Springfield public meetings in 2021

City Council - Special Meeting

The Springfield City Council held a special meeting on December 22, 2021, and adopted several items. They approved the November Revenue vs. Expenditure Report, accepted multiple grants and donations, authorized the sale of two city-owned properties via quitclaim deeds, and approved a special permit for a sign alteration. Two special permits for housing re-use projects were tabled to a future meeting.

• Adopted November Revenue vs. Expenditure Report (8-0)
• Approved FY22 State Aid to Public Library grant of $413,704 (8-0)
• Approved Emergency Management Performance Grant of $92,735 (7-0, 1 abstention)
• Accepted Mary & John J. Brogan Endowment of $50,000 (8-0)
• Accepted Thomas J. O'Connor donation of $13,000 (8-0)
• Accepted donation for North End Senior Center valued at $133 (8-0)
• Approved bills from prior year totaling $140 (10-0)
• Approved CPC funding for East Springfield Library Outdoor Reading Room (10-0)

Board of Assessor - Regular Meeting

The Board will review monthly real estate and motor vehicle excise abatement totals for October and November. The meeting also includes discussions regarding uncollectable taxes and a vote to enter executive session.

• Real Estate Abatement Total: $370,064.29 (November) and $109,214.72 (October)
• Motor Vehicle Excise Abatement Total: $22,869.98 (November) and $472,675.15 (October)
• Excise Commitment of $204,921.75
• Reassessment of Parcel 088600066 - ES Morton Street FY2005
• Executive session to discuss ATB litigation strategy for Memorial Square Apartments and Northgate Center LLC

License Commission - Regular

The Springfield License Commission will hold a virtual public hearing on December 22, 2021, to consider new petitions for manager changes, license transfers, and a location change, as well as a pre-hearing conference for violations against Pot Belly's Pub. The board will also approve minutes from its December 8 meeting.

• Manager changes for Wing Madness, Hemil's Bar and Grill, Pot Belly's, and Pride Stores
• License transfers for Pride locations at 77 West Street and 112 Parker Street
• Location change for Tj's Wine and Spirits from 28 Verge Street to Haymarket Square Boston Road
• Pre-hearing for Pot Belly's Pub violations including failure to provide video footage and exceeding capacity
• Approval of minutes from December 8, 2021 hearing

The Springfield License Commission approved a 15-day suspension for My Joe-Joe, Inc. d/b/a Pot Belly's Pub, with 3 days to be served January 7-10, 2022, and the remaining 12 days held in abeyance for 6 months. The board also approved minutes from the December 8, 2021 meeting. All other petitions—including manager changes, license transfers, and a location change—were continued to January 12, 2022.

• Approved minutes of December 8, 2021 meeting (unanimous)
• Continued manager change for Wing Madness to January 12, 2022 (unanimous)
• Continued manager change for Hemil's Bar and Grill to January 12, 2022 (unanimous)
• Continued manager change for Pot Belly's to January 12, 2022 (unanimous)
• Continued manager change for Pride at 77 West St to January 12, 2022 (unanimous)
• Continued license transfer for Pride at 77 West St to January 12, 2022 (unanimous)
• Continued license transfer for Pride at 112 Parker St to January 12, 2022 (unanimous)
• Approved 15-day suspension for Pot Belly's Pub (unanimous)

City Council - Regular Meeting

The Springfield City Council will hold a virtual meeting to elect the President and Vice President for the 2022 legislative session. The agenda contains no other substantive business items, contracts, or ordinances.

• Informal caucus to elect President of the City Council for the 2022 Legislative Session
• Informal caucus to elect Vice President of the City Council for the 2022 Legislative Session

The City Council held its annual organizational meeting and elected officers for the 2022 session. Marcus Williams was unanimously re-elected as Council President, and Jesse Lederman was elected Vice President over Tracye Whitfield. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Re-elected Marcus Williams as Council President for 2022 (unanimous)
• Elected Jesse Lederman as Council Vice President for 2022 (9-4)

Board of Public Works - Regular

The Board of Public Works is holding a hearing regarding an Eversource proposal for Trinity Terrace. The proposal involves installing a fully owned pole to remove a down guy located over a driveway at 11 Trinity Terrace.

• Hearing regarding Eversource pole installation at 11 Trinity Terrace

Historical Commission - Regular

The Springfield Historical Commission will hold public hearings on several property petitions, including a new residential duplex, exterior renovations, replacement windows, solar panels, and a proposal to create a Forest Park Trolley Waiting Pavilion Local Historic District. It will also discuss non-compliance cases and a Section 106 review for antenna installation.

• Petition #6514: Construct new residential duplex at ES Thompson Street (aka 39-41)
• Petition #6558: Creation of Forest Park Trolley Waiting Pavilion Local Historic District at 299 Sumner Avenue
• Petition #6557: Installation of solar panels at 48 Clarendon Street
• Petition #6559: Section 106 review for antenna installation at 361 Sumner Avenue
• Non-compliance cases: 90 Clarendon Street (vinyl fence) and 121 Dartmouth Terrace (garage doors, windows, utility meter)

Emergency Medical Services - Regular

The committee will review minutes from previous December sessions and receive a technology update. The agenda also includes an award presentation to Dennis Duquette and Madeline Landrau of the MassMutual Foundation.

• Presentation of Award to Dennis Duquette and Madeline Landrau, MassMutual Foundation
• Technology Update

School Committee - High School Representatives

The committee will meet to approve minutes from previous December sessions and present an award to representatives from the MassMutual Foundation. The agenda also includes a technology update and various committee reports.

• Presentation of Award to Dennis Duquette and Madeline Landrau, MassMutual Foundation
• Technology Update
• Approval of December 2 and December 9 meeting minutes

School Committee - Regular

The committee will meet to approve minutes from previous December sessions and present an award to representatives from the MassMutual Foundation. The agenda also includes a technology update and reports from various standing committees.

• Presentation of Award to Dennis Duquette and Madeline Landrau, MassMutual Foundation
• Technology Update
• Approval of December 2, 2021 Regular Session minutes
• Approval of December 9, 2021 Special Working Session minutes

School Committee - Regular

The Technology Subcommittee will hold a meeting to receive a technology update. This is an informational item and no specific decisions or actions are listed on the agenda.

• Technology Update (Informational Item)

Community Police Hearing Board - Case Review

The Community Police Hearing Board is meeting to review four cases, all of which will be discussed in executive session under an exemption for matters involving an individual's reputation, character, or discipline. Two cases are physical complaints with scheduled dates, and two are rules and regulations matters. The public portion of the meeting is listed on the agenda but no specific public items are detailed.

• Executive session for SO#21-125, physical case dated 12/27/2021
• Executive session for SO#21-129, physical case dated 1/13/2022
• Executive session for PIE#21-014, rules and regulations, dated 2/3/2022
• Executive session for PIE#21-015, rules and regulations, dated 2/7/2022

Board of Public Works - Regular

The Board of Public Works is holding a regular meeting that includes a public hearing on a request from Eversource to install a fully owned utility pole on Seymour Street. The rest of the agenda consists of standard procedural items such as call to order, minutes, and old/new business.

• Public hearing: Eversource request to install fully owned pole 50 feet from existing pole 27/27 and 12 feet from centerline of Seymour Street

School Committee - Regular

The Springfield School Committee's Budget & Finance Subcommittee is meeting to discuss a review of the Big Y Gift Card Program. This is an informational item, meaning no formal vote or decision is scheduled; the discussion is for review purposes only.

• Discussion of Big Y Gift Card Program review

Public Health Council - Regular

The Springfield Public Health Council is meeting virtually to discuss city health business including updates on COVID, the opioid crisis, and asthma/environmental issues, as well as health center operations such as staffing, finance, and policy. The agenda includes approval of November minutes and various reports, but no specific decisions or votes are listed.

• Approval of November meeting minutes
• COVID update
• Opioid crisis update
• Asthma/environmental update
• C3 update and staffing/provider update

City Planning Board - Regular Meeting

The Planning Board is conducting public hearings on several zoning changes, a subdivision for Whispering Brook Estates, and a site plan review for a new Springfield College building. The meeting also includes new petitions regarding a liquor license relocation and a new subdivision for Veterans Way.

• Zoning change from Business A to Business B for 797 Berkshire Avenue
• Subdivision plan for 17 proposed lots at Whispering Brook Estates
• Site Plan Review for a new Educational Health Science Building at SS Alden Street and Sheffield Street
• Liquor license location change for TJ's Wine & Spirit to Haymarket Square
• Zoning change from Business A to Business B for 914 Boston Road

The Springfield Planning Board approved the definitive layout for Whispering Brook Estates, a 17-lot private street subdivision, with conditions including DPW and Springfield Water & Sewer Commission approvals, a performance agreement, and sidewalk waivers. The board also approved a site plan review for a new four-story Health Science Building at 1215 Wilbraham Road. Several other items were continued to January 5, 2022, including a zoning change at 797 Berkshire Avenue, a liquor license relocation to 1690-1706 Boston Road, a zoning change at 914 Boston Road, and the Veterans Way subdivision.

• Approved Whispering Brook Estates subdivision, 17 lots (6-0)
• Approved site plan for new Health Science Building at 1215 Wilbraham Road (6-0)
• Continued zoning change at 797 Berkshire Avenue to Business B (6-0)
• Continued liquor license relocation to 1690-1706 Boston Road (6-0)
• Continued zoning change at 914 Boston Road to Business B (5-1)
• Continued Veterans Way subdivision, 4 lots (6-0)

REO Monitoring Committee - Regular Meeting

The Responsible Employer Ordinance Monitoring Committee will meet virtually to discuss progress on the ordinance. The agenda includes a review of year-to-date projects and an update on the Homer/Deberry School project.

• Review of year to date projects
• Update of Homer/Deberry School project
• Discussion of upcoming year schedule

The Responsible Employer Ordinance Monitoring Committee met virtually and reviewed year-to-date projects, including the near-complete boiler installation at Frederick Harris Elementary School. The Homer/Deberry School project's workforce report showed Springfield resident hiring at 32.49%, below the 35% goal, though other targets were met through November 30, 2021. The committee discussed communication issues with subcontractors Norgate Metals and the Brightwood/Lincoln project regarding resident quotas, and requested a list of upcoming projects for the next meeting. No formal votes were taken; the only action was accepting the October 19, 2021 minutes.

• Accepted minutes of October 19, 2021 meeting
• Reviewed year-to-date REO projects, noting boiler installation at Frederick Harris Elementary nearly complete
• Noted Homer/Deberry School project resident hiring at 32.49% vs 35% goal
• Discussed Norgate Metals and Brightwood/Lincoln resident quota communication issues
• Requested compilation of upcoming REO projects for next meeting

City Council - Hearings Meeting

The Springfield City Council will hold a virtual hearing on December 13, 2021, to consider seven special permit applications and one zoning change. The special permits include adult-use marijuana cultivation and retail operations, signage, and the reuse of existing structures for housing. The zoning change would rezone property on Berkshire Avenue from Business A to Business B. All items are under review; no final decisions are listed on this agenda.

• Special permit for adult-use marijuana cultivation at 299 Page Boulevard (Page Cultivate, LLC)
• Special permit for adult-use marijuana retail at 1685 Boston Road (Diem Springfield, LLC)
• Special permit for adult-use marijuana cultivation at 1685 Boston Road (Diem Springfield, LLC)
• Special permit for accessory wall sign at 1500 Main Street (YMCA of Greater Springfield)
• Zoning change for 797 Berkshire Avenue from Business A to Business B (1626 Bay Street, LLC)

The City Council tabled three adult-use marijuana special permits (cultivation and retail) until January 24, 2022, after a motion by Councilor Hurst citing an audit and missing councilors. It approved a special permit for accessory wall signs at the YMCA's 1500 Main Street property (11-0). Several housing-related special permits for re-use of existing structures were continued to December 22, 2021, and a zoning change for 797 Berkshire Avenue was continued to January 24, 2022.

• Tabled adult-use marijuana cultivation permit at 299 Page Boulevard (12-0, continue vote)
• Tabled adult-use marijuana retail permit at 1685 Boston Road (12-0, continue vote)
• Tabled adult-use marijuana cultivation permit at 1685 Boston Road (12-0, continue vote)
• Approved accessory wall sign permit for YMCA at 1500 Main Street (11-0)
• Continued special permit for 41-unit re-use at 195 State Street (10-1, next 12/22/21)
• Continued special permit for sign alteration at 1000 West Columbus Avenue (11-0, next 12/22/21)
• Continued special permit for 52-unit re-use at 300/310 State Street (11-1, next 12/22/21)
• Continued zoning change for 797 Berkshire Avenue (next 1/24/22)

Board of Assessor - Regular Meeting

The Board of Assessors is meeting to review monthly abatement totals for real estate and motor vehicle excise, discuss a reassessment for a parcel on Morton Street, and vote to enter executive session to discuss litigation strategy and personal exemption applications. The meeting is conducted remotely via telephone.

• November real estate abatement total: $370,064.29
• October real estate abatement total: $109,214.72
• October motor vehicle excise abatement total: $472,675.15
• November motor vehicle excise abatement total: $22,869.98
• Reassessment of Parcel 088600066 on ES Morton Street FY2005

School Committee - Special Meeting

The Springfield School Committee is holding a special working session to discuss and vote on the chair's summative evaluation of the superintendent for 2020-2021, and to consider a recommended salary increase based on that performance. The meeting includes discussion and separate votes on the evaluation and the salary recommendation.

• Discussion of School Committee Chair's Superintendent Evaluation for 2020-2021
• Vote to accept the Superintendent Summative Evaluation for 2020-2021
• Discussion of recommendation for Superintendent's Performance Evaluation salary increase for 2020-2021
• Vote to accept the recommendation regarding the superintendent's annual salary based on performance evaluation for 2020-2021

City Council - General Government Sub-Committee

The Springfield School Committee is holding a special working session to discuss and vote on the School Committee Chair's summative evaluation of the Superintendent for 2020-2021, and to consider a recommended salary increase based on that evaluation. The meeting includes discussion and votes on both the evaluation and the salary recommendation.

• Discussion of School Committee Chair's Superintendent Evaluation for 2020-2021
• Vote to accept the Superintendent Summative Evaluation for 2020-2021
• Discussion of recommendation for Superintendent's Performance Evaluation salary increase for 2020-2021
• Vote to accept the recommendation regarding the superintendent's annual salary

License Commission - Regular

The Springfield License Commission approved four petitions: a new Farmer Series Pouring Permit for Rustic Brewing Company, a new license for West Indian Delight Inc. d/b/a Talk of the Town with an 11pm closing time, a change of officers for Sarno Enterprise Inc. d/b/a X-Pub, and the prior meeting's minutes. Three violation hearings were continued to later dates.

• Approved minutes of Nov 30, 2021 hearing (unanimous)
• Approved new Farmer Series Pouring Permit for Rustic Brewing Company at 34 Front St (unanimous)
• Approved new license for Talk of the Town at 320-324 Worthington St with 11pm closing (unanimous)
• Approved change of officers/stock transfer for X-Pub at 520 Sumner Ave (unanimous)
• Continued Delicias Restaurant violation hearing to final hearing (unanimous)
• Continued Pot Belly's Pub violation hearing (unanimous)
• Continued Delicias Restaurant final hearing on Aug 14-15 violation (unanimous)

Community Preservation Committee - Regular

The Springfield Community Preservation Committee is meeting remotely to discuss and potentially act on several items, including an anti-wage theft policy, prevailing wage requirements, a recreation agreement for the East Springfield Library, and contract extension requests for preservation projects. The committee will also consider modifications to the Community Preservation Plan and receive updates from the administrator and on DOR revenue.

• Anti-Wage Theft Policy discussion
• REO/Prevailing Wage item
• East Springfield Library Recreation Agreement
• Project Contract Extension Requests
• Community Preservation Plan Modifications

The Community Preservation Committee approved a revised condition for the East Springfield Library reading garden grant, replacing a deed restriction with a repayment clause if the library expands. It also extended several park studies to June 30, 2022, and the Re-Green Knotweed project to November 30, 2022, while tabling extension requests for the French Row House and Parsons House until January. The committee adopted the 2022 Community Preservation Plan.

• Approved revised grant condition for East Springfield Library reading garden with repayment clause (6-0)
• Extended park studies (Dog Park, Old First Church, Indian Orchard Water, Rockrimmon, Boat House, Spanish American War Memorial) to June 30, 2022 (6-0)
• Extended Re-Green Knotweed eradication project to November 30, 2022 (6-0)
• Tabled extension requests for French Row House and Parsons House until January 2022 (6-0)
• Adopted 2022 Community Preservation Plan (6-0)

City Council - Regular Meeting

The Springfield City Council will review the October revenue vs. expenditure report, several traffic orders, grants, budget transfers, and special permits. Key items include a $5,000,000 Section 108 loan request, a $71,500 recycling grant, and a $28,000 parks donation. The council will also vote on special permits for a mixed-use building on Belmont Avenue and a crematorium expansion on Pine Street, plus a zone change for 8 Florence Street.

• Section 108 Loan - No Match - $5,000,000
• DPW Recycling Dividends Program Grant - $71,500
• Parks Department Donation - $28,000
• Special Permit for mixed-use building at SS Belmont Avenue (462 Belmont Ave)
• Zone change for 8 Florence Street from Residence B to Residence C

The Springfield City Council approved a $5 million Section 108 loan for the Main Street convention area, along with several other financial items and zoning changes. All votes were unanimous (12-0 or 11-0) with Councilor Gumersindo Gomez absent. The council also adopted a $75,000 budget transfer for the Law Department and approved multiple traffic-related petitions.

• Approved $5M Section 108 loan for Main Street convention area (12-0)
• Approved $75,000 budget transfer for Law Department outside counsel (11-0)
• Approved $71,500 DPW Recycling Dividends Program grant (11-0)
• Approved $28,000 Parks Department donation from Springfield Cultural Partnership (11-0)
• Approved $33,554.91 in prior year bills for Police and City Clerk (11-0)
• Approved special permit for mixed-use building at 462 Belmont Ave (11-0)
• Approved special permit for crematorium expansion at 171 Maple St (12-0)
• Approved zoning change for 8 Florence St from Residence B to C (12-0)

Historical Commission - Regular

The Springfield Historical Commission will hold public hearings on 12 petitions for exterior changes to historic properties, including window replacements, renovations, and a new duplex. It will also discuss a MassDOT road reconstruction project and non-compliance cases.

• Petition for new residential duplex at ES Thompson Street (aka 39-41)
• Solar panel installation at 10 Cornell Street
• Replacement of wood siding with vinyl/composite at 87-91 Central Street
• Discussion of Sumner Avenue reconstruction at Dickinson Street and Belmont Avenue (MassDOT Section 106 review)
• Non-compliance: unapproved vinyl fence at 90 Clarendon Street

City Council - Special Meeting

The Springfield School Committee is holding a special meeting with an executive session to discuss strategy related to collective bargaining with the Springfield Federation of Paraprofessionals Local 4098 (AFT), citing potential detriment to its bargaining position if held openly. The committee will also approve minutes from prior meetings, hear reports from the student representative and superintendent, and receive updates from standing committees.

• Executive session on paraprofessional collective bargaining strategy
• Approval of minutes from November 16 and November 18, 2021 meetings
• Student representative report from Nathaniel Claudio (Putnam Vocational-Technical Academy)
• Reports from standing committees including Budget and Finance, Curriculum and Programs, and School Safety

School Committee - Public Speak Out

The Springfield School Committee is holding a regular meeting that includes an executive session to discuss strategy for collective bargaining with the Paraprofessionals, Springfield Federation of Paraprofessionals Local 4098 (AFT), because an open meeting could hurt the committee's bargaining position. The agenda also includes approval of minutes from prior meetings, a strategic plan update, and reports from the student representative, superintendent, and standing committees.

• Executive session on paraprofessional collective bargaining strategy
• Strategic Plan/Portrait of a Graduate Update
• Approve minutes of Nov 16 and Nov 18 meetings
• Student representative report by Nathaniel Claudio
• Reports from standing committees including Budget and Finance, School Safety

School Committee - Regular

The Springfield School Committee is holding a regular meeting that includes an executive session to discuss collective bargaining strategy with the Springfield Federation of Paraprofessionals Local 4098 (AFT). The committee will also approve minutes from previous meetings, receive reports from the student representative and superintendent, and hear updates from standing committees. The agenda is largely procedural, with the main substantive item being the executive session on labor negotiations.

• Executive session to discuss strategy related to Paraprofessionals, Springfield Federation of Paraprofessionals Local 4098 (AFT) collective bargaining
• Approve minutes of November 16, 2021 Special Meeting and November 18, 2021 Regular Session
• Report of Student Representative Nathaniel Claudio - Roger L. Putnam Vocational-Technical Academy
• Reports from standing committees including Buildings and Maintenance, Budget and Finance, and School Safety

Election Commission - Regular

The Springfield Election Commission is meeting to conduct a hand recount of Ward 4 ballots from the November 2, 2021 Municipal Election. The agenda includes a call to order and a public portion for the recount.

• Hand recount of Ward 4 ballots from November 2, 2021 Municipal Election

Retirement Board - Regular

The Springfield Retirement Board will vote on several disability benefit applications, including new applications and responses from medical panels, as well as approve superannuation retirements and warrants. The board will also hold a hearing on excess earnings and consider refunds and transfers. The agenda is routine, with no major policy changes.

• Vote on accidental disability applications for Roberto Rodriguez (DPW) and Michael Cross (School Dept.)
• Vote on medical panel responses for disability applications from Roberto Matos (Police), Billy Santiago (Fire), and John Tyrell (Park Dept.)
• Hearing on excess earnings under MGL Ch. 32 Sec. 91A for Henry Douglas (DPW)
• Approval of 8 superannuations, including police officers Michael Goggin and Troy Hufnagel
• Reaffirm warrants totaling $7,786,922.88, including retirement payroll of $7,176,586.69

City Planning Board - Regular Meeting

The Springfield Planning Board unanimously approved two liquor license petitions: a Farmers Series Pour Permit for 34 Front Street and a new Beer & Wine license for 320-324 Wilbraham Road, each with conditions. The board also unanimously continued three public hearings to December 15, 2021: a zoning change for 797 Berkshire Avenue, the Whispering Brook Estates subdivision plan, and a site plan review for a new educational building on Alden and Sheffield Streets.

• Approved liquor license petition ID #6500 for 34 Front Street (Farmers Series Pour Permit) unanimously.
• Approved liquor license petition ID #6501 for 320-324 Wilbraham Road (Beer & Wine) unanimously, with conditions on signage and dumpster.
• Continued zoning change petition ID #6368 for 797 Berkshire Avenue to 12/15/2021.
• Continued subdivision plan petition ID #6440 (Whispering Brook Estates, 17 lots) to 12/15/2021.
• Continued site plan review petition ID #6526 (new educational building on Alden/Sheffield Streets) to 12/15/2021.

License Commission - Regular

The Springfield License Commission will hold a virtual public hearing to consider liquor license petitions, including new licenses, manager changes, and alterations. It will also conduct hearings on alleged violations at Delicias Restaurant and vote on a re-hearing for a new restaurant license.

• Petition for new Farmer Series Pouring Permit for Rustic Brewing Company at 34 Front St
• Petition for new license for West Indian Delight, Inc. d/b/a Talk of the Town at 320-324 Worthington St
• Pre-hearing conference for Delicias Restaurant & Catering at 1333 Boston Rd regarding noise ordinance violations
• Final hearing for Delicias Restaurant & Catering for August 14-15 noise ordinance violation
• Vote on allowing re-hearing for Rose Ent LLC d/b/a Rose at 555 Worthington St for new all-alcohol restaurant license

The Board approved the minutes from November 10, 2021, and unanimously approved a change of manager for Racing Mart at 1487 Bay St, and an alteration of premises for City Line Café at 9-11 Rimmon Ave, with the restriction that the patio must close at 11pm. The Board continued several petitions to December 8, 2021, including new permits for Rustic Brewing Company, Talk of the Town, and X-Pub, as well as pre-hearing and final hearings for Delicias Restaurant & Catering. The Board also approved all liquor license renewals and unanimously voted to waive the one-year restriction to allow Rose Ent LLC to re-submit a new liquor license application for 555 Worthington St.

• Approved minutes of November 10, 2021 hearing
• Approved change of manager for Racing Mart (1487 Bay St) to Jesenia Paredes
• Approved alteration of premises for City Line Café (9-11 Rimmon Ave) with patio closing at 11pm
• Continued to 12/08/21: new Farmer Series Pouring Permit for Rustic Brewing Company (34 Front St)
• Continued to 12/08/21: new license for Talk of the Town (320-324 Worthington St)
• Continued to 12/08/21: change of officers/stock for X-Pub (520 Sumner Ave)
• Continued to 12/08/21: pre-hearing and final hearing for Delicias Restaurant & Catering (1333 Boston Rd)
• Approved all liquor license renewals; waived one-year restriction to allow Rose Ent LLC to re-submit application for 555 Worthington St

City Council - Special Meeting

The Springfield City Council is holding a special meeting to consider three orders: two transfers of $2.5 million each from FY21 Certified Free Cash to FY22 and FY23 estimated revenues, and an order setting the residential tax factor for FY22. The transfers are intended to reduce the property tax levy by $2.5 million in each fiscal year, providing tax relief during the pandemic. The meeting is virtual via Zoom.

• Order #6528: Tax Factor for Fiscal Year 2022
• Order #6529: Transfer $2,500,000 from FY21 Certified Free Cash to FY22 Estimated Revenues
• Order #6530: Transfer $2,500,000 from FY21 Certified Free Cash to FY23 Estimated Revenues
• CAFO certification confirms financial resources adequate for the transfers

The City Council voted to approve the FY22 tax factor and a $2.5 million transfer from certified free cash to FY22 revenues, which will reduce the average residential tax bill increase from $278 to $216. A second $2.5 million transfer to FY23 revenues was also approved. Councilors debated the need for more taxpayer relief and expressed disappointment that the Mayor was not present.

• Approved $2.5M transfer from FY21 free cash to FY22 revenues (11-2)
• Approved $2.5M transfer from FY21 free cash to FY23 revenues (9-4)
• Approved FY22 tax factor of 0.7927 (10-3)
• Failed motion to refer FY23 transfer to Finance Committee (5-8)

City Council - Special Meeting

The City Council is holding a public hearing to receive information and testimony on the Fiscal Year 2022 property tax rates. The Assessors will present available tax rates and how the tax levy is allocated among residential, commercial, industrial, and personal property. The public may offer oral or written testimony.

• Public hearing on FY2022 property tax rates
• Assessors to present tax rate options and levy allocation
• Public testimony accepted orally or in writing

City Council - COVID-19 Response

The Conservation Commission is meeting to review a Notice of Intent from Big Y Foods, Inc. for construction of a pedestrian bridge at 2145 Roosevelt Avenue. The agenda also includes continued discussion of the Allen Street Subdivision and a request for a Certificate of Compliance for 179 Overland Street.

• Notice of Intent: Big Y Foods, Inc. pedestrian bridge at 2145 Roosevelt Avenue
• Continued item: Allen Street Subdivision
• Request for Certificate of Compliance: 179 Overland Street

Conservation Commission - Regular

The Springfield Conservation Commission is meeting to discuss a Notice of Intent from Big Y Foods, Inc. for construction of a pedestrian bridge at 2145 Roosevelt Avenue. The agenda also includes continued discussion of the Allen Street Subdivision and a request for a Certificate of Compliance at 179 Overland Street.

• Notice of Intent for pedestrian bridge by Big Y Foods, Inc. at 2145 Roosevelt Avenue
• Continued item: Allen Street Subdivision
• Request for Certificate of Compliance at 179 Overland Street

City Council - Finance Sub-Committee

The Finance Sub-Committee is holding a public hearing to discuss real estate tax classification and the real estate tax ratio for fiscal year 2022. This is the only substantive item on the agenda, and no votes or decisions are listed.

• Public hearing on real estate tax classification for FY'22
• Discussion of real estate tax ratio for FY'22

City Council - Hearings Meeting

The Springfield City Council will hold a hearings meeting on November 22, 2021, to consider two zoning changes and three special permit requests. The zoning changes would rezone 797 Berkshire Avenue from Business A to Business B and 8 Florence Street from Residence B to Residence C. Special permits are requested for a mixed-use building on Belmont Avenue, expansion of a crematorium on Pine Street, and operation of an adult-use marijuana cultivator at 299 Page Boulevard.

• Zoning change: 797 Berkshire Avenue from Business A to Business B (petitioner: 1626 Bay Street, LLC)
• Zoning change: 8 Florence Street from Residence B to Residence C (petitioner: Wytas Properties, LLC; Planning Board recommends approval)
• Special permit: new mixed-use building over 1,000 sq ft at SS Belmont Avenue (a.k.a. 462) (petitioner: Seneca Slaughter)
• Special permit: expansion of pre-existing crematorium at WS Pine Street (a.k.a. 171 Maple Street) (petitioner: Properties of the Springfield Cemeteries)
• Special permit: adult-use marijuana cultivator at 299 Page Boulevard (petitioner: Page Cultivate, LLC)

The City Council held a hearings meeting and took action on several zoning and special permit items. A zoning change for 797 Berkshire Avenue was continued to December 13, 2021, and a zoning change for 8 Florence Street was received as a first step. Special permits for a mixed-use building on Belmont Avenue and a crematorium expansion on Pine Street were both continued to December 6, 2021. A special permit for an adult-use marijuana cultivator at 299 Page Boulevard was tabled to December 13, 2021.

• Continued zoning change for 797 Berkshire Avenue (Business A to Business B) to 12/13/2021.
• Received first step on zoning change for 8 Florence Street (Residence B to Residence C); next hearing 12/6/2021.
• Continued special permit for mixed-use building at SS Belmont Avenue to 12/6/2021 (11-0 vote).
• Continued special permit for crematorium expansion at WS Pine Street to 12/6/2021 (11-0 vote).
• Tabled special permit for adult-use marijuana cultivator at 299 Page Boulevard to 12/13/2021.

Mobile Home Rent Control Board - Regular

The Springfield Mobile Home Rent Control Board is meeting to approve prior meeting minutes and to make a determination on a rent increase petition from the owner of Bircham Bend Mobile Home Park. The meeting is held via Zoom.

• Determination on Bircham Bend Mobile Home Park owner's petition for rent increase
• Approval of minutes from June 2, 2021 public meeting

Emergency Medical Services - Regular

The Emergency Medical Services board is meeting to approve minutes from its October 28, 2021 meeting and continue discussion on analyzing AMR data and a possible 5-year contract. The agenda also includes time for other new business not known to the chair at the posting deadline.

• Approval of minutes from October 28, 2021 meeting
• Continued discussion on analyzing AMR Data
• Possible 5-year contract with AMR

School Committee - High School Representatives

The School Committee will consider approving two collective bargaining agreements for the Springfield Association of School Custodial Employees. The agenda also includes a vote to decommission the Eastern Avenue School and transfer its ownership to the City.

• Approve SASCE bargaining agreement (July 1, 2020 – June 30, 2021)
• Approve SASCE bargaining agreement (July 1, 2021 – June 30, 2024)
• Decommission the Eastern Avenue School and transfer ownership to the City
• Rename Homer St. portion of new Homer/DeBerry School in honor of Benjamin Swan
• Name Duggan Academy auditorium in honor of Eleanor and William Barker

School Committee - Regular

The School Committee will vote on collective bargaining agreements for custodial employees and the decommissioning of the Eastern Avenue School. The meeting also includes discussions regarding school naming honors and updates on preschool and Sodexo services.

• Approve SASCE collective bargaining agreement (July 1, 2020 – June 30, 2021)
• Approve SASCE collective bargaining agreement (July 1, 2021 – June 30, 2024)
• Decommission the Eastern Avenue School and transfer ownership to the City
• Rename Homer St. portion of new Homer/DeBerry School in honor of Benjamin Swan
• Name Duggan Academy auditorium in honor of Eleanor and William Barker

City Planning Board - Regular Meeting

The Springfield Planning Board is scheduled to hold public hearings regarding a zoning change for properties on Berkshire Avenue and a definitive subdivision for Whispering Brook Estates. The board will also review new petitions for liquor licenses at 34 Front Street and 320-324 Wilbraham Road.

• Zoning change from Business A to Business B for 797 Berkshire Avenue and Rear Berkshire Avenue
• Definitive subdivision layout for Whispering Brook Estates involving 17 proposed lots
• Farmers Series Pour Permit application for 34 Front Street
• New Beer & Wine Liquor License application for 320-324 Wilbraham Road

The Springfield Planning Board voted 7-0 to continue four public hearings to December 1, 2021, with no decisions made. These include a zoning change for 797 Berkshire Avenue, a definitive subdivision for Whispering Brook Estates, and two liquor license petitions for 34 Front Street and 320-324 Wilbraham Road. Board member Chelsea Choi was absent. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Continued zoning change for 797 Berkshire Avenue to Dec. 1, 7-0
• Continued Whispering Brook Estates subdivision (17 lots) to Dec. 1, 7-0
• Continued liquor license petition for 34 Front Street to Dec. 1, 7-0
• Continued beer & wine license for 320-324 Wilbraham Road to Dec. 1, 7-0

City Council - Sustainability and Environment

The Sustainability and Environment Committee will meet virtually to discuss the future of Lake Massasoit. No other items of business were listed on the agenda for this meeting.

• Discussion of the future of Lake Massasoit

School Committee - Special Meeting

This is a special working session of the Springfield School Committee. The agenda includes no voting items or minutes to approve. The committee will receive a presentation from the superintendent on supporting data for the 2020-2021 evaluation, and the committee attorney will review related documents and procedures.

• Superintendent PowerPoint presentation on evaluation data for 2020-2021
• School Committee Attorney review of evaluation documents and procedures

City Council - Maintenance and Development Sub-Committee

The Community Police Hearing Board will hold a meeting at the Springfield Training Facility. The agenda includes a public portion and an executive session to discuss specific matters regarding rules and regulations.

• Executive session regarding PIE#21-010 Rules and Regulations
• Executive session regarding PIE#21-012 Rules and Regulations
• Executive session regarding PIE#21-013 Rules and Regulations

Community Police Hearing Board - Case Review

The Community Police Hearing Board is meeting to review cases. The public portion is followed by an executive session to discuss individual complaints or disciplinary matters, which are exempt from open-meeting law. Three rule-related items are listed for future dates.

• Executive session under exemption #1 for individual reputation/character or discipline matters
• SO#21-131 scheduled for 11/26/2021
• PIE#21-010 Rules and Regulations scheduled for 12/20/2021
• PIE#21-012 Rules and Regulations scheduled for 12/31/2021
• PIE#21-013 Rules and Regulations scheduled for 1/5/2022

City Council - Regular Meeting

The Springfield City Council will consider a $5,000,000 transfer from the Stabilization Reserve to the Law Department's Settlement Account for legal settlements, an intergovernmental agreement with the Springfield Parking Authority for parking management, and several grants and special permits. The meeting includes reports, orders, petitions, and ordinances, with public speak-out at 6:30 PM.

• Transfer $5,000,000 from Stabilization Reserve to Law Department Settlement Account
• Approve intergovernmental agreement with Springfield Parking Authority for on-street parking management
• Special permit for adult use marijuana storefront at 666 State Street
• Special permit for trash hauling facility at 1635 Page Boulevard
• EEA grant of $249,975 for Van Horn Dam Phase II repair

The City Council approved a $5,000,000 transfer from the Stabilization Reserve to the Law Department Settlement Account by a 10-1 vote, with Councilor Justin Hurst voting against. The council also approved a three-year parking management agreement with the Springfield Parking Authority, a $249,975 grant for Van Horn Dam Phase II, and several other grants and special permits. All votes were unanimous except for the settlement transfer and one abstention on several items by Councilor Orlando Ramos.

• Approved $5M transfer from Stabilization Reserve to Law Department Settlement Account (10-1)
• Approved 3-year parking management agreement with Springfield Parking Authority (11-0)
• Approved $249,975 EEA grant for Van Horn Dam Phase II (10-0)
• Approved $15,000 Mass Cultural Council grant (10-0)
• Approved $2,050 Springfield Library Foundation donation (10-0)
• Approved special permit for trash hauling facility at 1635 Page Boulevard (11-0)
• Approved special permit for adult use marijuana storefront at 666 State Street (11-0)
• Approved amended ordinance on gasoline stations (11-0)

License Commission - Regular

The Springfield Board of License Commissioners will hold a virtual public hearing on November 10, 2021, to consider several license-related matters. These include continued petitions for a manager change and an alteration of premises, a new petition for a change of officers, and informational hearings on alleged violations by Delicias Restaurant. The board will also discuss a property tax waiver request and annual fees for Rustic Brewing Company.

• Petition for Change of Manager for Bay and Berkshire, LLC d/b/a Racing Mart at 1487 Bay St
• Petition for Alteration of Premises for City Line Capital d/b/a City Line Café at 9-11 Rimmon Ave
• Petition for Change of Officers/Directors for Sarno Enterprise, Inc. d/b/a X-Pub at 520 Sumner Ave
• Pre-hearing conference on Delicias Restaurant & Catering violations (noise ordinance, patio after 11pm) at 1333 Boston Rd
• Request for Property Tax Waiver for Our Lady of Mount Carmel Society at 13-15 Worthington St

The Board of License Commissioners met virtually on November 10, 2021, and approved the minutes from the October 27 hearing. They voted unanimously to continue several petitions to November 30, including a change of manager for Racing Mart, an alteration for City Line Café, a change of officers for X-Pub, and a noise violation case for Delicias Restaurant. The board denied a property tax waiver for Our Lady of Mount Carmel Society and set the annual fee for Rustic Brewing Company at $500.

• Approved minutes of October 27, 2021 hearing (unanimous)
• Continued Racing Mart change of manager petition to 11/30/21 (unanimous)
• Continued City Line Café alteration petition to 11/30/21 (unanimous)
• Continued X-Pub change of officers petition to 11/30/21 (unanimous)
• Continued Delicias Restaurant noise violation to 11/30/21 final hearing (unanimous)
• Continued three additional Delicias violations to 11/30/21 pre-hearing (unanimous)
• Denied property tax waiver for Our Lady of Mount Carmel Society (unanimous)
• Set annual fee for Rustic Brewing Company at $500 (unanimous)

Mobile Home Rent Control Board - Regular

The Mobile Home Rent Control Board is meeting to approve prior minutes and hold a public portion to determine the outcome of Bircham Bend Mobile Home Park owner's petition for a rent increase. The meeting is held via Zoom.

• Approval of minutes from June 2, 2021 meeting
• Determination on Bircham Bend Mobile Home Park rent increase petition

School Committee - Regular

The Buildings & Maintenance Subcommittee is meeting to vote on three recommendations to the full School Committee: decommissioning the Eastern Avenue School and transferring ownership to the City, renaming the new Homer/DeBerry School in honor of Benjamin Swan, and naming the Duggan Academy auditorium in honor of Eleanor and William Barker. These are votes to recommend, not final decisions.

• Vote to recommend decommissioning Eastern Avenue School and transferring ownership to the City
• Vote to recommend renaming the new Homer/DeBerry School in honor of Benjamin Swan
• Vote to recommend naming the Duggan Academy auditorium in honor of Eleanor and William Barker

City Council - COVID-19 Response

The City Council met virtually to discuss the pediatric COVID-19 vaccine. The agenda also included a discussion regarding the availability of COVID-19 boosters.

• Discussion of pediatric COVID-19 vaccine
• Discussion of availability of COVID-19 Booster

Conservation Commission - Regular

The Commission will discuss continued items regarding the Allen Street Subdivision and a single-family home at 0 Slumber Lane. There are no new filings presented for the public portion of this meeting.

• Allen Street Subdivision review
• 0 Slumber Lane single family home review

School Committee - Regular

The Springfield School Committee's Budget & Finance Subcommittee is meeting to discuss two items: ESSER (federal pandemic relief) funds and workers' compensation. This is a discussion-only agenda with no votes or decisions listed.

• Discussion of ESSER funds
• Discussion of workers' compensation

Community Preservation Committee - Regular

The Community Preservation Committee is meeting to discuss several items, including an anti-wage theft policy, a recreation restriction for the East Springfield Library, project contract extension requests, and modifications to the community preservation plan. Public comments are accepted via mail or email due to remote meeting format.

• Anti-wage theft policy discussion
• East Springfield Library recreation restriction
• Project contract extension requests
• Community preservation plan modifications
• Approval of October 5, 2021 meeting minutes

The Community Preservation Committee voted to adopt a 2022 application timetable with a February 1 workshop, March 31 application deadline, and September recommendations to the City Council. The committee also approved contract extensions for the McKnight historic homes program and multiple park projects to November 30, 2022, with a request for more specific completion dates for studies. The committee discussed but did not vote on an anti-wage theft policy, deferring it to the December meeting.

• Adopted 2022 timetable: workshop Feb 1, applications due Mar 31, recommendations in September (7-0)
• Extended McKnight historic homes contract to November 30, 2022 (7-0)
• Extended 2019 and 2021 park construction projects to November 30, 2022 (6-0)
• Extended Godfrey Triangle project to June 30, 2022 for tree planting (6-0)
• Approved October 5, 2021 minutes (7-0)
• Discussed anti-wage theft policy, deferred to December meeting
• Discussed East Springfield Library recreation restriction, deferred to December meeting

Historical Commission - Regular

The Springfield Historical Commission is meeting virtually to continue a public hearing on vent covers at 127-129 Pineywoods Avenue and to hold new public hearings on six property renovation petitions, including window replacements, solar panels, a garage addition, exterior renovations, vinyl siding, and porch door changes. The commission will also receive informational updates on an antenna installation and two non-compliance cases involving unapproved changes.

• 127-129 Pineywoods Avenue: vent covers for bathroom ventilation (continued hearing)
• 46 Randolph Street: replacement windows
• 268 Sumner Avenue: solar panel installation
• 120 Clarendon Street: rear garage addition
• 360 Maple Street: several exterior renovations

Retirement Board - Regular

The Springfield Retirement Board will vote on several superannuations for city employees, including members of the Police, Fire, and School departments. The board will also consider approving various warrants, including a $5,600,000.00 redemption from the PRIT fund.

• Approval of six superannuations for employees in the School, Elder Affairs, Police, and DPW departments
• Reaffirmation of Warrant #64 involving $7,152,982.07 in retirement payroll and a $5,600,000.00 PRIT fund redemption
• Review of an involuntary accidental disability application for Brian Wanat of the Fire Department
• Consideration of 24 requests for refunds and transfers to other systems
• Vote on survivor benefits for beneficiaries of John Francis and Robert Fyhr of the Fire Department

City Planning Board - Regular Meeting

The Springfield Planning Board will continue hearings on a liquor license expansion at 9-11 Rimmon Avenue and a subdivision plan for Whispering Brook Estates. Both items were previously continued from the October 20, 2021, meeting.

• Liquor License expansion/alteration for City Line Capital, Inc. at 9-11 Rimmon Avenue
• Definitive Layout of a Private Street for Whispering Brook Estates (17 proposed lots)

The Springfield Planning Board approved a petition to expand/alter an all-alcoholic liquor license at 9-11 Rimmon Avenue, with conditions including closing outdoor patios by 11:00 PM and prohibiting banners, outside music, or entertainment. The board also continued a vote on the definitive layout of Whispering Brook Estates, a 17-lot private street subdivision, to the next meeting on November 17, 2021. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved liquor license expansion at 9-11 Rimmon Avenue (6-0, 1 abstention)
• Continued vote on Whispering Brook Estates subdivision layout to 11/17/2021 (7-0)

Board of Library Commissioners - Regular

The Board of Library Commissioners will hold a regular meeting via Zoom to review staff presentations and committee reports. The agenda also includes the approval of minutes from previous September and October meetings.

• Staff presentation by Zach Bartlett, Manager of Borrowers Services
• Approval of minutes from September 1, 2021, and October 6, 2021, meetings
• Commission Committee Reports
• Chairman’s Report
• Director’s Report

Traffic Commission - Regular

This is the agenda for the Springfield Traffic Commission regular meeting on November 1, 2021. The agenda contains only standard procedural items with no specific decisions or discussions listed.

Board of Assessor - Regular Meeting

The Board of Assessors is meeting by phone to handle public business, including review of 41C applications for COVID stimulus payments and income qualification for FY22. The board will then vote to enter executive session to discuss litigation strategy for Appellate Tax Board dockets and review overvalue/abatement applications, including several named properties.

• 41C Applications - COVID Stimulus Payments and income qualification for FY22
• Executive session for ATB Docket Review litigation strategy
• Overvalue Applications: Real Estate and Personal Property abatement hearings
• ATB Docket Review: Northgate Center LLC, ARCP MT Springfield MT, 1685 Boston Road LLC, Eastfield Associates LLC, Memorial Square Apartments LLC
• 3ABC - Review FY22 submissions

School Committee - High School Representatives

The Springfield School Committee will vote on three technology-related policies: the Written Information Security Program, Student Acceptable Use, and Staff Acceptable Use and Data Security. They will also receive updates on Pre-K iPads, technology, and COVID-19 communication. The meeting includes an executive session to discuss a workers' compensation litigation matter.

• Approve Written Information Security Program Policy
• Approve Student Acceptable Use Policy
• Approve Staff Acceptable Use and Data Security Policy
• Update on Pre-K iPads
• COVID-19 Communication Update

School Committee - Regular

The Committee will vote on approving the Written Information Security Program Policy and acceptable use policies for students and staff. The meeting also includes updates regarding Pre-K iPads, technology, and COVID-19 communications.

• Approve the Written Information Security Program Policy
• Approve the Student Acceptable Use Policy
• Approve the Staff Acceptable Use and Data Security Policy
• Update on Pre-K iPads
• COVID-19 Communication Update

Emergency Medical Services - Regular

The Springfield Emergency Medical Services board is meeting to discuss a request for AMR data and the barriers to obtaining it. The agenda also includes routine items like approval of minutes, scheduling the next meeting, and adjournment.

• Discussion of AMR Data and barriers to obtaining data

School Committee - Regular

The Springfield School Committee's Technology Subcommittee is meeting to receive updates on Pre-K iPads and technology, and to vote on recommending three policies to the full School Committee: a Written Information Security Program Policy, a Student Acceptable Use Policy, and a Staff Acceptable Use and Data Security Policy. These votes are recommendations only; final approval rests with the full School Committee.

• Update on Pre-K iPads
• Update on Technology
• Vote to recommend approval of Written Information Security Program Policy
• Vote to recommend approval of Student Acceptable Use Policy
• Vote to recommend approval of Staff Acceptable Use and Data Security Policy

License Commission - Regular

The Springfield License Commission will hold a virtual public hearing on October 27, 2021, to consider several alcohol license petitions, including new licenses, transfers, and manager changes. The board will also conduct a pre-hearing conference for a noise ordinance violation at Delicias Restaurant & Catering. The meeting includes approval of minutes from the previous hearing.

• New alcohol license for Amapola Bakery & Bistro d/b/a Bori Chino at 497 Belmont Ave.
• New alcohol license for ML&J LLC d/b/a Marlee's at 750 Boston Rd.
• Transfer of license for Pretzel Pub Inc. d/b/a Del Rey Taqueria Bar at 211 Worthington St.
• Change of ownership for OM Mahadev Inc. d/b/a One Stop Discount Liquors at 494 Central St.
• Pre-hearing for noise violation at Delicias Restaurant & Catering, 1333 Boston Rd.

The Board of License Commissioners unanimously approved eight license-related petitions, including new alcohol licenses for Bori Chino and Marlee's, a transfer for Del Rey Taqueria Bar, and several changes of manager, ownership, or officers. Three items were continued to the November 10, 2021 meeting: a change of manager for Racing Mart, an alteration for City Line Café, and a noise violation case for Delicias Restaurant & Catering. The board also approved the minutes from the October 13, 2021 meeting.

• Approved minutes of October 13, 2021 hearing (unanimous)
• Approved change of manager for Sophia's Sports Bar (unanimous)
• Approved new alcohol license for Bori Chino with midnight closing (unanimous)
• Approved change of stock/ownership for Le Souk Hookah Lounge with 1:00am closing (unanimous)
• Approved change of ownership for One Stop Discount Liquors (unanimous)
• Approved transfer of license for Del Rey Taqueria Bar (unanimous)
• Approved new alcohol license for Marlee's, conditioned on manager change petition (unanimous)
• Approved change of officers for Uno Chicago Grill (unanimous)

Conservation Commission - Regular

The Springfield Conservation Commission is meeting to review a request for determination of applicability for a single-family home at 0 Slumber Lane, and to continue discussions on the Allen Street Subdivision. The agenda also includes a certificate of compliance for 9-11 Waterford Circle, a gift of land on Marine Street, and approval of MACC dues of $513.

• Petition #6470: Request for Determination of Applicability for single-family home at 0 Slumber Lane
• Continued item: Allen Street Subdivision
• Certificate of Compliance: 9-11 Waterford Circle
• Marine Street Gift of Land
• MACC Dues: $513

School Building Commission - Regular

The Springfield School Building Commission is meeting to approve minutes, vote on contract amendments for the DeBerry/Homer Elementary School project, and authorize a funding agreement for window and door replacements at the High School of Science and Technology. They will also receive a project update on Brightwood Elementary School.

• Approval of September 28, 2021 meeting minutes
• Vote on Amendment #3 to Construction Manager at Risk contract with Fontaine Bros. for DeBerry/Homer Elementary School
• Presentation of Amendment #10 to designer contract with DiNisco Design
• Vote to authorize funding agreement for windows and doors replacement at High School of Science and Technology
• Project update on Brightwood Elementary School

The Springfield School Building Commission approved Amendment #2 to the Construction Manager at Risk contract with Fontaine Bros., Inc. for the DeBerry/Homer Elementary School project. This amendment incorporates trade bids totaling $30,273,002 and increases the Preliminary Guaranteed Maximum Price to $53,081,157. The motion was unanimously approved. The commission also approved the minutes from the August 24, 2021 meeting.

• Approved meeting minutes of August 24, 2021 (unanimous)
• Approved Amendment #2 to CM@Risk contract with Fontaine Bros., Inc. for DeBerry/Homer Elementary School, incorporating trade bids totaling $30,273,002 and increasing Preliminary GMP to $53,081,157 (unanimous)

City Council - COVID-19 Response

The Springfield Conservation Commission is meeting virtually to review a request for determination of applicability for a single-family home at 0 Slumber Lane, along with continued items including the Allen Street Subdivision. The agenda also includes a certificate of compliance for 9-11 Waterford Circle, a gift of land on Marine Street, and payment of MACC dues of $513.

• Petition #6470: Request for Determination of Applicability for single-family home at 0 Slumber Lane by Mamba Capital LLC
• Continued item: Allen Street Subdivision
• Certificate of Compliance: 9-11 Waterford Circle
• Marine Street Gift of Land
• MACC Dues: $513

City Council - Special Meeting

The Springfield City Council is holding a special meeting to consider two items: transferring $5,000,000 from the Stabilization Reserve to the Law Department's Settlement Claims Account for litigation settlements, and adopting a new 2020 Re-Precincting Plan that redraws ward and precinct boundaries based on the 2020 Census. The meeting begins in open session, then moves to executive session to discuss litigation strategy with the U.S. Department of Justice and other civil rights matters involving the police department, before reconvening to vote.

• Transfer $5,000,000 from Stabilization Reserve to Law Department Settlement Account
• Adoption of 2020 Re-Precincting Plan for ward and precinct boundaries
• Executive session on litigation with U.S. Department of Justice and civil rights matters
• CAFO certification confirms funds available without impacting services

The City Council voted 12-0 to adopt the 2020 Re-Precincting Plan, which redraws ward and precinct boundaries based on new census data as required by Massachusetts law. A separate order to transfer $5 million from the Stabilization Reserve to the Law Department Settlement Account was continued to the next meeting, with a vote of 8-2.

• Adopted 2020 Re-Precincting Plan (12-0)
• Continued $5,000,000 transfer from Stabilization Reserve to Law Department Settlement Account (8-2)

City Council - Public Safety

The City Council's Public Safety committee is considering an ordinance that would prohibit gasoline stations from selling fuel for use in motorized recreational vehicles like ATVs and dirt bikes, unless the vehicle is transported to the station by a registered motor vehicle. The proposal includes a $100 fine per violation and requires bilingual warning signs at all dispensing locations. The item has been referred to committee multiple times and is being discussed at this meeting.

• Ordinance amending Chapter 178 to ban gasoline sales for illegal use in motorized recreational vehicles
• Proposed $100 fine per occurrence for violations
• Requires English and Spanish warning signs at gas pumps
• Amends Chapter 1, Article V to add enforcement by Fire Department
• Effective date listed as May 31, 2021

City Council - Hearings Meeting

The Springfield City Council is holding a public hearing to review petitions for underground utility installations by Eversource on Bradley, Wilbraham, and Pinevale streets. The agenda also includes votes on special permits for a McDonald's, a YMCA sign, a trash facility, and a marijuana store, as well as a zoning change for a property on Berkshire Avenue.

• Eversource petition to install 3 manholes and 453 ft of conduits on Bradley Rd
• Eversource petition to install underground lines on Wilbraham Rd
• Eversource petition to install underground lines on Pinevale Street
• Special permit amendment for McDonald's at 809 Boston Road
• Zoning change from Business A to Business B at 797 Berkshire Avenue

The City Council approved three Eversource petitions for manhole installation and cable updates on Bradley Road, Wilbraham Road, and Main Street/Pinevale Street, each by a 12-0 vote. The council also approved the second and third steps for creating a Historic District at the Aunchman House (51-53 Bay Street) to enable CPA funding. Several other items were continued to future meetings, including a trash hauling facility special permit and an adult-use marijuana establishment permit.

• Approved Eversource petition for Bradley Road manholes/cable updates (12-0)
• Approved Eversource petition for Wilbraham Road manholes/cable updates (12-0)
• Approved Eversource petition for Main Street/Pinevale Street manholes/cable updates (12-0)
• Approved second & third steps for Aunchman House Historic District at 51-53 Bay Street (12-0)
• Withdrew without prejudice McDonald's special permit amendment for 809 Boston Road (12-0)
• Continued YMCA sign special permit for 1500 Main Street to 12/13/2021 (11-0)
• Continued trash hauling facility special permit for 1635 Page Boulevard to 11/15/2021 (12-0)
• Continued adult-use marijuana storefront permit for 666 State Street to 11/15/2021 (12-0)

Emergency Medical Services - Regular

The Local Emergency Planning Committee is holding its regular meeting with updates and discussions on emergency preparedness topics. Items include a presentation by the Hampden County Sheriff's Department Marine Unit, a review of a Baystate Health mobile decontamination exercise, a COVID-19 update, and an update from the National Weather Service. The meeting is informational and includes committee updates on events, trainings, and exercises.

• Hampden County Sheriff's Department Marine Unit show and tell
• Baystate Health mobile decontamination exercise review
• COVID-19 update
• National Weather Service update
• Next meeting scheduled for Friday, December 17, 2021 at 10 AM

Historical Commission - Regular

The Springfield Historical Commission is meeting to consider several petitions and informational items, including continued public hearings on an electric meter installation and solar panels, a new hearing on vent covers, and an environmental review for window replacements. The commission will also discuss the demolition of three residential structures on Wilbraham Avenue to accommodate parking for the Knox Building revitalization project, and non-compliance cases at two properties.

• Petition ID 6467: 34 Pineywoods Avenue - electric meter installation and walkway repaving
• Petition ID 6468: 256 Bay Street - solar panel installation
• Petition ID 6482: 127-129 Pineywoods Avenue - bathroom vent covers
• Petition ID 6483: 10 Lafayette Street - replacement windows, scrape & paint siding and trim
• Demolition of 34, 42, and 48 Wilbraham Avenue for Knox Building parking

Public Health Council - Regular

The Council will receive updates regarding the COVID-19 pandemic, the opioid crisis, and asthma/environmental concerns. The meeting also includes reports on Health Center business, including staffing, finance, and IT data.

• COVID-19 update
• Opioid crisis discussion
• Asthma and environmental health update
• Health Center staffing and provider updates
• HRSA site visit announcement

City Planning Board - Regular Meeting

The Springfield Planning Board will hold continued public hearings on two new all-alcoholic liquor licenses and two zoning changes, and will open new hearings on a liquor license expansion and a 17-lot subdivision. The board will also consider minutes and other matters.

• New all-alcoholic liquor license for Ampola Bakery & Bistro, LLC (d/b/a Bori Chino) at 497 Belmont Avenue
• New all-alcoholic liquor license for ML&J, LLC (d/b/a Marlee's Joint) at 750 Boston Road
• Zone change for 797 Berkshire Avenue and rear Berkshire Avenue from Business A to Business B (petitioner: 1626 Bay Street, LLC)
• Zone change for 8 Florence Street from Residence B to Residence C (petitioner: Wytas Properties, LLC)
• Definitive subdivision plan for Whispering Brook Estates, 17 proposed lots (owner: Baldwin Street, LLC)

The Springfield Planning Board approved new all-alcoholic liquor licenses for 497 Belmont Avenue and 750 Boston Road, each by a 7-0 vote, with conditions on hours and signage. The board also approved a zoning change for 8 Florence Street from Residence B to Residence C (7-0), continued a zoning change for 797 Berkshire Avenue to the next meeting, and continued votes on a liquor license expansion and a 17-lot subdivision proposal.

• Approved new all-alcoholic liquor license for 497 Belmont Avenue (7-0)
• Approved new all-alcoholic liquor license for 750 Boston Road (7-0)
• Approved zoning change for 8 Florence Street from Residence B to Residence C (7-0)
• Continued zoning change for 797 Berkshire Avenue to 11/17/2021 (7-0)
• Continued liquor license expansion for 9-11 Rimmon Avenue to 11/3/2021 (6-0, 1 abstention)
• Continued definitive subdivision layout for Whispering Brook Estates (17 lots) to 11/3/2021 (7-0)

REO Monitoring Committee - Regular Meeting

The Responsible Employer Ordinance (REO) Monitoring Committee is meeting to review final numbers for the Lincoln/Brightwood elementary school project and get updates on the Homer-DeBerry elementary school project. They will also discuss expanding the committee's oversight to include TIF, RFP, and publicly funded awards. The agenda includes accepting minutes from the August 17, 2021 meeting and a public speak-out period.

• Review final numbers for Lincoln/Brightwood Elementary School Project
• Updates on Homer-DeBerry Elementary School Project
• Discussion of expanding REO Committee oversight to TIF, RFP, and publicly funded awards
• Accept minutes of August 17, 2021 meeting

City Council - Finance Sub-Committee

The Finance Sub-Committee is meeting to review and discuss several orders, including grant acceptances, a Section 108 loan, and a supplemental budget increase. These items will likely be voted on by the full City Council at a later date.

• PARC Grant for Blunt Park - $400,000 - Match Required
• MassTrails Grant for Camp STAR Trail Phase 2 - $100,000 - Match Required
• FY22 SHINE Grant Amendment Increase - $74,997.00 - No Match Required
• FY22 Emergency Connectivity Fund Grant - $28,294.00 - No Match Required
• Section 108 Loan - $5,000,000 - No Match

City Council - Regular Meeting

The City Council will consider several petitions from Eversource regarding underground electrical conduit installations on Bradley Road, Pinevale Street, and Wilbraham Road. The agenda also includes the approval of multiple grants for parks, libraries, and community development, as well as a zoning change request for 8 Florence Street.

• Eversource petition to install 3 manholes and 453 feet of conduit on Bradley Road
• $400,000 PARC Grant for Blunt Park (requires match)
• $100,000 MassTrails Grant for Camp STAR Trail Phase 2 (requires match)
• $74,997 SHINE Grant amendment increase
• Zoning change request for 8 Florence Street from Residence B to Residence C

The City Council adopted a $3,860,083 supplemental budget increase for the School Department, funded by state aid, with an 11-0 vote (one abstention). The council also approved several grants, including a $400,000 PARC grant for Blunt Park improvements and a $100,000 MassTrails grant for Camp STAR trail phase 2. A $5 million Section 108 loan request was continued to a joint committee meeting, and a zoning change for 8 Florence Street was continued to the next Planning Board meeting.

• Adopted $3,860,083 supplemental school budget (11-0)
• Adopted $400,000 PARC grant for Blunt Park (11-0)
• Adopted $100,000 MassTrails grant for Camp STAR Phase 2 (11-0)
• Adopted $74,997 SHINE grant amendment (11-0)
• Adopted $28,294 Emergency Connectivity Fund grant (12-0)
• Adopted $5,251.99 parks donations (12-0)
• Adopted $5,000 Colony Hills donation (12-0)
• Continued $5,000,000 Section 108 loan to joint committee (12-0)

Board of Assessor - Regular Meeting

The Board of Assessors is meeting remotely to approve minutes and then vote to enter executive session. The closed session will cover litigation strategy for pending Appellate Tax Board cases and review of property tax abatement applications, as required by state law. The board will not return to public session.

• Executive session for ATB Docket Review involving 11 properties including Northgate Center LLC, Boston Road Retail LLC, and Sears, Roebuck & Company
• Executive session for Overvalue Application Review (real estate and personal property abatements)
• Approval of minutes from 9/21/21 and 10/7/21
• Meeting conducted by phone at 413-886-5002

City Council - Sustainability and Environment

The City Council Sustainability and Environment committee will hear a presentation regarding the proposed Springfield Pipeline. The meeting is scheduled to take place via Zoom.

• Presentation by Eversource Gas Utility on proposed Springfield Pipeline

School Committee - High School Representatives

The Springfield School Committee will hold a regular meeting on October 14, 2021, with a second vote on revisions to the Putnam Admissions Policy. The agenda also includes a health and safety update, a year-in-review data presentation, and reports from student representatives and standing committees. The committee will enter executive session to discuss collective bargaining strategy with two employee unions.

• Second vote on revisions to the Putnam Admissions Policy
• Health and Safety Update
• 2020-2021 Year-in-Review Data Presentation
• Executive session on UFCW Local 1459 (security guards) collective bargaining
• Executive session on Springfield Association of School Custodial Employees collective bargaining

School Committee - Regular

The Springfield School Committee is holding a regular meeting with voting and informational items. The main voting item is a second vote on revisions to the Putnam Admissions Policy. The committee will also receive a health and safety update and a year-in-review data presentation, and will enter executive session to discuss collective bargaining strategy with two unions.

• Vote on revisions to the Putnam Admissions Policy (second vote)
• Health and Safety Update
• 2020-2021 Year-in-Review Data Presentation
• Executive session to discuss collective bargaining with UFCW Local 1459 (security guards) and custodial employees union
• Approval of minutes from September 30, 2021 regular session

City Council - Special Meeting

The Springfield Board of License Commissioners will hold a virtual public hearing on October 13, 2021, to consider six petitions related to alcohol licenses, including changes of manager, ownership, and new licenses. The board will also approve minutes from its September 22 meeting. No other substantive business is listed.

• Change of manager for Sophia's Sports Bar, 465 Breckwood Blvd
• New restaurant license for Bori Chino, 497 Belmont Ave
• Change of ownership for Le Souk Hookah Lounge, 1 Worthington St
• Change of ownership for One Stop Discount Liquors, 494 Central St
• Transfer of license for Del Rey Taqueria Bar, 211 Worthington St

The Board of License Commissioners held a virtual hearing and approved the minutes from its September 22 meeting. All seven petitions on the agenda—covering manager changes, new licenses, and transfers—were continued to October 27, 2021, with no final decisions made.

• Approved minutes of September 22, 2021 hearing (unanimous)
• Continued change of manager for Sophia's Sports Bar to 10/27/21 (unanimous)
• Continued new restaurant license for Bori Chino to 10/27/21 (unanimous)
• Continued stock/ownership change for Le Souk Hookah Lounge to 10/27/21 (unanimous)
• Continued ownership change for One Stop Discount Liquors to 10/27/21 (unanimous)
• Continued license transfer for Del Rey Taqueria Bar to 10/27/21 (unanimous)
• Continued new restaurant license for Marlee's to 10/27/21 (unanimous)

License Commission - Regular

The Board of License Commissioners will meet virtually to approve minutes from the September 22, 2021, hearing and consider multiple petitions for changes in management, ownership, and new alcohol licenses.

• Change of Manager for Sophia’s Sports Bar at 465 Breckwood Boulevard
• New Alcohol Annual Restaurant License for Bori Chino at 497 Belmont Ave.
• Change of Ownership and Stock Interest for Le Souk Hookah Lounge at 1 Worthington St
• Change of Ownership Interest for One Stop Discount Liquors & Convenience at 494 Central St
• Transfer of License for Del Rey Taqueria Bar at 211 Worthington St

The Springfield Board of License Commissioners met virtually on October 13, 2021, and approved the minutes from the September 22 meeting. All seven petitions on the agenda, including changes of manager, ownership, and new alcohol licenses, were continued to the next meeting on October 27, 2021, with no final decisions made.

• Approved minutes from September 22, 2021 meeting (unanimous)
• Continued change of manager for Sophia's Sports Bar to 10/27/21 (unanimous)
• Continued new restaurant license for Bori Chino to 10/27/21 (unanimous)
• Continued change of ownership for Le Souk Hookah Lounge to 10/27/21 (unanimous)
• Continued change of ownership for One Stop Discount Liquors to 10/27/21 (unanimous)
• Continued transfer of license for Del Rey Taqueria Bar to 10/27/21 (unanimous)
• Continued new restaurant license for Marlee's to 10/27/21 (unanimous)

Historical Commission - Regular

The Springfield Historical Commission will hold public hearings on four petitions, including solar panel installations at 32 Temple Street and 256 Bay Street, vinyl siding replacement at 96 Sumner Avenue, and an electric meter and walkway repaving at 34 Pineywoods Avenue. The commission will also discuss informational items, including a Section 106 review for roof work at 2808 Main Street and non-compliance cases for unapproved changes at 34 Mattoon Street, 120 Harvard Street, and 121 Dartmouth Terrace.

• Public hearing: Solar panels at 32 Temple Street (Petition #6430)
• Public hearing: Vinyl siding replacement at 96 Sumner Avenue (Petition #6431)
• Public hearing: Electric meter and walkway repaving at 34 Pineywoods Avenue (Petition #6467)
• Public hearing: Solar panels at 256 Bay Street (Petition #6468)
• Informational: Section 106 review for roof replacement at 2808 Main Street (ID #6466)

City Council - Regular Meeting

The Springfield City Council will consider a supplemental budget increase of $3,860,083 in state aid, several bond authorizations for roads, sidewalks, forestry, dam repair, and police vehicles, and two zoning changes. The agenda also includes petitions for utility work and parking regulations, plus resolutions on Eversource and the courthouse.

• Supplemental budget increase of $3,860,083 in state aid
• Bond authorization of $3,100,000 for roads and sidewalks
• Bond authorization of $1,091,005 for a forestry operations center
• Bond authorization of $1,000,000 for Watershops Pond Dam
• Zoning change for SS Boston Road, Gilbert Avenue, and Arnold Avenue from Residence A and Commercial P to Business A

The Springfield City Council approved a $3.1 million bond for roads and sidewalks, along with bonds for a forestry operations center, Watershops Pond Dam, police vehicles, and police headquarters upgrades. It also approved zoning changes for properties on Boston Road and Morris/Central Streets, and granted permits for utility work (no-parking order, Comcast fiber, gas main extension). A supplemental budget increase for the school department was continued to the next meeting.

• Approved $3.1M bond for roads and sidewalks (10-0)
• Approved $1,091,005 bond for Forestry Operations Center (10-0)
• Approved $1,000,000 bond for Watershops Pond Dam (9-0)
• Approved $1,000,000 bond for police vehicles (9-0)
• Approved $945,178.27 transfer for police headquarters upgrades (9-0)
• Approved zoning change on Boston Road, Gilbert Ave, Arnold Ave to Business A (10-0)
• Approved zoning change on Morris and Central Streets to Residence C (10-0)
• Approved no-parking order on Longhill St (10-0)

Park Commission - Regular

The Park Commission is meeting to consider several requests regarding tree planting and removal at various residential addresses. The commission will also review multiple requests for fee waivers for community events at Myrtle Street, Thompson Triangle, and Adams Parks.

• Tree removal requests for 204 Newhouse Street, 21 Texel Drive, 423-425 Eastern Avenue, and 57 Lakeside Street
• Request to not plant a tree at 173 Powell Avenue
• Fee waiver requests for events at Myrtle Street Park, Thompson Triangle, and Adams Park
• One day liquor license request for the BID Block Party
• Forestry MVP Grant discussion

Board of Assessor - Regular Meeting

The Board of Assessors is meeting to approve minutes, review monthly abatement totals, and consider property reassessments. They will also vote to enter executive session to discuss litigation strategy for Appellate Tax Board cases and review overvalue applications, as permitted by state law.

• September real estate abatement total: $107,197.10
• September motor vehicle excise abatement total: $32,584.51
• Reassessments for 141 Entrybrook, 58 Sunnybrook Road, 120 Old Acre Road
• 38D penalty abatement for 1514 State Street, FY2019
• Executive session for ATB docket review and overvalue applications

Retirement Board - Regular

The Board will review an audit of the Springfield Retirement System and discuss PRIM manager performance. Members will also vote on several superannuations, disability applications, and various financial warrants.

• Audit overview of the Springfield Retirement System by Michael Nelligan
• Vote on five superannuations for city and school department employees
• Reaffirmation of Warrant #58 including $7,242,555.29 in retirement payroll
• Review of eighteen requests for refunds and transfers to other systems
• Discussion and vote on the 2022 Administrative Budget

Board of Library Commissioners - Regular

The Springfield Library Commission is meeting to approve minutes from previous meetings, hear a staff presentation, and discuss a revision to the programming policy. Committee and director reports will also be given, followed by an executive session.

• Approval of minutes from June 2 and September 1, 2021 meetings
• Staff presentation by Thomas O’Connell, Manager of Technical Services and Collection Development
• Programming Policy Revision discussion
• Commission Committee Reports
• Executive Session

City Planning Board - Regular Meeting

The Springfield Planning Board is meeting virtually to continue a public hearing on a zone change for 797 Berkshire Avenue, and to hold new hearings on two liquor licenses and another zone change. The board will also discuss a Forest Park trolley waiting pavilion study report.

• Zone change for 797 Berkshire Avenue from Business A to Business B (continued hearing)
• New liquor license for Ampola Bakery & Bistro, LLC at 497 Belmont Avenue
• New liquor license for ML&J, LLC at 750 Boston Road
• Zone change for 8 Florence Street from Residence B to Residence C
• Forest Park Trolley Waiting Pavilion Study Report

The Springfield Planning Board voted unanimously (7-0) to continue all four public hearing items to its October 20, 2021 meeting. These included a zoning change at 797 Berkshire Avenue, two new all-alcoholic liquor license petitions (497 Belmont Avenue and 750 Boston Road), and a zoning change at 8 Florence Street. No final decisions were made on any of these items.

• Continued zoning change at 797 Berkshire Ave (Business A to B) to 10/20/2021 (7-0)
• Continued liquor license petition at 497 Belmont Ave to 10/20/2021 (7-0)
• Continued liquor license petition at 750 Boston Road to 10/20/2021 (7-0)
• Continued zoning change at 8 Florence St (Residence B to C) to 10/20/2021 (7-0)

Springfield Empowerment Zone - Regular

The Springfield Empowerment Zone Partnership Board is holding a routine virtual meeting on October 5, 2021. The agenda contains only approval of prior meeting minutes, unspecified items requiring a vote, and other lawful business; no specific decisions or discussion topics are listed.

• Approval of prior meeting minutes
• Agenda items requiring a vote
• Public comment period limited to 15 minutes

Community Preservation Committee - Regular

The Community Preservation Committee is holding its annual public hearing to receive comments on community needs and opportunities. The committee will also review 2021 CPA recommendations for the East Springfield Library Reading Garden.

• Annual Public Hearing for community needs and opportunities
• Approval of September 7, 2021 meeting minutes
• 2021 CPA Recommendations: East Springfield Library Reading Garden

The Community Preservation Committee held its annual public hearing to gather input on the 2022 funding plan. No formal decisions were made during the hearing; the committee heard public comments and discussed the East Springfield Library project, which was tabled for further research. The committee also approved the minutes from the September meeting and set its next meeting for November 9, 2021.

• Approved the minutes of the September 7, 2021 meeting.
• Tabled the East Springfield Library outdoor space recommendation pending further research on legal options.
• Set the next regular meeting for November 9, 2021.
• Agreed to discuss project contract extensions at the November meeting.
• Adjourned the meeting.

Traffic Commission - Regular

The Traffic Commission is reviewing several proposals for new stop signs, school speed limits, and parking regulation changes. Most items involve a 90-day trial of new traffic regulations.

• Remove 2-hour parking on both sides of Hall Street from Belmont Ave. to Dickinson Street
• Install westbound and eastbound stop signs on Dubois Street at Farnham Ave.
• Install northbound and southbound stop signs on Kane Street
• Implement 20 mph school speed limit on Connecticut Ave. from Park Rd. to Parkin St.
• Install stop signs at Audley Street/Signal Hill Cir. and Pennsylvania Ave./Cambria St.

City Council - Regular Meeting

The Springfield City Council will consider a $5 million transfer from the stabilization reserve to the Law Department settlement account, several bond authorizations for roads, police vehicles, and other projects, and multiple zoning changes. The agenda also includes grant acceptances, special permits, and resolutions.

• Transfer $5,000,000 from Stabilization Reserve to Law Department Settlement Account
• Bond authorization: $3,100,000 for roads and sidewalks
• Bond authorization: $1,000,000 for police vehicles
• Zoning change for SS Boston Road, et al. from Residence A and Commercial P to Business A
• Special permit for 143 Parker Street to re-establish non-conforming motor vehicle use

The Springfield City Council approved several grants and funding orders, including a $750,000 federal grant for Duggan Park improvements, a $87,328 grant for senior services, and a $49,999.79 road safety grant. They also approved a $250,000 CPC grant for affordable housing renovations, a $30,000 playground addition, and a special permit for a McDonald's at 386 Main Street with conditions. A $5 million settlement fund transfer was continued to a later meeting.

• Approved $750,000 LWCF grant for Duggan Park (unanimous)
• Approved $87,328 GSSSI grant for senior services (unanimous)
• Approved $49,999.79 Municipal Road Safety Grant (unanimous)
• Approved $250,000 CPC grant for Rainville & New Court Terrace Apts (unanimous)
• Approved $30,000 for Westminster Street Playground Phase 2 (unanimous)
• Approved special permit for 386 Main Street (McDonald's) with conditions (10-3)
• Approved special permit for 275 Chestnut Street residential expansion (11-1)
• Continued $5M settlement fund transfer to 10/13/2021 (unanimous)

School Committee - High School Representatives

The Springfield School Committee will hold a regular session with several voting items, including approving four state grants totaling $492,118, a supplemental budget, policy revisions, and a COVID-19 leave policy. The committee will also enter executive session to discuss collective bargaining with teachers, administrators, and paraprofessionals. The meeting includes reports from the student representative, superintendent, and standing committees.

• Approve $39,718 FY22 Proficiency-based Outcomes for Languages Other Than English Grant
• Approve $187,429 FY22 American Rescue Plan- Homeless Children and Youth I Grant
• Approve $204,969 FY22 Growing Literacy Equity Across Massachusetts (GLEAM) K-12 Grant
• Approve $60,000 FY22 CVTE Student Support-Impact and Recovery Grant
• Vote on Putnam Admissions Policy revisions and COVID-19 Leave Policy

School Committee - Regular

The Springfield School Committee will vote on several grant expenditures, a supplemental budget, policy revisions, and a memorandum of understanding with labor unions. The meeting also includes an executive session for collective bargaining strategy.

• Approve $39,718 for FY22 Proficiency-based Outcomes for Languages Other Than English Grant
• Approve $187,429 for FY22 American Rescue Plan- Homeless Children and Youth I Grant
• Approve $204,969 for FY22 Growing Literacy Equity Across Massachusetts (GLEAM) K-12 Grant
• Approve $60,000 for FY22 CVTE Student Support-Impact and Recovery Grant
• Vote on FY22 Supplemental Budget, Putnam Admissions Policy revisions, COVID-19 Leave Policy, and MOU with SEA, SAA, AFT units

School Committee - Regular

The Budget & Finance Subcommittee will meet to vote on a recommendation for the full School Committee regarding the COVID-19 Leave Policy. The meeting is scheduled for September 29, 2021.

• Vote to recommend approval of the COVID-19 Leave Policy to the full School Committee

Board of Public Works - Regular

The Springfield Board of Public Works is holding a regular meeting with a public hearing on an EVERSOURCE proposal to install 3 new manholes and 453 feet of 12-5” conduit on Bradley Rd. to upgrade an electric circuit. The agenda also includes routine items like call to order, minutes, and communications.

• Public hearing on EVERSOURCE proposal: 3 new manholes and 453 feet of 12-5” conduit on Bradley Rd.
• Meeting notice for October 29, 2021 at Breckwood Blvd and Wilbraham Road

Board of Public Works - Regular

The Board of Public Works is holding a regular meeting, primarily to conduct a hearing on Eversource's proposal to install two new concrete manholes over existing conduits to upgrade an electric circuit from the substation on Wilbraham Road. The agenda also includes standard items like call to order, minutes, and old/new business.

• Hearing on Eversource proposal to install 2 concrete manholes over 8 existing conduits to upgrade electric circuit from substation on Wilbraham Road

School Committee - Regular

The Springfield School Committee's Vocational Education Subcommittee is meeting to vote on recommending approval of Putnam Admissions Policy revisions to the full School Committee. The agenda contains a single action item.

• Vote to recommend approval of Putnam Admissions Policy revisions

School Building Commission - Regular

The Springfield School Building Commission is meeting to approve minutes from August 24, 2021, and to vote on Amendment #2 to the Construction Manager at Risk contract with Fontaine Bros., Inc. for the DeBerry/Homer Elementary School. The amendment incorporates trade bidding for the project. The commission will also receive a project update on Brightwood Elementary School.

• Approval of meeting minutes from August 24, 2021
• Vote on Amendment #2 to Construction Manager at Risk contract with Fontaine Bros., Inc. for DeBerry/Homer Elementary School
• Presentation of trade bidding for DeBerry/Homer Elementary School contract
• Project update on Brightwood Elementary School

The Springfield School Building Commission approved a second amendment to the Massachusetts School Building Authority funding agreement for the Brightwood-Lincoln Elementary School project, updating the total project budget to $80,624,011 and the maximum facilities grant to $50,218,732. The commission also approved a contract amendment with Daniel O'Connell's & Sons covering signage changes ($12,904.07) and a 36-day schedule extension due to COVID-19. Both motions were unanimous.

• Approved May 13, 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved Second Amendment to MSBA Project Funding Agreement for Brightwood-Lincoln, updating budget to $80,624,011 and grant to $50,218,732 (unanimous)
• Approved Amendment #10 to Daniel O'Connell's & Sons contract, including signage change order #8 ($12,904.07) and schedule extension to August 5, 2021 (unanimous)

City Council - COVID-19 Response

The Springfield City Council is meeting virtually to receive an update on the city's COVID-19 response. The agenda contains only this single informational item, with no votes or decisions listed.

• COVID-19 Response Update

License Commission - Regular

The Springfield License Commission denied a new all-alcohol restaurant license for Rose Ent LLC d/b/a Rose at 555 Worthington St, with a unanimous vote. The board approved a change of manager for Uno Chicago Grill, a new all-alcohol license for Casa Vallarta Mexican Restaurant with closing restrictions, and a change of officers for 99 Restaurant. Minutes from the September 8 hearing were also approved.

• Approved minutes from September 8, 2021 hearing (unanimous)
• Denied new all-alcohol restaurant license for Rose Ent LLC d/b/a Rose at 555 Worthington St (unanimous)
• Approved change of manager for Uno Chicago Grill at 1722 Boston Rd (unanimous)
• Approved new all-alcohol restaurant license for Casa Vallarta Mexican Restaurant at 302 Cooley St, open 7 days 11am-12am (unanimous)
• Approved change of officers/directors/LLC managers for 99 Restaurant at 1371 Liberty St (unanimous)

School Committee - Regular

The Legislative & Contracts Subcommittee is meeting to vote on recommending a Delegate and Alternate Delegate to represent the Springfield School Committee at the MASC/MASS Joint Conference in November 2021, and to authorize the elected delegate to vote on resolutions there. These are the only items on the agenda.

• Vote to recommend approval of Delegate to MASC/MASS Joint Conference in November 2021
• Vote to recommend approval of Alternate Delegate to MASC/MASS Joint Conference in November 2021
• Vote to recommend authorizing Delegate/Alternate Delegate to vote on Resolutions at MASC/MASS Conference

Board of Assessor - Regular Meeting

The Board of Assessors is meeting by phone to review August abatement totals, a charitable exemption application, and a reassessment. The board will also enter executive session to discuss litigation strategy for pending Appellate Tax Board cases and overvalue applications.

• August real estate abatement totals: $133,321.77
• Charitable exemption application: Alpha and Omega Ministry Inc, 2747-2761 Main Street
• Reassessment: Rear Canon Circle (parcel 023250030)
• Executive session: ATB docket review and overvalue applications
• Executive session list includes Bay and Liberty LLC, Osofsky, FB Development LLC, TD Banknorth NA, and others

Board of Public Works - Regular

The Board of Public Works is holding a hearing on Comcast's request to install and maintain 246 feet of 3-inch PVC conduit with fiber optic and coax cable lines on Kane Street and Wilbraham Road. The meeting also includes routine items like call to order, minutes, and communications.

• Public hearing: Comcast to install 246' of 3" PVC conduit with fiber optic & coax cable on Kane St. & Wilbraham Rd.

City Council - Hearings Meeting

The Springfield City Council is holding a hearings meeting to consider five special permit requests and three zoning ordinance changes. The special permits include an undertaking establishment, a McDonald's drive-thru modification, a mixed-use building, and a residential expansion. The zoning changes involve properties on Berkshire Avenue, Boston Road, and Morris Street.

• Special permit for undertaking establishment at 43 Sullivan Street
• Special permit for McDonald's at 386 Main Street
• Special permit for new mixed-use building at SS Belmont Avenue (A.K.A. 462)
• Special permit to expand residential component at 275 Chestnut Street
• Zoning change from Business A to Business B at 797 Berkshire Avenue

The City Council approved a special permit for an undertaking establishment (funeral auxiliary services) at 43 Sullivan Street, with Councilor Fenton noting the Hungry Hill Association supported it after concerns were resolved. All other items on the agenda were continued to future meetings, including a McDonald's 24-hour drive-thru request at 386 Main Street, a mixed-use construction project on Belmont Avenue, and a residential expansion at 275 Chestnut Street. Two zoning changes were received as first steps, and one zoning change meeting was canceled.

• Approved special permit for undertaking establishment at 43 Sullivan Street (12-0)
• Continued McDonald's 24-hour drive-thru special permit at 386 Main Street to 10/4/2021 (12-0)
• Continued mixed-use construction special permit on Belmont Avenue to 11/22/2021 (12-0)
• Continued residential expansion special permit at 275 Chestnut Street to 10/4/2021 (11-0, 1 abstention)
• Continued McDonald's drive-up window amendment at 809 Boston Road to 10/25/2021 (11-0, 1 recusal)
• Canceled zoning change meeting for 797 Berkshire Avenue; continued to 10/25/2021
• Received first step on zoning change for SS Boston Road, ES Gilbert Avenue, WS Arnold Avenue; continued to 10/4/2021
• Received first step on zoning change for SS Morris Street and NS Central Street; continued to 10/4/2021

Community Police Hearing Board - Case Review

The Community Police Hearing Board is meeting to review cases. The public portion is followed by an executive session to discuss matters involving an individual's reputation, character, or discipline of a public officer or employee. Two cases, SO#21-096 and PIE#21-007, are listed for rules and regulations review.

• Executive session under exemption #1 for individual reputation/character or discipline
• Case SO#21-096 scheduled for 10/12/2021
• Case PIE#21-007 scheduled for 10/6/2021

Historical Commission - Regular

The Springfield Historical Commission will hold public hearings on nine petitions for work on historic properties, including replacement windows, solar panel installations, and repairs. It will also review informational items about non-compliance and non-applicability at several addresses. The meeting is virtual via Zoom.

• Petition ID #6390: 29 Firglade Avenue – replacement windows
• Petition ID #6391: 91 Central Street – solar panel installation
• Petition ID #6392: 67 Fairfield Street – replace storm damaged garage
• Petition ID #6393: 373 Worthington Street – AC system and vent installation
• Petition ID #6430: 32 Temple Street – solar panel installation

City Council - Special Meeting

The Springfield City Council is meeting in a special session that will move into executive session to discuss litigation strategy. The closed session concerns ongoing settlement discussions with the U.S. Department of Justice and other pending or threatened civil rights litigation involving the Springfield Police Department. The council will not reconvene in open session, so no public votes or decisions are expected.

• Executive session on settlement discussions with the U.S. Department of Justice
• Discussion of pending or threatened litigation involving Civil Rights matters and the Springfield Police Department

School Committee - Regular

The Springfield School Committee will vote on approving a high school diploma for Nyasia Wright and on recommending that the renaming of the Homer/DeBerry School in honor of Benjamin Swan and the naming of the Duggan Academy auditorium in honor of Eleanor and William Barker be considered by the Building and Maintenance Subcommittee. The committee will also enter executive session to discuss collective bargaining with teachers, administrators, and paraprofessionals. Informational items include health and safety, hiring/staffing updates, and a drone video of the Brightwood/Lincoln construction project.

• Approve high school diploma for Nyasia Wright
• Vote to recommend renaming Homer/DeBerry School in honor of Benjamin Swan
• Vote to recommend naming Duggan Academy auditorium in honor of Eleanor and William Barker
• Executive session on collective bargaining with SEA, SAA, AFT
• Drone video of Brightwood/Lincoln construction project

School Committee - Public Speak Out

The Springfield School Committee will hold a regular meeting with a public speak out session, followed by votes on two renaming proposals: recommending that the new Homer/DeBerry School be renamed in honor of Benjamin Swan, and that the Duggan Academy auditorium be named for Eleanor and William Barker. The committee will also enter executive session to discuss collective bargaining strategy with teachers, administrators, and paraprofessionals. Informational items include updates on health and safety, hiring/staffing, and a drone video of the Brightwood/Lincoln construction project.

• Vote to recommend renaming new Homer/DeBerry School in honor of Benjamin Swan
• Vote to recommend naming Duggan Academy auditorium for Eleanor and William Barker
• Executive session on collective bargaining with SEA, SAA, and AFT
• Approve high school diploma for Nyasia Wright
• Daniel O'Connell's Sons drone video of Brightwood/Lincoln construction project

Public Health Council - Regular

The Springfield Public Health Council is meeting virtually to discuss city health business, including the opioid crisis, COVID-19 updates, and asthma/environmental issues. They will also hear updates from the health center on operations, finance, IT, and outreach, with board votes required on outreach/enrollment and program data reports.

• Discussion of opioid crisis and COVID-19 update
• Asthma/environmental health discussion
• Health center updates on C3, staff providers, IBHS, finance, IT
• Board vote on outreach and enrollment report
• Board vote on program data report

City Planning Board - Regular Meeting

The Springfield Planning Board is holding a regular meeting with continued public hearings on a new all-alcoholic liquor license for Casa Vallarta Mexican Restaurant at 302 (A.K.A. 380) Cooley Street and a zone change for 797 Berkshire Avenue from Business A to Business B. Both items were continued from the September 1 meeting and are scheduled for votes. The agenda also includes acceptance of minutes, non-subdivision plans, and other matters.

• New all-alcoholic liquor license petition for Casa Vallarta Springfield, LLC at 302 (A.K.A. 380) Cooley Street
• Zone change for 797 Berkshire Avenue and rear Berkshire Avenue from Business A to Business B, petitioned by 1626 Bay Street, LLC

The Springfield Planning Board approved a new all-alcoholic liquor license for the property at 302 (a.k.a. 380) Cooley Street, with conditions including a 12:00 AM closing time and a ban on exterior banners, streamers, or pennants. The vote was 5-0. The board also voted 5-0 to continue a zoning change request for properties at 797 Berkshire Avenue and Rear Berkshire Avenue to the next meeting on October 6, 2021.

• Approved new all-alcoholic liquor license for 302 (a.k.a. 380) Cooley Street (5-0)
• Continued zoning change for 797 Berkshire Avenue and Rear Berkshire Avenue to Business B (5-0)

City Council - COVID-19 Response

The Springfield City Council is meeting virtually to receive an update on the city's COVID-19 response. The agenda includes a public portion for resident comments, followed by the update. No votes or specific actions are listed on this agenda.

• COVID-19 response update
• Public comment period

Conservation Commission - Regular

The Springfield Conservation Commission is meeting virtually to review two continued Notices of Intent for development projects: a self-storage facility at 1021 Boston Rd. and a residential subdivision on Allen Street. No new filings are listed for the public portion. The agenda also includes a request for a Certificate of Compliance at 216 Cabinet Street.

• Petition #6364: self-storage facility at 1021 Boston Rd. by Diamond Point Development
• Petition #6344: residential subdivision on Allen Street by Baldwin Street LLC
• Request for Certificate of Compliance at 216 Cabinet Street

License Commission - Entertainment Hearing

The Springfield License Commission is holding an entertainment hearing on September 13, 2021, for Delicias Restaurant & Catering at 1333 Boston Rd. The hearing will be conducted by the designated hearing officer, Alesia Days, and will address the restaurant's entertainment license application or status.

• Entertainment hearing for Delicias Restaurant & Catering at 1333 Boston Rd
• Manager of record: Derrick Crespo
• Hearing officer: Alesia H. Days, Director of Licensing

City Council - Finance Sub-Committee

The Finance Sub-Committee will review multiple orders, including acceptance of a $29,836,165 American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) grant, a $6,275,387 bond authorization for window and door replacements at the High School of Science & Technology, and a $2,000,000 Municipal Vulnerability Preparedness grant for a Forestry Operations Center. The committee will also consider various smaller grants and donations for police, libraries, homeless services, and senior employment.

• American Rescue Plan Act funding - $29,836,165 (no match)
• Bond authorization for MSBA project at Sci Tech - $6,275,387
• Parks MVP grant for Forestry Operations Center - $2,000,000 (requires $1,091,005 cash match)
• Police CIT/HOPE grant - $100,000 (no match)
• COVID-19 case investigation and contact tracing grant - $600,000 (no match)

City Council - Regular Meeting

The Springfield City Council is meeting to consider a range of items, including accepting a $29.8 million American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) allocation, several state and federal grants, bond authorizations, zoning changes, and Community Preservation Act (CPA) fund recommendations. The agenda also includes an executive session to discuss litigation involving the Springfield Police Department and civil rights matters.

• American Rescue Plan Act funding of $29,836,165 (no match required)
• Bond authorization of $6,275,387 for MSBA ARP project (Sci Tech)
• Municipal Vulnerability Preparedness grant of $2,000,000 for Forestry Operations Center (requires $1,091,005 cash match)
• Zoning change for SS Boston Road, et al. from Residence A and Commercial P to Business A (petitioner: Caring for Others Health Agency, LLC)
• Multiple CPA fund recommendations for projects including Cottage Hill Square Grove, Blunt Park Tennis Courts, and Down Payment Assistance

The Springfield City Council approved a $29,836,165 American Rescue Plan Act grant with no match required, along with several other grants and orders. It also approved numerous Community Preservation Act (CPA) fundings for park and historic renovations, including $250,000 for Blunt Park tennis courts and $250,000 for Cottage Hill Square Grove. Several items were referred to committees, including an easement from American International College for a bike share station and a CPC recommendation for the Rainville & New Court Terrace apartments. The meeting concluded with an executive session on litigation.

• Approved $29,836,165 ARPA grant (12-0)
• Approved $2,000,000 Municipal Vulnerability Preparedness grant (12-0)
• Approved $600,000 COVID-19 contact tracing grant (12-0)
• Approved $523,879 Senior Community Service Employment grant (12-0)
• Approved $636,589 Youth Homelessness grant increase as amended (12-0)
• Approved $6,275,387 bond for High School of Science and Technology (11-0)
• Approved $250,000 for Blunt Park tennis courts (12-0)
• Referred AIC bike share easement to committee (9-3)

City Council - Finance Sub-Committee

The Springfield City Council Finance Sub-Committee is meeting virtually to receive an update on the Shannon Grant and to continue discussions on the allocation of ARPA (American Rescue Plan Act) funds. The agenda includes a public portion for these items.

• Update on Shannon Grant
• Continued discussion of ARPA Fund

Board of Public Works - Regular

The Springfield Board of Public Works is holding a regular meeting on September 8, 2021, at the Richard Neal Municipal Operations Center. The agenda includes a public hearing on a Comcast request to install underground conduits on Taylor Street. The rest of the agenda consists of standard items such as approval of minutes and old/new business.

• Public hearing on Comcast proposal to install 160 ft. of 3-inch underground conduits from a vault near 191 Chestnut Street to a new vault on Taylor Street

License Commission - Regular

The Springfield Board of License Commissioners will hold a virtual public hearing to consider new and continued liquor license applications, manager changes, and alleged violations. The agenda includes a final hearing for a restaurant facing possible disciplinary action and a Section 77 hearing for a potential license revocation.

• New All Alcohol Annual Restaurant License for SC Springfield LLC d/b/a Shaking Crab at 1373 Main St
• New All Alcohol Annual Restaurant License for Rose Ent LLC d/b/a Rose at 555 Worthington St
• Change of Manager for Uno Chicago Grill at 1722 Boston Rd
• New All Alcohol Annual Restaurant License for Casa Vallarta Mexican Restaurant at 302 Cooley St
• Final hearing for Level 5 Restaurant at 890 State St for violations including failure to call police and permitting assault

The Springfield Board of License Commissioners approved a new all-alcohol restaurant license for SC Springfield LLC d/b/a Shaking Crab at 1373 Main St. Several other petitions were continued to the next meeting, and one license was cancelled. The board also voted to hold a 5-day suspension in abeyance for one year for Level 5 Restaurant.

• Approved new all-alcohol restaurant license for Shaking Crab (unanimous)
• Continued Rose Ent LLC d/b/a Rose license petition to 9-22-21 (unanimous)
• Continued Uno Chicago Grill change of manager to 9-22-21 for public input (unanimous)
• Continued Casa Vallarta Mexican Restaurant license petition to 9-22-21 for public input (unanimous)
• Continued Lorung Nepali Kitchen violation hearing generally due to business closing (unanimous)
• Approved 5-day suspension for Level 5 Restaurant held in abeyance for 1 year (4-0-1, Espinosa abstained)
• Cancelled Mattie's liquor license (unanimous)

Community Preservation Committee - Regular

The Community Preservation Committee is meeting to approve the August 3, 2021 minutes, discuss the 2021 CPA recommendation for Magazine Playground, and receive administrator's updates. The meeting is held remotely due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

• Approval of August 3, 2021 meeting minutes
• 2021 CPA recommendation for Magazine Playground
• Administrator's updates
• Public comments accepted via mail or email

The Community Preservation Committee voted unanimously to recommend $210,000 for phase one of the Magazine Park renovation, a reduction from the requested $250,000. The funding will come from remaining fiscal year 2021 funds and the fiscal year 2022 Open Space Reserve. The committee also discussed maintenance concerns for funded projects and planned its annual public hearing for October 5.

• Approved $210,000 for Magazine Park phase one (7-0)
• Approved minutes of August 3, 2021 (7-0)
• Discussed requesting cost breakdown for Godfrey Triangle project
• Scheduled annual public hearing for October 5, 2021

Community Police Hearing Board - Case Review

The Community Police Hearing Board is meeting to review a case. The agenda includes a public portion and an executive session to discuss matters related to an individual's reputation, character, or discipline, as permitted by law. The specific case is identified as SO#21-098.

• Executive session for case SO#21-098
• Meeting held at Springfield Training Facility, 299 Page Blvd.

Historical Commission - Regular

The Springfield Historical Commission is meeting virtually to review and decide on several petitions for changes to historic properties. The agenda includes continued public hearings on renovations and new construction, new hearings for window replacements, solar panels, and repairs, plus environmental and municipal project reviews. One item proposes amending a city ordinance to remove exempt status from a local historic district.

• Petition #6373: Construct new single family home at 251-257 Central Street
• Petition #6374: Construct new single family home at 271 Pine Street
• Petition #6391: Installation of solar panels at 91 Central Street
• Petition #6397: Installation of light fixtures on facade of Springfield Central Library at 220 State Street
• Petition #6398: Amendment to City Ordinance removing 'exempt' status from Quadrangle-Mattoon Local Historic District

School Committee - Regular

The Springfield School Committee will vote on a collective bargaining agreement with the Clerks' (AFSCME) union and approve a diploma for Richard Whyte. The committee will also enter executive session to discuss bargaining strategy and pending litigation. Informational items include enrollment/census data and reports from standing committees.

• Approve City of Springfield Diploma for Richard Whyte
• Approve Clerks' (AFSCME) Collective Bargaining Agreement
• Vote to enter Executive Session for collective bargaining and litigation strategy
• Approve minutes from multiple prior meetings
• Receive Enrollment/Census Data

Retirement Board - Regular

The Springfield Retirement Board will vote on several disability benefit applications, including accidental and involuntary disability requests for police, fire, DPW, and parks employees, and will consider superannuation pensions for five employees. The board will also vote on warrants totaling over $13.7 million, including retirement payroll and refunds, plus refunds, transfers, and redeposits of contributions. This is a regular monthly meeting with routine administrative items.

• Vote on accidental disability applications for Scott Richard (Police), Marcus Earley (DPW-Solid Waste), John Tyrell (Parks), and involuntary disability for Roberto Matos (Police), Billy Santiago (Fire), Dennis Prior (Police)
• Vote on superannuations for 5 employees, including Michael Colello (Parks, 13 yrs 8 mo) and Hilda Martinez (School, 34 yrs 6 mo)
• Reaffirm warrants totaling $13,712,445.24, including retirement payroll of $7,144,782.30 and PRIT fund redemption of $6,200,000
• Vote on 17 refund/transfer requests and 4 redeposits of refunds, plus 1 makeup of contributions
• Vote on survivor benefits under Section 101 for beneficiary of deceased Fire Dept employee Donald Kozaczka

City Planning Board - Regular Meeting

The Planning Board will continue votes on several previously discussed petitions regarding liquor licenses, zone changes, and site plan reviews. The meeting also includes new public hearings for a liquor license and a zoning ordinance change.

• Continued vote: All alcoholic liquor license for 555 Worthington Street
• Continued vote: All alcoholic liquor license for 1373 Main Street
• Continued vote: Rezoning SS Morris Street, NS Central Street, and NS Morris Street to Residence C
• Continued vote: Rezoning SS Boston Road, ES Gilbert Avenue, and WS Arnold Avenue to Business A
• New hearing: All alcoholic liquor license for 302 Cooley Street

The Springfield Planning Board approved all items on its agenda, including two new all-alcoholic liquor licenses, two zone changes, and a site plan review for a new indoor storage facility. All approvals were unanimous (7-0), with one member absent. Two new public hearings were continued to a later date.

• Approved new all-alcoholic liquor license at 555/557 Worthington Street (7-0)
• Approved new all-alcoholic liquor license at 1373 Main Street (7-0)
• Approved zone change for properties on Morris and Central Streets from Industrial A/Commercial P to Residence C (7-0)
• Approved zone change for properties on Boston Road, Gilbert Avenue, and Arnold Avenue to Business A (7-0)
• Approved site plan review for new indoor storage facility at 1021 Boston Road and adjacent properties (7-0)
• Continued liquor license hearing for 302/380 Cooley Street to 9/15/2021 (7-0)
• Continued zone change hearing for 797 Berkshire Avenue to 9/15/2021 (7-0)

Board of Library Commissioners - Regular

The Springfield Library Commission is meeting to approve prior minutes, review a proposed programming policy revision, and hear committee, chairman, and director reports. The agenda is largely routine, with the policy revision being the only substantive item.

• Approval of June 2, 2021 meeting minutes
• Programming Policy Revision presented by Sarah Hodge-Wetherbe
• Commission Committee Reports
• Chairman's Report
• Director's Report

City Council - COVID-19 Response

The Springfield City Council will hold a virtual meeting to provide an update and conduct a discussion regarding the city's COVID-19 response.

• Update and discussion of COVID-19 Response

Conservation Commission - Regular

The Commission is reviewing notices of intent for several construction projects and a request for determination regarding a dock installation. The meeting also includes the approval of previous meeting minutes.

• Dock installation at 55 Kingoke Lane
• Single family home construction on West Side Jamaica Street
• Self storage facility construction at 1021 Boston Rd.
• Residential subdivision at NS Allen Street

Park Commission - Regular

The Park Commission met virtually to discuss a WAKEUP Movement community event at Adams Park involving vendor charges. The agenda also included a call to order and a public portion.

• WAKEUP Movement Community Event at Adams Park charging vendors

City Council - Finance Sub-Committee

The Finance Sub-Committee met virtually on August 26, 2021, to discuss the Shannon Grant for Fiscal Year 2022. The agenda also included a continued discussion regarding American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds. No specific votes or final decisions are recorded in the provided text.

• Discussion of Shannon Grant FY22
• Continued discussion of ARPA funds

License Commission - Regular

The Springfield Board of License Commissioners approved a change of manager for Blue Tarp Redevelopment LLC d/b/a Essentials, approved a license transfer to Fuego Sports Bar LLC with a condition to pay taxes, continued two new restaurant license petitions to September 8, and denied two Stone Soul Festival applications for lack of organizer permission. The meeting was held virtually and all votes were unanimous.

• Approved change of manager for Blue Tarp Redevelopment LLC d/b/a Essentials (unanimous)
• Approved license transfer to Fuego Sports Bar LLC with condition to pay taxes due (unanimous)
• Continued new all-alcohol license for Shaking Crab to 9-8-21 for public input (unanimous)
• Continued new all-alcohol license for Rose to 9-8-21 (unanimous)
• Denied CLUBOH Inc. application for Stone Soul Festival due to lack of organizer permission (unanimous)
• Denied Stone Soul Festival application at Blunt Park due to lack of organizer permission (unanimous)

School Building Commission - Regular

The School Building Commission will review updates regarding the Brightwood Elementary School project, including funding agreements and construction contract changes. The meeting also includes a project update for William N. DeBerry Elementary School.

• Second Amendment to the MSBA Project Funding Agreement for Brightwood Elementary School
• Change Order #8 regarding signage changes for Daniel O’Connell’s & Sons, Inc. contract
• Change Order #9 regarding a schedule extension for Daniel O’Connell’s & Sons, Inc. contract
• Project update for William N. DeBerry Elementary School

The School Building Commission unanimously approved Early Amendment #1 to the Construction Manager at Risk agreement with Fontaine Bros. for the DeBerry/Homer Elementary School project, covering early work with a preliminary Guaranteed Maximum Price of $22,808,155. The commission also approved the minutes from the April 29, 2021 meeting. The Brightwood/Lincoln project remains on schedule for substantial completion on June 30, 2021.

• Approved Early Amendment #1 to Fontaine Bros. agreement for DeBerry/Homer project (unanimous)
• Approved meeting minutes of April 29, 2021 (unanimous)

Park Commission - Regular

The Park Commission is meeting to review the master plan for Richard Neal Park. The agenda also includes discussions on new ValleyBike stations, art proposals for Pynchon Plaza, and various permit and fee waiver requests for park events.

• Review of Richard Neal Park master plan
• One-day liquor license request for Brew at the Zoo
• New ValleyBike Stations
• Vendor and attendee fees for Springfield Gospel Fest 2021 at Riverfront Park
• Approval of proposed artwork for Pynchon Plaza

City Council - Audit Subcommittee

The Springfield City Council Audit Subcommittee will hold a virtual meeting to discuss two investigation reports. The first covers alleged theft of city wood and misuse of resources at the Forestry Department. The second addresses misrepresentation of hours worked and misuse of resources at the Office of Housing.

• Report on investigation of alleged theft of city wood and misuse of resources at the Forestry Department
• Report on investigation of misrepresentation of hours worked and misuse of city resources at the Office of Housing

City Council - Finance Sub-Committee

The Historical Commission is conducting public hearings on several petitions for exterior renovations and new construction. The meeting also includes informational items regarding historic preservation and maintenance requests.

• New single-family home construction at 251-257 Central Street and 271 Pine Street
• Solar panel installations at 76 Florida Street and 245 Saint James Avenue
• Exterior renovations at 360 Maple Street and 13 Harvard Street
• Request for a letter of support for Northern Heights (11-79 Central Street)
• Maintenance and repair information for 135 Thompson Street

Historical Commission - Regular

The Springfield Historical Commission is holding a virtual meeting to review petitions for exterior modifications to historic properties. The agenda includes public hearings for continued and new requests, such as installing solar panels, replacing windows, and constructing new single-family homes. The body will also review informational items regarding the Northern Heights district and non-compliance at 121 Dartmouth Terrace.

• Petition #6357: Install solar panels at 76 Florida Street
• Petition #6358: Install solar panels at 245 Saint James Avenue
• Petition #6373: Construct new single family home at 251-257 Central Street
• Petition #6374: Construct new single family home at 271 Pine Street
• Informational #6376: Request for letter of support for Northern Heights (11-79 Central Street)

City Planning Board - Regular Meeting

The Planning Board will hold public hearings regarding new alcoholic liquor licenses and several zoning ordinance changes. The meeting also includes a site plan review for a proposed indoor storage facility.

• New All Alcoholic Liquor License petitions for 555 (A.K.A. 557) Worthington Street and 1373 Main Street
• Zoning change from Industrial a and Commercial P to Residence C for properties on SS Morris Street and NS Central Street
• Zoning change from Residence a and Commercial P to Business a for properties on SS Boston Road, ES Gilbert Avenue, and WS Arnold Avenue
• Site Plan Review for a new indoor storage facility of more than 30,000 square feet at 1021 Boston Road and surrounding properties

The Springfield Planning Board met virtually on August 18, 2021, and voted to continue all five items on the agenda to the next meeting on September 1, 2021. No final decisions were made; each item was continued with a 6-0 vote. The items include two new all-alcoholic liquor license petitions, two zoning ordinance changes, and one site plan review for a new indoor storage facility.

• Continued liquor license petition for 555 (A.K.A. 557) Worthington Street (6-0)
• Continued liquor license petition for 1373 Main Street (6-0)
• Continued zoning change for SS Morris Street and NS Central Street properties (6-0)
• Continued zoning change for SS Boston Road, ES Gilbert Avenue, and WS Arnold Avenue properties (6-0)
• Continued site plan review for new indoor storage facility at 1021 Boston Road (6-0)

REO Monitoring Committee - Regular Meeting

The Responsible Employer Ordinance Monitoring Committee met virtually on August 17, 2021, to accept minutes from the previous meeting and discuss ongoing policy reviews. The agenda focused on the utilization of the Responsible Employer Ordinance for the Brightwood-Lincoln Elementary School project and updates regarding the Homer-DeBerry Elementary School. The body also discussed the status of an attorney joining the committee.

• Review of REO Utilization form for July 2021 for the Brightwood-Lincoln Elementary School Project
• Presentation of updates on the Homer-DeBerry Elementary School
• Status update on the attorney joining the REO Committee

The committee reviewed REO utilization numbers for the Brightwood-Lincoln Elementary School project, with most members pleased. Final numbers will be presented at the next meeting. Updates were given on the Homer-DeBerry School (78 pre-approved bidders, closing Aug 26) and the attorney appointment. No formal votes were taken.

• Accepted minutes of July 20, 2021 meeting
• Reviewed REO utilization numbers for Brightwood-Lincoln project
• Noted final utilization numbers to be presented at next meeting
• Received update on Homer-DeBerry School: 78 pre-approved bidders, closing Aug 26
• Agreed to follow up on attorney appointment for REO Committee

License Commission - Entertainment Hearing

The Board of Public Works is holding a public hearing to consider Eversource/CMA's proposal to install underground gas facilities on Berkshire Avenue, which would introduce medium pressure and retire the low-pressure cast iron main. The meeting will also cover minutes, communications, old business, and new business.

• Public hearing on Eversource/CMA gas facility installation on Berkshire Avenue
• Proposal to introduce medium pressure and retire low-pressure cast iron main
• Meeting at Richard Neal Municipal Operations Center, 70 Tapley Street
• Agenda includes minutes, communications, old business, new business

Board of Public Works - Regular

The Board of Public Works is holding a regular meeting that includes a public hearing on a proposal by Eversource/CMA to install underground gas facilities on Berkshire Avenue, introducing medium pressure and retiring a low-pressure cast iron main. The agenda also includes standard items like minutes, communications, old business, and new business.

• Public hearing: Eversource/CMA gas line installation on Berkshire Avenue
• Underground gas facilities to introduce medium pressure and retire low-pressure cast iron main
• Meeting held at Richard Neal Municipal Operations Center, 70 Tapley Street

City Council - Special Meeting

The Springfield City Council is holding a special meeting that will begin in open session and then move into executive session to discuss strategy regarding the Superior Court case 'Lyman Corners, LLC, et al. v. City of Springfield City Council, et al.' After the executive session, the council will reconvene in open session to consider an order approving an agreement with Lyman Corners, LLC and Pilar2, LLC.

• Executive session to discuss litigation strategy in Lyman Corners, LLC, et al. v. City of Springfield City Council, et al.
• Order approving execution of an agreement with Lyman Corners, LLC and Pilar2, LLC

City Council - Hearings Meeting

The Springfield City Council is holding a virtual hearing to consider five special permit applications under the Springfield Zoning Ordinance. These include a drive-up service window, an undertaking establishment, a re-established non-conforming use, and a medical treatment facility. The council will also vote on granting a permanent utility easement to NSTAR/Eversource at Chestnut Street.

• Special permit for drive-up service window at 1259 East Columbus Avenue (Colvest/Columbus Springfield, LLC)
• Special permit for drive-up service window at 56, 64, and 40 St James Boulevard (Holyoke Retail, LLC)
• Special permit for undertaking establishment at 43 Sullivan Street (Hann Realty Berkshire, LLC)
• Special permit to re-establish non-conforming use (motor vehicle service/sales) at 143 Parker Street (Rhino Realty, LLC)
• Special permit for medical treatment facility (no overnight stay) at 281 Cottage Street (1626 Bay Street, LLC / Recovery Connection Centers of America, Inc.)

The City Council approved special permits for drive-up service windows at 1259 East Columbus Avenue and 56 St James Boulevard, and approved reasons for denying a medical treatment facility permit at 281 Cottage Street. A permit for an undertaking establishment at 43 Sullivan Street was continued to September 20, and a used car lot permit at 143 Parker Street was continued to October 4. The council also granted a permanent utility easement to NSTAR/Eversource at Chestnut Street.

• Approved special permit for drive-up window at 1259 East Columbus Avenue (12-0)
• Approved special permit for drive-up window at 56 St James Boulevard (unanimous)
• Continued special permit for undertaking establishment at 43 Sullivan Street to 9/20/2021
• Continued special permit for used car lot at 143 Parker Street to 10/4/2021 (unanimous)
• Approved reasons for denying special permit for medical treatment facility at 281 Cottage Street (unanimous)
• Adopted permanent utility easement to NSTAR/Eversource at Chestnut Street (unanimous)

City Council - Finance Sub-Committee

The Springfield City Council Finance Sub-Committee is meeting virtually to discuss an update on COVID-19 funding. The agenda includes a public portion for this discussion, but no specific decisions or proposals are listed.

• Discussion of COVID-19 funding update

License Commission - Regular

The Springfield Board of License Commissioners will hold a virtual public hearing on August 11, 2021, to consider license changes, noise complaints, and alleged violations. The board will also approve minutes from its July 14 meeting.

• Change of manager for AMG Retail LLC d/b/a Irving at 11 Tapley St
• Change of manager for Blue Tarp Redevelopment, LLC d/b/a Essentials at One MGM Way
• Noise complaint hearing for Delicias Restaurant & Catering at 1333 Boston Rd
• Pre-hearing conference for Hookah Haaz Cigar Lounge at 296 Cooley St (BYOB violation)
• Pre-hearing conference for Lorung Nepali Kitchen LLC at 403 Dickinson St (operating beyond licensed hours and BYOB without permit)

The Springfield License Commission approved a change of manager for AMG Retail LLC d/b/a Irving at 11 Tapley St, and imposed an 11pm patio restriction on Delicias Restaurant & Catering due to noise complaints. A manager change for Blue Tarp Redevelopment LLC d/b/a Essentials was continued for public input, and a pre-hearing conference for Lorung Nepali Kitchen LLC was continued generally. The meeting was held virtually via Zoom.

• Approved change of manager for AMG Retail LLC d/b/a Irving (unanimous)
• Continued Blue Tarp Redevelopment LLC d/b/a Essentials manager change for public input (unanimous)
• Approved 11pm patio restriction for Delicias Restaurant & Catering (unanimous)
• Continued Lorung Nepali Kitchen LLC pre-hearing conference generally (unanimous)

Historical Commission - Regular

The Springfield Historical Commission is meeting virtually to review several property alteration petitions in historic districts, including solar panel installations, window replacements, and porch changes. It will also consider the demolition of a twelve-unit apartment building at 9 York Street and discuss a preliminary report on the Forest Park Trolley Barn.

• 407 Union Street: solar panel installation
• 171 St. James Avenue: reconfigure rear enclosed porch and replacement windows
• 9 York Street: demolition of twelve-unit residential apartment building
• 218 Longhill Street: enclosure of rear porch windows (response to stop work order)
• Discussion: preliminary report for Forest Park Trolley Barn to MHC

Retirement Board - Regular

The Springfield Retirement Board will conduct interviews and vote on appointing a fifth board member, consider several disability benefit applications, approve superannuations and warrants, and hold a hearing on retirement rights. The meeting includes routine approvals of minutes, warrants, and transfers, as well as a director's report and attorney's report.

• Interview and vote on fifth board member
• Accidental Disability application for Brett Staples (Police)
• Accidental Disability application for John Keefe (Fire)
• Superannuations for Jeannine Adams, Frederick Casineau, Barbara Santaniello, Hector Santiago
• Warrants totaling $7,246,231.86 for retirement payroll and $2,750,000.00 PRIT redemption

Community Preservation Committee - Regular

The Springfield Community Preservation Committee is meeting remotely to approve July minutes, discuss an administrative consultant contract, and deliberate on 2021 Community Preservation Act (CPA) recommendations. The meeting is open to public comment via mail or email.

• Approval of July 6, 2021 meeting minutes
• Administrative Consultant contract discussion
• Deliberation on 2021 CPA recommendations
• Administrator's updates

The Community Preservation Committee recommended funding for several projects, including $250,000 for Magazine Park (tabled pending cost breakdown), $248,000 for the Stone Soul Remembrance Garden, $242,000 for the Forest Park Picnic Pavilion, $164,979 for Hubbard Park tennis courts, $250,000 for historic renovation at 2612 Main Street, $250,000 for Cottage Hill Park, $50,000 for the former Classical High School façade, and $85,500 for the East Springfield Branch Library. All recommendations are subject to final approval by the City Council.

• Tabled $250,000 for Magazine Park pending cost breakdown (5-1)
• Recommended $248,000 for Stone Soul Remembrance Garden (6-0)
• Recommended $242,000 for Forest Park Picnic Pavilion (5-1)
• Recommended $164,979 for Hubbard Park tennis courts and fencing (6-0)
• Recommended $250,000 for 2612 Main Street historic renovation (6-0)
• Recommended $250,000 for Cottage Hill Park (5-1)
• Recommended $50,000 for former Classical High School façade (6-0)
• Recommended $85,500 for East Springfield Branch Library with land protection condition (6-0)

Traffic Commission - Regular

The Springfield Traffic Commission is meeting to discuss several traffic regulation items, including installing new parking meters at four locations, establishing no-parking tow-away zones on Fargo and Lamont Streets, and adding a stop sign at Crest and Lakeside Streets. These are new items under consideration, with the parking meters proposed for a 90-day trial.

• New parking meters at 4 locations (90-day trial)
• No parking tow-away on Fargo Street (100 ft south side, 243 ft north side from Boston Road)
• No parking tow-away on Lamont Street (157 ft west side from Boston Road)
• Stop sign for eastbound traffic at Crest Street and Lakeside Street

Board of Assessor - Regular Meeting

The Board of Assessors will hold a telephonic meeting to approve motor vehicle excise warrants, reassess a property, and enter executive session to discuss litigation and abatement applications. The board will also vote on the minutes from the July 22 meeting.

• Motor vehicle excise warrant Commitment 2021-03: 5,511 vehicles, $578,900.74
• Motor vehicle excise warrant Commitment 2020-09: 3 vehicles, $173.38
• Reassessment of Rear Cannon Circle (PID 023250030) to Timothy E Bozak
• Executive session for ATB docket review and overvalue applications

License Commission - Regular

The Springfield Board of License Commissioners will hold a virtual public hearing on July 28, 2021, to consider several liquor license petitions, including a continued petition for a beer and wine package store license, a new all-alcohol restaurant license, a change of manager, and an informational hearing for a one-day beer and wine event at the Jazz & Roots Festival. The board will also approve minutes from its July 14 meeting.

• Continued petition for Beer and Wine Annual Package Store License for Springfield Wine Exchange LLC, 1500 Main St, Suite 170
• Continued petition for New All Alcohol Annual Restaurant License (late renewal) for St. Anthony's Men's Society, 375 Island Pond Rd
• Petition for Change of Manager for AMG Retail LLC d/b/a Irving, 11 Tapley St
• Informational hearing for Jazz & Roots Festival at Stern Square, one-day beer and wine event on August 14, 2021, 11 am to 10 pm
• Approval of minutes from July 14, 2021 hearing

The Board approved a one-day beer and wine event permit for the Jazz & Roots Festival at Stern Square on August 14, 2021. It also approved minutes from July 14, continued two license petitions, and continued a change-of-manager petition to August 11 for public input.

• Approved July 14, 2021 meeting minutes with corrections (unanimous)
• Continued beer and wine package store license for Springfield Wine Exchange LLC at 1500 Main St (unanimous)
• Continued all-alcohol restaurant license for St. Anthony's Men's Society at 375 Island Pond Rd (unanimous)
• Continued change of manager for AMG Retail LLC d/b/a Irving at 11 Tapley St to 8-11-21 (unanimous)
• Approved one-day beer and wine event for Jazz & Roots Festival at Stern Square on Aug 14 (unanimous)

Zoning Board of Appeals - Regular

The Springfield Zoning Board of Appeals is holding a virtual public hearing on a variance request from Dakota T Mullen of Mass Housing Connect Inc. to erect a two-family dwelling at SS Worthington St (Parcel # 12535-0213, formerly 871-873 Worthington St), which would violate Article 10 Section 10.2.12, Paragraph A of the Springfield Zoning Ordinance. The hearing is scheduled for July 28 and continued to August 4, 2021, with public comment accepted via email, voicemail, or mail.

• Variance request for two-family dwelling at SS Worthington St (Parcel # 12535-0213, formerly 871-873 Worthington St)
• Petitioner: Dakota T Mullen, Mass Housing Connect Inc.
• Public hearing via Zoom on July 28 and August 4, 2021
• Public comment by email, voicemail (413) 787-7807, or mail to 70 Tapley Street

Conservation Commission - Regular

The Springfield Conservation Commission is meeting to review two Notices of Intent: one for improvements to Loon Pond Park at 419 Pasco Rd. and another for a residential subdivision on Allen Street. The agenda also includes a continued item for 144 Pondview Drive, a certificate of compliance for 45 Oak Brook Drive, and acceptance of minutes from May 25, 2021.

• Notice of Intent for Loon Pond Park Improvements at 419 Pasco Rd. (applicant: Springfield Parks Department)
• Notice of Intent for residential subdivision on Allen Street (applicant: Baldwin Street LLC)
• Continued item: 144 Pondview Drive
• Certificate of Compliance: 45 Oak Brook Drive, East Longmeadow, MA
• Acceptance of minutes from May 25, 2021

School Committee - Special Meeting

This is a special meeting of the Springfield School Committee. The only substantive action is a vote to enter executive session to discuss contracting for legal services, with no return to open session. All other items are procedural (call to order, invocation, pledge).

• Vote to enter executive session to discuss contracting for legal services
• No return to open session after executive session

Board of Assessor - Regular Meeting

The Board of Assessors is meeting remotely to review minutes, correspondence, and then enter executive session to discuss litigation strategy for Appellate Tax Board dockets and overvalue applications. The public portion is limited to minutes and correspondence; the substantive items are handled in closed session.

• Executive session to discuss ATB docket review and litigation strategy
• Review of overvalue applications for real estate and personal property
• Correspondence from Springfield Neurology Associates LLC
• Approval of minutes from July 1, 2021 meeting

Community Police Hearing Board - Hearing

The Community Police Hearing Board is meeting to address agenda items including a public portion and an executive session. The executive session will discuss a personnel matter under exemption #1, related to SO#21-044 Rules and Regulations. No other substantive items are listed.

• Executive session to discuss reputation, character, or discipline of an individual (SO#21-044)
• Public portion of the meeting

Community Police Hearing Board - Case Review

The Community Police Hearing Board is meeting to review two cases, SO#21-070 and PIE#21-006, under rules and regulations. The board will hold a public portion followed by an executive session to discuss matters involving individual reputation, character, or discipline, as permitted by exemption #1.

• Case SO#21-070 (dated 8/15/2021) under Rules and Regulations
• Case PIE#21-006 (dated 9/6/2021) under Rules and Regulations
• Executive session to discuss individual reputation, character, or discipline

REO Monitoring Committee - Regular Meeting

The Responsible Employer Ordinance Monitoring Committee is meeting to review contractor compliance and workforce utilization for Springfield construction projects. They will discuss the Homer-Deberry Elementary School project, review May and June utilization forms, and decide when to present final Brightwood-Lincoln project numbers.

• Accept minutes of May 18, 2021 meeting
• Introduction of Fontaine Bros./Deberry-Homer Elem School Project diversity director
• Review of REO Utilization Form for May and June 2021
• Discussion on timing of final Brightwood-Lincoln Project numbers
• Update on Homer-Deberry Elem School Project

The committee reviewed May and June 2021 REO utilization numbers, noting minority, women, and veteran numbers were good, but resident hours were 5% below quota. Frank Amaro attributed low numbers to the pandemic and childcare issues, and said recruiting residents is the toughest component. The committee also received updates on the Homer-DeBerry project, which has begun with estimated completion for the 2023-2024 school year, and discussed presenting final Brightwood-Lincoln numbers possibly after one more month. Minutes from May 18, 2021 were accepted.

• Accepted minutes of the May 18, 2021 meeting
• Reviewed REO Utilization Form for May and June 2021, noting residents 5% below quota
• Discussed presenting final Brightwood-Lincoln Project numbers, possibly after one more month
• Received update on Homer-DeBerry Elem School Project; construction began, completion expected 2023-2024 school year

City Council - COVID-19 Response

The Springfield City Council is holding a virtual meeting to receive an update and discuss the city's COVID-19 response. The agenda includes a public portion for this discussion, with no other listed items.

• Update and discussion of COVID-19 response

City Council - Finance Sub-Committee

The Finance Sub-Committee is reviewing several collective bargaining agreement ratifications for AFSCME Local 3065 and Local 1596A. The meeting also includes numerous orders regarding various city grants, department funding, and a utility easement.

• Ratification of AFSCME Local 3065 and AFSCME Local 1596A collective bargaining agreements
• Mass Gaming Commission Grant amendment for $821,169 for Police Department costs
• DPW Complete Streets Tier 3 Construction Program Grant for $192,500
• State 911 Support & Incentive Grant for $992,816
• Permanent utility easement to NSTAR/Eversource at 415 Main Street

City Council - Regular Meeting

The Springfield City Council will consider accepting over $3.6 million in state and other grants for public safety, parks, libraries, and road projects, plus ratify two AFSCME union contracts. The agenda also includes several utility petitions for underground work on specific streets and multiple zoning changes, including a new historic district and rezonings on East Columbus Avenue and Boston Road.

• State 911 Support & Incentive Grant - $992,816
• Mass Gaming Commission grant for police at MGM Springfield - $821,169
• AFSCME Local 1596A and Local 3065 collective bargaining agreements (2021-2024)
• Creation of new local historic district at 367 Hancock Street (Elias Brookings LHD)
• Zone change for 1259 East Columbus Avenue from Bus C to Bus B

The City Council approved a zone change for 1259 East Columbus Avenue from Bus C to Bus B, allowing an empty building to be converted into a Burger King with a drive-through. The vote was 12-0. The council also approved a zone change for 1021 Boston Road and other properties from Residence A and Business A to Business B for a climate-controlled storage facility, also 12-0.

• Approved zone change for 1259 East Columbus Avenue (Bus C to Bus B) for a Burger King with drive-through, 12-0.
• Approved zone change for 1021 Boston Road and adjacent properties (Res A & Bus A to Bus B) for a storage facility, 12-0.
• Approved petitions for utility work on Liberty St, Wilmington Ave, West York St, and cabinet installations, all 12-0.
• Adopted first steps to amend Chapter 49 to create a local historic district at 367 Hancock Street, 12-0.
• Adopted 22 grant orders totaling over $3.5 million, including $821,169 for police gaming enforcement, 12-0.
• Ratified collective bargaining agreements with AFSCME Local 1596A (12-0) and Local 3065 (11-0).
• Adopted May Revenue vs. Expenditure Report, 11-1, with Councilor Fenton dissenting.
• Continued vote on McDonald's special permit at 809 Boston Road to October 25, 2021, after adding conditions for a fence and arborvitae.

City Council - Maintenance and Development Sub-Committee

The Finance Sub-Committee is reviewing a long list of orders, including ratification of two AFSCME collective bargaining agreements, acceptance of numerous state and private grants, a utility easement for Eversource, and a contract for school copy operations. The meeting is largely a routine approval of funding and contracts.

• Ratify AFSCME Local 3065 and Local 1596A collective bargaining agreements (2021-2024)
• Accept Mass Gaming Commission grant of $821,169 for police gaming enforcement at MGM Springfield
• Accept State 911 Support & Incentive Grant of $992,816
• Grant permanent utility easement to NSTAR/Eversource at 415 Main Street
• Authorize contract over 3 years for School Department copy operations RFP

License Commission - Regular

The Springfield License Commission will hold a virtual public hearing on July 14, 2021, to approve prior meeting minutes and consider several liquor license petitions. The board will review a transfer of a license to Fuegos Sports Bar, a new package store license, and a late renewal for a restaurant license. No other substantive items are listed on the agenda.

• Transfer of license from 881 Carew St, LLC to Fuego Sports Bar, LLC d/b/a Fuegos Sports Bar at 885 Carew St
• Beer and Wine Annual Package Store License for Springfield Wine Exchange LLC at 1500 Main St, Suite 170
• New All Alcohol Annual Restaurant License (late renewal) for St. Anthony's Men's Society at 375 Island Pond Rd
• Approval of minutes from June 23, 2021 hearing

The Board of License Commissioners approved the June 23, 2021 meeting minutes unanimously. They continued three license petitions to later dates: Fuegos Sports Bar's transfer to August 11, Springfield Wine Exchange's new package store license to July 28, and St. Anthony's Men's Society's late renewal to July 28. All continuations were approved unanimously.

• Approved the June 23, 2021 meeting minutes unanimously.
• Continued the transfer of license from 881 Carew St, LLC to Fuego Sports Bar, LLC d/b/a Fuegos Sports Bar (885 Carew St) to August 11, 2021.
• Continued the Beer and Wine Annual Package Store License petition for Springfield Wine Exchange LLC (1500 Main St, Suite 170) to July 28, 2021.
• Continued the New All Alcohol Annual Restaurant License (late renewal) for St. Anthony's Men's Society (375 Island Pond Rd) to July 28, 2021.

City Planning Board - Regular Meeting

The Springfield Planning Board is meeting virtually to continue a public hearing on a new beer and wine liquor license for Springfield Wine Exchange, LLC at 1500 Main Street. The board will also address minutes, non-subdivision plans, and other business.

• Continued public hearing for new beer & wine license at 1500 Main Street (Springfield Wine Exchange, LLC)
• Acceptance of minutes
• Non-subdivision plans review
• All other matters properly before the board

The Springfield Planning Board approved a new beer and wine liquor license for the property at 1500 Main Street by a 6-0 vote, with conditions including no exterior banners and obtaining sign permits. The board also unanimously approved a petition to re-zone the former Gemini site on the South End from Industrial A and Commercial P to Residence C as part of a proposed housing development.

• Approved new beer and wine liquor license for 1500 Main Street (6-0)
• Approved re-zoning of former Gemini site to Residence C for housing development (unanimous)

Retirement Board - Regular

The Springfield Retirement Board will vote on several disability benefit applications, including accidental and involuntary accidental disability claims from city employees, and will consider approving 22 superannuation retirements. The board will also review warrants, refunds, transfers, and other administrative items. The meeting is open to the public remotely or in person.

• Votes on accidental disability applications for Kevin Guyer (DPW), Barbara McIntyre (School), and involuntary applications for Shawn Quinn (Fire), Jonathan Turner (Police), and Mark Jones (Police)
• Approval of 22 superannuations, including Joseph Santamaria (Fire Lieutenant, 33 yrs), Daniel Maroney (Senior Custodian, 43 yrs), and Stephen Tyburski (Police Officer, 28 yrs)
• Reaffirmation of warrants including retiree payroll of $6,989,138.55 and a $1,500,000 redemption from PRIT fund
• Consideration of 19 refund/transfer requests and redeposits for Christopher Franks, Daisha Jones, Jason Pratt, and Marissa Rodriguez
• MGL Chapter 32 hearing on retirement rights for Lizzy Ortiz, continued from June 2 meeting

City Council - Public Safety

The Springfield City Council Public Safety Committee is meeting virtually. The main item is an ordinance amendment to Chapter 178 regarding gasoline stations, which has been referred to committee after a first step. The meeting includes a public portion for resident input.

• Ordinance ID #6137 amending Chapter 178 on gasoline stations
• Public portion for resident comments
• Ordinance previously referred to committee on 04/05/21 and 06/21/21

City Council - Public Safety

The Springfield City Council's Public Safety Committee is meeting virtually to discuss a one-year review of police reform efforts and the Department of Justice (DOJ) report. The agenda includes a public portion for these discussions, with no other substantive items listed.

• Discussion of one-year review on police reform
• Discussion of DOJ Report

City Council - Sustainability and Environment

The Springfield City Council is holding a virtual meeting to discuss a one-year review of police reform efforts and the Department of Justice report. No votes are scheduled; the agenda consists solely of these two discussion items.

• Discussion of one-year review on police reform
• Discussion of DOJ Report

Park Commission - Regular

The Springfield Park Commission is meeting virtually to discuss and decide on several park-related matters, including a significant tree removal request, festival uses of Riverfront Park, a memorial bench, and multiple permit fee waivers. The agenda also includes approval of prior meeting minutes and a possible grant application for Richard Neal Park.

• Request for removal of a significant tree at 68 Rockland Street
• Use of Riverfront Park for Springfield Indie Soul Festival and Sneaker Soiree
• Request for memorial bench in Forest Park
• Request to waive permit fees for New North Citizens Council, Community Day in Gerrish Park, and Greg Ellerbee
• Request permission to apply for ORLP Grant for Richard Neal Park

City Council - Health and Human Services

The Springfield City Council's Health and Human Services Committee is meeting virtually to receive an update on the Post Overdose Rapid Response Program. The agenda includes a public portion and this single substantive item; no votes or other decisions are listed.

• Update on Post Overdose Rapid Response Program

Community Preservation Committee - Regular

The Community Preservation Committee is meeting remotely to approve June minutes, increase reserves from higher FY21 revenue, consider an administrative consultant contract, deliberate on 2021 Community Preservation Act recommendations, and discuss off-cycle applications. Public comments on any CPA application can be submitted by mail or email.

• Approval of June 1, 2021 meeting minutes
• Increase reserves based on increased FY21 revenue
• Administrative Consultant contract
• Deliberate on 2021 CPA recommendations
• Off-Cycle application discussion

The Community Preservation Committee approved funding recommendations for several projects, including $250,000 for Blunt Park Tennis Courts, $30,000 for Westminster Children's Playground, $170,000 for The Drama Studio, $250,000 for Byer Street Housing, $250,000 for Kilroy House, $209,000 for Marshall Roy Splash Pad, and $160,000 for Down Payment Assistance. The committee also voted to increase reserve funds for housing, historic, recreation, and open space to $221,500 each, and adopted standard conditions for CPA grants. The Acorn Park Tennis Courts proposal was denied, and deliberations on remaining projects were tabled to the next meeting.

• Approved $250,000 for Blunt Park Tennis Courts, with $215,000 from Recreation Reserve and $35,000 from undesignated funds, and a special condition excluding bleachers.
• Approved $30,000 for Westminster Children's Playground from undesignated funds.
• Approved $170,000 for The Drama Studio from Historic Reserve, excluding landscaping.
• Approved $250,000 for Byer Street Housing from housing allocation, with restrictions on roof use and affordability.
• Approved $250,000 for Kilroy House from Historic Reserve, with a maintenance plan requirement.
• Approved $209,000 for Marshall Roy Splash Pad from undesignated funds.
• Approved $160,000 for Down Payment Assistance Program from housing allocation.
• Denied funding for Acorn Park Tennis Courts; recommended proponents work with Park Department and resubmit next year.

City Council - Special Meeting

The Springfield City Council is holding a special meeting to vote on an order authorizing continued legal representation by the Conservation Law Foundation in a Land Court appeal. The appeal stems from a Zoning Board of Appeals matter involving Palmer Renewable Energy, LLC, in which the Council and its members are named as defendants.

• Order to continue retaining Conservation Law Foundation as outside counsel
• Land Court case No. 21 PS 000331: Palmer Renewable Energy, LLC v. Zoning Board of Appeals of the City of Springfield, et al.
• Appeal filed June 17, 2021 under MGL Chapter 40A Section 17

The Springfield City Council held a special meeting on July 6, 2021, and voted 9-0 to adopt an order continuing the retention of the Conservation Law Foundation (CLF) as legal counsel. The decision allows CLF to continue working with city attorneys, following an executive session to discuss litigation strategy. The motion was made by Councilor Michael A. Fenton and seconded by Councilor Melvin A. Edwards.

• Adopted order to continue retaining legal counsel from the Conservation Law Foundation (CLF), with a 9-0 vote.
• Approved motion to dispense with item #1 and move to item #4, which was the CLF retention order.

City Council - COVID-19 Response

The Springfield City Council is holding a virtual meeting with a single substantive agenda item: an update and discussion on the city's COVID-19 response. No votes or specific proposals are listed; the meeting is primarily informational and discussion-focused.

• Update and discussion on COVID-19 response

Historical Commission - Regular

The Springfield Historical Commission will hold public hearings on several property petitions, including a demolition request for a twelve-unit apartment building at 9 York Street. The agenda also includes continued hearings on five properties and a new hearing for solar panel installation at 407 Union Street. An informational item addresses non-compliance at 121 Dartmouth Terrace.

• Demolition of twelve-unit residential apartment building at 9 York Street
• Installation of solar panels at 407 Union Street
• Replacement windows at 19 Florentine Gardens and 10 Cornell Street
• Installation of mini split air conditioning unit at 107 Maplewood Terrace
• Non-compliance at 121 Dartmouth Terrace: garage doors, windows, porch steps

Board of Assessor - Regular Meeting

The Board of Assessors is meeting to review June abatement totals for real estate, personal property, and motor vehicle excise, and to consider one of 58 abatement requests for 58 Wilkes Street. The board will then enter executive session to discuss litigation strategy for several Appellate Tax Board cases, including Springfield 3640 Medical Properties LLC, 273 State Street, Memorial Square Apartments, and 1492 Boston Road LLC.

• June abatement totals for real estate, personal property, and motor vehicle excise
• Abatement request for 58 Wilkes Street (parcel 122900010)
• Executive session to discuss ATB litigation strategy for Springfield 3640 Medical Properties LLC
• Executive session to discuss ATB litigation strategy for 273 State Street
• Executive session to discuss ATB litigation strategy for Memorial Square Apartments and 1492 Boston Road LLC

Zoning Board of Appeals - Regular

The Zoning Board of Appeals is holding a virtual public hearing on a variance request from BH Chestnut Crossing LLC to demolish part of a multi-family structure at 275 Chestnut St and add a lot line to create a new parcel, which would leave the remaining building in violation of zoning tables. The hearing spans two dates, with public comment taken before and after the meeting, including a 24-hour written comment window. This is a single-item agenda focused on this specific variance petition.

• Variance request by BH Chestnut Crossing LLC for 275 Chestnut St (parcels 02750-0483 & 02750-0485)
• Proposal to demolish part of existing multi-family structure and add lot line to create another parcel
• Remaining parcel would violate Article 5 section 5.2.10 Table 5-1 and Article 7 table 7-1
• Public comment via voicemail (413) 787-7807, email, or mail to 70 Tapley Street, Springfield, MA 01104

Conservation Commission - Regular

The Springfield Conservation Commission is meeting virtually to consider a request for determination of applicability for vegetation management at 144 Pondview Drive, and to continue discussion on 1879 Allen Street and Pasco Road overgrowth trimming. The agenda also includes acceptance of minutes.

• Petition #6299: Request for Determination of Applicability for vegetation management at 144 Pondview Drive
• Continued item: 1879 Allen Street
• Pasco Road overgrowth trimming

City Council - Audit Subcommittee

The Springfield City Council Audit Subcommittee is meeting virtually on June 29, 2021. The sole substantive item is a discussion of the audit of the marijuana selection process. No votes or decisions are listed on this agenda.

• Discussion: Audit of Marijuana selection Process

City Council - Hearings Meeting

The Springfield City Council is holding a hearings meeting to consider petitions and special permits, including fuel storage increases, traffic orders, and zoning changes. Public testimony is limited to five residents per item, with two minutes each, via Zoom or written submissions.

• Special permit for drive-up service window at 1259 East Columbus Avenue
• Special permit for drive-up service window at 56, 64, and 40 St James Boulevard
• Special permit for pet funeral operation (crematorium) at 142 Hancock Street
• Special permit for medical treatment facility at 281 Cottage Street
• Zone change for 1021 Boston Road and adjacent properties from Residence A and Business A to Business B

The City Council approved a special permit for a drive-up service window at 56 St. James Boulevard (KFC) with an amendment requiring an 11 PM closing time. A separate special permit for a drive-up window at 1259 East Columbus Avenue was continued to August 16, 2021. A proposed pet funeral operation at 142 Hancock Street was denied, and a medical treatment facility at 281 Cottage Street was also denied.

• Approved special permit for drive-up window at 56 St. James Boulevard (KFC) with 11 PM closing amendment (unanimous).
• Continued special permit for drive-up window at 1259 East Columbus Avenue to August 16, 2021.
• Denied special permit for pet funeral operation at 142 Hancock Street (1-11 vote).
• Denied special permit for medical treatment facility at 281 Cottage Street (0-13 vote).
• Approved first step of zoning change for 1021 Boston Road from Residence A/Business A to Business B (unanimous).
• Approved fuel storage increase petition for 679 Main Street (12-0).
• Continued multiple no-parking and stop sign petitions to September 27, 2021.
• Received first step of zoning change for 1259 East Columbus Avenue (Bus C to Bus B).

School Committee - Regular

The Springfield School Committee will vote on collective bargaining agreements with the Springfield Education Association (SEA) and the School Clerks (AFSCME) for the 2020-2021 and 2021-2024 periods. The agenda also includes approving high school diplomas for 13 students, new arts courses, grant expenditures, an easement to Eversource, and a virtual school proposal. Informational items include boundary changes for the new Brightwood/Lincoln School.

• Approve SEA collective bargaining agreements for 2020-2021 and 2021-2024
• Approve AFSCME School Clerks collective bargaining agreements for 2020-2021 and 2021-2024
• Approve $153,437 expenditure for FY21 Acceleration Academies Grant
• Approve $288,000 expenditure for FY21-FY23 After-School Enrichment Program Grant
• Grant easement to Eversource over Commerce High School property

License Commission - Regular

The Springfield Board of License Commissioners will hold a virtual public hearing on June 23, 2021. The board will consider a license transfer for Fuegos Sports Bar and a final hearing on a Level 5 Restaurant violation. The agenda also includes approval of minutes from the May 26 hearing.

• Transfer of license from 881 Carew St, LLC to Fuego Sports Bar, LLC d/b/a Fuegos Sports Bar at 885 Carew St
• Final hearing for Level 5 Restaurant at 890 State St: failure to call police, allowing assault and battery, violation of security plan
• Approval of minutes from May 26, 2021 hearing

The Board approved the minutes from the May 26, 2021 hearing. They voted to continue the license transfer petition for Fuegos Sports Bar to July 14, 2021, for public input. A final hearing for Level 5 Restaurant was continued generally because the licensee did not appear.

• Approved the minutes of the May 26, 2021 hearing.
• Continued the license transfer from 881 Carew St, LLC to Fuego Sports Bar, LLC to July 14, 2021.
• Continued the final hearing for Level 5 Restaurant generally due to licensee absence.

City Council - Special Meeting

The Springfield Board of License Commissioners will hold a virtual public hearing on June 23, 2021, to approve minutes, consider a liquor license transfer, and conduct a final hearing on a restaurant violation. The meeting is open to the public via Zoom or local TV.

• Transfer of license from 881 Carew St, LLC to Fuego Sports Bar, LLC d/b/a Fuegos Sports Bar at 885 Carew St
• Final hearing for Level 5 Restaurant at 890 State St for alleged violations: failure to call police, allowing assault and battery, and security plan violation
• Approval of minutes from May 26, 2021 hearing

The Springfield Board of License Commissioners met virtually and approved the minutes from the May 26, 2021 hearing. They voted to continue a license transfer petition for Fuegos Sports Bar to July 14, 2021, and continued a violation hearing for Level 5 Restaurant generally, as the licensee did not appear.

• Approved minutes from May 26, 2021 hearing (unanimous)
• Continued license transfer petition for Fuegos Sports Bar to 7-14-21 (unanimous)
• Continued Level 5 Restaurant violation hearing generally (unanimous)

City Council - COVID-19 Response

The Springfield City Council is holding a virtual meeting to discuss and receive an update on the city's COVID-19 response. The agenda contains only this single discussion item, with no other business listed.

• Discussion and update of COVID-19 response

City Council - Special Meeting

The City Council is holding a special meeting to consider the Mayor's recommended Fiscal Year 2022 budget, including the General Fund, Revolving Funds, American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Fund revenue, and the Enterprise Fund. The agenda includes four budget orders for approval.

• FY22 General Fund budget totaling $755,699,548
• FY22 Trash Enterprise Fund budget of $10,846,639
• FY22 Revolving Funds budget order
• FY22 American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Fund revenue order
• FY22 Enterprise Fund budget order

The City Council unanimously adopted the FY22 General Fund budget after a lengthy discussion. A motion to cut $200,000 from the overtime budget was withdrawn, and a motion to cut $840,000 from the Facilities Budget was defeated 2-11. The council also unanimously approved the FY22 Revolving Funds, ARPA Fund, and Enterprise Fund budgets.

• Adopted FY22 General Fund budget (unanimous)
• Withdrew motion to cut $200k from overtime budget
• Defeated motion to cut $840k from Facilities Budget (2-11)
• Adopted FY22 Revolving Funds budget (unanimous)
• Adopted FY22 ARPA Fund revenue budget (unanimous)
• Adopted FY22 Enterprise Fund budget (unanimous)

City Council - Public Safety

The City Council is reviewing an ordinance to prohibit the sale of gasoline for motorized recreational vehicles unless they are on a trailer. Additionally, the council is considering a proposal to increase annual compensation for the Mayor, City Council members, and School Committee members.

• Ordinance to prohibit selling gasoline for motorized recreational vehicles without a registered motor vehicle/trailer
• $100 fine for violations of new gasoline sale restrictions
• Proposed annual compensation of $28,500 for City Council President
• Proposed annual compensation of $28,000 for all other City Council members
• Proposed Mayor salary increase to $175,000 effective January 1, 2024

The Springfield City Council voted 12-0 to refer Ordinance 2021-12, amending Chapter 178 on gasoline stations, to committee. It also referred Ordinance 2021-8, increasing compensation under Chapter 61, to the General Government committee, with some councilors expressing concerns about the process.

• Referred Ordinance 2021-12 (gasoline stations) to committee, 12-0.
• Referred Ordinance 2021-8 (compensation increase) to General Government committee.

City Council - Special Meeting

The Springfield City Council is holding a special meeting to consider two ordinances. One would ban the sale of gasoline for motorized recreational vehicles unless they are transported by a registered vehicle, with a $100 fine for violations. The other would increase salaries for the Mayor, City Council, and School Committee, with the Mayor's salary rising to $175,000 by 2024.

• Ordinance to amend Chapter 178, banning gasoline sales for off-road vehicles unless trailered, with $100 fine
• Ordinance 2021-8 to increase Mayor's salary to $135,000 now and $175,000 in 2024
• City Council salaries set at $28,000 and Council President at $28,500, effective January 1, 2022
• School Committee members to receive $18,000 annually, effective January 1, 2022
• Creation of a Compensation Advisory Committee to review salaries every four years

The City Council voted 12-0 to refer Ordinance 2021-12, amending Chapter 178 on gasoline stations, to committee. The item had previously been referred and given first-step readings. Councilor Ramos moved to continue the matter, seconded by Councilor Allen. Councilor Brown was absent.

• Referred Ordinance 2021-12 (gasoline stations, Chapter 178 amendment) to committee, 12-0
• Referred Ordinance 2021-8 (increase in compensation, Chapter 61) to committee, after motion by Councilor Hurst, seconded by Whitfield

Historical Commission - Regular

The Springfield Historical Commission will hold public hearings on several property petitions, including two demolitions, multiple window replacements, and a mural installation. The commission will also review environmental and preservation matters, and discuss non-applicability and non-compliance cases.

• Demolition of 12-unit apartment building at 9 York Street
• Demolition of residential home at 20 Shumway Street
• Mural installation at 211-213 Worthington Street
• Window replacements at 120 Harvard Street, 19 Florentine Gardens, and 10 Cornell Street
• Non-compliance case at 121 Dartmouth Terrace

School Committee - Regular

The Budget & Finance Subcommittee will vote on recommending approval of a $288,000 expenditure from the Massachusetts Department of Health for the FY21-FY23 After-School Enrichment Program Grant. The recommendation would go to the full School Committee for final approval.

• Vote to recommend approval of $288,000 from MA Dept. of Health for FY21-FY23 After-School Enrichment Program Grant

City Planning Board - Regular Meeting

The Springfield Planning Board will hold public hearings on a zone change for properties on Boston Road, Wollaston Street, and Shumway Street, a new beer and wine license for 1500 Main Street, and a zone change for 797 Berkshire Avenue. It will also consider a preliminary subdivision plan for Elaine Circle Extension. These items were continued from a previous meeting.

• Zone change for 1021 Boston Road, SS Boston Road, ES Wollaston Street, and 20 Shumway Street from Residence A and Business A to Business B
• New beer and wine liquor license for Springfield Wine Exchange, LLC at 1500 Main Street
• Zone change for 797 Berkshire Avenue from Business A to Industrial A for 1626 Bay Street, LLC
• Preliminary subdivision plan for Elaine Circle Extension by Graham Construction, Inc.

The Springfield Planning Board approved a zoning change for properties on Boston Road, Wollaston Street, and Shumway Street from Residence A and Business A to Business B, with a 6-0 vote. The board also approved a preliminary subdivision plan for Elaine Circle Extension, subject to conditions from the Conservation Commission, DPW, and Water & Sewer Commission. A new beer and wine liquor license for 1500 Main Street was continued to July 14, 2021, and a zoning change for 797 Berkshire Avenue was withdrawn.

• Approved zoning change for 1021 Boston Road, SS Boston Road, ES Wollaston Street, and 20 Shumway Street to Business B (6-0).
• Approved preliminary subdivision plan for Elaine Circle Extension, conditional on approvals from Conservation Commission, DPW, and Water & Sewer Commission (6-0).
• Continued vote on new beer and wine liquor license for 1500 Main Street to July 14, 2021 (6-0).
• Withdrew zoning change for 797 Berkshire Avenue from Business A to Industrial A.

Public Health Council - Regular

The Springfield Public Health Council is holding its regular June 16, 2021 meeting. The agenda includes updates on COVID, the opioid crisis, and asthma/environmental issues, as well as health center business. Two items require a board vote: Outreach & Enrollment and Program Data Report. The meeting will also cover staffing, finance, IT, and HRSA updates.

• COVID Update
• Opioid Crisis
• Asthma/Environmental
• Outreach & Enrollment (REQUIRES BOARD VOTE)
• Program Data Report (REQUIRES BOARD VOTE)

Board of Public Works - Regular

The Board of Public Works is holding a regular meeting that includes a hearing on Eversource's request to install underground gas facilities on Wilmington Avenue to extend service to a customer. The agenda also includes standard items like minutes, communications, old business, and new business.

• Hearing on Eversource/CMA request to install underground gas facilities at 17 Wilmington Avenue
• Meeting held at Richard Neal Municipal Operations Center, 70 Tapley Street

City Council - Regular Meeting

The Springfield City Council will hold public hearings on two special permits: a pet funeral/crematorium at 142 Hancock Street and a medical treatment facility at 281 Cottage Street. The council will also consider several financial items, including transfers of free cash and budget funds, and multiple ordinance and zoning changes. The agenda includes a mix of public hearings, ordinance amendments, and financial transfers.

• Special permit for pet crematorium at 142 Hancock Street
• Special permit for medical treatment facility at 281 Cottage Street
• Transfer $5,500,780.88 from FY20 free cash to stabilization reserve
• Budget transfer of $1,220,543.84 to multi-year capital fund
• Zoning change for 1259 East Columbus Avenue from Bus C to Bus B

The City Council voted 12-0 to accept the American Rescue Plan Act funding of $93,848,687, which can be used for public health, job creation, housing, and economic development. They also approved a $6,066,102 HOME-ARP grant for housing, a $200,000 DPW transportation construction grant for paving on Dwight and Hamden Streets, and a $83,952 Byrne JAG grant for gang and gun violence prevention. Additionally, the council adopted a green infrastructure policy and transferred $5,500,780.88 to the stabilization reserve fund.

• Adopted $93,848,687 in American Rescue Plan Act funding (12-0).
• Adopted $6,066,102 HOME-ARP grant for housing (12-0).
• Adopted $200,000 DPW transportation construction grant for paving (12-0).
• Adopted $83,952 Byrne JAG grant for gang and gun violence prevention (12-0).
• Adopted Green Infrastructure/Low Impact Development Policy (12-0).
• Transferred $5,500,780.88 to Stabilization Reserve Fund (unanimous).
• Approved Crown Castle conduit installation petitions on Memorial Drive and Cottage Street (12-0 each).
• Referred speed hump ordinance to Maintenance Sub Committee.

City Council - Finance Sub-Committee

The Springfield City Council Finance Sub-Committee will consider two special permits: one for a pet funeral operation (crematorium) at 142 Hancock Street and another for a medical treatment facility at 281 Cottage Street. The agenda also includes multiple grant acceptances, including $93,848,687 in American Rescue Plan Act funding, budget transfers, and zoning changes. The meeting is a regular session with public participation via Zoom.

• Special permit for pet crematorium at 142 Hancock Street
• Special permit for medical treatment facility at 281 Cottage Street
• Acceptance of $93,848,687 in American Rescue Plan Act funding
• Transfer of $5,500,780.88 from FY20 free cash to stabilization reserve
• Zoning change for 1259 East Columbus Avenue from Bus C to Bus B

The Springfield City Council approved the acceptance of $93,848,687 in American Rescue Plan Act funding, along with several other grants and orders, including a $6,066,102 HOME-ARP grant, a $200,000 DPW transportation construction grant, and an $83,952 Byrne JAG grant for gang and gun violence prevention. The Council also adopted orders to transfer $5,500,780.88 to the Stabilization Reserve Fund and $1,220,543.84 to the Multi-Year Capital Fund, and approved a Green Infrastructure/Low Impact Development Policy. Two special permits for a pet funeral operation and a medical treatment facility were continued to a later date, and a zoning change for 1259 East Columbus Avenue was received as a first step.

• Approved $93,848,687 in American Rescue Plan Act funding (Order #6266).
• Approved $6,066,102 HOME-ARP grant (Order #6247).
• Approved $200,000 DPW Transportation Construction grant (Order #6276).
• Approved $83,952 Byrne JAG grant for gang and gun violence (Order #6269).
• Adopted order to transfer $5,500,780.88 to Stabilization Reserve Fund (Order #6275).
• Adopted order to transfer $1,220,543.84 to Multi-Year Capital Fund (Order #6274).
• Adopted Green Infrastructure/Low Impact Development Policy (Order #6277).
• Continued special permit for pet funeral operation (ID #6177) and medical treatment facility (ID #6110) to 6/28/2021.

Board of Public Works - Regular

The Board of Public Works is holding a hearing on Comcast's request to install 335 feet of 4-inch PVC conduit with fiber optic and coax cable to provide service to 262 Liberty Street. The meeting includes standard procedural items like call to order, minutes, and old/new business.

• Public hearing on Comcast conduit installation at 262 Liberty St.
• 335 ft of 4-inch PVC conduit with fiber optic and coax cable

Traffic Commission - Regular

The Springfield Traffic Commission is holding a special meeting to discuss and potentially approve a horse riding permit application (item 21-13). The agenda contains only this one new item, along with standard procedural matters.

• Horse Riding Permit Application 21-13: update and approval

Board of Public Works - Regular

This is the regular meeting of the Springfield Board of Public Works. The agenda contains only the call to order and location details, with no listed discussion items, votes, or public hearings, so it is procedural in nature.

• Meeting held at Richard Neal Municipal Operations Center, 70 Tapley Street

Board of Assessor - Regular Meeting

The Springfield Board of Assessors will hold a telephonic regular meeting to approve minutes, review monthly abatement totals, and vote to enter executive session to discuss litigation strategy and abatement applications. The public portion includes abatement totals for real estate, personal property, and motor vehicle excise.

• Real estate abatements May total = $72,697.56
• Personal property abatements May total = $6,626.27
• Motor vehicle excise abatements February total = $47,006.17
• Executive session for ATB docket review and overvalue applications

Community Police Hearing Board - Case Review

The Community Police Hearing Board is meeting to review two cases, SO#21-071 and PIE#21-004, both concerning rules and regulations. The board will discuss these matters in executive session, which is closed to the public, under a state exemption allowing discussion of an individual's reputation, character, or complaints against a public officer or employee. The public portion of the agenda contains no listed items.

• Executive session to discuss SO#21-071 (Rules and Regulations, dated 8/17/2021)
• Executive session to discuss PIE#21-004 (Rules and Regulations, dated 7/5/2021)

School Committee - Special Meeting

The Springfield School Committee is holding a special meeting to vote on entering executive session to discuss strategy for collective bargaining negotiations with the Springfield Education Association (SEA). The committee will not return to open session, so no public discussion or votes on other matters are scheduled.

• Vote to enter executive session for SEA collective bargaining strategy
• Meeting will not return to open session

City Council - Special Meeting

The Springfield City Council is holding a special meeting to interview three nominees for City Clerk—Rosa Jones, Gladys Oyola-Lopez, and Christopher Lizotte—and then vote to elect the new City Clerk. The meeting is being held virtually via Zoom.

• Interview of Rosa Jones, nominee for City Clerk
• Interview of Gladys Oyola-Lopez, nominee for City Clerk
• Interview of Christopher Lizotte, nominee for City Clerk
• Election of City Clerk

Traffic Commission - Regular

The Springfield Traffic Commission is meeting to approve minutes from May 10, 2021, and to consider two new items: a horse riding permit application (item 21-11) and a request to remove no parking restrictions on Dunmoreland St. from Wilbraham Road to Westford Cir. (item 21-12). The meeting is open to the public.

• Horse Riding Permit Application (item 21-11)
• Remove No Parking 8:00am to 6:00pm on Dunmoreland St. from Wilbraham Road to Westford Cir. (item 21-12)

Board of Public Works - Regular

The Springfield Board of Public Works is holding a regular meeting on June 7, 2021, at the parking lot of 2145 Roosevelt Ave. The main item is a hearing on Crown Castle's request to install 100 feet of 4-inch underground conduit on that property. The agenda also includes standard items like minutes, communications, old and new business.

• Hearing on Crown Castle proposal to install 100 ft. of 4-inch underground conduit at 2145 Roosevelt Ave.

City Council - Regular Meeting

The Springfield City Council is meeting to decide on several special permits, including a medical treatment facility, a trash hauling service, a pet crematorium, and a site plan amendment. They will also consider accepting multiple state and federal grants, approving a $1 million bond for police vehicles, and voting on zoning changes and ordinance amendments.

• Special permit for medical treatment facility at 281 Cottage Street (continued from prior meetings)
• Special permit for trash hauling service at 4 Birnie Avenue
• Special permit for pet crematorium at 142 Hancock Street
• HOME-ARP grant of $6,066,102
• Bond authorization of $1,000,000 for police department vehicles

The Springfield City Council approved a $1,000,000 bond authorization for 18 new police department vehicles, along with several other orders and grants. The council also approved special permits for a trash hauling facility at 4 Birnie Avenue and a site plan change at 603 East Columbus Avenue, and continued several other items to the next meeting.

• Approved $1,000,000 bond for 18 police vehicles (unanimous)
• Approved special permit for trash hauling facility at 4 Birnie Ave (unanimous)
• Approved special permit amendment for site plan at 603 E Columbus Ave (unanimous)
• Approved HUD Continuum of Care Grant of $4,405,674 (unanimous)
• Approved CDBG Entitlement Grant of $3,954,556 (unanimous)
• Approved HOME Entitlement Grant of $1,673,733 (unanimous)
• Approved amendments to towing agreement with Springfield Parking Authority (unanimous)
• Approved Juneteenth as paid legal holiday (unanimous)