran's Council

This meeting consists entirely of procedural items such as the pledge of allegiance, roll call, reading of minutes, treasurer's report, and discussion of bills and communications. No substantive actions, rezonings, contracts, or public hearings are listed on the agenda.

Senior Center Building Committee

The Council on Aging will meet to establish committee policies, review member roles, and discuss the timeline for senior center infrastructure work. The meeting will include a presentation by Mayor Salem Derby and required training on state laws.

• Mayor Salem Derby to deliver a message
• Training on state conflicts of interest and open meeting law
• Discussion of committee structure, policies, and meeting rules
• Review of senior center building committee reflections
• Next meeting scheduled for October 21, 2025

The Senior Center Building Committee elected Dan Rist as chair (vote 9‑0‑1), Tom Brown as vice‑chair (7‑3), and Leslie Button as secretary (vote 9‑0‑1). Discussion on the committee’s future work was tabled until the October 27 meeting. The meeting was adjourned by a unanimous 11‑0‑0 vote.

• Dan Rist elected chair (vote 9-0-1)
• Tom Brown elected vice-chair (7 votes to 3)
• Leslie Button elected secretary (vote 9-0-1)
• Discussion on types of work tabled until Oct 27
• Adjournment motion passed (vote 11-0-0)

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will hold public hearings on a new housing development at 385 Main Street, a shared use path along Route 5, and a resource area delineation at Torrey Street and Pine Hill Road (continued to Oct 20). The commission will also discuss enforcement actions, open space updates, and review active project permits. Meeting minutes and a wetlands ordinance discussion are also on the agenda.

• Public hearing: Notice of Intent for new housing development at 385 Main Street by The Community Builders, Inc. (MassDEP File #151-0330)
• Public hearing: Notice of Intent for shared use path along Route 5 by MassDOT (MassDEP File #151-0333)
• Enforcement actions on four properties: 37 South Street, 476 East Street, 93 Northampton Street Rear, and 50 Florence Road
• Open space updates: Echodale West invasive management, Boruchowski Parcel, and conservation area signage
• Compliance updates for active projects including Pleasant Street Mills infrastructure, Nashawannuck Pond vegetation management, and Ferry Street Mill redevelopment

The Conservation Commission voted 5‑0 to issue an Order of Conditions for the MassDOT shared‑use path along Route 5 (MassDEP File #151‑0333). The commission also voted 5‑0 to continue the public hearing on the 385 Main Street housing development to the October 20 meeting. Commissioners discussed and agreed on icons for a new conservation area sign.

• Continued public hearing on 385 Main Street housing development to Oct 20 (5‑0)
• Approved Order of Conditions for MassDOT Route 5 shared‑use path (file #151‑0333) (5‑0)
• Agreed on signage icons (dog walking, hiking, mountain bike, no ATV, no dirt bike) for new conservation sign

School Committee - Finance Subcommittee

The Easthampton School Committee Finance Subcommittee will hold a meeting to receive an update on the FY25 end-of-year report and discuss the FY26 budget. The meeting is scheduled for September 29, 2025, at 4:00 PM in the Municipal Building. No votes or decisions are listed on the agenda; the items are for discussion only.

• Update on FY25/End of Year Report
• EPSD FY26 Budget – update and discussion

The Finance Subcommittee scheduled regular meetings for Monday, November 10, 2026 at 3:30 PM and Monday, December 8, 2026 at 3:30 PM. It agreed to meet with the City Council Finance Committee twice a year beginning February 2026. The meeting was adjourned after a unanimous motion to adjourn.

• Scheduled November 10, 2026 meeting at 3:30 PM
• Scheduled December 8, 2026 meeting at 3:30 PM
• Agreed to meet with City Council Finance Committee twice a year starting February 2026
• Motion to adjourn passed unanimously

Community Preservation Act Committee

The Community Preservation Act Committee will vote on funding for two specific projects and discuss an amended agreement for Treehouse Housing. The committee will also review draft goals for the Preservation Plan's Open Space and Recreation section.

• Vote: $78,020 for Nashawannuck Pond Retaining Wall and Public Access
• Vote: $75,000 for Town Clock Design
• Proposed Amended Project Funding Agreement for Treehouse Housing
• Draft Open Space and Recreation Goals Discussion for Preservation Plan
• Quarterly reports for CitySpace and Ferry Street

The committee unanimously approved the minutes from the June 12 and July 17 meetings. It approved $75,000 for the town clock design, $78,020 for the Nashawannuck Pond retaining wall, and an amendment converting a $200,000 Treehouse Housing loan into a grant. The meeting was then adjourned unanimously.

• Approved June 12 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved July 17 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved $75,000 town clock design (unanimous)
• Approved $78,020 Nashawannuck Pond retaining wall (unanimous)
• Approved amendment to convert Treehouse Housing $200,000 loan to grant (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

City Council - Finance Committee

The City Council Finance Committee will discuss and potentially vote on several fiscal items, including a $105,918.59 supplemental appropriation for repairs to the Public Safety Complex Generator and a $16,250 interdepartmental transfer for AFSCME positions. The committee will also review a request to adopt Chapter 329 of the Acts of 1987, which would allow the City Council to increase school district appropriations by a two-thirds vote. Other business includes quarterly fiscal reports and rescinding borrowing authorizations for CitySpace restoration and the Honeywell Energy Conservation Project.

• Supplemental appropriation of $105,918.59 for Public Safety Complex Generator repairs
• Interdepartmental transfer of $16,250 from Contributory Retirement for AFSCME positions
• Supplemental appropriation of $5,830 from Reserve Fund for Auditor Salary
• Discussion of rescinding borrowing authorizations for CitySpace restoration and Honeywell Energy Conservation Project
• Council action request to adopt Ch. 329 of Acts of 1987 for school district appropriation increases

The committee approved a $16,250 interdepartmental transfer from the Contributory Retirement fund to police, fire, technology and community outreach clerical positions. It also approved a $105,918.59 supplemental appropriation for FY26 safety complex generator repairs and a $5,830 reserve‑fund allocation for a temporary auditor salary increase. All three items passed unanimously (3‑0). The meeting was adjourned at 5:50 p.m. with a unanimous vote.

• Approved $16,250 interdepartmental transfer to police, fire, technology and COA clerical positions (3‑0)
• Approved $105,918.59 supplemental appropriation for FY26 safety complex generator repairs (3‑0)
• Approved $5,830 reserve‑fund allocation for temporary auditor salary increase (3‑0)
• Approved motion to adjourn the meeting at 5:50 p.m. (3‑0)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing on a special permit for JDR Builders to enclose a pre-existing non-conforming porch at 142 Ferry Street in the R35 zoning district. The board may also take public comment on this item. No other substantive decisions or discussions are listed on the agenda.

• Public hearing: JDR Builders – Special Permit to enclose a non-conforming front and side-yard porch at 142 Ferry St (Map 134 lot 42, R35 district)

Contributory Retirement Board

The Easthampton Contributory Retirement Board will consider approving new members from the school system, including paraeducators and a custodian, and discuss the FY2027 appropriation process. The board also plans to enter executive session to discuss personnel records for a named individual, approve a refund of deductions for a former employee, and authorize MACRS registration and travel for December.

• Executive session under Purpose 7 for Daniel Regan (Section 91A 2023 Excess Earnings)
• Approve new members: 11 paraeducators and one custodian for the school system
• Refund of deductions for Robert Slattery, Sewer craftsman (DOT 8/2/2024)
• Approve MACRS registration & travel (Dec 8-10)
• Approve trial balance for July & August and Warrant #9

The Easthampton Retirement Board unanimously approved a $530,123.35 warrant, approved travel and registration for the MACRS conference in Springfield, and approved refunds and new member appointments. The board also approved the minutes from the August 26, 2025 meeting and authorized the refund of deductions for Robert Slattery. All motions passed with unanimous votes.

• Approved Warrant #9 for $530,123.35 (unanimous)
• Approved MACRS/Sheraton conference registration and travel for board members (unanimous)
• Approved refund of deductions for Robert Slattery (unanimous)
• Approved appointment of new members listed in agenda (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from August 26, 2025 (unanimous)

Affordable & Fair Housing Partnership

The Easthampton Affordable & Fair Housing Partnership will hold a hybrid meeting on September 23, 2025. Agenda items include discussing possible questions for upcoming mayoral and City Council races, and reviewing the Pioneer Valley Planning Commission's recommendations for drinking water supply protection. The board will also receive an update from a meeting with Abundant Housing Massachusetts and approve prior meeting notes.

• Discuss questions for mayoral and City Council races
• Review of PVPC’s Recommendations for Easthampton Drinking Water Supply Protection
• Update from meeting with Abundant Housing Massachusetts
• Approve June and July meeting notes

The partnership approved the June and July meeting minutes with a unanimous vote. Members agreed to host a table at the farmer’s market featuring Abundant Housing materials and to prepare draft materials for the October 23 meeting. The next meetings were set for Oct. 23 and Dec. 1, with no meeting scheduled for November, and the session was adjourned.

• Approved June and July meeting notes (unanimous vote)
• Agreed to host a table at the Farmer’s Market with Abundant Housing materials
• Planned draft materials for the Oct. 23 meeting to use at the November winter market
• Scheduled next meeting for Oct. 23, 6 pm in Conference Room 1
• Scheduled meeting for Dec. 1, 6 pm in Conference Room B; no meeting in November
• Adjourned meeting (motion passed)

Planning Board

The Easthampton Planning Board will consider a special permit application to convert an existing church at 35 Pleasant Street into residential housing. The proposal seeks to create nine apartment units within the existing structure and add seven new buildings containing an additional 33 units, totaling 42 units. The property is located in the NB zoning district. The item has been carried over from several prior meetings.

• Special Permit (Kevin Perrier) for 35 Pleasant St: convert church to 9 apartments and construct seven new buildings with 33 additional units (total 42 units) in NB zoning district

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors is meeting to approve minutes, review and sign motor vehicle abatements and a motor vehicle commitment, and sign Fiscal Year 2026 exemptions for seniors, surviving spouses, veterans, the blind, and the Community Preservation Act. The principal assessor will provide an update.

• Review and sign motor vehicle abatements for end of month
• Review and sign motor vehicle commitment 2025-5
• Review and sign Fiscal Year 2026 Senior/Surviving Spouse, Veteran, Blind & Community Preservation Act exemptions

The Board of Assessors approved the minutes from the August 19, 2025 meeting. It accepted the 2025 motor‑vehicle abatements totaling $2,401.50 and a motor‑vehicle commitment of $70,439.57. The Board also approved the Fiscal Year 2026 senior, surviving‑spouse, veteran, blind, and community‑preservation act exemptions. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved August 19, 2025 meeting minutes (2-0)
• Approved 2025 motor‑vehicle abatements of $2,401.50 (2-0)
• Approved motor‑vehicle commitment of $70,439.57 for 2025 (2-0)
• Approved FY2026 senior, surviving‑spouse, veteran, blind & community‑preservation exemptions (2-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 5:25 pm (2-0)

City Council

The City Council will hold a public hearing on borrowing $3 million for demolishing buildings at 11 Ferry Street and constructing infrastructure improvements including a multi-use path to the Manhan Rail Trail. The council will also consider adding a Public Safety Dispatch Director position, a $105,918.59 generator repair appropriation, and other items. Several supplemental appropriations from the Reserve Fund are proposed, along with an interdepartmental transfer. The meeting includes a mayoral presentation of Keys to the City to Robin Bialecki.

• Public hearing on borrowing $3,000,000 for demolition of structures at 11 Ferry Street and infrastructure including a multi-use path connecting to the Manhan Rail Trail
• New business: Amendment to add Public Safety Dispatch Director position (Grade G, $38.29-$53.00/hr)
• Supplemental appropriation: $105,918.59 for repairs to the Public Safety Complex Generator
• Supplemental appropriations from Reserve Fund: $20,000 to Legal for FY26 legal costs, $5,830 to Auditor Salary
• Interdepartmental transfer: $16,250 from Contributory Retirement to fund reinstated AFSCME union hours

The Council unanimously opened public hearings for the Ferry Street District Improvement Financing District. It also unanimously approved a $3,000,000 appropriation and authorized borrowing up to $3,000,000 to fund the Ferry Street Invested Revenue District Development Program. The Council unanimously transferred $20,000 from the Reserve Fund to the Legal fund for FY 2026 costs and scheduled a public hearing on the auditor salary request for the October 8, 2025 meeting. Public hearings were then unanimously closed.

• Unanimously opened public hearings for the Ferry Street DIF project
• Approved $3,000,000 appropriation and authorized borrowing up to $3,000,000 for the Ferry Street Invested Revenue District Development Program (unanimous)
• Transferred $20,000 from Reserve Fund to Legal fund for FY 2026 legal costs (unanimous)
• Scheduled public hearing on auditor salary request for October 8, 2025 (unanimous)
• Unanimously closed the public hearings

Housing Authority

The Easthampton Housing Authority will discuss a management agreement with Northampton Housing Authority and hiring a consultant for an executive director search. They will vote to approve a low bid for driveway work at Glad Acres, a change proposal for concrete slab removal, and a change order for site changes. The meeting also includes accepting routine financial reports and scheduling the October meeting due to an annual plan deadline.

• Motion to accept minutes of August 12, 2025, August 2025 financial report, and warrant report
• Motion to approve Change Proposal #087085-CP-0004 for partial concrete slab removal
• Motion to approve Change Order Proposal Request 087091 for site changes
• Motion to approve low bid for driveways at Glad Acres
• Discussion and possible motion on management agreement with NHA and hiring consultant for executive director search

The board approved several items, including the August minutes, a concrete slab repair, a change order, a driveway replacement, and hiring a consultant to find an Executive Director. All motions passed unanimously with YAY votes from Chairperson Church, Commissioners Boyle, Nodurf, and Burnham and no NAY votes. The meeting also set the October board meeting for October 7, 2025 at 6:00 p.m.

• Approved August 12, 2025 meeting minutes, financial and warrant reports (unanimous)
• Approved partial concrete slab removal and asphalt repair at Building 3 for $1,736.50 (unanimous)
• Approved change order #087091 cost increase of $2,627.16 to Diversified Construction Services (unanimous)
• Approved Fish #087108 for $24,999.00 to Supreme Earthworks to replace driveway at Glad Acres (unanimous)
• Approved hiring a consultant to conduct search for Executive Director (unanimous)
• Scheduled October board meeting for October 7, 2025 at 6:00 p.m. (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 6:49 p.m. (unanimous)

City Council - Public Safety Committee

The City Council Public Safety Committee will meet to discuss ongoing safety and infrastructure items. The agenda includes a review of traffic rules and orders and a quarterly review of public safety departments.

• Traffic and pedestrian safety on West Street
• Review of Traffic Rules & Orders for updates or removals
• Roadway and infrastructure safety items
• Quarterly review of Public Safety departments

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold a continued public hearing for a special permit to convert a church at 35 Pleasant St. into 42 apartment units. The board will also approve minutes from eight previous meetings. The meeting is hybrid, in person at 50 Payson Ave and via Google Meet.

• Continued public hearing for Kevin Perrier’s special permit to convert 35 Pleasant St. church into 9 units and build 7 new buildings for 33 additional units (NB zoning district).
• Approval of minutes from January 21, April 15, May 20, June 17, July 1, July 15, August 5, and September 2, 2025.
• Next meeting scheduled for October 7, 2025 at 6 p.m.

Council on Aging

The Council on Aging will meet to approve July meeting minutes, receive the director's report including FY2025 fiscal and FY2026 budget, and vote on the mission/vision report. They will also hear updates on the building project and Senior Tax Work Off program, and discuss a lunch forum topic. A public speak segment is scheduled.

• Vote on mission/vision report
• Director's report: FY2025 fiscal report and FY2026 budget
• National Senior Center Month/Party announcement
• Senior Tax Work Off update
• Building Project update

The board approved the July 15, 2025 meeting minutes unanimously. It adopted a revised mission statement, vision and values with a 7‑0‑0 vote. The board agreed to create a mini‑team, led by Cathie and Kathy, to develop topics for a senior‑focused forum and report back at the October 15 meeting. The deadline for senior tax write‑off applications was extended to October 15.

• Approved July 15, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved revised mission statement, vision and values (7‑0‑0)
• Formed mini‑team to develop senior forum topics (agreement)
• Extended senior tax write‑off application deadline to October 15

Licensing Board

The Licensing Board will hold a public meeting to discuss and vote on special one-day permits for several events and a transfer application for a Ferry Street package store. The board will also review minutes from August and address new business regarding a liquor license conversion.

• Public Hearings for Fort Hill's Barks and Brews event
• Public Hearings for TipTop Wine Shop event at CitySpace
• Public Hearings for multiple CitySpace concerts
• Public Hearings for CitySpace concert on December 20
• Transfer Application: Ferry Street Package Store

Development & Industrial Commission

The Easthampton Development & Industrial Commission will receive updates from the Planning Department, hear a presentation on a rent control ballot initiative, and discuss follow-up actions regarding a vacant storefront ordinance and short-term rental considerations. No votes or decisions are scheduled.

• Share-out from group working on rent control ballot initiative by Kiam Jamrog-McQuaid
• Follow-up discussion on possible actions regarding Vacant Storefront Ordinance
• Discussion of short-term rental considerations
• Approval of July meeting minutes
• Updates from Planning Department

The commission voted to approve the meeting minutes, with all members in favor. No other formal votes or approvals were recorded; the remaining agenda items were discussed or scheduled for future meetings.

• Approved meeting minutes (unanimous)

Easthampton Cultural Council

The Easthampton Cultural Council will discuss updates and final reports from 2025 grantees. The body will also review financial reports and marketing strategies to promote grant applications.

• 2025 grantee updates and final reports
• Financial report review
• Social media and marketing updates for grant applications
• Easthampton City Arts update
• September Grant Education Workshop scheduled for September 17 at ECA Gallery

City Council - Ordinance Committee

The City Council Ordinance Committee will meet to review an updated draft of the Short Term Rental Ordinance and consider zoning amendments related to the issue. The meeting will be held in person at 50 Payson Ave. and via remote Google Meet.

• Review updated Short Term Rental Ordinance Draft
• Consider zoning ordinance amendments for Short Term Rentals
• Review City Council Action Request for Short Term Rental Zoning Ordinance Amendments

The Ordinance Committee approved a limit of 50 short‑term rental units, with a 2‑1 vote and one dissent. The committee also voted unanimously to shift the moratorium start date to February 1. A biannual review and acceptance of the short‑term rental policy were adopted unanimously. The full short‑term rental proposal was referred to the full City Council.

• Cap short‑term rentals at 50 units (2‑1, Councilor Kwiczinski dissenting)
• Extend short‑term rental moratorium start date to February 1 (3‑0)
• Require biannual review of short‑term rental proposal (3‑0)
• Adopt biannual acceptance of short‑term rental policy (unanimous)
• Refer full short‑term rental proposal to full City Council (unanimous)

City Council - Appointment Committee

The committee will consider new mayoral appointments to several city boards and commissions. Members will also review current vacancies and a proposal to create an Appointment Committee Handbook.

• Appointment of Roxanne Mariani-Prall to Board of Assessors
• Appointment of Gilson Hogan to Board of Public Works
• Appointment of Matt Keyser to Commission on Disability
• Appointment of Charles Duffy to Veterans Council
• Proposal for Mayor and Clerk to create an Appointment Committee Handbook

The Appointment Committee approved the July 7 meeting minutes by a 3‑0 vote. It also approved a motion to review the listed appointees at the October 6 City Council meeting, again 3‑0. The meeting was then adjourned unanimously.

• Approved July 7 meeting minutes (3-0)
• Approved review of appointees at Oct 6 meeting (3-0)
• Approved adjournment (3-0)

City Council - Rules & Government Relations Committee

The Rules & Government Relations Committee will discuss two resolutions: one on 'Democracy and the Return to the Constitutional Principles' and another supporting water operator retirement reclassification. The committee will also approve past meeting minutes and hear public comment. No fiscal decisions are on the agenda.

• Resolution in support of Democracy and the Return to the Constitutional Principles
• Resolution in support of water operator retirement reclassification
• Approval of minutes from past meetings
• Public speak time (2 minutes per person, 30-minute limit)

Conservation Commission

The Easthampton Conservation Commission will hold public hearings on several Notices of Intent, including new housing developments at 385 Main Street and 35 Pleasant Street, and a shared use path along Route 5. The commission will also review enforcement actions, open space updates, and compliance status for active permits. No public concerns are listed for non-agenda items.

• Public hearing for a new housing development at 385 Main Street (Community Builders, Inc.)
• Public hearing for a shared use path along Route 5 (MassDOT)
• Public hearing for a new housing development at 35 Pleasant Street (Norwich Properties LLC)
• Enforcement actions including J. Gawle at 37 South Street and others
• Open space updates: Echodale West invasive management, Boruchowski Parcel, Oliver Street Forest

The Conservation Commission approved an Order of Conditions for the 35 Pleasant Street housing development (MassDEP File #151-0334). It also set wetland signage to be placed every 40 feet and approved a pilot 2 × 2‑foot wayfinding sign for Oliver Street. Several public‑hearing items were continued to the September 29 meeting, and a peer‑review proposal for the Torrey Street site was accepted. A negative determination with conditions was issued for carports at 126 Lovefield Street and enforcement actions for that property were closed.

• Require wetland signs every 40 feet – approved unanimously
• Continue 385 Main Street housing hearing to 9/29 – approved unanimously
• Continue Route 5 shared‑use path hearing to 9/29 – approved unanimously
• Issue Order of Conditions for 35 Pleasant Street development (151-0334) – approved unanimously
• Accept Goddard Consulting proposal for peer review of Torrey Street site – approved unanimously
• Issue Negative Determination Type 3 with conditions for carports at 126 Lovefield Street – approved unanimously
• Close enforcement action for K & A Laprade, 126 Lovefield Street – approved unanimously
• Approve pilot 2 × 2‑foot wayfinding sign for Oliver Street – approved unanimously

Manhan Rail Trail Committee

The committee will hear from Assistant City Engineer Mandy Morrissette regarding a 2026 Recreational Trails Grant application. Members will also discuss trail maintenance, signage, and intersection concerns at Lovefield St.

• 2026 Recreational Trails Grant application
• Lovefield St. intersection concerns
• Kiosk repair update
• Trail etiquette signage
• Graffiti removal and trail maintenance

The committee approved the August 18 minutes unanimously. It decided to focus repair work on the trail segment between South Street and Ferry Street and to pursue additional MassTrails grant funding for other sections. Staff will conduct a walk‑through within the next month to identify remaining work, and Anthony will check and empty trailhead trash cans on Fridays as needed. The group also ordered black metal caps for Union Street sign posts and installed new Lexan glass on the Union Street kiosk doors.

• Approved August 18 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Decided to prioritize repairs on trail segment between South Street and Ferry Street
• Decided to pursue additional MassTrails grant funding next year for other trail sections
• Planned staff walk‑through of trail within next month to clarify remaining work
• Assigned Anthony (Senior Tax Work‑Off) to check and empty trailhead trash cans on Fridays as needed
• Ordered black metal caps to protect Union Street sign posts
• Installed new Lexan glass on Union Street kiosk doors (with assistance from Ronald Albertson)
• Agreed to draft trail‑etiquette signage; Barbara to obtain manufacturing estimate

Commission on Disability

The Commission on Disability will meet to receive updates on the accessibility ordinance and a community survey. The body will also discuss recruiting new members and plan for a World Disability Day event on December 3.

• Accessibility ordinance update
• Community Survey subcommittee update
• 988 hotline speaker
• Recruitment of new members
• World Disability Day Event (Dec 3) planning

The commission agreed to examine the 2021 community survey and develop a new survey. It decided not to plan a World Disability Day event for 2025, but to consider one for 2026. The commission will follow up on City Hall after‑hours accessibility. Leslie Tane will prepare three lists (questions, action items, follow‑up items) for the November meeting.

• Agreed to examine 2021 survey and plan a new survey (no vote recorded)
• Decided not to plan 2025 World Disability Day event; will revisit for 2026
• Assigned follow‑up on City Hall after‑hours accessibility
• Tasked Leslie Tane to present three lists at the November meeting
• Motion to appoint Leslie Tane as Clerk presented (outcome not recorded)

City Council - Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will review supplemental requests for legal and auditor expenses and discuss a proposed law to increase school district funding. The agenda also includes updates on the 11 Ferry Street project and the CitySpace restoration.

• Supplemental appropriation of $20,000 to Legal
• Supplemental appropriation of $5,830 to Auditor Salary
• Proposed adoption of Ch. 320 of the Acts of 1987 for school funding
• 11 Ferry Street Project borrowing/bonding authorization
• Rescinding of borrowing authorizations for CitySpace restoration

The committee approved a $20,000 supplemental appropriation from the reserve fund for legal costs and an $8,641.20 interdepartmental transfer to fund Veterans Services clerk hours. It deferred a $5,830 auditor‑salary increase and recommended to the full City Council a $3,000,000 borrowing for the 11 Ferry Street district improvement. The committee also adopted the IRD and IRDP orders and rescinded prior borrowing authorizations for the CitySpace restoration and Honeywell Energy HVAC projects.

• Approved $20,000 legal reserve appropriation (3-0)
• Deferred $5,830 auditor salary increase (3-0)
• Recommended $3,000,000 borrowing for 11 Ferry St. district (3-0)
• Approved $8,641.20 interdepartmental transfer for Veterans Services clerk (3-0)
• Recommended adoption of Ch. 320 to full council (2-1)
• Approved adoption of IRD and IRDP orders (3-0)
• Rescinded borrowing authorizations for CitySpace restoration & Honeywell Energy project (3-0)
• Approved minutes from August 13, 2025 meeting (3-0)

Historical Commission

The Historical Commission will discuss several MassDOT corridor and school projects. The body will also review cemetery nominations and provide recommendations to the Mayor regarding metal detecting on city property.

• Main Street Corridor Improvements (MassDOT Project No. 608374)
• Safe Routes to School Program - Mountain View School (MassDOT Project No. 22147.15)
• Brookside Cemetery NR Nomination
• Main Street and East Street Cemeteries Evaluation
• Metal Detecting on City Property recommendations to the Mayor/Planning

Parks & Recreation Commission

The commission will discuss and potentially vote on the FY26 budget for park revenues and review applications for a dog park through the Community Preservation Act (CPA). Updates will be provided on the skate park, spray park, pickleball expansion construction, and new city playground designs. Public comment will be taken at the start.

• FY26 Budget – Park Revenues discussion
• Skate Park Update
• Spray Park Update
• Dog Park CPA Application
• Pickleball Expansion – Construction Update

The Parks & Recreation Commission approved the Capital Projects Assistance (CPA) applications for a skate park, a spray park, and a historical project. The commission also approved the June and August meeting minutes, with recorded abstentions. The meeting was unanimously adjourned at 7:11 PM.

• Approved CPA skate park, spray park, and historical project (no vote tally recorded)
• Approved June meeting minutes (motion by Eric, seconded by Marlene; Carolyn abstained)
• Approved August meeting minutes (motion by Eric, seconded by Desiree; Eric abstained)
• Unanimously adjourned the meeting at 7:11 PM

City Council - Public Safety Committee

The City Council Public Safety Committee meeting originally scheduled for September 9 has been rescheduled to September 16. The agenda includes discussion of roadway and pedestrian safety, review of traffic rules and orders, traffic safety on West Street, and a quarterly review of public safety departments. No decisions will be made at this meeting due to the rescheduling.

• Roadway, infrastructure and pedestrian safety items
• Review of Traffic Rules & Orders to add, amend or remove language
• Traffic and pedestrian safety on West Street
• Quarterly review of Public Safety departments

City Council - Rules & Government Relations Committee

The Rules & Government Relations Committee will first approve minutes from prior meetings. It will then allow public comments up to two minutes per speaker. The committee will consider a new resolution endorsing democracy and constitutional principles, and an ongoing resolution reclassifying water operator retirements. The next meeting date is still to be determined.

• Approve minutes from past meetings
• Public speak time limited to 2 minutes per person (30‑minute total)
• New Business: Resolution supporting democracy and constitutional principles
• Ongoing Business: Resolution reclassifying water operator retirement

Nashawannuck Pond Committee

The Nashawannuck Pond Committee will meet to discuss old business items including shoreline stabilization, WinterFest, grants, and a pond management plan. No new business is listed. Approval of prior meeting minutes is also on the agenda. All items are for discussion only; no votes are scheduled.

• Discussion of Shoreline Stabilization project
• Planning for WinterFest event
• Review of grant opportunities
• Update on Pond Management Plan

The Nashawannuck Pond Steering Committee unanimously approved the July 7, 2025 meeting minutes. Members also voted to sign a $9,700 contract for shoreline stabilization, including retaining‑wall restoration and public access. Two items— the Pond Management Plan and silt issues in the gabion weir— were placed on future agendas. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved July 7 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved $9,700 shoreline stabilization contract (unanimous)
• Held Pond Management Plan for future agenda
• Held discussion of silt in gabion weir for future WinterFest agenda
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Easthampton City Arts Coordinating Committee

The Easthampton City Arts Coordinating Committee will discuss the Cultural Chaos Budget, a marketing position, and an ECA Gallery position. Updates will be given on Art Walk, Art in the Garden, Poetry at Park Hill Orchard, Public Art, and the ECA Fundraiser. The committee will also receive a report from the Easthampton Cultural Council.

• Discussion of Cultural Chaos Budget
• Discussion of Marketing Position
• Discussion of ECA Gallery Position
• Easthampton Futures Announcement update
• Updates on Art Walk, Art in the Garden, and Poetry at Park Hill Orchard

Easthampton Community Garden

The Community Garden Committee will meet to review the treasurer's budget report and project overviews. The body will discuss operational reports, including weed inspections and compost operations. Members will also address a mulch pile jumping worms project.

• Endorsement of purchase order(s)
• Approval of budget report
• Weed inspection dates for next year
• Mulch pile jumping worms project
• Workday scheduled for September 7th

The Community Garden Committee unanimously approved the August meeting minutes and the current budget. A request for $200 for Aubuchon and $150 for Broad Brook was also approved unanimously. The committee recorded no objections to allowing 17‑year‑old gardeners pending city approval and scheduled a work party for Saturday, September 6.

• Approved August minutes (unanimous)
• Approved budget (unanimous)
• Approved $200 purchase request for Aubuchon and $150 for Broad Brook (unanimous)
• Recorded no objections to 17‑year‑old minimum for plot (unanimous)
• Scheduled work party for Saturday, September 6
• Set next meeting for Thursday, October 2

Board of Public Works

This meeting of the Board of Public Works is largely procedural: board members will approve the August 20 meeting minutes and hear a director's report. The main substantive discussion is a review of the draft Pavement Management plan for city roads.

• Review of the draft Pavement Management plan
• Approval of August 20, 2025 meeting minutes
• Director’s report

The Board of Public Works voted to approve the minutes from the August 20, 2025 meeting. Both members voted YES, so the motion carried 2‑0. The board then adjourned the September 3 meeting. No other substantive actions were decided.

• Approved August 20, 2025 meeting minutes (2-0)
• Adjourned meeting (2-0)

Easthampton City Arts Public Art Subcommittee

The Public Art Subcommittee is meeting to review current art installations and plan future mural projects. The body will discuss funding and requests for proposals for the Community Mosaic Mural Project 2025/26.

• Review of Power to the People utility box
• Community Mosaic Mural Project 2025/26 location, funding, and RFP
• Reimbursement for bike rack painting at 01027 Main Street
• Installation of Union Street bike racks in October
• Planning for Veterans Memorial Mural 2026 and Regional Mural & Community Arts Festival 2027

The subcommittee approved the August 13 minutes by unanimous consent. Mayor Derby agreed to the committee’s request to place the repurposed Power‑to‑the‑People utility box on the Municipal Building’s front‑entrance lawn, pending Public Works Director Greg Nuttelman’s approval. Members continued to discuss possible locations for the "Wings Across the World" mural, including the building’s two‑story front‑entrance wall and an interior option.

• Approved August 13 minutes (unanimous)

City Council

The City Council will discuss proposed charter amendments regarding the mayor's term of office and compensation. The body is also reviewing several supplemental appropriation requests for infrastructure and park improvements.

• Proposed charter amendment to set mayoral term to 4 years
• $699,985.00 for Main Street Reconstruction Design Funding
• $264,500.00 for Nonotuck Spray Park renovations
• $250,000.00 for Easthampton Skate Park/All-Wheels Park design and construction
• $14,500.00 for historic designations for Brookside Cemetery and Daley Field Comfort Station

The City Council unanimously approved a $699,985 transfer to fund the design and reconstruction of Main Street from Northampton Street to Park Street. It also approved supplemental appropriations for the Nonotuck Spray Park ($254,500), the Easthampton Skate Park/All‑Wheels Park ($250,000), historic designations for Brookside Cemetery and Daley Field Comfort Station ($14,500), and a transfer of $8,641.20 to fund a Veterans’ part‑time principal clerk salary. Additional unanimous actions included approving the August 6, 2025 minutes, opening public hearings, and swearing in firefighter Nicole Thornton.

• Approved $699,985 transfer from Capital Stabilization to Main Street Redesign (unanimous)
• Approved $254,500 from CPA Undesignated Fund to Nonotuck Spray Park (unanimous)
• Approved $250,000 from CPA Reserve Fund to Easthampton Skate Park/All‑Wheels Park (unanimous)
• Approved $14,500 from Fund Balance Reserved for Historic Resources to pursue historic designations (unanimous)
• Approved $8,641.20 transfer from Veterans’ Cash Benefits to Part‑Time Principal Clerk Salary (unanimous)
• Approved August 6, 2025 City Council minutes (unanimous)
• Opened public hearings (unanimous)
• Swore in firefighter Nicole Thornton (unanimous)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold a continued public hearing on a special permit application from Kevin Perrier to convert the existing church at 35 Pleasant St into 9 apartments and construct seven new buildings with 33 units, for a total of 42 residential units. The proposal is in the NB zoning district. The hearing has been continued from previous meetings in May through August 2025.

• Special permit hearing continued: convert church at 35 Pleasant St to 9 apartments plus 7 new buildings with 33 units
• Property located in NB (Neighborhood Business) zoning district, Map 136 lot 1
• Application has been continued from 5/20/25, 6/17/25, 7/1/25, and 8/5/25 meetings

City Council - Ordinance Committee

The Ordinance Committee will discuss proposed zoning ordinance amendments regarding short-term rentals. The agenda also includes approval of past meeting minutes and a public comment period. No other business is listed.

• Review of proposed zoning ordinance amendments to regulate short-term rentals

The Ordinance Subcommittee reviewed proposed language for a short‑term rental ordinance, including a 250‑day cap, grandfathering provisions, and inspection requirements. Councilors and staff discussed impacts on housing affordability, health‑department workload, and compliance with fire and building codes. No vote or formal approval was recorded; the meeting ended with a motion to adjourn.

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Easthampton Zoning Board of Appeals will consider two discussion topics at its August 27 meeting. First, members will review the Cross‑Spectrum Acoustics report concerning 1 Northampton Street. Second, they will examine Zoning Ordinance § 8.5, which addresses accessory dwelling units.

• Review of Cross‑Spectrum Acoustics report for 1 Northampton St.
• Review of Zoning Ordinance § 8.5 Accessory Dwelling Units.

Contributory Retirement Board

The Easthampton Retirement Board will consider the intent to retire of Police Detective Rick Rogalski and discuss disability retirement updates for two members. Other business includes approving new members, a military buyback, a trial balance, and discussion of cyber security insurance and an excess action letter.

• Intent to retire: Rick Rogalski, Police Detective, 34 years 11 months, DOR 9/15/2025
• Disability retirement updates for Carrie Baker and Richard Blomstrom
• Approve 7 new members including a police officer, fire fighter, and paraeducators
• Military buyback approval for Police Officer Ryan Murphy (4 years)
• Discussion of medical insurance/HMO increase and cyber security insurance

The Easthampton Retirement Board approved the July 29 meeting minutes and executive minutes. It also approved a cyber incident response plan with security insurance, added eight new members, and authorized buybacks for two retirees. The board approved Warrant #8 for $525,513.21 and adjourned the meeting at 2:25 pm.

• Approved July 29, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved July 29, 2025 executive minutes (unanimous)
• Approved cyber incident response plan and cyber security insurance (unanimous)
• Approved eight new members for August (unanimous)
• Approved military buyback for Ryan Murphy (unanimous)
• Approved buyback for Nicolette Growhoski (unanimous)
• Approved Warrant #8 for $525,513.21 (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 2:25 pm (unanimous)

Conservation Commission

The Easthampton Conservation Commission will hold public hearings on three major projects: a new housing development at 385 Main Street, a shared use path along Route 5, and another housing development at 35 Pleasant Street. The meeting also includes updates on enforcement actions, open space management, and active permits for various developments. A discussion on the Wetlands Ordinance is scheduled.

• Public hearing for new housing development at 385 Main Street (Berkshire Design Group / The Community Builders, Inc.)
• Public hearing for shared use path along Route 5 (MassDOT, continued to Sept 15)
• Public hearing for new housing development at 35 Pleasant Street (Norwich Properties LLC)
• Enforcement actions on properties at 37 South Street, 476 East Street, 93 Northampton Street Rear, 126 Lovefield Street, and 50 Florence Road
• Wetlands Ordinance discussion and updates on active permits including Ferry Street Mill redevelopment and Nashawannuck Pond vegetation management

The Conservation Commission voted to continue the public hearing on the 385 Main Street housing development to the September 15 meeting, passing the motion unanimously. A second motion to continue discussion of the 35 Pleasant Street development and related infiltration setbacks was also passed unanimously. The Commission approved the proposed dumpster for the church units, noting it is within an existing paved area and includes fencing. It set a two‑year monitoring period for the Riverfront mitigation plantings.

• Motion to continue 385 Main St housing hearing to Sept 15 – passed unanimously
• Motion to continue 35 Pleasant St development discussion to Sept 15 – passed unanimously
• Approved dumpster proposal for church units within paved area with fencing
• Established two‑year monitoring period for Riverfront mitigation plantings

City Council - Ordinance Committee

The Ordinance Committee will discuss a proposed ordinance prohibiting biosolids application on city-owned land. It also continues reviewing zoning amendments for short-term rentals, a temporary moratorium on sewage sludge, recommendations from the Affordable and Fair Housing Partnership, and residency requirements for committees.

• Proposal to prohibit application of biosolids on municipal property
• Request for temporary moratorium on sewage sludge/fertilizer use
• Review of zoning ordinance amendments for short-term rentals
• Review of residency requirements for committee membership
• Review of Affordable and Fair Housing Partnership zoning recommendations

The subcommittee spent most of the meeting reviewing how short‑term rentals would be inspected, licensed, and limited, including questions about inspection criteria, public complaint processes, occupancy limits, and a 250‑day rental cap. No formal approvals, denials, or votes on policy items were recorded. The meeting concluded with a motion to adjourn that was approved by all members.

• Motion to adjourn approved unanimously

Board of Public Works

The Board of Public Works will hold a meeting primarily focused on routine procedural items: public comment, approval of the July 16, 2025 meeting minutes, and a report from the director. No specific projects, contracts, or policy changes are listed on the agenda.

• Public Speak period for resident comments
• Approval of July 16, 2025 meeting minutes
• Director’s report (no details provided)

The Board of Public Works approved the July 16, 2025 meeting minutes with a 2‑0 vote. A motion to adjourn the August 20 meeting was also approved with a 2‑0 vote. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved July 16, 2025 meeting minutes (2-0)
• Approved motion to adjourn meeting (2-0)

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will meet to review and sign documents related to motor vehicle abatements, senior and veteran exemptions, and real estate bills for Fiscal Year 2025. The meeting is held in person at the Assessors Office basement.

• Motor Vehicle Abatements End of Month
• Fiscal Year 2026 Senior/Survivor, Veteran, Blind & CPA Exemptions
• Warrant for FY2025 Pro Rata Real Estate Bills
• Public Speak Time (up to 15 minutes)
• Approval of Minutes

The Board of Assessors approved the FY2025 pro rata real estate bill for $7,377.28, accepted the 2025 motor vehicle abatements of $6,380.94, and adopted FY2026 exemptions for seniors, veterans, blind and community preservation. All motions passed unanimously or by a 2‑0 vote.

• Approved FY2025 pro rata real estate bill $7,377.28 (3‑0)
• Accepted 2025 motor vehicle abatements $6,380.94 (2‑0)
• Adopted FY2026 senior/surviving‑spouse, veteran, blind & community‑preservation exemptions (3‑0)
• Approved minutes from 7/29/2025 (2‑0)
• Adjourned meeting at 5:15 pm (2‑0)

Easthampton Cultural Council

The Easthampton Cultural Council will meet to approve July minutes, review 2025 grantee updates, and discuss a September grant education workshop. The meeting will also include a financial report and updates on social media and city arts.

• Approval of July minutes
• 2025 grantee updates
• Financial report
• Social media and marketing updates
• Plan September Grant Education Workshop

The council unanimously approved the July meeting minutes. It confirmed hiring a new part‑time Event & Communications Coordinator for the city arts program. Amy Jonquist was assigned to manage two traffic‑control boxes on Main Street and 50 Payson with a $2,000 stipend per box. Upcoming actions include a virtual information session on September 6 and a new 3‑year funding limit starting in 2027.

• Approved July minutes (unanimous)
• Approved hiring of part-time Event & Communications Coordinator
• Assigned traffic‑control boxes to Amy Jonquist with $2,000 stipend per box
• Scheduled virtual information session for prospective grantees on September 6
• Adopted 2027 policy limiting consecutive funding to three years, requiring a one‑year gap

Manhan Rail Trail Committee

The Manhan Rail Trail Committee will meet to approve July minutes, discuss a committee vacancy and thank outgoing member Steve Donnelly, and address ongoing business including trail maintenance, signage, and intersection concerns at Lovefield Street.

• Thank you to Steve Donnelly for long years of service on the committee.
• Discussion of trail etiquette signage.
• Concerns about Lovefield Street intersection.
• Trail maintenance update.

The Manhan Rail Trail Committee approved the minutes from the July 28 meeting with a unanimous vote. No other formal actions were taken; members discussed trail maintenance, signage, and upcoming tasks but did not adopt any resolutions. The meeting was adjourned by unanimous consent.

• Approved July 28 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Commission on Disability

The Easthampton Commission on Disability will hold a hybrid meeting on August 13, 2025, to discuss updates to the accessibility ordinance, collaboration with Northampton's Commission on Disability for Disability Pride Awareness Month, and recruitment of new members. The commission will also plan for World Disability Day and hear public comments.

• Accessibility ordinance update
• Collaboration with Northampton COD for disability pride awareness month
• Recruiting new members
• World Disability Day event planning
• Public speak opportunity

The commission approved the minutes from the July 10, 2025 meeting. No other actions were voted on; the board noted five open member seats and discussed upcoming events.

• Approved minutes for 07/10/2025

School Committee - Policy Subcommittee

The School Policy Subcommittee will discuss and clarify the district's AI policy after it was referred back for revision. Members will also review proposed changes to a series of policies governing community use of school facilities, including gymnasiums, auditoriums, and other resources. Each policy review may result in a motion to move the item to the full School Committee.

• AI policy referred back for clarification; subcommittee to review proposed changes
• Review of KG policy on Community Use of School Resources
• Review of KG-1 addendum for Easthampton Parks and Recreation Department
• Review of KG-2 policy on High School, White Brook, and Pepin Gymnasium use
• Review of KG-3 policy on Stage and Auditorium use

Easthampton City Arts Public Art Subcommittee

The Easthampton City Arts Public Art Subcommittee will meet on August 13, 2025, to discuss the draft budget, new mural projects, and updates on existing artworks. Items include a review of the Cultural Chaos event and merchandise sales, relocation and use ideas for the Power to the People utility box, and location planning for the Community Mosaic Mural Project. The subcommittee will also address maintenance issues such as the Easthampton Storyscape vent installation and delays in Union Street bike rack painting and installation.

• Draft budget review
• Power to the People utility box relocation and use ideas
• Walls of Easthampton, Regional Mural & Community Arts Festival planning
• Community Mosaic Mural Project – location ideas and process, including ECC involvement
• Union Street bike racks – painting and installation delayed

The subcommittee unanimously approved the July 2 minutes. It agreed to investigate sites and funding for a veterans‑themed mural, and to keep discussing the “Walls of Easthampton” regional mural festival with a tentative 2027 schedule. The group also approved the repainted Main Street bike rack color and will continue exploring locations for the Community Mosaic Mural.

• Approved July 2 minutes (unanimous)
• Agreed to investigate locations and funding for veterans mural (2026/27 timeline)
• Approved color of repainted Main Street bike rack
• Decided to keep discussing Walls of Easthampton festival, tentatively schedule for 2027
• Will continue considering placement ideas for Community Mosaic Mural
• Pasqualina to paint Union St geometric bike racks by end of August

City Council - Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will review several supplemental appropriation requests, including $699,985 for Main Street Reconstruction design, CPA-funded park projects, and a $3 million borrowing for 11 Ferry St. They are also set to discuss quarterly fiscal reports and rescinding prior borrowing authorizations.

• $699,985 supplemental appropriation for Main Street Reconstruction Design from Capital Stabilization
• $264,500 CPA request to renovate Nonotuck Spray Park
• $250,000 CPA request to design/construct Easthampton Skate Park/All-Wheels Park
• $3,000,000 borrowing/bonding for 11 Ferry St. DIF District
• Rescinding borrowing authorizations for CitySpace restoration & Honeywell Energy Conservation Project

The Finance Committee approved the minutes from three prior meetings. It approved a $699,985 supplemental appropriation for Main Street reconstruction design, as well as CPA supplemental appropriations for the Nonotuck Spray Park, a new skate park, and historic designations for Brookside Cemetery and the Daley Field Comfort Station. An $8,641.20 interdepartmental transfer for Veterans’ Services clerk hours was also approved, and the meeting was adjourned.

• Approved minutes from May 28, June 11, and July 14, 2025 (3-0)
• Approved $699,985 Main Street Reconstruction Design Funding (3-0)
• Approved $264,500 renovation of Nonotuck Spray Park (3-0)
• Approved $250,000 design and construction of Easthampton Skate Park/All-Wheels Park (3-0)
• Approved $14,500 to pursue historic designations for Brookside Cemetery & Daley Field Comfort Station (3-0)
• Approved $8,641.20 interdepartmental transfer for Veterans’ Services Principal Clerk hours (3-0)
• Approved motion to adjourn the meeting (3-0)

Housing Authority

The Easthampton Housing Authority Commissioners will meet on August 12, 2025. They will accept the July 8 minutes, the July financial report, and the warrant report for July 6‑August 6. The main new business is a discussion of the current management agreement and possible future management arrangements. The board will also set the date for the September meeting.

• Accept minutes of July 8, 2025 and July financial and warrant reports (7/6‑8/6/2025)
• Discuss the current Management Agreement and explore future management options
• Schedule the September Board meeting
• Local Tenant Organization (LTO) report
• Public comment period

The Easthampton Housing Authority Board approved the minutes from July 8, 2025, the July financial report, and the warrant report covering 7/6/25‑8/6/25. All four voting members voted in favor with no opposition. The Board also set the next meeting for September 17, 2025 at 6:00 p.m. and adjourned the session at 6:37 p.m.

• Approved July 8, 2025 minutes (4‑0)
• Approved July financial report (4‑0)
• Approved warrant report for 7/6/25‑8/6/25 (4‑0)
• Scheduled next board meeting for Sep 17, 2025 at 6:00 p.m.
• Adjourned meeting at 6:37 p.m. (4‑0)

Parks & Recreation Commission

The commission will receive updates on the skate park, spray park, and historical projects, and review the FY26 budget including a leadership transition. They will also discuss park programs (camp, pool, swim lessons) and facilities such as maintenance building designs, pickleball expansion construction, and the new City Playground at Parson Street with 100% designs. A memorial bench request and an inventory list of park and city properties are also on the agenda.

• FY26 Budget and Leadership Transition
• Skate Park Update
• Spray Park Update
• New City Playground Parson St – 100% Designs
• Pickleball Expansion – Construction Update

The commission approved a request for a new memorial bench, with the motion moved by Desiree, seconded by Brian, and passed unanimously. No other substantive policy decisions were made at this meeting. The meeting was then adjourned unanimously at 6:54 PM.

• Memorial bench request approved unanimously

Conservation Commission

The Easthampton Conservation Commission will hold public hearings on a shared-use path along Route 5 (filed by MassDOT), a new housing development at 35 Pleasant Street (Norwich Properties), and an abbreviated notice for a resource area delineation at Torrey Street and 14 Pine Hill Road (Sovereign Builders). A housing development at 385 Main Street (The Community Builders) is continued to August 25. The Commission will also discuss enforcement actions on five properties, open space management, and a wetlands ordinance.

• Public hearing: shared-use path along Route 5 (Map 111-13 & 110-17) filed by MassDOT (MassDEP #151-0333)
• Public hearing: new housing development at 35 Pleasant Street (Map 136, Lot 1) filed by Norwich Properties LLC (MassDEP #151-0334)
• Public hearing: abbreviated notice of resource area delineation at Torrey Street and 14 Pine Hill Road (Map 120, Parcel 18) filed by Sovereign Builders Inc
• Enforcement actions listed for five properties: 37 South Street, 476 East Street, 93 Northampton Street Rear, 126 Lovefield Street, 50 Florence Road
• Discussion of Wetlands Ordinance under General Business

The Conservation Commission voted to continue the public hearing for the 35 Pleasant Street housing project until August 25 and asked the applicant to submit an updated plan set (excluding unit 11) and a comprehensive storm‑water report. It also moved the shared‑use path hearing and the ANRAD request for Torrey Street and Pine Hill Road to September 15, and approved a modified peer‑review focused on unflagged sections of the wetland property.

• Continued 35 Pleasant Street public hearing to Aug 25 (motion carried, seconded by Buttrick)
• Requested updated plan set (excluding unit 11) and full storm‑water report for 35 Pleasant Street (decision made)
• Continued shared‑use path public hearing to Sep 15 (motion carried, seconded by Buttrick)
• Continued ANRAD item for Torrey St & Pine Hill Rd to Sep 15 (motion carried, seconded by Buttrick)
• Approved modified peer review of unflagged sections, excluding parcel 14 Pine Hill
• Reviewed enforcement actions and open‑space updates (no vote recorded)
• Discussed 16 Pomeroy Meadow barn proposal; no decision made, further study required

Easthampton Community Garden

The Easthampton Community Garden Committee will hold a virtual meeting on August 7, 2025. The agenda includes routine reports on operations, outreach, and finances. The committee will discuss old business including a project on mulch pile jumping worms, and new business setting an August 2 workday. The meeting also includes public comment and approval of minutes.

• Discussion of mulch pile jumping worms project (old business)
• Setting August 2 workday (new business)
• Endorsement of purchase orders and budget report
• Mowing crew updates and weed inspection plans
• Volunteer hours and governance reports

The committee unanimously approved the July meeting minutes and the financial update with its budget report. It scheduled workdays for August 2 and September 7 and set the next meeting for September 4 at 7 p.m. The meeting was adjourned unanimously.

• Approved July meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved financial update and budget report (unanimous)
• Scheduled August 2 workday (no vote recorded)
• Scheduled September 7 workday (no vote recorded)
• Set next meeting for September 4 at 7 p.m. (no vote recorded)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

City Council

The City Council will hold a public hearing on adding stop signs at Glendale Street and Loudville Road. They will receive finance reports including a $3 million borrowing request for the 11 Ferry Street project and consider multiple supplemental appropriations totaling over $1.2 million for Main Street design, spray park renovation, and skate park construction. The council will also discuss a proposed charter amendment to adjust the mayoral salary.

• Public hearing on adding stop signs at Glendale Street (West Street and Pomeroy Meadow Road) and Loudville Road (West Street and Pomeroy Meadow Road)
• Discussion of $3,000,000 borrowing/bonding for 11 Ferry Street via District Improvement Finance District
• Vote on $699,985 supplemental appropriation for Main Street Reconstruction Design from Capital Stabilization
• Vote on $264,500 for Nonotuck Spray Park renovation and improvement
• Vote on $250,000 for design and construction of Easthampton Skate Park/All-Wheels Park

The council amended the Traffic Rules to add Loudville Road and Glendale Street to the list of isolated stop signs, converting the intersection to a 4‑way stop. It also corrected Planning Board appointments, established a city‑wide September 11 tribute committee, and set a public hearing for proposed charter changes. Two ordinance items were extended by 90 days, and short‑term‑rental amendments were sent to the Planning Board for review.

• Amended Traffic Rules to create 4‑way stop at Loudville/Glendale/West/Pomeroy Meadow (unanimous)
• Corrected Planning Board appointments: Ken Iavecchia full member, Wendy Taylor‑Jourdian associate (8‑1, Derby abstained)
• Approved minutes from June 1, July 9, July 15 meetings (approved)
• Established City‑Wide September 11 2001 Tribute Committee (unanimous)
• Extended by 90 days: sewage‑sludge moratorium request and short‑term‑rental zoning review (unanimous)
• Sent short‑term‑rental zoning amendment to Planning Board for recommendation (approved)
• Set public hearing for charter amendment on mayor’s salary and election term (unanimous)
• Opened and later closed public hearing on traffic amendment (unanimous for both actions)

Planning Board

The Planning Board is continuing a public hearing (from previous meetings) on a special permit application to convert a former church at 35 Pleasant Street into 42 residential units. The applicant proposes to convert the existing church into 9 apartments and construct seven additional buildings with 33 more units in the NB zoning district.

• Continued public hearing for special permit to convert church at 35 Pleasant St to 42 residential units (9 in church, 33 in new buildings)
• Property located in NB zoning district, Map 136 lot 1
• Application previously continued from May 20, June 17, and July 1, 2025

Licensing Board

The Easthampton Licensing Board will hold public hearings on several special one-day license applications, including events from Rotary Club, Abandoned Building, Tip Top Wine Shop, Easthampton Rod and Gun, and Distant Pour, as well as an annual entertainment license for THCC. The board will also approve minutes from its July meeting.

• Rotary Club seeking special one-day license for annual lobster bake
• THCC seeking annual entertainment license
• Abandoned Building seeking three special one-day licenses: Arcadia Folk Fest (8/27), Fall Makers Market (9/20), Arm Wrestling Event (10/18)
• Tip Top Wine Shop seeking special one-day license for Fall Makers Market (9/20)
• Easthampton Rod and Gun seeking special one-day license for fundraiser (9/6); Distant Pour seeking special one-day license for BankESB picnic (9/12)

Easthampton City Arts Coordinating Committee

The Easthampton City Arts Coordinating Committee is holding a regular meeting to approve minutes, hear public comment, and receive updates on several arts events. Discussions will continue on the Cultural Chaos budget, an arts workspace, and a marketing position.

• Updates on Art Walk, Art in the Garden, and Poetry at Park Hill Orchard
• Easthampton Cultural Council report
• Ongoing discussion on Cultural Chaos Budget
• Discussion on Art Workspace Easthampton
• ECA Fundraiser update

The committee approved the June minutes with all members in favor. No other formal actions were decided; the group discussed upcoming events, funding, and potential projects.

• Approved June minutes (unanimous)

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will review and sign the Motor Vehicle Abatements at month‑end and the Motor Vehicle Commitment for 2025‑13. It will also review and sign the warrant for FY 2025 supplemental bills. A discussion will be held about a vacancy on the board, and the board will receive a principal assessors update.

• Review and sign Motor Vehicle Abatements (end of month)
• Review and sign Motor Vehicle Commitment 2025‑13
• Review and sign warrant for FY 2025 supplemental bills
• Discuss vacancy on the Board of Assessors
• Principal Assessors update

The Board of Assessors approved the minutes from June 17, 2025 and a series of financial items for fiscal year 2025. Motions to accept motor‑vehicle abatements, a motor‑vehicle commitment, the supplemental tax warrant, and the apportionment of tax on divided real estate all passed with a 2‑0 vote. The meeting adjourned at 5:40 p.m.

• Approved June 17, 2025 minutes (2-0)
• Approved 2025 motor vehicle abatements of $7,079.91 (2-0)
• Approved 2025 motor vehicle commitment of $90,807.37 (2-0)
• Approved FY2025 supplemental tax warrant: Real Estate $7,377.28, Community Preservation Act $219.07 (2-0)
• Approved FY2025 tax apportionment on divided real estate for Kestrel Lans Trust Inc. ($2,528.46 real estate, $42.64 CPA) and for Robert C. Fedor & Edward C. Fedor ($593.09 real estate, $10.00 CPA) (2-0)

Contributory Retirement Board

The Easthampton Contributory Retirement Board will approve minutes from June 24, 2025, and hear public comment. Old business includes annual retiree affidavits and an update on the disability retirement of Carrie Baker. New business features an executive session on the accidental disability application of Richard Blomstrom, approval of three new members, a trial balance for June, and warrants #7 and 7A.

• Executive session for accidental disability application of Richard Blomstrom
• Approve new members: Eric Freniere (DPW laborer, DOH 7/28/2025), Christopher Vayda (Health Inspector, DOH 7/14/2025), Shakira Martin (Principal Clerk, Veterans Dept, DOH 7/7/2025)
• Approve trial balance for June
• Approve warrant #7 and 7A
• Disability retirement update — Carrie Baker

The minutes contain no record of any decisions, approvals, or votes. The document indicates the file could not be retrieved.

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will hold public hearings on four Notices of Intent, including a new housing development at 385 Main Street by The Community Builders, Inc., a shared use path along Route 5 by MassDOT (continued to August 11), another housing development at 35 Pleasant Street, and an ecological restoration at 127 Combs Road. The meeting also includes requests for certificates of compliance, enforcement actions on several properties, and updates on open space and active permits.

• Public hearing for a new housing development at 385 Main Street (The Community Builders, Inc., MassDEP File #151-0330)
• Public hearing for a shared use path along Route 5 by MassDOT (continued to Aug 11, 2025; MassDEP File #151-0333)
• Public hearing for a new housing development at 35 Pleasant Street (Norwich Properties LLC, MassDEP File #151-0334)
• Public hearing for invasive plant removal at 127 Combs Road (Mass Audubon, MassDEP File #151-0335)
• Enforcement actions against properties at 37 South Street, 476 East Street, 93 Northampton Street Rear, 126 Lovefield Street, and 50 Florence Road

The Commission voted unanimously to issue an Order of Conditions for the invasive plant removal project at 127 Combs Road (MassDEP File #151-0335), adding signage and annual reporting requirements. It also approved a Certificate of Compliance for the outfall restoration at 99 Mt. Tom Avenue (MassDEP File #151-0313) with one abstention. The three sets of meeting minutes were approved unanimously.

• Issued Order of Conditions for 151-0335 (unanimous)
• Added signage and annual report by Feb 28 as conditions (unanimous)
• Issued Certificate of Compliance for 151-0313 (unanimous, Busa abstained)
• Approved minutes for 6/16, 6/30, 7/14/2025 (unanimous)
• Continued housing hearing at 385 Main St to Aug 25 (motion carried)
• Continued shared‑use path hearing on Route 5 to Aug 11 (motion carried)
• Continued housing hearing at 35 Pleasant St to Aug 11 (motion carried)

Manhan Rail Trail Committee

The Manhan Rail Trail Committee will approve June meeting minutes, hear public comment, and discuss new business including document storage at the Historical Society. Continuing business covers trail maintenance updates and a kiosk on-site inspection report with a door replacement discussion.

• Approval of June meeting minutes
• Document storage at the Historical Society
• Trail maintenance update and general trail issues
• Kiosk on-site inspection report and door replacement discussion

The committee approved the minutes from the June 23 meeting with a unanimous vote. No other motions were adopted; members discussed maintenance responsibilities, signage options, historical material storage, and future grant plans. The meeting was adjourned by unanimous consent at 8:00 p.m.

• Approved June 23 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting by unanimous consent

Affordable & Fair Housing Partnership

The Easthampton Affordable & Fair Housing Partnership will receive updates on current affordable housing projects and discuss legislative priorities from Abundant Housing. The board will also hear a report from the Rent Rally and consider questions on housing for upcoming mayoral and city council races. The meeting includes public speak time and approval of previous meeting notes.

• Update on current affordable housing projects
• Discussion of Abundant Housing Legislative Priorities
• Update from Rent Rally
• Opportunity for housing-related questions in mayoral and city council races
• Approval of June meeting notes

The partnership postponed approval of the June meeting minutes, moving the decision to the September meeting. A motion allowing members McQuaid, Cuipylo, and Tetreault to work with Julia from Abundant Housing was passed unanimously. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Tabled June meeting minutes (postponed to September meeting)
• Approved motion for McQuaid, Cuipylo, and Tetreault to collaborate with Abundant Housing (unanimous)
• Motion to adjourn passed

School Committee - Policy Subcommittee

The School Policy Subcommittee will review a proposed AI policy and decide whether to move it to the full committee. The group will also discuss committee priorities for the 2025/26 school year.

• Review and potential vote on AI policy
• Discussion of 2025/26 school year committee priorities

The subcommittee voted to move the AI policy proposal to the full School Committee. Mr. Hunter will place a rewrite of the School Use KGE policy on the next agenda. Ms. Saari‑Franks will research hosting school policies on the MASC website at a cost of $950 per year. The committee plans to work through existing policies alphabetically. The meeting was adjourned with unanimous approval.

• Move AI policy to full committee (all approved)
• Place rewrite of School Use KGE policy on next agenda (action assigned to Mr. Hunter)
• Research hosting school policies on MASC website at $950/yr (action assigned to Ms. Saari‑Franks)
• Plan to review School Committee policies alphabetically (discussion outcome)
• Adjourn meeting (all approved)

Community Preservation Act Committee

The Community Preservation Act Committee will hear a presentation on a retaining wall and public access at Nashawannuck Pond, led by the Nashawannuck Pond Steering Committee. A town clock design will also be presented. The committee will discuss the Community Preservation Plan administrative fund proposal and give updates on account balances and open projects.

• Nashawannuck Pond retaining wall and public access presentation (Steering Committee: Beth Gula)
• Town Clock design presentation (presenter: Dan Rist)
• Community Preservation Plan administrative fund proposal
• Account balances and open project updates
• Quarterly CPA grant application schedule and deadlines

The committee voted to approve an expenditure of $5,200 for the PVPC Community Preservation Plan contract, with additional funds to be moved from the undesignated account to cover the CPA Coalition membership fee. The motion to adjourn the meeting was unanimously approved. No other proposals, including the Nashawannuck Pond retaining wall and town‑clock design projects, were decided upon at this meeting.

• Approved $5,200 Community Preservation Plan contract
• Did not approve meeting minutes
• Approved motion to adjourn (unanimous)

City Council - Ordinance Committee

The Easthampton City Council Ordinance Committee will discuss multiple proposed ordinance changes, including amendments to short-term rental zoning and a temporary moratorium on sewage sludge use. They will also consider creating a committee for a permanent 9/11 tribute and review recommendations from the Affordable & Fair Housing Partnership. The meeting includes public comment and approval of past minutes.

• Proposal to create an ordinance establishing a committee for a permanent 9/11 tribute
• Review of short-term rental zoning ordinance amendments
• Request for temporary moratorium on sewage sludge/fertilizer use
• Ordinance Review Committee's final report
• Review of residency requirements for committee membership

The Ordinance Committee voted 3‑0 to refer the short‑term rental zoning ordinance to the full City Council and the Planning Board. A motion to accept the 9/11 tribute ordinance, with specified changes, also passed unanimously. The meeting was adjourned by a unanimous motion.

• Referral of short‑term rental zoning ordinance to council and planning board approved (3‑0)
• 9/11 tribute ordinance accepted with changes approved (unanimous)
• Motion to adjourn approved (unanimous)

Board of Public Works

The Board of Public Works will hear public comments and a brief address from the mayor. It will then vote to approve the minutes from the June 4, 2025 meeting. Finally, the director will present a report on recent city operations.

• Approval of the June 4, 2025 Board of Public Works meeting minutes
• Director’s report on recent city operations

The Board of Public Works approved the June 4, 2025 meeting minutes with a 2‑0 vote. After the approval, the Board voted to adjourn the July 16, 2025 meeting at 5:11 p.m. No other actions or votes were recorded.

• Approved June 4, 2025 meeting minutes (2-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 5:11 p.m. (2-0)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold a public hearing on a request by Darlene Orvieto to divide a 16,352-square-foot parcel at 44 Cherry St into two lots. The smaller lot would be combined with a neighboring parcel at 37 Mutter St. The board will also hear public comment and handle administrative items.

• Public hearing on Darlene Orvieto's request to split 44 Cherry St into a 6,062-sq-ft lot and a 10,290-sq-ft lot
• Proposal to combine the 6,062-sq-ft lot with the 16,002-sq-ft parcel at 37 Mutter St for a total of 22,064 sq ft
• Call to Order and Public Speak period
• Next meeting scheduled for August 6, 2025

Council on Aging

The Council on Aging will conduct a facilitated SWOT session to identify strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats for strategic planning. The meeting includes a period for public participation.

• ECOA Strategic Planning SWOT brainstorming session

The Council on Aging approved the minutes from the June 17, 2025 meeting. The motion was made by Tom, seconded by Marie, and passed with five votes in favor, zero against, and two abstentions. The board then adjourned the meeting at 11:38 a.m.

• Approved June 17, 2025 meeting minutes (5-0-2)
• Adjourned meeting at 11:38 a.m.

City Council

The City Council will vote on a request to transfer $16,775 from the Reserve Fund to cover salary and professional service shortfalls across several departments, including the Mayor's office, Auditor, Personnel, City Attorney, City Clerk, Landfill, and School Medicare Tax. This is the only substantive item on the agenda.

• Transfer of $16,775 from Reserve Fund for FY25 interdepartmental adjustments
• Allocations: Mayor Salary $145, Auditor Salary $3,110, Personnel Salary $8,200, City Attorney Prof. Serv. $3,550, City Clerk Salary $220, Landfill Prof. Serv. $550, School Medicare Tax $1,000

The council voted unanimously to move $16,775 from the Reserve Fund to cover the FY 2025 budget deficit for several departments. Transfers include $145 to Mayor salary, $3,110 to Auditor salary, $8,200 to Personnel salary, $3,550 to City Attorney professional services, $220 to City Clerk salary, $550 to Landfill professional services, and $1,000 to School Medicare Tax. The meeting was then adjourned unanimously.

• Approved $16,775 interdepartmental transfers (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Development & Industrial Commission

The Easthampton Development & Industrial Commission will meet remotely to discuss the status of the Vacant Storefront Ordinance and short-term rental considerations with Building Commissioner David Gardner. The agenda also includes introduction of the new Chamber of Commerce executive director and an update from the Planning Department. No votes are scheduled; items are for discussion only.

• Discussion with Building Commissioner on Vacant Storefront Ordinance status, highlights, and challenges
• Discussion with Building Commissioner on short-term rentals considerations
• Introduction of Jon Kostek as new Chamber of Commerce Executive Director
• Updates from Planning Department by Allyson

The commission voted to approve the July 15 meeting minutes, with all members in favor. No other motions were voted on. The board discussed grant applications, the Mill District financing proposal, vacant storefront ordinance enforcement, and draft short‑term rental regulations, but no decisions were made on those items.

• Approved meeting minutes (all in favor)

Easthampton Cultural Council

The Easthampton Cultural Council will meet to approve minutes, review financial reports, and discuss updates on 2025 grantees and the Easthampton Feed Mural unveiling. The agenda includes a proposal to form a subcommittee for the Easthampton City Arts annual project.

• Approval of May minutes
• 2025 grantee updates
• Easthampton Feed Mural Unveiling Review
• ECC Annual Project Updates
• Discussion on forming a subcommittee

The council approved the May 2025 meeting minutes. It voted to commission an artist to design traffic control boxes at Union/Payson and Union/Main, with funding to be committed in 2025 and work to begin in 2026. Mike Sjostedt will reduce his role on the council’s social‑media accounts and Steven Collicelli will manage them for the time being. The council also welcomed new member CJ Mutti.

• Approved May 2025 meeting minutes (motion by Nancy, seconded by Mike)
• Commissioned artist to design traffic control boxes at Union/Payson & Union/Main (to be funded 2025, executed 2026)
• Assigned Steven Collicelli to manage social media as Mike reduces his role
• Welcomed new member CJ Mutti to the Cultural Council

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will conduct public hearings for new housing projects at 385 Main Street and 35 Pleasant Street. The body will also review enforcement actions and provide updates on various active permits and open space management projects.

• Public hearing for housing development at 385 Main Street
• Public hearing for housing development at 35 Pleasant Street
• Public hearing for MassDOT shared use path along Route 5 (continued to Aug 11, 2025)
• Enforcement actions for properties at 37 South Street, 476 East Street, 93 Northampton Street Rear, 126 Lovefield Street, and 50 Florence Road
• Discussion regarding the Wetlands Ordinance

The Conservation Commission voted to continue the public hearing on the 385 Main Street housing project until July 28, 2025. It also postponed the hearing on the 35 Pleasant Street development to August 11, 2025. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Continued hearing for 385 Main Street housing development to July 28, 2025 (motion carried)
• Continued hearing for 35 Pleasant Street housing development to August 11, 2025 (motion carried)
• Adjourned the meeting (motion carried)

City Council - Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will meet to approve minutes from prior meetings, hear a communication from the mayor, and allow public comments. The primary agenda item is a new business transfer of $16,775 from the Reserve Fund to fund salaries and professional services for the mayor, auditor, personnel, city attorney, city clerk, landfill, and school Medicare tax. No other decisions are listed.

• Approval of minutes from past meetings
• Mayor’s communication
• Public comment period
• FY 2025 interdepartmental transfer of $16,775 from the Reserve Fund to cover salaries and professional services

The Finance Committee approved the minutes from the May meetings (5/12, 5/13, 5/19, 5/20) with a 3‑0 vote. It also approved $16,775.00 in interdepartmental transfers from the reserve fund for FY 2025, also by a 3‑0 vote. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved prior meeting minutes (3-0)
• Approved $16,775.00 FY 2025 interdepartmental transfers (3-0)
• Adjourned meeting (3-0)

Commission on Disability

The Commission on Disability will hold a hybrid meeting to discuss several updates, including an accessibility ordinance and a film festival. The agenda also covers recruiting new members and planning for World Disability Day. No votes or binding decisions are listed; the meeting is largely informational and procedural.

• Accessibility ordinance update
• World Disability Day (Dec 3) event ideas for next year
• Recruiting issue: need new members
• Update on Film Festival and Cultural Chaos table
• Future speaker ideas and requests

The Commission approved the minutes from the 06/12/2025 meeting. It decided to create a subcommittee to generate a list of sample accommodations for the accessibility ordinance. Leslie Tane was assigned as the primary social‑media contact for the Commission. The next meeting was scheduled for 08/14/2025.

• Approved minutes from 06/12/2025
• Formed subcommittee to generate sample accessibility accommodations
• Designated Leslie Tane as primary social‑media person
• Scheduled next meeting for 08/14/2025

Historical Commission

The Historical Commission will conduct Section 106 reviews for two MassDOT projects: Main Street Corridor Improvements and a Safe Routes to School program at Mountain View School. Other items include nominations and evaluations for city cemeteries, recommendations regarding metal detecting on city property, and discussion of a Demo Delay Bylaw. Updates on the Town Clock, School Reuse, Town Lodging, and Memorial Hall will also be provided.

• Section 106 Review: Main Street Corridor Improvements (MassDOT Project No. 608374)
• Section 106 Review: Safe Routes to School – Mountain View School (MassDOT Project No. 22147.15)
• Brookside Cemetery NR Nomination and Main Street/East Street Cemeteries Evaluation
• Metal Detecting on City Property – Recommendations to the Mayor
• Demo Delay Bylaw discussion

City Council

The Easthampton City Council will vote on a $3,000,000.00 borrowing for the 11 Ferry St. project via the District Improvement Finance District, a resolution supporting water operator retirement reclassification, and a proposal to create an ordinance for a permanent 9/11 tribute committee. The agenda also includes rescinding prior borrowing authorizations for CitySpace restoration and the Honeywell Energy Conservation Project. Additionally, the council will receive committee updates on traffic safety, short-term rental zoning, and a proposed rent study committee.

• $3,000,000.00 borrowing for 11 Ferry St. project via existing DIF District
• Resolution supporting water operator retirement reclassification
• Proposal to create a committee to develop a permanent 9/11 tribute
• Rescinding borrowing authorizations for CitySpace restoration and Honeywell Energy Conservation Project
• Request to convert Loudville Rd., West St., Glendale St., and Pomeroy Meadow Rd. to all-way stop control

The council unanimously referred the water‑operator re‑classification resolution to the Rules Committee. It also voted to suspend rules so agenda items could be considered immediately and set a public hearing for a $3 million borrowing request to redevelop 11 Ferry Street. Additional actions included a public hearing for an all‑way stop at Loudville Road and several committee appointments.

• Unanimously referred water‑operator re‑classification resolution to the Rules Committee
• Unanimously voted to suspend City Council rules for immediate‑consideration agenda items (July 14 2025)
• Unanimously set public hearing (Aug 6 2025) for $3,000,000 borrowing request for 11 Ferry Street
• Unanimously referred rescinding of borrowing authorizations for CitySpace restoration and Honeywell Energy Conservation Project to Finance Committee
• Unanimously set public hearing (Aug 6 2025) to amend traffic rules for all‑way stop at Loudville Road/West Street/Glendale Street/Pomeroy Meadow Road
• Unanimously extended by 90 days the agenda item “Review of language in the Traffic Rules and Orders”
• Unanimously approved appointments: Leslie Buton (Board of Registrars), Deb Peavey (Council on Aging), Elizabeth CJ Muñ (Cultural Council), Wendy Taylor‑Jourdian (Planning Board)
• Unanimously referred September 11th tribute committee agenda item to the Ordinance Committee

City Council - Public Safety Committee

The City Council Public Safety Committee will meet to discuss a request from the Director of Public Works regarding traffic control. The body will also review general roadway infrastructure and existing traffic rules.

• Request to convert Loudville Rd., West St., Glendale St., and Pomeroy Meadow Rd. to All-Way Stop Control
• Review of Traffic Rules & Orders for updates or removals
• Discussion of traffic and pedestrian safety on West Street
• Review of roadway, infrastructure, and pedestrian safety items

Licensing Board

The Easthampton Licensing Board will hold public hearings on several license applications, including an amusement device license for claw machines at Sevens, an annual entertainment license for THCC, an outdoor dining permit for Local Burger, and a special one-day license for Our Lady of the Valley's annual festival. The board will also approve minutes from May and June 2025 meetings.

• Amusement device license for adding two claw machines at Sevens
• THCC seeking annual entertainment license
• Local Burger seeking outdoor dining permit
• Our Lady of the Valley seeking special one-day (SOD) license for Annual Festival
• Approval of meeting minutes for May and June 2025

The Licensing Board opened the meeting and approved the May and June minutes. It granted an amusement device license for two claw machines at Sevens (Lucky Duck Vending). It also approved a one‑day special entertainment permit for Our Lady of the Valley's annual polka fest, contingent on an insurance binder and payment. No decisions were made on the THCC or Local Burger applications.

• Approved opening of the meeting (all in favor)
• Approved May and June minutes (all in favor)
• Approved amusement device license for two claw machines at Sevens – Lucky Duck Vending (all in favor)
• Approved one‑day special entertainment permit for Our Lady of the Valley polka fest, contingent on insurance binder and payment (all in favor)

Housing Authority

The Commissioners of the Easthampton Housing Authority will meet to review financial reports and approve future planning. The body will consider a capital improvement plan and a specific change order for asphalt and drainage repairs.

• Approval of the 2026 Capital Improvement Plan
• Change order no. 1 for $49,233.80 for project 087085 (Repair asphalt and drainage building 3, new parking lot)
• Acceptance of Quarterly Financial Reports
• Acceptance of June 10th minutes and Warrant Report for 6/6/2025 – 7/6/2025

The Housing Authority board unanimously accepted the June 10 minutes and the warrant report. It also approved the quarterly financial reports, a $49,233.80 change order for project #087085, and the 2026 Capital Improvement Plan. The meeting was then adjourned at 6:24 p.m.

• Accepted June 10 minutes and warrant report (unanimous YAY)
• Accepted quarterly financial reports as presented (unanimous YAY)
• Approved Change Order No. 1 for project #087085, $49,233.80 (unanimous YAY)
• Approved the 2026 Capital Improvement Plan (unanimous YAY)
• Adjourned meeting at 6:24 p.m. (unanimous YAY)

City Council - Appointment Committee

The City Council Appointment Committee will meet to discuss and potentially vote on four mayoral appointments to city boards and committees. The meeting will be held in person at 50 Payson Ave. and online.

• Appointment of Leslie Button to the Board of Registrars
• Appointment of Deb Peavey to the Council on Aging
• Appointment of Elizabeth CJ Mutti to the Easthampton Cultural Council
• Appointment of Wendy Taylor-Jourdain to the Planning Board
• Review of board and committee vacancies

The Appointment Committee approved the May 19 meeting minutes. It recommended and approved appointments of Leslie Button to the Board of Registrars, Deb Peavey to the Council on Aging, Elizabeth ‘CJ’ Mutti to the Easthampton Cultural Council, and Wendy Taylor-Jourdian to the Planning Board, each with the stated term expiration dates. The committee then adjourned the meeting.

• Approved May 19 meeting minutes (3-0)
• Recommended appointment of Leslie Button to Board of Registrars, term 12/31/2025 (3-0)
• Recommended appointment of Deb Peavey to Council on Aging, term 12/31/2025 (3-0)
• Recommended appointment of Elizabeth ‘CJ’ Mutti to Easthampton Cultural Council, term 06/03/2028 (3-0)
• Recommended appointment of Wendy Taylor-Jourdian to Planning Board, term 12/31/2025 (3-0)
• Adjourned meeting (3-0)

City Council - Rules & Government Relations Committee

The Rules & Government Relations Committee meeting scheduled for July 7, 2025, was cancelled. The agenda included discussion of a Home Rule Charter amendment request regarding Mayor compensation and term of office (Sec. 3-1(c)). No decisions or discussions occurred.

• Home Rule Charter amendment request – Sec. 3-1(c) Mayor Compensation, term of office (not discussed due to cancellation)

Nashawannuck Pond Committee

The Nashawannuck Pond Committee is meeting to discuss several ongoing items including shoreline stabilization, WinterFest planning, an MCC grant, barley straw use, and the pond management plan. The agenda consists of old business items with no new business listed.

• Shoreline Stabilization
• WinterFest planning
• MCC Grant
• Barley Straw management
• Pond Management Plan

The Nashawannuck Pond Steering Committee approved the minutes from the June 2, 2025 meeting. Members voted unanimously to skip the scheduled August meeting and schedule the next meeting for September 8 at 5:45 p.m. The session was then adjourned by unanimous motion.

• Approved June 2, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Voted to skip August meeting; next meeting set for Sept 8 (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 6:15 p.m. (unanimous)

Easthampton City Arts Coordinating Committee

The committee will review updates on several community art events and projects. Members will also hold ongoing discussions regarding a marketing position and art workspace.

• Updates on Cultural Chaos, Art Walk, Art in the Garden, Public Art, and ECA Fundraiser
• Easthampton Cultural Council Report
• Discussion on Art Workspace Easthampton
• Discussion on Marketing Position
• Discussion on Arts Advocacy Gathering

Easthampton Community Garden

The Community Garden Committee will hear the Treasurer's report, which includes endorsement of purchase orders and approval of the budget overview for garden projects. Operations updates will cover volunteer mowing schedules and weed‑inspection expectations. Reports will be given on mulch‑pile worm project, volunteer hours, and upcoming workday on July 6. The meeting will conclude with setting the next meeting date for August 7.

• Endorsement of purchase order(s) in Treasurer's report
• Approval of budget report and project overview
• Mowing crew volunteer schedule and weed inspection plan
• Mulch pile jumping worms project (old business)
• Workday scheduled for July 6 (new business)

Easthampton City Arts Public Art Subcommittee

The Easthampton City Arts Public Art Subcommittee will review recent events, discuss the Community Mosaic Mural Project including location ideas and process, and consider a draft budget. Updates will be given on plaques, the Power to the People utility box relocation, and the Union Street bike racks. No final votes are scheduled; the meeting focuses on discussion and planning.

• Review of Cultural Chaos event and merchandise sales
• Power to the People utility box relocation and use ideas
• Community Mosaic Mural Project – location ideas and process, potential ECC involvement
• Easthampton Storyscape – vent installation and sharp edges check
• Union Street bike racks – painting and installation delayed

The subcommittee approved the June 4th minutes unanimously. It agreed the Power to the People utility box will be used as a ballot box at the Municipal Building. Members assigned tasks such as assessing paint on a bike rack and discussing a $30 material reimbursement at the next meeting. Wedgeworks will continue selling event merchandise, with placement to be arranged at Big Red Frame.

• Approved June 4th minutes (unanimous)
• Agreed utility box will serve as ballot box at Municipal Building
• Assigned Pasqualina to assess paint on 01027 bike rack on Main Street
• Will discuss reimbursement for bike rack paint materials ($30) at next meeting
• Wedgeworks will continue selling event merchandise; Pasqualina to coordinate placement at Big Red Frame
• Bob and Pasqualina will inspect the utility box at Water Dept. early next week
• Pasqualina will ask artist Amy Jonquist for input on using the box as a ballot box
• Noted QR plaques still need installation at sculpture sites

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold public hearings regarding two site developments. The board is reviewing a site plan for a karaoke business and a special permit for a residential conversion of a church parcel.

• Site Plan Approval for a karaoke establishment at 24 Cottage St
• Special Permit for 35 Pleasant St to convert a church into 9 apartments and add 7 buildings with 33 units

Conservation Commission

The Easthampton Conservation Commission will hold a public hearing on a Notice of Intent for a new housing development at 35 Pleasant Street filed by Norwich Properties. They will also consider a stormwater permit for New City Neighborhood Infrastructure Improvements and a Determination of Applicability for a playground renovation at 127 Combs Road. Multiple enforcement actions and compliance updates for active projects are also on the agenda.

• Public hearing: Notice of Intent for new housing development at 35 Pleasant Street (Norwich Properties)
• Public meeting: Stormwater permit application for New City Neighborhood Infrastructure Improvements
• Public hearing: Request for Determination of Applicability for playground renovation at 127 Combs Road (Mass Audubon)
• Enforcement actions on five properties including 37 South Street, 476 East Street, 93 Northampton Street Rear, 126 Lovefield Street, and 50 Florence Road
• Compliance updates for 20 active projects including Pleasant Street Mills, Lathrop Community, Nashawannuck Pond, and Ferry Street Mill Redevelopment

The Conservation Commission voted unanimously to issue a Stormwater Permit for the New City Neighborhood Infrastructure Improvements project. It also unanimously approved a Negative Determination for a Mass Audubon playground renovation, accepted the Memorandum of Agreement for 385 Main Street, and extended the public hearing on the 35 Pleasant Street housing development to July 14, 2025.

• Approved Stormwater Permit for New City infrastructure improvement project (unanimous)
• Approved Negative Determination Type 3 for Mass Audubon playground renovation at 127 Combs Road (unanimous)
• Accepted Memorandum of Agreement for 385 Main Street Conservation Restriction (unanimous)
• Continued public hearing on 35 Pleasant Street housing development to July 14 2025 (unanimous)
• Requested post‑treatment reports for Signal Energy’s remediation at 50 Florence Road (agreed)
• Agreed to check back on enforcement sites at 126 Lovefield Street by end of August/early September (planned)
• Recommended 2700 K rear lighting specification for 35 Pleasant Street project (recommended)
• Discussed peer review of porous asphalt storm‑water system with estimated cost $2,500 (considered)

Affordable & Fair Housing Partnership

The Affordable & Fair Housing Partnership will hold a hybrid public meeting on June 26, 2025. Agenda items include updates from the Ordinance Subcommittee and the Rent Study Committee on rent stabilization, as well as a joint meeting with the Aquifer Committee. The board will also approve prior meeting notes.

• Public speak period until 6:15 p.m.
• Approve May 1 meeting notes
• Ordinance Subcommittee update
• Aquifer Committee joint meeting
• Rent Study Committee/Rent Stabilization updates

The partnership approved the May 2025 meeting minutes. L. Rothschild moved to approve, K. Jamrog-McQuaid seconded, D. Cuipylo abstained, and the motion passed. No other substantive decisions were recorded at this meeting.

• Approved May meeting minutes (motion passed, one abstention)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Easthampton Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a hybrid meeting to consider three special permit requests for accessory dwelling units and one variance for a porch expansion. The public may attend in person at City Hall or join via Google Meet.

• Elizabeth Dasilva: Special permit for 7 Knipfer Ave ADU
• Chris Soutra: Special permit for 154 Hendrick ADU
• Bozena Dabek: Variance for 18-24 East Green West porch expansion
• Hybrid meeting format: In-person at 50 Payson Ave or Google Meet
• Next meeting scheduled for July 23, 2025

Parks & Recreation Commission

The Easthampton Parks and Recreation Commission will discuss updates on the Community Preservation Act, skate park, spray park, dog park timeline, and FY25/26 budgets. They will also review park programs (camp, pool, summer programs, swim lessons) and facility projects including a maintenance building design, pickleball expansion construction, park entrance updates, a new city playground, and the Daley Field 100th anniversary. The meeting includes public speak time and old business. No votes or decisions are specified; items are primarily updates and discussion.

• Skate Park Update
• Spray Park Update
• Dog Park Timeline Update
• Pickleball Expansion – Construction Update
• New City Playground update

The commission unanimously approved the May 14 minutes. All four Community Preservation Act applications were approved and will go to City Council. The spray park project received approval. The pickleball expansion contract was awarded to Duffy Willard for $95,400, with work slated for completion by the first week of September. The City Council passed FY26 budgets for the department, allowing the commission to proceed as planned.

• Approved May 14 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved all four CPA applications (pending City Council)
• Approved spray park project
• Awarded pickleball expansion contract to Duffy Willard for $95,400
• Accepted FY26 budget as passed by City Council

City Council - Public Safety Committee

This meeting was rescheduled to July 8. The committee will discuss a request from the Director of Public Works to convert Loudville Rd., West St., Glendale St., and Pomeroy Meadow Rd. to all-way stop control. Also on the agenda: review of traffic rules and pedestrian safety items.

• Request to convert Loudville Rd., West St., Glendale St., and Pomeroy Meadow Rd. to all-way stop control
• Review of Traffic Rules & Orders to add, amend, or remove language
• Traffic and pedestrian safety on West Street
• Roadway, infrastructure, and pedestrian safety items (continuing business)

Contributory Retirement Board

The Contributory Retirement Board will meet to approve membership changes and financial records. The board is deciding on retirement intents, fund transfers, and the approval of the May trial balance and Warrant #6.

• Retirement intent for Evan Eisentrager (Paraeducator)
• Fund transfers for Geraldine Page and Adam Czerwiec
• Refund of deductions for Geraldine Page
• New member approvals for Julienne Lussier, Henry Harrison, and Wyatt Evans
• Approval of May trial balance and Warrant #6

The Easthampton Retirement Board unanimously approved several items, including the May 27 minutes, executive minutes, transfer of funds, refund of deductions, new members, the May trial balance, and Warrant #6 for $541,062.37. The meeting was adjourned at 11:35 am. All motions received unanimous votes.

• Approved May 27 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved May 27 executive minutes (unanimous)
• Approved transfer of funds (unanimous)
• Approved refund of deductions (unanimous)
• Approved new members (unanimous)
• Approved trial balance for May (unanimous)
• Approved Warrant #6 for $541,062.37 (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Energy Advisory Committee

The Energy Advisory Committee will review grant opportunities for decarbonization and the status of the 2024 Green Communities Annual Report. The body will also discuss electrification programs and the implementation timeline for municipal aggregation.

• Decarbonization Technical Support Grant (up to $150,000)
• Decarbonization Accelerator Grants (up to $1,000,000)
• 2024 Green Communities Annual Report due November 15th
• Municipal Aggregation bid day postponement
• Discussion of solar canopies

The committee approved the May 19, 2025 meeting minutes. It decided to keep Good Energy’s procurement bids open as rolling bids while awaiting lower baseline rates. The garden tour was cancelled due to weather and will be rescheduled for September. No action was taken on the abandoned‑businesses accountability issue because it is outside the committee’s scope.

• Approved May 19, 2025 meeting minutes
• Decided to keep Good Energy bids open as rolling bids
• Cancelled garden tour; plan to reschedule for September
• Declined to address abandoned‑businesses accountability (outside purview)
• Requested $300 from mayor for EDIC Business Recognition program expenses

Manhan Rail Trail Committee

The committee will approve the minutes from the May meeting. It will discuss trail maintenance, kiosk work, and an update on the Massachusetts Recreational Trails grant project. A public speak time is scheduled, and the next meeting is set for July 28.

• Approve May meeting minutes
• Public speak time
• Trail maintenance update
• Kiosk work
• MA Recreational Trails grant project update

The committee approved the May 19 meeting minutes unanimously. They scheduled a site assessment of the Union Street kiosk for July 7 at 9:00 a.m. Members agreed to continue offering the bike‑valet service at future events. The Parks & Recreation Department will order and install a memorial bench near Lovefield Street after July 1.

• Approved May 19 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Scheduled Union Street kiosk assessment for July 7, 9:00 a.m.
• Continued bike‑valet service at future festivals (agreement)
• Proceed with memorial bench installation near Lovefield Street (Parks & Recreation to order/install after July 1)

Historical Commission

The Easthampton Historical Commission will discuss several preservation-related items, including Section 106 reviews for the Main Street Corridor Improvements and Safe Routes to School at Mountain View School. They will also consider a presentation on Memorial Hall, cemetery nominations, a demolition delay bylaw, and a historic sign program. The meeting includes public speak and approval of previous minutes.

• 1 Northampton Street (Memorial Hall) presentation by Ian Wilson
• Section 106 reviews: Main Street Corridor Improvements (MassDOT Project No. 608374) and Safe Routes to School at Mountain View School (MassDOT Project No. 22147.15)
• Cemetery projects: Brookside Cemetery NR Nomination and Main Street/East Street Cemeteries Evaluation
• Demo Delay Bylaw discussion
• Metal Detecting on City Property – Recommendations to the Mayor

City Council

The Easthampton City Council will hold a public hearing on the proposed FY2026 municipal operating budget and consider over $4 million in supplemental appropriations for water, sewer, snow removal, schools, and more. Also on the agenda is a resolution supporting the TNGDI community and requests for all-way stop control on several streets.

• Public hearing on FY2026 municipal operating budget
• $2,400,000 for General, Capital, and Tax Rate Stabilization
• $307,000 for repairs and upgrades at Lovefield St. Waste Water Pumping Station
• $321,230 to cover snow and ice removal budget shortfall
• $300,000 for School Dept. special education tuition and transportation deficits

The council opened public hearings and adopted an amendment that reduced the City Attorney‑Professional Services budget by $75,000, reallocating funds to water/sewer, parking and overlay projects. Following the amendment, the council voted to appropriate funds for Sections 1 through 10 of the municipal budget, totaling approximately $61.9 million. Votes ranged from unanimous to 8‑1, with Councilor Denham opposing several sections.

• Opened public hearings (unanimous)
• Amended Section 1 budget to cut City Attorney‑Professional Services by $75,000 (6‑3)
• Approved Section 1 General Government appropriation of $3,488,535.86 (unanimous)
• Approved Section 2 Public Safety appropriation of $9,010,248.29 (8‑1, Denham no)
• Approved Section 3 Schools appropriation of $22,794,154.00 (8‑1, Denham no)
• Approved Section 5 Human Services appropriation of $867,325.38 (7‑2, Denham & Kwiecinski no)
• Approved Section 8 Employee Benefits appropriation of $12,757,993.87 (7‑2, Denham & Kwiecinski no)
• Approved Section 9 Community Preservation appropriation of $811,300.00 (unanimous)

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will meet to approve minutes, hear public comments, and review motor vehicle abatement and recommitment requests. They will also review FY2025 Community Preservation Act exemptions and receive an update from the Principal Assessor. The agenda is largely procedural with no major policy decisions or dollar amounts specified.

• Motor Vehicle Abatements: Review, Sign
• Motor Vehicle Recommitments: Review, Sign
• FY2025 Community Preservation Act Exemptions: Review, Sign
• Principal Assessor's update

The Board of Assessors approved the meeting minutes. It accepted the 2025 motor vehicle abatements totaling $3,860.02 and the motor vehicle recommitments. The Board also approved a $4,814.66 exemption under the Fiscal Year 2025 Community Preservation Act. The meeting was adjourned at 5:09 p.m.

• Approved meeting minutes (2-0)
• Accepted 2025 motor vehicle abatements $3,860.02 (2-0)
• Accepted motor vehicle recommitments (2-0)
• Approved $4,814.66 Community Preservation Act exemption (2-0)
• Adjourned meeting (2-0)

Planning Board

The Easthampton Planning Board will hold two public hearings at its June 17 meeting: a site plan review for a semi-permanent mobile food establishment at 1 Northampton St, and a continued special permit hearing for converting the church at 35 Pleasant St into 42 residential units (9 in the existing building, 33 in new structures). The board will also discuss administrative items.

• Wake the Dead Donuts – site plan approval for a mobile food establishment in the parking lot of Heavy Culture Cooperative at 1 Northampton St (NB district)
• Kevin Perrier – special permit (continued) to convert 35 Pleasant St church into 9 apartments and build 7 additional buildings with 33 units, totaling 42 units
• Both properties are in the NB (Neighborhood Business) zoning district
• Next meeting scheduled for July 1, 2025 at 6 p.m.

Council on Aging

The Council on Aging will discuss a proposed change to senior center hours that will be presented to the City Council on June 18, 2025. Other business includes reviewing the third-quarter fiscal report, approving May meeting minutes, and discussing draft mission/vision/values. Public comment is allowed.

• Discussion on COA hours change to be presented at City Council meeting June 18
• Third-quarter fiscal report presentation
• Draft mission/vision/values review
• Policy and procedures at ECOA informational item
• TRIAD announcement

The council approved the minutes from May 20, 2025 (5-0-1). It unanimously adopted the new ECOA policy and procedure document. The board also voted to remove references to Walgreens and old school buildings from senior‑center talking points, allowing the chair to sign them. Suggested revisions to the mission statement will be sent to the strategic‑planning team for further input.

• Approved May 20, 2025 minutes (5-0-1)
• Approved new ECOA policies and procedures (unanimous)
• Approved removal of Walgreens and old school building references from senior‑center talking points (unanimous)
• Sent mission‑statement revision suggestions to strategic‑planning team for input
• Motion to adjourn passed unanimously

Development & Industrial Commission

The Easthampton Development & Industrial Commission will discuss a recent Gazette article on rising costs pushing small businesses to closure, and consider potential actions. The meeting also includes updates on Planning Department work, Climate Action Plan business participation, and wayfinding at the mills.

• Update on wayfinding signage at the mills
• Update on Climate Action Plan business participation
• Discuss June 1 Gazette article on rising costs and small business closures
• Potential actions related to small business support

The commission unanimously approved the January and April meeting minutes. It also unanimously directed Chair Gwynne Morrissey to issue a letter of support for the Pleasant Street housing project, highlighting urban infill, connectivity, transit access, and housing density. The meeting was adjourned by unanimous vote. The commission noted the next regular meeting will be on September 16, with no meeting in August.

• Approved January and April minutes (unanimous)
• Directed Chair to issue support letter for Pleasant Street housing project (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)
• Set next regular meeting for September 16; no meeting in August

Easthampton Cultural Council

The Easthampton Cultural Council will review financial reports and the status of 2025 grantees. The body will also discuss updates regarding the Easthampton Feed Mural unveiling and city arts projects.

• Easthampton Feed Mural unveiling scheduled for July 12th at 10am
• 2025 grantee paperwork updates
• Financial report review
• Easthampton City Arts update

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will conduct public hearings for new housing developments and a MassDOT shared use path. The body will also review stormwater permits and enforcement actions for several local properties.

• Public Hearing: Housing development at 35 Pleasant Street
• Public Hearing: MassDOT shared use path along Route 5
• Public Meeting: City neighborhood infrastructure stormwater permit
• Certificate of Compliance request: Loven Properties at 15 O’Neill Street
• Enforcement actions for properties at 37 South Street, 476 East Street, 93 Northampton Street Rear, 126 Lovefield Street, and 50 Florence Road

Commissioner Dan Buttrick moved to continue the public hearing on the MassDOT shared‑use path along Route 5 to August 11, 2025. Commissioner Sarah Carr seconded the motion. The commission voted unanimously to grant the continuance. No other agenda items resulted in a formal vote.

• Continuance of MassDOT shared‑use path hearing to Aug 11 2025 (unanimous)

Commission on Disability

The Easthampton Commission on Disability will review an update to the city’s accessibility ordinance and consider collaborations for disability Pride Awareness Month with Northampton. Members will discuss ideas for the World Disability Day event in December and address recruiting new members. The meeting will also include a cultural‑chaos table presentation and a current‑events update.

• Collaboration with Northampton COD for disability Pride Awareness Month
• Accessibility ordinance update
• World Disability Day event ideas for Dec 3
• Recruiting issue – need new members
• Cultural chaos table presentation

Community Preservation Act Committee

The Community Preservation Act Committee will meet to vote on three funding requests. The body will also review account balances and open project updates.

• Spray Park funding request: $264,500
• Skate Park funding request: $250,000
• Parks Historic Designation funding request: $14,500

The Community Preservation Act Committee extended the 385 Main Street affordable‑housing project and the Mount Tom North project each by one year, both unanimously. It approved $14,500 for a historic park designation, $264,500 for a new spray park, and $250,000 for a skate park (contingent on a PARC grant), all with unanimous support. The meeting also formally approved prior meeting minutes.

• Extended 385 Main Street affordable housing project by 1 year (unanimous)
• Extended Mount Tom North project funding by 1 year (unanimous)
• Approved $14,500 Parks Historic Designation funding (unanimous)
• Approved $264,500 Spray Park funding (unanimous)
• Approved $250,000 Skate Park funding, conditioned on PARC grant receipt (unanimous)
• Approved April 17 minutes (aye vote, 6 aye, 1 abstain)
• Approved May 15 minutes (aye vote, 6 aye, 1 abstain)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

City Council - Finance Committee

The committee is discussing multiple supplemental appropriations totaling over $4.2 million, including $2.4 million for stabilization funds, $321,000 for snow/ice removal, and $300,000 for school special education. They will also consider a police department request to create a donation account for mindfulness and meditation programs. Additionally, they will review quarterly fiscal reports and the FY2026 municipal budget.

• $2,400,000 for General, Capital, and Tax Rate Stabilization
• $321,230.45 to cover shortfall in Snow & Ice Removal budget for FY25
• $300,000 to cover deficits in School Dept. for Special Education tuition and transportation
• $307,000 for repairs and upgrades at Lovefield St. WW Pumping Station
• Request from Police Dept. to create donation account for mindfulness and meditation in Police and Fire Departments

The Finance Committee approved a series of interdepartmental transfers and supplemental appropriations, all by a 3‑0 vote. Major items include a $2.4 million move to stabilization accounts, funding for water system upgrades, wastewater pump installations, and a $321,230.45 snow and ice removal shortfall. All motions were adopted unanimously.

• Approved $44,845.05 transfer to PEG Access Account for cable franchise fees (3-0)
• Approved $136,000 for design and installation of Water Dept. SCADA system upgrade (3-0)
• Approved $128,000 for installation of new return & waste pumps at the WWTP (3-0)
• Approved $307,000 for construction repairs & upgrades at Lovefield St. WW Pumping Station (3-0)
• Approved $2,400,000 transfer to General, Capital and Tax Rate Stabilization accounts (3-0)
• Approved $321,230.45 to cover shortfall in Snow & Ice Removal budget for FY25 (3-0)
• Approved $40,000 for Fire Dept. medical evaluations, apparatus repairs, hose testing & extrication equipment (3-0)
• Approved $300,000 to cover deficits in School Dept. special education tuition and transportation (3-0)

Agricultural Commission

The Easthampton Agricultural Commission will meet on June 10, 2025 to discuss several topics including a report on PFAS and sludge fertilizer in Easthampton, an update on the chicken zoning report, and the Easthampton Farmer's Market. The meeting will also include public comment and scheduling of the next meeting.

• Report on PFAS and sludge fertilizer in Easthampton
• Update on chicken zoning report
• Update on Easthampton Farmer's Market
• Requesting/offering help to Pete Westover's AGCOM outreach
• Approval of minutes from March 11, 2025 meeting

The commission approved the March 10, 2025 meeting minutes. Laura Barley agreed to submit the assistance survey this week. The next quarterly meeting was scheduled for September 2, 2025 at 6:30 pm.

• Approved March 10, 2025 minutes
• Laura Barley to submit assistance survey this week
• Scheduled next quarterly meeting for Sep 2, 2025 at 6:30 pm

City Council - Ordinance Committee

The City Council Ordinance Committee will meet to discuss continuing business. The primary focus is a review of zoning ordinance recommendations from the Affordable & Fair Housing Partnership.

• Review of Affordable & Fair Housing Partnership’s zoning ordinance recommendations

The subcommittee discussed the Affordable and Fair Housing Partnership’s zoning recommendations and their potential impact on the city’s aquifer. No formal actions, approvals, or votes on zoning changes or related measures were taken. The meeting was concluded with a motion to adjourn, made by Councilor Denham and seconded by Councilor Derby.

• Motion to adjourn adopted (motion by Councilor Denham, seconded by Councilor Derby)

Housing Authority

The Easthampton Housing Authority will hold its annual election of officers and consider a change order not to exceed $20,000 for asphalt and drainage repairs at Building 3 and a new parking lot. The board will also vote to accept the May treasurer's report, income and expense report, meeting minutes, and warrant report.

• Election of Chairperson, Vice Chairperson, and Treasurer
• Motion to accept May Treasurer's Report, Income & Expense Report, meeting minutes, and warrant report for May 9 – June 5, 2025
• Change Order No. 1 not to exceed $20,000 for project 087085: Repair asphalt and drainage at Building 3 and new parking lot

The Easthampton Housing Authority elected Mary Church as Chairperson, Commissioner Jennison as Vice‑Chairperson, and Commissioner Nodurf as Treasurer, each by a 3‑to‑2 vote. A motion to adjourn the meeting was approved unanimously. No other actions were decided.

• Elected Mary Church as Chairperson (3-2)
• Elected Commissioner Jennison as Vice‑Chairperson (3-2)
• Elected Commissioner Nodurf as Treasurer (3-2)
• Approved motion to adjourn (5-0)

City Council - Ordinance Committee

The Ordinance Committee will hold a public meeting on June 9, 2025. It will approve minutes from prior meetings and discuss a request to review zoning ordinance amendments concerning short‑term rentals. No other specific actions are listed.

• Request to review zoning ordinance amendments regarding short‑term rentals

The Ordinance Subcommittee discussed language and procedures for short‑term rentals, including inspection requirements, caps, and licensing. No policy proposals or regulatory changes were formally approved or denied during the meeting. The meeting was then adjourned by a motion from Derby, seconded by Smith, and approved by all members.

• Adjourned meeting (motion by Derby, seconded by Smith, approved unanimously)

Easthampton Community Garden

This is a regular meeting of the Easthampton Community Garden Committee, consisting primarily of committee reports and procedural items. The agenda includes public comment, approval of minutes, treasurer's report with budget and purchase orders, and updates from operations, outreach, donation garden, pollinator, volunteer hours, governance, and compost operations. No specific decisions or proposals with dollar amounts are listed.

• Treasurer’s report including endorsement of purchase orders and approval of budget report
• Donation Garden Report and old business regarding Donation Garden
• Compost Operations Report
• Governance Report
• New business (item open for discussion)

The Community Garden Committee unanimously approved moving forward with the shed mural, allocating $100 pending final approval by Treasurer T. Stock. The minutes from the May 1 meeting were accepted unanimously. The next meeting was scheduled for July 3, 2025, and the committee adjourned.

• Approved start of shed mural with $100 budget (unanimous)
• Accepted May 1 minutes (unanimous)
• Set next meeting for July 3, 2025 (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Board of Public Works

The meeting agenda consists of procedural items, including the approval of previous meeting minutes and a director's report.

• Approval of May 21, 2025 meeting minutes
• Director's report

The Board voted to approve the May 21, 2025 meeting minutes. It then approved the minutes of the June 4, 2025 meeting. Finally, the Board adjourned the session at 5:12 p.m.

• Approved May 21, 2025 meeting minutes (2‑yes votes)
• Approved June 4, 2025 meeting minutes (2‑yes votes)
• Adjourned meeting at 5:12 p.m. (2‑yes votes)

Easthampton City Arts Public Art Subcommittee

The subcommittee will review a draft budget and discuss the Community Mosaic Mural Project, including possible involvement by the Easthampton City Council. Other items include updates on delayed Union Street bike rack installation, plaque placement, and relocation of the Power to the People artwork.

• Review draft budget
• Discuss Community Mosaic Mural Project process
• Union Street bike racks – painting and installation delayed
• Power to the People relocation and use
• Easthampton Storyscape – vent installation and sharp edges

The subcommittee unanimously approved the May 7 meeting minutes. Members asked Pasqualina to seek representation on the jury and an advisory role for the public‑art utility‑box project. The committee was assigned to locate a site for the Community Mosaic Mural and the Power to the People utility box relocation. Pasqualina will install the sculpture’s plaques the week of Cultural Chaos (June 10).

• Approved May 7 minutes (unanimous)
• Requested representation on utility‑box jury and advisory role (no vote recorded)
• Tasked committee to identify location for Community Mosaic Mural and Power to the People utility box relocation (no vote recorded)
• Pasqualina to install sculpture plaques the week of Cultural Chaos (6/10)

Licensing Board

The Licensing Board will hold public hearings on several license applications, including annual entertainment licenses for THCC and TipTop Wine Shop, and multiple special one-day permits (SOD) for events. The board will also approve minutes from its May 2025 meeting and set the next meeting date for July 8, 2025.

• Tides for Reproductive Freedom seeking special one-day permit for June event
• Adding two claw machines at Sevens under amusement device license
• TipTop Wine Shop seeking annual entertainment license
• THCC seeking annual entertainment license
• City Space seeking special one-day permit for June 27 event

The Licensing Board approved Special Event Operating Permits for Tides for Reproductive Freedom, Pulaski Club, Valley Art Supplies, Amy’s Place, and CitySpace, and approved an annual entertainment license for TipTop Wine Shop. All motions passed with all members in favor. The board also moved the May meeting minutes to be considered at the July meeting.

• Approved SOD for Tides for Reproductive Freedom event (all in favor)
• Approved SOD for Pulaski Club outdoor event (all in favor)
• Approved SOD for Valley Art Supplies Cultural Chaos (all in favor)
• Approved SOD for Amy’s Place Cultural Chaos (all in favor)
• Approved annual entertainment license for TipTop Wine Shop (all in favor)
• Approved SOD for CitySpace Murphys Law Concert (all in favor)
• Moved May minutes to July meeting (all in favor)

City Council

The Easthampton City Council will convene a public hearing at 6:15 p.m. to consider the proposed FY 2026 municipal operating budget. The meeting also includes discussion of several ordinance reviews, supplemental appropriations totaling over $3 million, and proposals such as a temporary sewage‑sludge moratorium and a short‑term‑rental zoning amendment. Additional items include the creation of a nine‑member Rent Study Committee and a request for a conservation restriction at 385 Main St.

• Public hearing on FY 2026 municipal operating budget (June 4, 2025, 6:15 p.m.)
• FY25 supplemental appropriations: $2,400,000 for general stabilization; $307,000 for Lovefield St. Waste Water Pumping Station upgrades; $136,000 for Water Dept. SCADA system design and installation; $128,000 for new return and waste pumps at the Waste Water Treatment Plant; $321,230.45 for snow and ice removal budget shortfall
• Request for temporary moratorium on use of sewage sludge/fertilizer in Easthampton (proposed amendment dated 3‑20‑24, action deadline 8‑12‑25)
• Request to review zoning ordinance amendments regarding short‑term rentals (proposed amendment dated 3‑5‑25, action deadline 6‑4‑25)
• Proposal to create a nine‑member Rent Study Committee (home‑rule charter amendment request dated 4‑16‑25, action deadline 7‑15‑25)

The council unanimously approved an interdepartmental transfer of $44,845.05 and a package of FY25 supplemental appropriations, including $2,400,000 for general, capital and tax‑rate stabilization. It also unanimously created a donation account to support mindfulness and meditation programs for the Police and Fire Departments and extended several agenda items by 90 days. The public hearing was continued to June 18, 2025 and then formally closed.

• Approved $44,845.05 interdepartmental transfer from PEG Access Receipts Reserved Account (unanimous)
• Approved FY25 supplemental appropriations: $136,000 for Water Dept. SCADA design, $128,000 for waste‑water pump installation, $307,000 for Lovefield St. pump station upgrades, $2,400,000 for general, capital and tax‑rate stabilization, $19,309.60 for cannabis stabilization, $9,102.00 Workers Comp audit adjustment, $270,000 health/dental premiums, $20,945 liability adjustment, $15,000 Fire Dept. injured‑on‑duty expenses, $113,010.14 Police officer buyout and related costs, $321,230.45 snow/ice removal shortfall, $2,000 Animal Control shortfall, $14,930 EMS supplies, $40,000 Fire Dept. equipment, $28,000 School/City Medicare, $300,000 School Dept. special education deficit (unanimous)
• Approved creation of a donation account for mindfulness and meditation support in Police and Fire Departments (unanimous)
• Extended by 90 days review of residency requirements, Affordable & Fair Housing Partnership zoning recommendations, and short‑term rental zoning amendments (unanimous)
• Extended by 90 days the traffic and pedestrian safety agenda item for West Street (unanimous)
• Extended by 90 days the city ordinance request on flags on public property and the Home Rule Charter amendment on mayor compensation (unanimous)
• Moved conservation restriction request for 385 Main Street (Kestrel Land Trust) to the Property Committee (unanimous)
• Continued the public hearing to June 18, 2025 and then closed the public hearing (both unanimous)

Agricultural Commission

The Agricultural Commission meeting scheduled for June 3, 2025 was cancelled because not enough members were present to form a quorum. No decisions or discussions took place. The agenda had included several topics such as a chicken zoning report, an update on the Easthampton Farmer's Market, and a report on PFAS and sludge fertilizer in Easthampton.

• Chicken zoning report (planned but cancelled)
• Update on the Easthampton Farmer's Market (planned but cancelled)
• Report on PFAS and Sludge fertilizer in Easthampton (planned but cancelled)
• New business and brainstorming session (planned but cancelled)
• Outreach to Pete Westover's AGCOM outreach (planned but cancelled)

Conservation Commission

The Easthampton Conservation Commission will conduct public hearings for three new project proposals. The board will also review enforcement actions and provide updates on various active permits and open space management.

• Public Hearing: New housing development at 385 Main Street
• Public Hearing: Shared use path along Route 5 for MassDOT
• Public Hearing: New housing development at 35 Pleasant Street
• Enforcement actions for 37 South Street, 476 East Street, 93 Northampton Street Rear, and 126 Lovefield Street
• Discussion regarding the Wetlands Ordinance

The Conservation Commission unanimously approved the Conservation Restriction for the 385 Main Street parcel, transferring it to Massachusetts Audubon Society and the City. It also unanimously voted to continue three pending public hearings—385 Main Street housing, MassDOT shared‑use path, and 35 Pleasant Street housing—to future dates. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved Conservation Restriction for 385 Main Street (unanimous)
• Continued 385 Main Street housing hearing to July 14 (unanimous)
• Continued MassDOT shared‑use path hearing to June 16 (unanimous)
• Continued 35 Pleasant Street housing hearing to June 16 (unanimous)

Nashawannuck Pond Committee

The Nashawannuck Pond Committee is meeting to discuss old business items including an American flag, shoreline stabilization, WinterFest, grants, and the pond management plan. No new business items are listed. The agenda consists of routine procedural topics with no specific votes or proposals detailed.

• Discussion of shoreline stabilization project
• WinterFest planning update
• Grants status update
• Pond management plan review

The steering committee voted to approve the meeting minutes from May 5, 2025. The motion passed unanimously. The committee then adjourned the meeting at 6:12 p.m. No other formal actions were decided.

• Approved May 5, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Easthampton City Arts Coordinating Committee

The committee will approve the April Zoom meeting minutes and the May meeting minutes. It will receive updates on several art initiatives, including the Art Walk, Art in the Garden, Cultural Chaos, and Art Floats Easthampton, and hear the Easthampton Cultural Council report and fundraiser plans. Ongoing discussions will cover a marketing position and the Art Workspace Easthampton. The meeting will also allow new business before adjourning.

• Approval of April Zoom meeting minutes
• Approval of May meeting minutes
• Updates on Art Walk, Art in the Garden, Cultural Chaos, and Art Floats Easthampton
• Easthampton Cultural Council report and fundraiser
• Discussion of marketing position and Art Workspace Easthampton

The committee approved the May meeting minutes unanimously. The Art Floats Easthampton event was postponed to spring/fall of next year. The ECA fundraiser was approved to be held at the Jupiter Club on Dec 4, 6‑9 pm, with staff compensation of $600. No other substantive actions were taken.

• May minutes approved (unanimous)
• Art Floats Easthampton postponed to spring/fall next year
• ECA fundraiser location approved: Jupiter Club
• Fundraiser date set: Dec 4, 6‑9 pm
• Fundraiser staff payment approved: $600

City Council - Finance Committee

The Easthampton City Council Finance Committee will consider three supplemental appropriation requests for the current fiscal year, including $144,011.14 for police department contractual payouts and overtime, $2,000 for increased animal control costs with Westfield, and $110,518.52 for upgraded dispatch radio consoles. The committee will also review the FY26 budget and quarterly fiscal reports from the city auditor.

• $144,011.14 supplemental request for police department contractual payout and overtime
• $2,000 supplemental request for increased animal control costs with Westfield
• $110,518.52 supplemental request for grant-funded upgraded dispatch radio consoles
• FY26 budget review and recommendation
• Quarterly fiscal reports from City Auditor

The committee voted 3‑0 to remove three supplemental appropriations without prejudice. All budget sections were approved by a 2‑1 vote, with Councilor Denham dissenting. The meeting was then adjourned by a 3‑0 vote.

• Approved removal of supplemental appropriations ($144,011.14 Police, $2,000 animal control, $110,518.52 dispatch radios) 3‑0
• Approved General Government budget $3,563,535.86 2‑1
• Approved Public Safety budget $9,010,248.29 2‑1
• Approved Education budget $22,794,154.00 2‑1
• Approved Public Works budget $2,449,717.12 2‑1
• Approved Human Services budget $867,325.38 2‑1
• Approved Culture & Recreation budget $816,735.00 2‑1
• Approved adjournment 3‑0

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold two public hearings: a continued variance request to build a single-family home on a parcel with only 50 feet of frontage where 100 feet is required at 32 Lyman St, and a special permit to demolish a non-conforming garage and construct a new one in its footprint at 60 Cherry St. The board will also take public comment on other matters. The next meeting is scheduled for June 25, 2025.

• Continued variance for single-family home at 32 Lyman St (Map 105 lot 9) – parcel has 23.5 feet in Northampton, 1.7 acres in Easthampton, and only ~50 feet frontage on Lyman St; 100 feet required in R15 district
• Special permit to demolish pre-existing non-conforming garage and rebuild in same footprint at 60 Cherry St (Map 149 lot 101) in R10 district

Contributory Retirement Board

The Easthampton Retirement Board will meet to approve its FY2026 operational budget and hear a review from MASS/PRIM. The board will also enter executive session to discuss an accidental disability application for Carrie Baker. Other business includes approving new members from various city departments and acknowledging the passing of four retirees.

• FY2026 operational budget approval
• Executive session for accidental disability application of Carrie Baker
• Presentation from MASS/PRIM annual review
• Approval of new members: Cydney Palmer, Mari Morales-Baez, Yeimary Espada, Brandon Lancto, Kelsey LeClair
• Approval of warrants and trial balance for March & April

The Easthampton Retirement Board approved the FY 2026 budget and added a new statutory reference to its executive‑session rules. It also approved a military buyback for Thomas Geryk, accepted new board members, and ratified the March‑April trial balance and a $535,831.41 warrant. The meeting was adjourned after these actions.

• Approved minutes from April 22, 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved FY 2026 Budget as presented (unanimous)
• Added Chapter 30A Section 21(a)(1) M 7 to Executive Sessions (unanimous)
• Approved Military Buyback for Thomas Geryk (unanimous)
• Approved new members Cydney Palmer, Mari Morales‑Baez, Yeimary Espada, Brandon Lancto, Kelsey LeClair (unanimous)
• Approved Trial Balance for March & April (unanimous)
• Approved Warrant #5 for $535,831.41 (unanimous)
• Adjourned open session at 2:30 pm (unanimous)

Board of Public Works

The Board of Public Works will hear public comments and a mayoral address, then vote to approve the minutes from the May 7, 2025 meeting. A director's report will also be presented.

• Public Speak
• Mayor Speak
• Approval of the May 7, 2025 Meeting Minutes
• Director’s report

The Board of Public Works approved the May 7, 2025 meeting minutes with unanimous votes. Afterwards, the board voted to adjourn the May 21, 2025 meeting at 5:07 p.m. No other actions were taken.

• Approved May 7, 2025 meeting minutes (2-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 5:07 p.m. (2-0)

City Council

The City Council will hold public hearings on a $41,916 supplemental appropriation for the Manhan Rail Trail pavement restoration and an $822.77 interdepartmental transfer for FY '24 credit card processing. Under new business, they will consider three supplemental appropriations: $144,011.14 for Police Department contractual payouts and overtime, $2,000 for increased animal control costs, and $110,518.52 to cover a shortfall in grant funding for upgraded dispatch radio consoles. The mayor has also requested a review of sandwich board sign permitting and fees.

• Public hearing: $41,916 supplemental appropriation for Manhan Rail Trail pavement restoration shortfall
• Public hearing: $822.77 interdepartmental transfer for FY '24 credit card fee processing
• Police Department supplemental appropriation: $144,011.14 for contractual payouts and overtime
• Dispatch radio console grant shortfall: $110,518.52 for upgraded consoles at Emergency Communications Center
• Animal control cost increase: $2,000 for shared services with Westfield

The council unanimously approved three appointments, including Chad Alexander as Chief of Police. It also approved two fund transfers totaling $42,738.77 and created a nine‑member rent study committee. A public hearing for the FY26 budget was scheduled for June 4, 2025, and the Ordinance Review Committee's final report was extended by 90 days.

• Approved appointment of Chad Alexander as Chief of Police (unanimous)
• Approved appointment of Samantha Maider to Board of Health (unanimous)
• Approved appointment of Maddie Palmer as Assistant City Clerk (unanimous)
• Approved $41,916 transfer to Mass Trails Grant Program (unanimous)
• Approved $822.77 transfer to Tax Refund Interest (unanimous)
• Created nine‑member rent study committee (unanimous)
• Extended Ordinance Review Committee final report by 90 days (unanimous)
• Set public hearing for FY26 budget on June 4, 2025 (unanimous)

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will review motor vehicle abatements and authorize the Principal Assessor to request a formal hearing with the Appellate Tax Board. The meeting will also include a public comment period and an executive session.

• Review and sign Motor Vehicle Abatements
• Review and sign Fiscal Year 2025 MDM-1 & MVE Reimbursement
• Authorize Principal Assessor Martha Leamy to request formal hearing
• Executive session to discuss Real Estate Abatements for Appellate Tax Board
• Public comment period (up to 15 minutes)

The Board of Assessors approved the FY2025 MDM‑1 reimbursement of $119,229.27 and the MVE reimbursement of $8,126.27. It also approved motor‑vehicle abatements totaling $4,626.80 and authorized Principal Assessor Martha Leamy to request a formal hearing from the Appellate Tax Board. All motions passed with a 2‑0 vote.

• Approved FY2025 MDM‑1 reimbursement $119,229.27 (2‑0)
• Approved FY2025 MVE reimbursement $8,126.27 (2‑0)
• Approved motor‑vehicle abatements $4,626.80 (2‑0)
• Authorized Principal Assessor to request formal hearing from Appellate Tax Board (2‑0)
• Approved minutes from 4/29/2025 (2‑0)
• Adjourned meeting at 5:05 pm (2‑0)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold a public meeting to consider a special permit application from Kevin Perrier to convert the former church at 35 Pleasant Street into a 42-unit residential development. The proposal includes converting the existing church into 9 apartments and constructing seven additional buildings for 33 more units. The property is in the NB zoning district.

• Special permit for converting church at 35 Pleasant St into 9 apartment units and 7 new buildings with 33 units (total 42 units)
• Property in NB zoning district (Map 136 lot 1)
• Applicant: Kevin Perrier

City Council - Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will review the proposed FY 2026 budget, covering revenue, general government, and Community Preservation Act funds. The committee will also consider a $41,916 supplemental appropriation for the Manhan Rail Trail pavement restoration project and an $822.77 interdepartmental transfer for FY '24 credit card processing costs. Quarterly fiscal reports from the City Auditor are scheduled for discussion.

• FY 2026 Budget Review and Discussion: Revenue, General Government, CPA
• Supplemental Appropriation: $41,916 for Manhan Rail Trail Pavement Restoration Project
• Interdepartmental Transfer: $822.77 for FY '24 credit card processing charges
• Quarterly fiscal reports from the City Auditor

The Finance Committee approved the April 9, 2025 meeting minutes with a unanimous 3‑0 vote. Members discussed FY 2026 budget items but no formal actions or votes were taken on those items. The committee then adjourned the meeting by a 3‑0 vote.

• Approved April 9, 2025 minutes (3-0)
• Adjourned meeting (3-0)

Council on Aging

The Council on Aging will meet to accept previous minutes, discuss a cultural chaos table decision, and review a mission and vision assessment. The group will also follow up on federal funding and benefits advocacy.

• Acceptance of April meeting minutes
• Decision on Cultural Chaos Table
• Discussion of COA Mission/Vision Assessment
• Follow up on Federal Funding/Benefits Advocacy
• Public comment period

The council approved the April 15, 2025 minutes with a 4‑0‑2 vote. Members agreed to staff a table at the Cultural Chaos event on June 14. The meeting was adjourned by a 5‑0‑1 vote. Upcoming meetings will address policies, procedures, and senior‑center appointments.

• Approved April 15, 2025 minutes (vote 4-0-2)
• Agreed to staff a Cultural Chaos table on June 14
• Adjourned meeting (vote 5-0-1)

Development & Industrial Commission

The Easthampton Development & Industrial Commission will discuss and decide whether to revise and submit a letter of support to the Planning Board for a housing development proposal at 35 Pleasant St. The meeting also includes updates on Planning Department activities, Climate Action Plan business participation, and wayfinding at the mills. Public comment will be taken at the start.

• Decision on letter of support for housing development at 35 Pleasant St.
• Update on Climate Action Plan business participation
• Update on wayfinding at the mills
• Planning Department updates

Easthampton Cultural Council

The Easthampton Cultural Council will discuss updates regarding 2025 grantees and the Easthampton Feed Mural unveiling. The body will also review financial reports and annual project updates.

• 2025 grantee updates and paperwork
• Easthampton Feed Mural unveiling update
• Financial report
• Easthampton City Arts update
• ECC Annual Project updates

City Council - Appointment Committee

The committee will meet to consider mayoral appointments for the Board of Health, Assistant City Clerk, and Chief of Police. The body will also review current board and committee vacancies and recruitment.

• Appointment of Samantha Maider to Board of Health (term expires Dec. 31, 2025)
• Appointment of Maddie Palmer as Assistant City Clerk (term expires April 1, 2028)
• Appointment of Chad Alexander as Chief of Police
• Review of board and committee vacancy recruitment

The Appointment Committee voted 3‑0 to recommend three appointments to the full City Council: Samantha Maider to the Board of Health (term ending Dec. 31, 2025), Maddie Palmer as Assistant City Clerk (term ending Apr. 1, 2028), and Chad Alexander as Chief of Police. All three recommendations were approved unanimously.

• Recommend Samantha Maider to Board of Health, term Dec 31 2025 – approved (3‑0)
• Recommend Maddie Palmer as Assistant City Clerk, term Apr 1 2028 – approved (3‑0)
• Recommend Chad Alexander as Chief of Police – approved (3‑0)

Energy Advisory Committee

The Energy Advisory Committee will review minutes, hear public comment, and discuss grant opportunities under the Climate Leader Communities program, including a Decarbonization Technical Support Grant of up to $150,000 and Accelerator Grants of up to $1,000,000. The committee will also review the timeline for municipal aggregation implementation, with a bid day scheduled for May 21, and updates on electrification programs and a community solar partnership.

• Decarbonization Technical Support Grant (up to $150,000)
• Decarbonization Accelerator Grants (up to $1,000,000)
• Municipal Aggregation Implementation – Bid Day on May 21
• Electrification & Efficiency Programs: Electrify Easthampton/Northampton and Mass Save Community First Partnership
• School Bus Electrification and Community Solar Partnership with SunWealth

The committee met on May 19, 2025 and reviewed the agenda items listed, including updates on BEES, climate certification, grant opportunities, electrification programs, and community events. The minutes contain only the topics to be discussed and do not record any approvals, denials, or votes. Consequently, no concrete actions were documented.

City Council - Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will approve minutes from previous meetings and hear the mayor's communication. It will hold a new‑business session to review the FY 2026 budget, focusing on education spending, debt, and interest costs. Continuing business includes quarterly fiscal reports, a $41,916 supplemental appropriation for the Manhan Rail Trail Pavement Restoration Project, and an $822.77 interdepartmental transfer for FY ’24 credit‑card charge processing.

• FY 2026 budget review and discussion – education, debt, and interest
• Supplemental appropriation of $41,916 for the Manhan Rail Trail Pavement Restoration Project
• Interdepartmental transfer of $822.77 for FY ’24 credit‑card charge processing
• Quarterly fiscal reports from the City Auditor
• Approval of minutes from past meetings

The committee discussed the FY 2026 budget, debt and interest matters, and various education topics, but no formal approvals or actions were taken. The meeting was adjourned by a 3‑0 vote.

• Adjourned meeting (3-0)

School Committee - Finance Subcommittee

The Easthampton School Committee Finance Subcommittee will meet to receive an update on the FY25 budget and discuss the proposed FY26 budget. No specific dollar amounts or action items are listed. Public comment will be taken. The next regular session is scheduled for May 27.

• FY25 budget update and discussion
• FY26 proposed budget update and discussion
• Public comment period
• Next regular session on Tuesday, May 27 at 5:00 PM

Manhan Rail Trail Committee

The Manhan Rail Trail Committee will meet to review trail maintenance and issues. The body will also receive an update on the MA Recreational Trails grant project.

• Trail maintenance and issues update
• MA Recreational Trails grant project update
• Cultural Chaos bike valet reminder for June 14th

The Manhan Rail Trail Committee approved the minutes from the April 28 meeting with a unanimous vote. No other motions or decisions were recorded during the May 19 session. The meeting was then adjourned by unanimous consent.

• Approved April 28 meeting minutes (unanimous)

City Council - Rules & Government Relations Committee

The City Council Rules & Government Relations Committee will meet to discuss the proposed creation of a nine-member Rent Study Committee. The body will also address a Home Rule Charter amendment request regarding Mayor compensation in Section 3-1 (c).

• Proposed creation of a nine member Rent Study Committee
• Home Rule Charter amendment request – Sec. 3-1 (c) Mayor Compensation

Community Preservation Act Committee

The CPA Committee will review a skate park application, receive updates on the Old Town Hall project and a pre-application letter for the Nashawannuck Pond retaining wall. Administrative items include approving minutes from April 17 and reviewing account balances and open projects. The meeting also covers the quarterly grant funding cycle timeline.

• Skate Park Application Presentation
• Old Town Hall Project Updates
• Nashawannuck Pond Retaining Wall Pre-Application Letter
• Approval of minutes from 4/17/2025
• Account balances and open projects updates

The committee did not approve the previous meeting minutes. It unanimously approved $5,200 from the FY26 administrative expense account to pay a consultant for the Community Preservation Act preservation plan. The meeting was then adjourned by a unanimous vote. A vote on the skate‑park funding request is scheduled for the June 12 meeting.

• No minutes approved (procedural)
• Approved $5,200 consultant funding for preservation plan (unanimous)
• Approved motion to adjourn meeting (unanimous)

Historical Commission

The Historical Commission will review updates on the Old Town Hall and various cemetery projects. The body will also discuss recommendations to the Mayor regarding metal detecting on city property and the Demo Delay Bylaw.

• Recommendations to the Mayor regarding metal detecting on city property
• Discussion of the Demo Delay Bylaw
• Brookside Cemetery NR Nomination
• Main Street and East Street Cemeteries Evaluation
• Historic Sign Program

Parks & Recreation Commission

The Easthampton Parks and Recreation Commission will discuss several agenda items, including a skate park application and a request for a dog park. The commission will receive updates on the FY25 and FY26 budgets and review park program offerings such as camp, pool, and summer activities. Facility updates include maintenance building designs, a new city playground, and the upcoming pickleball expansion bid opening. Additional topics cover entrance and road direction updates for Daley Field and planning for the Daley Field 100th anniversary events.

• Skate Park Application
• Dog Park Meeting Request
• FY25/FY26 Budget update – Finance Subcommittee (5/13/25)
• Pickleball Expansion – Bid Opening 5/21/25
• New City Playground Update

The Parks & Recreation Commission approved the minutes from the April 9, 2025 meeting, with all members voting yes except Marlene Michonski who abstained. No other formal motions were adopted; the remainder of the agenda consisted of updates on dog‑park and skate‑park applications, FY25/FY26 budget, park programs, facility redesigns, and upcoming projects such as the new playground and Daley Field anniversary.

• Approved minutes from 4/9/25 (unanimous yes; Marlene abstain)

School Committee - Policy Subcommittee

The School Policy Subcommittee will review a proposed AI policy and vote on whether to send it to the full School Committee. The meeting includes a public comment period before the discussion.

• Review of attached AI policy
• Vote on moving the AI policy to the full committee

City Council - Finance Committee

The committee will review and discuss the proposed FY 2026 budget for the Public Works, Enterprise, and Culture & Recreation departments. It will also consider a supplemental appropriation of $41,916 to cover a shortfall in the Manhan Rail Trail Pavement Restoration Project and an interdepartmental transfer of $822.77 for FY '24 credit card charges. Quarterly fiscal reports from the City Auditor are on the agenda as continuing business.

• FY 2026 Budget review and discussion for Public Works, Enterprise, Culture & Recreation
• Supplemental appropriation: $41,916.00 for Manhan Rail Trail Pavement Restoration Project shortfall
• Interdepartmental transfer: $822.77 for FY '24 credit card payment processing
• Quarterly fiscal reports from the City Auditor
• Approval of past meeting minutes

The committee reviewed FY 2026 budget items for public works, enterprise, and culture & recreation but did not vote on any budget allocations. No prior meeting minutes required approval. Councilor Denham moved to adjourn, Councilor Conniff seconded, and the motion passed 3‑0. The meeting ended at 6:30 p.m.

• Adjourned meeting (3-0 vote)

Housing Authority

The Easthampton Housing Authority will hold its May regular meeting, primarily voting to accept treasurer's reports, financial statements, and minutes. The only substantive action is a vote to approve a Certificate of Final Completion for FISH #087090.

• Vote to accept March and April treasurer's reports and income & expense reports
• Vote to accept first quarter (Jan–Mar 2025) quarterly financials
• Vote to approve Certificate of Final Completion (CFC) FISH #087090
• Executive Director's report

The board approved the March and April Treasurer’s reports and related income & expense statements, accepted the first‑quarter 2025 financials prepared by fee accountant Gary Depace, and approved the Certificate of Final Completion for the Fish #087090 water‑treatment system. All motions passed unanimously with three commissioners voting yea and none against. The meeting was then adjourned at 6:19 p.m.

• Approved March Treasurer’s Report and Income & Expense Report (3‑0)
• Approved April Treasurer’s Report, Income & Expense Report, and minutes/warrant report (3‑0)
• Approved 1st Quarter (Jan‑Mar 2025) financials prepared by Gary Depace (3‑0)
• Approved Certificate of Final Completion (CFC) Fish #087090 (3‑0)
• Adjourned meeting at 6:19 p.m. (unanimous)

Conservation Commission

The Easthampton Conservation Commission will hold a hybrid meeting on May 12, 2025. Commissioners will consider three public hearing notices: a new housing development at 385 Main Street, a shared‑use path along Route 5, and a resource‑area delineation at Holly Circle and Crestview Drive. The agenda also includes enforcement actions, open‑space updates, and a discussion of the wetlands ordinance.

• Public Hearing: Notice of Intent for new housing development at 385 Main Street (Map 154, Lot 32‑1)
• Public Hearing: Notice of Intent for a shared‑use path along Route 5 (Map 111‑13 & 110‑17)
• Public Hearing: Abbreviated Notice of Resource Area Delineation at Holly Circle and Crestview Drive (Map 166, Lots 75‑80, 83‑89; Map 171, Lots 14‑1, 14‑2, 15‑22, 25‑29)
• Enforcement Action EO‑2013‑001 for 37 South Street (J. Gawle)
• Open Space Update: Echodale West Orchard Area invasive species management

The Conservation Commission approved the Abbreviated Notice of Resource Area Delineation for Crown Meadow Corporation at Holly Circle and Crestview Drive, locking the wetland line for three years. The hearing on the housing development at 385 Main Street was continued to June 2, 2025 at 6 p.m. The hearing on the Route 5 shared‑use path project was also continued to June 2, 2025. All motions passed unanimously.

• Approved ANRAD for Crown Meadow Corp (Holly Circle & Crestview Drive) – unanimous
• Continued housing development hearing at 385 Main St to June 2, 2025 – unanimous
• Continued Route 5 shared‑use path hearing to June 2, 2025 – unanimous

City Council - Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will consider several items, including a supplemental appropriation of $41,916 to cover a shortfall in the Manhan Rail Trail Pavement Restoration Project. It will also review an interdepartmental transfer of $822.77 for FY ’24 credit‑card charge processing and discuss the FY 2026 budget for Public Safety, Human Services, and Unclassified funds. Quarterly fiscal reports from the City Auditor will be presented, and the committee will approve minutes from prior meetings.

• Supplemental appropriation of $41,916 for the Manhan Rail Trail Pavement Restoration Project
• Interdepartmental transfer of $822.77 for FY ’24 credit‑card charge processing
• FY 2026 budget review for Public Safety, Human Services, and Unclassified categories
• Quarterly fiscal reports from the City Auditor
• Approval of minutes from past meetings

The Finance Committee approved a $41,916 supplemental appropriation to cover unexpected costs in the Manhan Rail Trail Pavement Restoration Project. It also approved an $822.77 interdepartmental transfer to pay FY ’24 credit‑card processing charges and related fees. Both motions passed unanimously (3‑0).

• Approved $41,916 supplemental appropriation for Manhan Rail Trail restoration (3-0)
• Approved $822.77 interdepartmental transfer for FY ’24 credit‑card processing charges (3-0)
• Approved minutes from April 23, 2025 (motion by Conniff, second Denham)
• Adjourned meeting (3-0)

Easthampton City Arts Coordinating Committee

The committee will review updates on the Art Walk, Art in the Garden, and Cultural Chaos. Members will also discuss the Easthampton Futures Project, Art Workspace Easthampton, and the Light Up the Arts event.

• Updates on Art Walk, Art in the Garden, and Cultural Chaos
• Easthampton Cultural Council Report
• Discussion of Easthampton Futures Project
• Discussion of Art Workspace Easthampton
• Discussion of Light Up the Arts Event

Licensing Board

The Licensing Board will meet to approve minutes from April and hear requests for special event permits from organizations including Easthampton Rod & Gun and Forth Hill Brewery. The board will also consider a request from the River Valley Co-op to change its manager.

• Approval of April 2025 and April Special Meeting minutes
• Unbroken Wings seeking special event permit for Thunder in the Valley
• Easthampton Rod & Gun seeking special event permits for fishing derbies
• Forth Hill Brewery seeking special event permit for cruise nights
• River Valley Co-op seeking change of manager

Commission on Disability

The Commission on Disability will hold a hybrid meeting to discuss an accessibility ordinance update, collaboration with Northampton's Commission on Disability for Disability Pride Awareness Month, and a field trip update from Riverside. The board will also address recruiting new members and planning for World Disability Day in December.

• Accessibility ordinance update
• Collaboration with Northampton COD for disability pride awareness month
• Recruiting issue - need new members
• World Disability Day event ideas (Dec 3)
• Field trip update from Riverside

The commission voted to approve the minutes from the March 13, 2025 meeting with a unanimous vote. No other formal actions were taken; the remainder of the meeting consisted of updates on Pride Awareness Month, a Riverside tour, recruitment status, and event planning.

• Approved 03/13/2025 minutes (unanimous)

Board of Public Works

The Board of Public Works will meet to discuss the Main Street TIP project with Bowman. The session includes a director's report and the approval of previous meeting minutes.

• Presentation of Main Street TIP project with Bowman

The Board of Public Works approved the April 16, 2025 meeting minutes with a unanimous vote. After a presentation on the Main Street Improvement TIP project and several updates, the board voted to adjourn the May 7 session. No other actions were taken.

• Approved April 16, 2025 meeting minutes (2-0)
• Adjourned meeting (2-0)

Easthampton City Arts Public Art Subcommittee

The Easthampton City Arts Public Art Subcommittee will meet on May 7, 2025. The agenda includes public comments, approval of the April 4 minutes, and updates on Union Street bike racks, new plaque installations, and the budget. The subcommittee will discuss the Community Mosaic Mural Project and seek permission from the library. Additional items cover the Storyscape vent status and scheduling the next meeting.

• Public Speak (open comments)
• Approval of April 4 minutes
• Union Street bike racks – site visit by Bob & Pasqualina
• Installation of new plaques for Storyscape, Easthampton Spring, and QR code signs
• Discussion of Community Mosaic Mural Project and library permission

Bob moved and Marcia seconded approval of the April 2 minutes, and the subcommittee unanimously agreed. No other formal votes were taken; the group discussed plans for bike‑rack painting, plaque installation, and volunteer shifts for the Cultural Chaos event.

• Approved April 2 minutes (unanimous)

City Council

The City Council will hold public hearings on a proposed 25 mph city-wide speed limit and on two Community Preservation Act supplemental appropriations totaling $271,257. The council will also consider a resolution supporting the Healthy Incentives Program, a supplemental appropriation of $41,916 for the Manhan Rail Trail pavement project, mayoral appointments including a Chief of Police, and an interdepartmental transfer of $822.77.

• Public hearing on 25 mph city-wide speed limit (amendment to Traffic Rules & Orders)
• CPA supplemental appropriation of $201,875 for Valley CDC Mortgage Subsidy Financial Literacy
• CPA supplemental appropriation of $69,382 for Lathrop Community Invasive Plant Removal (years 2/3)
• Supplemental appropriation of $41,916 for Manhan Rail Trail Pavement Restoration Project shortfall
• Resolution in support of the Healthy Incentives Program (HIP)

The council unanimously endorsed a resolution calling on state leaders to provide additional funding for the Healthy Incentives Program. It also forwarded two interdepartmental fund transfers to the Finance Committee for public hearings, approved $201,875 for a financial‑literacy program and $69,382 for invasive‑plant removal at Lathrop, and unanimously opened the upcoming public hearings.

• Endorsed Healthy Incentives Program resolution (unanimous)
• Forwarded $822.77 transfer from professional services to tax refund interest to Finance Committee (unanimous)
• Forwarded $41,916.00 transfer from Capital Stabilization to Mass Trails‑Grant Program to Finance Committee (unanimous)
• Approved $200,913.00 from CPA reserved for affordable housing and $962.00 from CPA undesignated fund (total $201,875) to Valley CDC financial‑literacy account (unanimous)
• Approved $1,948.00 from CPA reserved for open space and $67,434.00 from CPA undesignated fund (total $69,382) for Lathrop invasive‑plant removal (unanimous)
• Unanimously voted to open the Public Hearings
• Scheduled public hearings for May 21, 2025 (as part of forwarding items to Finance Committee)
• Requested state officials to allocate $10 M supplemental and $25 M annual funding for HIP and support Senate bill SD.829 (unanimous endorsement)

City Council - Public Safety Committee

The Easthampton City Council Public Safety Committee will hear a citizen request for a city-wide speed limit and review traffic and pedestrian safety on West Street. The committee will also receive a quarterly public safety report and continue ongoing reviews of roadway infrastructure and traffic rules.

• Citizen request to consider a city-wide speed limit
• Traffic and pedestrian safety discussion on West Street
• Review of Traffic Rules & Orders to add, amend or remove outdated language
• Roadway, infrastructure and pedestrian safety items
• Public Safety Quarterly Report

Planning Board

The Planning Board will meet to discuss an Act Now Request (ANR) regarding the division of a land parcel. The board is reviewing a proposal to split a 20.64-acre area into four separate lots.

• Kestral Land Trust request to divide 20.64 acres into 4 lots (Parcel A ~6.926 acres, B ~13.069 acres, C ~0.225 acres, and D ~0.280 acres)

Nashawannuck Pond Committee

The Nashawannuck Pond Committee is holding a public meeting to discuss several topics including shoreline stabilization, barley straw treatments, events like WinterFest and Cultural Chaos, grant opportunities, and a bingo event. No votes or decisions are listed on the agenda; it is primarily a discussion session.

• Shoreline stabilization discussion
• Barley straw treatment for pond
• WinterFest event planning
• Cultural Chaos event discussion
• Grant opportunities for pond projects

The Nashawannuck Pond Steering Committee approved a $20,000 allocation for the retaining wall restoration and public access project. It also voted to have the committee assume responsibility for keeping the flag flying above the pond and to use a city tree to anchor the flag cable if private property cannot be used. Additionally, the committee authorized Friends of Nashawannuck Pond to sell merchandise at the NPSC booth and approved a $50 deposit from FONP for Winterfest preparations.

• Approved $20,000 contribution toward retaining wall restoration (unanimous)
• NPSC assumed duty to keep the flag flying above the pond (unanimous)
• Agreed to use a city tree to anchor the flag cable if private property use ends (unanimous)
• Allowed Friends of Nashawannuck Pond to sell merchandise and share the NPSC booth (unanimous)
• Approved $50 deposit from FONP for Winterfest event (unanimous)
• Approved meeting minutes from 3/31/2025 (unanimous)

School Department - Mountain View School Council

The Mountain View School Council will review minutes and discuss an elementary literacy curriculum pilot (Collaborative Classroom/CKLA) and a middle school science grant (Open SciED). The meeting also includes planning for end-of-year events and upcoming dates. No votes are scheduled; the items are for discussion.

• Review of minutes from previous meeting
• Elementary Literacy Curriculum Pilot: Collaborative Classroom/CKLA
• Middle School Science Grant: Open SciED
• End of Year Events and upcoming dates