South Hadley public meetings in 2023
359 substantive meetings from 2023, with official agendas or minutes and plain-English summaries.
Electric Light Department
The Board of Commissioners will meet in a special virtual session. The meeting is scheduled to move into executive session to discuss personnel contracts and fiber project information.
- Contract negotiations with the General Manager
- Discussion of proprietary information regarding fiber projects
Public Schools
The School Committee will vote on budget warrants and a proposal for a December 2024 SHHS Band trip to Disney/Universal. The body will also discuss the introduction of a second School Resource Officer and updates on the elementary school building project.
- Vote on December 5, 2023 Warrant #2024-143 for $145,599.42
- Vote on December 21, 2023 Biweekly Payroll for $847,938.57
- Vote on December 2024 SHHS Band Disney/Universal Trip Proposal
- Introduction of second School Resource Officer (SRO)
- Update on Elementary School Building Project and MSBA response
Fire District 2
The Water Commissioners of Fire District No. 2 will meet to review financial warrants and the D2 Master Plan. The body will discuss the Elmer Brook Parking Area and a SCADA upgrade for Dry Brook.
- D2 Master Plan
- Elmer Brook Parking Area
- Dry Brook SCADA upgrade
- Test well decommission
- DEP lawsuit
Planning and Conservation Department
The Planning and Conservation Department is conducting a virtual kickoff meeting for the Municipal Vulnerability Preparedness (MVP) 2.0 process. The body aims to establish a meeting schedule, ground rules, and a shared understanding of previous climate work.
- Review of South Hadley's previous climate work
- Discussion of climate resilience video
- Establishment of MVP 2.0 project schedule
Selectboard
The Selectboard will conduct public hearings regarding the Housing Production Plan and the potential suspension or revocation of the 3 Corners Package Store liquor license. The board will also discuss budget items for the Police, DPW, and Landfill.
- Public hearing on Housing Production Plan
- Public hearing on 3 Corners Package Store liquor license suspension or revocation
- One-day beer and wine license request for Kathleen Van Winkle (Jan. 12, 2024)
- Budget discussions for Police, DPW, and Landfill
- CDBG Contract Extension
Board of Assessors
The Board of Assessors is meeting to discuss the Fiscal 2025 budget and narrative. The board will also consider the approval of Fiscal 2024 Personal Exemptions.
- Fiscal 2025 Budget and narrative
- Fiscal 2024 Personal Exemptions
Planning Board
The Planning Board will meet to discuss updates to the town's subdivision regulations and the Flexible Development Bylaw. The board will also receive a report on planning projects and development updates from the Planning & Conservation Department.
- Discussion of updates to Subdivision Regulations
- Discussion of Flexible Development Bylaw
- Planning & Conservation Department report on planning projects and development updates
Sustainability & Energy Commission
The commission will discuss updates regarding Green Communities audit results and MEI data assistance. The agenda also includes planning for a heat pump session in February.
- Green Communities audit results update
- MEI data assistance discussion
- Planning for February heat pump session
Capital Planning Committee
The Capital Planning Committee is meeting to discuss the 5-year Capital Plan and potential amendments to committee bylaws. The body will also address the replacement of a resigned member and the clerk position.
- Discussion of 5 Year Capital Plan
- Discussion of CPC Bylaws and possible amendments
- Replacement of resigned member John Camp
- Discussion regarding clerk position
Fire District 2
The Prudential Committee will meet to review warrants and reports. The body will discuss the upcoming District 2 election and various personnel and administrative matters.
- District 2 election scheduled for March 5, 2024, at South Hadley High School
- Memorandum of Agreement approvals for Fire Chief and Clerk/Treasurer
- Review of OPEB Report from Odyssey Advisors
- Discussion of DLTA Grant
- Personnel Policy Review
Cultural Council
The South Hadley Cultural Council is meeting to finalize the process for FY 2024 grant allocations. Members will be assigned specific grantees to assist with paperwork and scheduling. Town Administrator Lisa Wong will also discuss a vision for the South Hadley Cultural Alliance.
- Finalization of FY 2024 Grant Allocations process
- Assignment of members to grantees for paperwork and support
- Discussion on the South Hadley Cultural Alliance with Lisa Wong
Housing Authority
The Board of Commissioners will hold a special meeting to review the budget with CPA Gary DePace. The board will also review the December Executive Director report and approve bills.
- Budget discussion with CPA Gary DePace
- Approval of bills for the period 11/17/2023-12/12/2023
- LHA Mandatory Board Member Training Launch
- Acceptance of November 16, 2023 meeting minutes
Board of Health
The Board of Health will review Master Plan goals with the Master Plan Implementation Committee and discuss firearm injury prevention. The meeting includes an executive session to discuss litigation strategy regarding Chicopee Concrete Service, Inc. v. Hutchinson et al.
- Review of Master Plan Goals with Nate Therien and Michelle Theroux
- Discussion on Firearm Injury Prevention
- Update on Pollinator Resolution from Conservation Commission
- Update from South Hadley Drug & Alcohol Prevention Coalition
- Executive session regarding Chicopee Concrete Service, Inc. v. Hutchinson et al. (C.A. No. 2180CV00038)
Town Meeting Review Committee
The Town Meeting Review Committee will review survey responses from town meeting members. The body will also discuss a non-binding referendum question for the March town election ballot.
- Review of town meeting member survey responses for questions 5-8
- Discussion on non-binding referendum question for March town election ballot
Capital Planning Committee
The Capital Planning Committee is meeting to discuss the 5-year capital plan and potential amendments to committee bylaws. The body will also address the replacement of a resigned member and the clerk position.
- Discussion of 5 Year Capital Plan
- Discussion of CPC Bylaws and possible amendments
- Replacement of resigned member John Camp
- Discussion regarding clerk position
Fire District 2
The South Hadley Fire District No. 2 Prudential Committee will meet to discuss future collaboration between the two districts. Members may vote to attend the District 1 Prudential Committee meeting for this purpose.
- Discussion and potential vote regarding collaboration with Fire District 1
Public Schools
The South Hadley School Committee will discuss the addition of a second School Resource Officer through a police partnership. The body will also review an updated Memorandum of Agreement for elementary coaching positions and approve several payment warrants.
- Vote on school district and police partnership for a second School Resource Officer
- Vote on updated Memorandum of Agreement for elementary coaching positions
- Approval of warrants including Biweekly Payroll of $881,834.83
- Approval of Warrant #2024-130 for $287,510.01
- Approval of Warrant #2024-123 for $235,040.56
Fire District 1
The Prudential Board will discuss the appointment of an interim chief and a proposal for an assessment center. The meeting includes reports from the Chief and Clerk/Treasurer. The session will conclude with an executive session regarding a firefighter employee suspension grievance.
- Discussion and appointment of Interim Chief
- Assessment center proposal discussion regarding chief's position
- Ambulance adjustment
- Presentation by Ken Lablanc from FD#2
- Collective Bargaining Agreement Step 3 Grievance Hearing regarding firefighter suspension
Conservation Commission
The Conservation Commission will hold a public meeting to review a request for determination regarding a structure at 18 Garden St. The body will also consider ratifying emergency certifications for MassDOT and the South Hadley DPW.
- Request for Determination for Aaron Stewart to demo a garage and build a prefab metal structure at 18 Garden St
- Ratification of MassDOT Emergency Certification for Amherst Rd
- Ratification of South Hadley DPW Emergency Certification for Viviani St
Human Rights Commission
The Human Rights Commission will meet to review draft minutes from November 1, 2023. The body will discuss communication and reporting mechanisms and provide an update on the State Community Compact Grant.
- Approval of Nov 1, 2023 draft minutes
- Discussion of communication/reporting mechanism options
- State Community Compact Grant update
Planning Board
The Planning Board and Select Board are holding a joint meeting to conduct a public hearing. The board will consider the endorsement of the Housing Production Plan (HPP) Update.
- Public hearing for endorsement of the Housing Production Plan (HPP) Update
Planning Board
The South Hadley Planning Board and Select Board are holding a joint public hearing. The boards will consider the adoption of an update to the Housing Production Plan.
- Public hearing to consider adoption of the Housing Production Plan update
Fire District 1
The Prudential Committee is convening for a Tax Classification Hearing. Votes may be taken on the tax classification.
- Tax Classification Hearing
Fire District 2
The Prudential Committee is meeting to conduct a Tax Classification Hearing. Votes may be taken regarding the tax classification.
- Tax Classification Hearing
Selectboard
The Selectboard will conduct public hearings regarding the FY24 tax rate and a change of manager for Willits Hallowell & Kendade Atrium. The board will also meet jointly with the Planning Board to adopt the Housing Production Plan.
- FY24 Tax Rate public hearing
- Willits Hallowell & Kendade Atrium Change of Manager public hearing
- Adoption of the Housing Production Plan
- 7-11 Common Victualler license
- One-Day Beer & Wine License request for Elizabeth Sawyer (Dec. 12, 2023)
Planning Board
The Planning Board will meet to discuss updates to Subdivision Regulations and the Flexible Development Bylaw. The meeting also includes a department report on planning projects and development updates.
- Discussion of updates to Subdivision Regulations
- Discussion of Flexible Development Bylaw
- Planning & Conservation Department report on projects and development updates
Board of Assessors
The Board of Assessors is meeting to review monthly reports and the Fiscal 2025 budget request. The board will also address tax rate recapitulation and a request to abate uncollectable excise from 2018.
- Fiscal 2025 budget request
- 2018 uncollectable excise Request to abate – M.G.L. Ch. 60A Sec. 7
- Fiscal 2024 Tax Rate Recapitulation for Town, FD1, and FD2
- Fiscal 2024 Classification Hearing
- Approval of October and November monthly reports
Electric Light Department
The Board of Commissioners will review September 2023 financials and the 2024 budget. The meeting includes a forum regarding a new building and a review of the General Manager's contract.
- Review of September 2023 Financials
- Discussion of 2024 Budget
- New Building Forum
- General Manager’s Review and Contract
- Executive Session for contract negotiations with the General Manager
Commission on Disabilities
The Commission on Disabilities is meeting to review updates to the Master Plan and prepare for an annual forum on January 12, 2024. The body will also discuss sidewalk progress and a Human Rights Commission vacancy.
- Master Plan report update edits and acceptance
- Master Plan Annual Forum scheduled for January 12, 2024
- Human Rights Commission vacancy
- District 1 and sidewalk progress updates
- Winter preparedness Fair announcements
Planning Board
The Planning Board will discuss updates to Subdivision Regulations and the Flexible Development Bylaw. The agenda also includes an Approval Not Required (ANR) plan for 34 Upper River Road.
- ANR Plan by Dean Sourdiffet to consolidate parcels 14 and 15 at 34 Upper River Road
- Discussion of updates to Subdivision Regulations
- Discussion of Flexible Development Bylaw
- Planning & Conservation Department report on projects and development updates
Cultural Council
The South Hadley Cultural Council is meeting to determine the final allocation of funds for FY 2024 grant applicants.
- Finalization of MCC allocation to FY 2024 grant applicants
Sustainability & Energy Commission
The commission will discuss several items regarding community sustainability initiatives. Topics include green communities, flyer distribution, and incentive support workshop planning.
- Green communities discussion
- Remaining flyers
- Endorse EPR
- Incentive support workshop planning
- SEC advice to other groups
Fire District 2
The Water Commissioners of Fire District No. 2 will meet to review financial warrants and the D2 Master Plan. The body will consider authorizing the Water Superintendent to sign an easement document.
- Authorization for Water Superintendent to sign Easement Document
- D2 Master Plan
- Discussion on Wright Place and Burnett Ave
- Capones meter
- Other business: Elmer Brook, test well decommission, DEP law suit, skid steer pricing, and SCADA upgrade
Selectboard
The South Hadley Selectboard will meet to discuss the town budget and a Sunday entertainment license for McCray’s Farm. The board will also review the Town Administrator's performance evaluation and the Judd Brook contract.
- Sunday Entertainment License for McCray’s Farm
- Town Administrator Performance Based Evaluation
- Budget discussion
- Judd Brook Contract
- July 3, 2024 fireworks
Fire District 1
The Board of Water Commissioners will meet to review a presentation from Bartholomew representatives and award a bid for the office roof. The board will also approve warrants and minutes from the October 26, 2023 meeting.
- Office Roof Bid Award
- Bartholomew representatives presentation
Board of Assessors
The Board of Assessors will meet to review Fiscal 2024 property valuation adjustments, new growth, and tax rate recapitulations for the Town and Fire Districts 1 and 2. The board will also consider requests to abate uncollectable excises from 2016 and 2017.
- Fiscal 2024 Interim Property Valuation Adjustments
- Fiscal 2024 Tax Rate Recapitulation for Town, FD1, and FD2
- Fiscal 2024 Classification Hearing
- 2016 uncollectable excise Request to abate
- 2017 uncollectable excise Request to abate
Town Meeting Review Committee
The committee is meeting to review responses from a Town Meeting member survey. Members will also discuss methods for soliciting public input.
- Review of Town Meeting member survey responses
- Discussion on soliciting public input
Public Schools
The School Committee will vote on several warrants and discuss upcoming student field trips. The meeting includes a presentation of the 2024-2025 High School Program of Studies and a discussion on the Town Human Rights Commission.
- Vote on warrants totaling $1,780,000.78, including Biweekly Payroll of $834,290.98
- Review of 2024 and 2025 8th Grade Washington DC Field Trip
- Discussion of South Hadley High School Spring 2025 Disney and Universal Performance Field Trip
- Presentation of 2024-2025 SHHS Program of Studies
- Discussion on the development of the Town Human Rights Commission
Housing Authority
The Board of Commissioners will meet to review the budget and the Executive Director's November report. The board will also discuss vacated tenant write-offs and Project 275075.
- Approval of bills for the period 10/12/2023 to 11/16/2023
- Vacated tenant write-offs
- Budget review
- Project 275075
- Treasurer's report
Fire District 2
The South Hadley Fire District No. 2 Prudential Committee will meet to review warrants and minutes. The committee will discuss performance reviews and Memorandums of Agreement for the Fire Chief and Clerk/Treasurer, as well as the Fire Chief transition.
- Performance reviews for Chief Calkins and Clerk/Treasurer
- Memorandum of Agreement for Fire Chief and Clerk/Treasurer
- Fire Chief transition discussion
- Review of warrants
Recreation Commission
The South Hadley Recreation Commission is meeting to review bills and event schedules. The body will discuss the PARC Grant, a scoreboard for SHHS, and date options for 2023 fireworks.
- PARC Grant
- SHHS Scoreboard
- 2023 Fireworks date and options
- Beachgrounds Netting
- 413 ELITE Game
Board of Health
The Board of Health will meet to ratify emergency orders to vacate several local addresses. The board will also review Master Plan goals and receive reports on firearm injury prevention and COVID-19 preparedness.
- Ratification of emergency orders to vacate: 28 Camden Street (2nd Floor), 170 Riverboat Village Road, 12 Sycamore Parc, 12 Lawn Street, 51 Prospect Street, and 36 South Street
- Review of Master Plan goals with the Master Plan Implementation Committee
- Discussion on firearm injury prevention
- Updates on the Syringe Services Program
- Update on the South Hadley Drug & Alcohol Prevention Coalition
Planning Board
The Planning Board will hold information sessions on infrastructure improvements and zoning for a specific development. The body will also discuss the adoption of a Final Housing Production Plan and updates to subdivision regulations.
- Infrastructure Improvement Project for Center, Warner, and Graves Streets
- Zoning considerations for multifamily and mixed-use development at 506 Granby Road
- Final Housing Production Plan adoption steps
- Updates to Subdivision Regulations and Flexible Development Bylaw
Council on Aging
The Council on Aging Board of Directors will meet to introduce new board members and receive updates on the search for an Executive Director. The board will also review October 2023 statistics for the senior center.
- Introduction of new board members Lara Asarese and McKinzie Kandel
- Update on the Executive Director search
- Update on Friends of the South Hadley Seniors
- Review of FY 2024 statistics for October 2023
Planning and Conservation Department
The Housing Production Plan Advisory Committee will review public comments and final edits to the draft Housing Production Plan. The committee intends to vote on recommending the final plan to the Planning Board and Selectboard for adoption.
- Review of public comments on Draft Housing Production Plan
- Vote to recommend final plan to Planning Board and Selectboard
Capital Planning Committee
The Capital Planning Committee will hold a final discussion and vote on recommendations to the Select Board and Town Meeting warrant. The primary item for approval is the channel grinder.
- Approval of CPC recommendations for a channel grinder
Appropriations Committee
The committee will discuss and review financial warrant articles for the November 15, 2023, Special Town Meeting. The Town Administrator will present these articles before the committee votes and issues a report to the Town Meeting.
- Discussion of Nov. 15, 2023 STM Financial Warrant Articles
- Town Administrator presentation of Nov. 15, 2023 STM Warrant Articles
- Vote and report to Town Meeting regarding Nov. 15, 2023 STM Financial Warrant Articles
Cultural Council
The South Hadley Cultural Council is meeting to review grant applications for fiscal year 2024. The body will also address outstanding issues from the 2023 grant cycle.
- Review of FY 2024 Grant applications
- Follow-up on 2023 grant cycle outstanding issues
Master Plan Implementation Committee
The committee will review minutes from the October 3, 2023, meeting and welcome new member John Parenteau. The agenda includes a discussion regarding the Annual Forum on Master Plan and an update on bylaw reviews.
- Approval of October 3, 2023, meeting minutes
- Introduction of new member John Parenteau
- Discussion with Anne Capra, Director for Planning and Conservation
- Report from the Human Rights Commission
- Bylaw review update
Selectboard
The Selectboard will continue a public hearing regarding the potential suspension or revocation of the 3 Corners Package Store liquor license. The board will also review the wastewater budget, a quarterly financial report, and the Special Municipal Employee Policy.
- Public hearing on potential suspension or revocation of 3 Corners Package Store liquor license
- One-day beer and wine license requests from Kathleen Van Winkle for Nov. 10 and Dec. 8
- One-day all alcohol license requests from Trysten McCray for multiple dates in Nov. and Dec.
- Wastewater budget update
- Quarterly financial report
Fire District 1
The Prudential Board will review reports from the Chief and Clerk/Treasurer. The body is scheduled to discuss an assessment center proposal, legal fees, and job requirements for the Assistant Clerk/Treasurer.
- Assessment center proposal discussion
- Ambulance adjustment
- Adjustment of clerk stipend
- Assistant Clerk/treasurer job requirements (Chap 41 sec 123A)
- Legal fees discussion
Town Meeting Review Committee
The committee will meet to discuss the Town Meeting presentation and review feedback from member and general public surveys. The session also includes the approval of previous meeting minutes.
- Review of Town Meeting member survey responses
- Review of general public survey
- Town Meeting presentation
Capital Planning Committee
The committee will hold final discussions and vote on funding recommendations for several town projects. Members will also discuss potential amendments to the committee's bylaws and the 5-year capital plan.
- Recommendation for DPW street sweeper
- Mandatory elevator repairs at Middle School and Town Hall
- Judd Brook project
- Funding for Mosier SOI/Feasibility
- Discussion of CPC Bylaws amendments
Public Schools
The School Committee will vote on payroll warrants and discuss a Memorandum of Agreement regarding teacher evaluations. The body will also review the visitor policy and discuss bullying within the schools. Additionally, the committee will review proposed capital projects for FY25.
- Vote on October 26, 2023 Biweekly Payroll for $828,451.95
- Memorandum of Agreement: Teacher Evaluation
- Review of Policy: Visitors to the School (KI)
- Discussion on future participation in NEASC Accreditation Process
- Review of current and proposed capital projects for FY25
Conservation Commission
The Conservation Commission will meet virtually to consider a survey for a land donation and discuss updates to Master Plan goals. The body will also review meeting minutes from October 5 and October 18.
- Survey for land donation at 654 New Ludlow Road
- Master Plan Goals Update
Human Rights Commission
The Human Rights Commission will meet to review communications and receive updates from appointing bodies. The commission is also scheduled to discuss tasks related to the Master Plan.
- Approval of Oct. 4, 2023 draft minutes
- Feedback on flyers and press releases
- Master Plan tasks discussion
Public Schools
The South Hadley Selectboard and School Committee are holding a joint meeting. The body will discuss the FY2024 operating budgets for both the school and the town, as well as the 2023 Special Town Meeting Warrant.
- FY2024 Operating Budget-School
- FY2024 Operating Budget-Town
- 2023 Special Town Meeting Warrant
Selectboard
The Selectboard and School Committee are holding a joint meeting to discuss the FY24 operating budgets for the town and the school. The body will also address the 2023 Special Town Meeting Warrant.
- FY24 Town Operating Budget
- FY24 School Operating Budget
- 2023 Special Town Meeting Warrant
Electric Light Department
The Board of Commissioners will meet to discuss revisions to the December 20, 2022, executive session minutes following an order from the Attorney General’s Office. The meeting includes a review of August 2023 financials and a forum regarding a new building.
- Executive session to discuss revisions to 12/20/22 minutes regarding a Walter Hamilton open meeting law complaint
- Review of August 2023 Financials
- New Building Forum
Fire District 1
The Board of Water Commissioners will meet to discuss a PFAS settlement and water rates and revenue. The board will also review an update on the office roof and meeting accessibility.
- PFAS Settlement Discussion
- Rates/Revenue Discussion
- Office Roof Update
- Meeting Accessibility Concern update
Commission on Disabilities
The Commission on Disabilities will meet to review progress on goals and priorities. The body will discuss a winter preparedness mini fair and the closing of public comments for the Housing Plan.
- Housing Plan public comment period closing 10/28
- Winter Preparedness mini fair scheduled for November 3
- Human Rights Commission vacancy and goals
- Master Plan Implementation Committee report status
Conservation Commission
The Growing Wild Subcommittee of the Conservation Commission is meeting to coordinate outreach and assign tasks. The group will also discuss collaboration with the Board of Health regarding a property management bylaw.
- Discussion of upcoming outreach
- Collaboration with Board of Health on Property Management Bylaw
- Approval of minutes
Historical Commission
The South Hadley Historical Commission will meet to discuss a Fiscal Year 2024 Survey and Planning Grant from the MA Historical Commission. The meeting includes a period for public comment.
- MA Historical Commission Fiscal Year 2024 Survey and Planning Grant
Appropriations Committee
The Appropriations Committee is meeting to discuss the warrant for the November 15 Special Town Meeting. The session includes updates from the Town Meeting Review Committee and the Capital Planning Committee.
- Nov. 15 STM warrant
- Town Meeting Review Committee update
- Capital Planning Committee update
Town Meeting Review Committee
The Town Meeting Review Committee will meet to review responses from the Town Meeting member survey and a general public survey. The meeting also includes the approval of previous meeting minutes.
- Review of Town Meeting member survey responses
- Review of general public survey
Selectboard
The Selectboard will review the Town Meeting Warrant and property tax exemptions. The meeting includes appointments for several town commissions and requests for one-day beer and wine licenses.
- Property Tax Exemptions
- Town Meeting Warrant
- One-day beer & wine license requests for Elizabeth Sawyer and Larry Dubois
- ARPA - Judd Brook
- Town Administrator Contract
Planning Board
The Planning Board will hold a public hearing regarding a special permit for signage at 17 Bridge Street. The board will also continue a public hearing on the Housing Production Plan Update and discuss updates to subdivision regulations and the Master Plan Implementation Committee Bylaw.
- Special Permit and Illuminated Sign Request for Sunoco gas station at 17 Bridge Street
- Public hearing continuance for Housing Production Plan Update
- Discussion of updates to Master Plan Implementation Committee (MPIC) Bylaw
- Discussion of updates to Subdivision Regulations and Flexible Development Bylaw
Planning Board
The Planning Board will hold a virtual public hearing to review a Special Permit application. The request involves altering a non-conforming illuminated sign at a gas station.
- Special Permit and Illuminated Sign Request for Laxmi Petro Inc. at 17 Bridge Street
Public Schools
The South Hadley School Committee will discuss and vote on an MSBA letter regarding the South Hadley Elementary Building Project and Grade Reconfiguration Plan. The meeting includes a public safety initiative presentation from the Police Department and votes on school visitor and background check policies.
- Vote on MSBA letter for South Hadley Elementary Building Project and Grade Reconfiguration Plan
- Approval of October 12, 2023 biweekly payroll warrant for $824,662.10
- Review and vote on policies for Visitors to the School (KI) and Background Checks (ADDA)
- Vote on proposed public comment protocols for School Committee meetings
- Public safety initiative presentation by Police Chief Jennifer Gundersen
Fire District 2
The South Hadley Fire District No. 2 Prudential Committee will meet to review warrants and approve minutes. The committee will discuss performance reviews, personnel policy, and Memorandums of Agreement for the Fire Chief and Clerk/Treasurer.
- Review of performance reviews
- Personnel policy review
- Memorandum of Agreement for Fire Chief
- Memorandum of Agreement for Clerk/Treasurer
- Approval of September 20, 2023 minutes
Fire District 2
The Water Commissioners of Fire District No. 2 will meet to review warrants, balances, and overdue bills. The body will discuss the status of summer projects and the Elmer Brook survey.
- Summer projects including dig jobs and SCADA upgrade
- Elmer Brook Survey
- Capones meter
- Test well decommission
- DEP law suit
Historical Commission
The South Hadley Historical Commission is meeting to discuss a Fiscal Year 2024 Survey and Planning Grant from the MA Historical Commission.
- MA Historical Commission Fiscal Year 2024 Survey and Planning Grant
Conservation Commission
The Conservation Commission will meet virtually to discuss an Order of Conditions extension for Mount Holyoke College. The body will also review meeting minutes from October 5 and receive an administrator's report on projects and violations.
- Order of Conditions Extension - Mount Holyoke College (288-396)
Conservation Commission
The Conservation Commission's Diversity, Equity, Inclusion subcommittee is meeting to review a birding event and plan future work. The body will assign new tasks and determine the date for the next meeting.
- Recap of Collaborative Birding Event with Hampshire Bird Club
- Discussion of next project
- Assignment of new tasks
Commission on Disabilities
The Commission on Disabilities will meet to review progress on goals and priorities. The body will discuss a winter preparedness mini fair and the status of the Human Rights Commission.
- Winter Preparedness mini fair scheduled for November 3
- Human Rights Commission vacancy and goal setting
- Master Plan Implementation Committee report
- Statewide Commission on Disabilities networking
Sustainability & Energy Commission
The commission will discuss ongoing Green Communities applications and flyer distribution. Members also plan to discuss inter-committee communication, collaboration, and workshop planning for incentive support.
- Green Communities total application status
- Inter-committee sustainability communication
- MVP 2.0 Community Liaisons
- PVPC support with Green Communities
- Incentive support workshop planning
Bylaw Review Committee
The Bylaw Review Committee will meet to discuss several new business items. The agenda includes reviews of committee procedures and specific town programs and taxes.
- Town Meeting warrant articles
- Hotel tax
- Senior Work-Off Program
- Committee review procedures
Council on Aging
The South Hadley Council on Aging Board of Directors will meet to discuss the Senior Center Stabilization Fund with Town Administrator Lisa Wong. The board will also receive an update on the search for a new Executive Director.
- Senior Center Stabilization Fund discussion
- Executive Director search update
- Policy Handbook update
- Friends of the South Hadley Seniors update
- Review of FY 2023 statistics as of September 2023
Board of Assessors
The Board of Assessors will meet to discuss fiscal reports and tax-related administrative items. The agenda includes reviews of motor vehicle excise reimbursements and a request to abate uncollectable excise from 2016.
- Fiscal 2023 Motor Vehicle Excise reimbursements
- 2016 uncollectable excise Request to abate per M.G.L. Ch. 60A Sec. 7
- Fiscal 2024 Performance Based Evaluation
- Personal Exemption Analysis update
- Approval of September monthly reports
Council on Aging
The South Hadley Council on Aging Policy Committee is meeting to review the organization's Policy Handbook and Rules & Regulations. The Executive Director position is currently vacant.
- Review of Council on Aging Policy Handbook and Rules & Regulations
Hampshire County Retirement Board
The Board will review applications for retirement benefits, disability applications, and the acceptance of new members. The meeting includes scheduled discussions with Lexington Partners and Ascent Venture Partners.
- Discussion with Lexington Partners at 9:30 a.m.
- Discussion with Ascent Venture Partners at 10:00 a.m.
- Review and approval of applications for retirement benefits
- Review of disability applications
- Approval of purchases of prior service
Housing Authority
The Board of Commissioners will meet to review the Executive Director and Maintenance reports for October. The board is scheduled to approve bills from September 6, 2023, to October 11, 2023. Discussion items include trauma services and Project 275070.
- Approval of bills from 9/6/2023-10/11/2023
- Discussion of trauma services
- Review of Project 275070
- Treasurer's Report
Cultural Council
The South Hadley Cultural Council is meeting to manage the transition between grant cycles. The body will discuss promoting FY2024 applications and establishing a rubric for evaluating them.
- Deadline for 2023 grant cycle paperwork
- FY2024 grant application promotion and evaluation rubric
- Use of SHCC local/reserve fund for 2024
- Update on Showcase South Hadley
- Recruitment of new members
Public Schools
The School Committee will conduct a public forum regarding the South Hadley Elementary Building Project. Members will also vote on a Memorandum of Agreement for revised job descriptions and proposed public comment protocols.
- Public forum on South Hadley Elementary Building Project
- Vote on Memorandum of Agreement concerning revised job descriptions
- Vote on proposed public comment protocols for meetings
- Approval of warrants totaling $1,131,967.60
- SHEA update from President Amy Foley
Board of Health
The Board of Health meeting scheduled for October 10, 2023, was cancelled. The original agenda included the ratification of emergency orders to vacate properties and updates on public health initiatives.
- Ratification of Emergency Orders to Vacate: 28 Camden Street
- Ratification of Emergency Orders to Vacate: 12 Lawn Street
- Update on RSV Vaccine
- Update on South Hadley Drug & Alcohol Prevention Coalition
- COVID-19 preparedness discussion
Town Meeting Review Committee
The committee is meeting to provide an update on a survey of Town Meeting members and determine next steps. The agenda consists primarily of procedural items and general business.
- Update on survey of Town Meeting members
- Approval of September 12 and September 26 meeting minutes
Capital Planning Committee
The Capital Planning Committee is meeting to review project updates and discuss potential capital requests. These requests may be presented at a special Town Meeting in November.
- DPW street sweeper request
- Mandatory elevator repairs at Middle School and Town Hall
- Judd Brook project
- Mosier School updates
- Vacant Capital Planning Committee position
Conservation Commission
The Conservation Commission will hold public hearings regarding a town culvert replacement and a private home addition. The body will also discuss the Housing Production Plan with Director Anne Capra.
- Public hearing for Town of South Hadley culvert replacement and Elmer Brook improvements at Pearl Street
- Public meeting for septic system modification and home addition at 125 Amherst St
- Request for Certificate of Compliance for 46 E. Carew St
- Discussion of Housing Production Plan with Planning & Conservation Director Anne Capra
Human Rights Commission
The Human Rights Commission will meet to approve the September 6, 2023 minutes. The body will discuss new business regarding finance, events, and goals such as communication and surveys.
- Approval of Sept. 6, 2023 draft minutes
- Discussion of goals including communication and surveys
- Discussion of events
- Discussion of finance
Master Plan Implementation Committee
The committee will meet virtually to approve minutes from the September 5, 2003 meeting. The agenda includes a planning discussion with Anne Capra, Director for Planning and Conservation.
- Approval of September 5, 2003 meeting minutes
- Annual Forum on Master Plan discussion with Anne Capra
- Bylaw review update
Fire District 1
The Prudential Board will meet to review reports from the Chief and Clerk/Treasurer. The body will discuss job requirements for the Assistant Clerk/Treasurer and an adjustment to the clerk stipend.
- Ambulance adjustment
- Assistant Clerk/treasurer job requirement discussion (Chap 41 sec 123A)
- Adjustment of clerk stipend
- New business 24/48
Selectboard
The Selectboard will continue a public hearing regarding the potential suspension or revocation of the 3 Corners Package Store liquor license. The board will also discuss a Town Administrator contract and a shared services agreement for Public Health Excellence.
- Public hearing on potential suspension or revocation of 3 Corners Package Store liquor license
- Discussion of Town Administrator Contract
- Inter-Municipal Agreement for Public Health Excellence for Shared Services
- Review of Sewer Use Fee Warrant and Short Term Rental Fee
- One-day beer and wine license requests for Larry Dubois and Kim Prough
Planning Board
The Planning Board will meet to discuss amendments to the MPIC bylaws and review proposed updates to the Flexible Development Bylaw and Subdivision Regulations. The meeting also includes a department report on planning projects and development updates.
- Discussion of MPIC Bylaw Amendments
- Review of proposed updates to Subdivision Regulations
- Review of proposed updates to Flexible Development Bylaw
- Planning & Conservation Department Report on planning projects and development updates
Electric Light Department
The Board of Commissioners will review July 2023 financials and system peaks for managing usage. The meeting includes an overview of the SHELD property and building search.
- July 2023 Financials
- System Peaks - Managing Usage
- SHELD Property & Building Search Overview
Town Meeting Review Committee
The Town Meeting Review Committee is meeting to discuss and review survey questions intended for Town Meeting members. The session also includes the approval of previous meeting minutes and a period for public comment.
- Review and discussion of survey questions for Town Meeting members
- Approval of 9/12/23 meeting minutes
Planning Board
The South Hadley Planning Board is holding a virtual public hearing to discuss the draft update of the Housing Production Plan. This plan outlines the town's strategy for housing production.
- Public hearing on the draft Housing Production Plan update
Planning Board
The Planning Board will hold a public hearing to consider a draft update to the Housing Production Plan. The board will also review proposed updates to Subdivision Regulations and the Flexible Development Bylaw.
- Public hearing for draft Housing Production Plan update
- Review of proposed updates to Subdivision Regulations
- Review of proposed updates to Flexible Development Bylaw
Fire District 2
The Water Commissioners of Fire District No. 2 will meet to review financial warrants and a cyber security assessment. The body will also discuss status updates for various water projects and land issues.
- Cyber Security Assessment
- Skinner Lane Tank completion
- Elmer Brook land, parking, and road issues
- Summer projects at Wright Place and Burnett
- Updates on isotope study, SCADA, and test wells
Public Schools
The School Committee will vote on a transportation contract and the close-out of the Class of 2023 account. Members will also discuss the FY25 budget development process and the Mosier School building project.
- Vote on transportation contract
- Vote on Class of 2023 account close-out
- Approval of warrants totaling $1,187,739.14
- Discussion of FY25 budget development process
- Update on Mosier School building project
Fire District 2
The Prudential Committee will meet to review warrants, minutes, and reports from the Fire Chief and Ambulance service. The body will discuss personnel policy, performance reviews, and the March 3rd election. An update regarding Lithia Springs is also on the agenda.
- Review of Fire Chief and Ambulance reports
- Discussion of March 3rd election
- Personnel Policy Review
- Lithia Springs update
- Review of disclosure forms
Fire District 1
The Board of Water Commissioners will meet to discuss a USDA goose management proposal and Verizon Wireless's presence on the Alvord St. Tank. The board will also review the capital plan and debrief on a Special District Meeting.
- USDA Goose management proposal
- Verizon Wireless on Alvord St. Tank
- Capital plan discussion
- Special District Meeting debrief
Sustainability & Energy Commission
The Sustainability & Energy Commission will meet to review old business regarding Green Communities and consider new business items. The agenda includes a vote on a draft vehicle policy and the printing of an incentives flyer.
- Review of Green Communities old business
- Approval of draft vehicle policy
- Approval of Incentives Flier printing
Historical Commission
The South Hadley Historical Commission will discuss plans for a 'Historic Walk' scheduled for October 8. The body will also address the resignation of member Peter Scotto and review goals for the MPIC.
- Planning for September HistComm 'Historic Walk' on October 8
- Resignation of member Peter Scotto
- Discussion of Canal Park
- Tour of Sycamores invitation by Starr Florio
- Assignment of tasks for MPIC goals
Selectboard
The South Hadley Selectboard will discuss streetlights for Baker Street and Shadow Brook Estate and a one-time waiver for Holyoke Gas & Electric. The board will also consider an entertainment license for McCrays Farm and a one-day beer and wine license for Jeff Millard.
- One-Day Beer & Wine License request from Jeff Millard for Oct. 13, 2023
- Baker Street / Shadow Brook Estate Streetlights
- McCrays Farm Entertainment License
- Holyoke Gas & Electric One-Time Waiver
- Town Counsel Appointment
Council on Aging
The South Hadley Council on Aging Board of Directors will meet to handle administrative changes and receive operational updates. The board is scheduled to accept the resignation of the current Secretary and appoint a replacement.
- Resignation and appointment of Board Secretary
- Update on Alzheimer’s Walkathon
- Update on Friends of the South Hadley Seniors
- Review of FY 2023 Senior Center statistics
Board of Assessors
The Board of Assessors will meet to approve August monthly reports and discuss a request to abate a 2015 motor vehicle excise. The board will also review the Associate Assessor's report and discuss the meeting schedule.
- Vote on request to abate 2015 motor vehicle excise
- Approval of August monthly reports
- Approval of August 28, 2023 open session minutes
Hampshire County Retirement Board
The board will meet to approve retirement benefit applications, payments to beneficiaries, and the acceptance of new members. The agenda includes a scheduled appearance by Dahab Associates and a review of investment and financial status reports.
- Scheduled appearance by Dahab Associates
- Review and approval of applications for retirement benefits
- Approval of payments to beneficiaries
- Review of disability applications
- Review of investment and financial status reports
Planning and Conservation Department
The Housing Production Plan Advisory Committee is holding its third community forum. The meeting includes a summary of the Draft Housing Production Plan and two breakout exercises.
- Presentation of the Draft Housing Production Plan Summary by June McCartin of Outwith Studio
Town Meeting Review Committee
The Town Meeting Review Committee is meeting to review its meeting schedule and discuss survey questions intended for Town Meeting members.
- Approval of 8/15/23 meeting minutes
- Review of meeting schedule
- Discussion of survey questions for Town Meeting members
The committee unanimously approved the draft minutes from the August 15, 2023 meeting. It decided to retain the original schedule of meetings on the 2nd and 4th Tuesdays at 6:30 PM. Members agreed that survey questions 1‑14 will be included, revised, and consolidated by a sub‑committee, and that respondents may optionally provide their names so the TMRC can track participation. The group also set guidelines for a concise survey format.
- Approved August 15, 2023 meeting minutes (unanimous)
- Decided to keep meetings on 2nd and 4th Tuesdays at 6:30 PM
- Confirmed the By‑Law Review Committee is currently operating
- Determined survey questions 1‑14 will be included, revised, and consolidated by a sub‑committee
- Allowed optional name disclosure for survey respondents with tracking capability
- Adopted minimal‑discussion format for each survey question (include, exclude, or revise)
- Set survey length target of 15‑20 questions to avoid excess length
- Chose to continue reviewing survey questions rather than move to other topics
Fire District 1
The Prudential Board will review reports from the Chief and Clerk/Treasurer. The body is scheduled to discuss the appointment and requirements for an Assistant Clerk/Treasurer and an adjustment to the clerk stipend.
- Assistant Clerk/treasurer appointment and requirements (Chap 41 sec 123A)
- Adjustment of clerk stipend
- Camera installation inside Clerk/Treasurer's office
- Dental presentation by John Garrish
Recreation Commission
The Recreation Commission will meet to review the schedule of events and previous minutes. The body will discuss the Showcase South Hadley event and new business regarding a pickleball tournament and beachgrounds netting.
- Showcase South Hadley event on Oct 7/8
- Pickleball Tournament proposal by Kim Prough
- Beachgrounds netting
Board of Health
The Board of Health will meet to ratify emergency orders to vacate two specific addresses. The board will also discuss public health updates and a final approval of updated tobacco regulations.
- Ratification of Emergency Orders to Vacate for 20 Spring Street and 28 Camden Street
- Final approval of updated Tobacco Regulation
- Status update on Skinnerwoods Estates Septic System Installation
- Updates on Dry Brook Aquifer Study and Pollinator Resolution Study
- Update on Syringe Services Program
Planning Board
The Planning Board will discuss updates to Subdivision Regulations, the Flexible Development Bylaw, and associated new bylaws. The board is also reviewing an Approval Not Required (ANR) plan for a new parcel near Newton and Lyman Streets.
- ANR Plan by South Hadley Plaza LLC for parcels easterly of Newton Street and northerly of Lyman Street
- Updates to Subdivision Regulations and Flexible Development Bylaw
- Executive session regarding litigation: Chicopee Concrete Service, Inc v. Hutchison, et al.
- Discussion on Open Comment Period policy revisions
The Board endorsed an Approval Not Required (ANR) plan to create a 3-acre parcel for an apartment building development. The Board also adopted revisions to its Open Comment Period policy and approved several sets of previous meeting minutes.
- Endorsed ANR plan to create a new parcel from Assessor Map 28 Parcels 200 and 316 (5-0)
- Adopted revisions to the Open Comment Period policy (5-0)
- Approved minutes for July 10 executive session, July 24 regular meeting, and August 14 executive session (5-0)
- Deferred approval of August 14 regular meeting minutes to a future meeting
- Voted to enter executive session to discuss litigation regarding Chicopee Concrete Service, Inc (5-0)
Public Schools
The School Committee will meet to approve several expenditure warrants and the district handbook. The body will also discuss the future format of committee meetings and the superintendent evaluation.
- Approval of warrants totaling $2,156,440.02
- Vote on District Admin Handbook review
- Vote on donation from the Class of 1973
- Review of Athletic Concussion policies JJIF and JJIF-R
- SHEA update
The School Committee approved handbook updates for four schools and updated the athletic concussion policy. The board also accepted a donation from the Class of 1973 and approved several payment warrants.
- Approved handbook changes for all four schools (5-0)
- Approved athletic concussion policy JJIF & JJIF-R (5-0)
- Accepted donation from Class of 1973 for high school field trips and activities (5-0)
- Approved warrants totaling $2,363,131.45 across three votes
- Approved minutes from 8/3/23 (4-0, 1 abstention)
- Agreed to trial a hybrid meeting model on October 19th
- Decided to move forward with evaluating the Interim Superintendent
Housing Authority
The South Hadley Housing Authority is conducting a public hearing to review its Proposed Annual Plan for Fiscal Year 2024. This plan outlines operations and goals for state-aided public housing.
- Proposed 5-year Capital Improvement Plan
- Proposed Maintenance and Repair Plan
- Current Operating Budget
- Responses to Performance Management Review (PMR) findings
- List of waivers from Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) regulations
Conservation Commission
The Conservation Commission is meeting to consider a Notice of Intent for town infrastructure work and a private home addition. The body will also receive updates from the DEI and Growing Wild subcommittees.
- Public hearing for Town of South Hadley culvert replacement and Elmer Brook improvements at Pearl Street
- Request for Determination for septic modification and home addition at 125 Amherst St
- DEI Subcommittee: Birding for Everyone Walk on September 9
- Growing Wild Subcommittee: Pollinators 3.0 on September 14
The Commission approved meeting minutes from August and continued two public hearings to allow for further agency comment and updated application materials. No final decisions were made on the pending project requests.
- Approved August 2 meeting minutes (5-0, 1 abstention)
- Approved August 16 meeting minutes (4-0, 2 abstentions)
- Continued Pearl Street culvert replacement hearing to October 4 (5-0)
- Continued 125 Amherst St septic and home addition meeting to September 20 (6-0)
Cultural Council
The South Hadley Cultural Council is managing the FY2024 grant cycle and discussing the use of reserve funds for the South by South Hadley/Showcase South Hadley event. The body is also reviewing its meeting schedule and recruiting new members, including youth.
- FY2024 grant cycle allocation of $17,300
- Proposal to commit reserve funds to South by South Hadley/Showcase South Hadley
- Grant application window open from September 1 to October 17, 2023
- Recruitment of new youth members
- Proposed meeting schedule of the first Wednesday of the month at 6:00pm
The Cultural Council approved a $2,000 allocation from its local reserve fund for the Showcase South Hadley event. The council also approved the August meeting minutes and the Treasurer's Report.
- Approved $2,000 from local reserve fund for Showcase South Hadley
- Approved August 2, 2023 meeting minutes with one revision
- Approved Treasurer's Report
- Set regular meeting time for 6:00pm on the first Wednesday of the month
Human Rights Commission
The Human Rights Commission is meeting to nominate its leadership and establish its operational framework. The body will discuss its mission, funding, and meeting schedule.
- Nomination of chair, vice chair, and clerk
- Review of commission mission
- Goal and priority setting
- Event planning
- Discussion of funding
The Commission reorganized its leadership and established priorities for communication, partnership, and data collection. Members discussed developing a communication platform and identifying town issues through surveys.
- Elected Rene Sweeney as Chair (Unanimous)
- Elected Danielle Cooke as Chair (Unanimous)
- Elected Dick Matteson as Clerk (Unanimous)
- Set monthly meeting schedule for the first Wednesday of the month at 5:00 pm at the Library
Master Plan Implementation Committee
The committee will meet virtually to conduct an annual forum on the Master Plan with Planning and Conservation Director Anne Capra. The session includes a bylaw review update and planning for fall visits with entities.
- Annual Forum on Master Plan discussion with Anne Capra
- Bylaw review update
- Planning for fall visits with entities
- Approval of August 1, 2023 minutes
The committee discussed organizing an annual forum and fall check-ins with town boards and committees. Members agreed to dedicate future meeting time to improving town-wide communication. No formal votes were recorded.
- Approved minutes from August 1, 2023
- Agreed to devote future meeting time to improving town communication
Selectboard
The Selectboard will continue a public hearing regarding the potential suspension or revocation of the 3 Corners Package Store liquor license. The board will also discuss the November 15 Special Town Meeting and a proposal to move the annual town election from April to March.
- Public hearing on 3 Corners Package Store liquor license suspension or revocation
- Appointment of Preston Smith as Associate Planning Board member
- Discussion of New Ludlow Road land donation
- Review of trash fee warrant
- Alcohol license requests for Robert Adam, Jeff Millard, Elizabeth Sawyer, Stephen McCray, David Isakson, and Nicholas Yee
The Selectboard approved a trash fee warrant and rescheduled the 2024 annual town election to coincide with the Presidential Primary. The board also appointed an associate member to the Planning Board and scheduled a special town meeting for November 15.
- Approved trash fee warrant for $818,925.00 (Unanimous)
- Moved annual town election from April 9, 2024 to March 5, 2024 (Unanimous)
- Appointed Preston Smith to the Planning Board as associate member through 2026 (Unanimous)
- Scheduled special town meeting for Nov. 15, 2023 (Unanimous)
- Approved due diligence for land donation of 654 New Ludlow Road (4-1)
- Endorsed five strategic goals (Unanimous)
- Approved consent agenda for multiple one-day and multi-date alcohol licenses (Unanimous)
- Continued 3 Corners Package Store liquor license public hearing to Oct. 3 (Unanimous)
Conservation Commission
The Growing Wild Subcommittee is meeting to coordinate a public lecture and a seed give-away. The group will also discuss participation in the Farmer's Market at Buttery Brook Park.
- Public lecture on September 14th at South Hadley Library
- Seed give-away logistics
- Farmer's Market at Buttery Brook Park (Wednesdays 2-6pm)
The subcommittee coordinated a public lecture on native plants and butterfly gardens for September 14. Members organized the preparation of 60 wildflower seed packets and scheduled staffing for the Buttery Brook Park Farmer's Market.
- Scheduled public lecture with Master Gardener Larri Cochran for September 14
- Set seed packet preparation for September 12 from 3:30-4:30pm
- Scheduled Farmer's Market presence for September 27, October 4, and October 11
- Declined invitation to staff Showcase South Hadley festival on October 7 and 8
Fire District 1
The District will hold a Special Meeting to vote on appropriating funds for a prior years' unemployment bill and insurance benefits for elected officials.
- Appropriation of $9,100 for a prior years' bill to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts for Reimbursable Unemployment
- Appropriation of $14,606.10 for Medical, Dental and Life Insurance benefits for grandfathered, eligible, elected officials
Board of Assessors
The Board of Assessors will meet to review updates on the Accessory Dwelling Unit policy and the Classification and Compensation study. The body will also discuss the Owner Unknown project and exemption analysis.
- Accessory Dwelling Unit policy update
- Owner Unknown project update
- Exemption Analysis
- Classification and Compensation study update
- Approval of July monthly reports
The Board of Assessors approved the July monthly abatement report for motor vehicle excise and a payment for website hosting. The board also discussed the status of an owner unknown project and the need for a meeting with the Town Administrator regarding enforcement issues.
- Approved minutes from July 31, 2023 (3-0)
- Approved $3,000.00 payment to e CAI for annual website hosting (3-0)
- Approved July monthly abatement report for 2023 motor vehicle excise totaling $2,765.36 (2-0)
Electric Light Department
The Board of Commissioners will review June 2023 financials and the designation of the Department of Telecommunications and Cable. The meeting includes an executive session to discuss fiber projects and the purchase, exchange, lease, or value of real property.
- Department of Telecommunications and Cable Designation
- June 2023 Financials
- Summer Internships
- Executive session regarding fiber projects and real property
Conservation Commission
The Growing Wild Subcommittee is meeting to coordinate public outreach efforts and plant share distribution. The group is discussing a public lecture and presence at the Farmer's Market.
- Public Lecture on 9/14 at South Hadley Library from 6-7:30pm
- Outreach at Farmer’s Market at Buttery Brook Park
- Distribution of educational materials
- Scheduling of Plant Share Distribution dates
The subcommittee scheduled a public lecture on attracting butterflies for September 14 and planned a presence at the Buttery Brook Park Farmers Market. Members discussed using the Town Reminder for native plant education and reviewed a successful recent plant distribution.
- Scheduled public lecture with Larri Cochran for September 14, 6:00-7:30
- Decided Farmers Market table setup will begin after the September 14 event
- Set next meeting for September 6 at 5:00pm
Commission on Disabilities
The Commission on Disabilities will review updates regarding the Massachusetts trail bill and MEMA goals. The body will also discuss a table at the Senior Center and a potential candidate interview for the Human Rights Commission.
- Support updates for www.unpavedtrailsforall.org/trail-bill-ma
- MEMA goals and priorities
- Table at the Senior Center
- Possible candidate interview for the Human Rights Commission
The Commission approved the minutes from the July 19, 2023 meeting. Members discussed submitting support for unpaved trails bills S.446 and H.769 and potential outreach efforts with the council on aging. The Commission noted that Fire District 1 prudential meetings are currently held in a non-handicap accessible venue.
- Approved minutes of 07/19/2023 (unanimous)
Conservation Commission
The Conservation Commission will hold a continued public hearing regarding a home expansion and landscaping project. The body will also discuss a sewer sliplining project and hear from a community forest intern.
- Public hearing for home expansion, patio, and landscaping at 21 North Sycamore Lane
- Discussion of South Hadley DPW Judd Brook Sewer Sliplining Project
- Presentation by Summer 2023 Community Forest Intern Dylan Welch
The Commission issued an Order of Conditions for a home expansion and landscaping project at 21 North Sycamore Lane to resolve previous enforcement issues. It also approved site access plans for the DPW Judd Brook Sewer sliplining project. Minutes from the August 2 meeting were tabled.
- Approved waiver for retaining wall and grading at 21 North Sycamore Lane (4-0)
- Issued Order of Conditions for home expansion at 21 North Sycamore Lane (4-0)
- Approved site access plans for Judd Brook Sewer sliplining project (5-0)
- Tabled approval of August 2 meeting minutes
Council on Aging
The South Hadley Council on Aging Board of Directors will hold a special meeting to address staffing changes. The board will vote on a resignation and discuss the hiring process and job description for a replacement.
- Vote to accept resignation
- Discussion of interim coverage
- Discussion of job description and the COA's role in the hiring process
The Board of Directors held a special meeting to address the leadership of the Council on Aging. The board voted to accept the resignation of Executive Director Leslie Hennessey.
- Accepted resignation of Executive Director Leslie Hennessey, effective August 25, 2023
Sustainability & Energy Commission
The commission will meet to discuss old business regarding Green Communities incentives flier printing. The agenda also includes approval of minutes and a period for public comment.
- Green Communities incentives flier printing
Town Meeting Review Committee
The Town Meeting Review Committee is meeting to review its charge and previous reports. The committee will discuss methods to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of Town Meeting.
- Review of the committee's charge
- Review of previous interim and draft reports
- Discussion on improving Town Meeting effectiveness and efficiencies
The committee decided to gather information on the effectiveness and efficiency of Town Meeting by surveying members and the public. Members will develop potential survey questions to be discussed at the next meeting.
- Approved July 12, 2023 meeting minutes (Unanimous)
- Established meeting schedule for second and fourth Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m.
- Decided to survey Town Meeting Members and the public to collect data on current functions and weaknesses
- Agreed to use a Google Form for survey administration
- Set September 5, 2023 deadline for members to submit draft survey questions to Michael Davis
Board of Health
The Board of Health will meet virtually to enter an executive session. The session is dedicated to discussing litigation strategy for the case Chicopee Concrete Service, Inc v. Hutchinson, et al.
- Executive session regarding litigation: Chicopee Concrete Service, Inc v. Hutchinson, et al. (C.A. No. 2180CV00038)
Planning Board
The Planning Board will review a presentation from Outwith Studio regarding the Housing Production Plan update. The board will also discuss the appointment of Preston Smith as an Associate Planning Board Member.
- Executive Session regarding litigation: Chicopee Concrete Service, Inc v. Hutchinson, et al.
- Housing Production Plan update presentation by Outwith Studio
- Appointment candidate for Associate Planning Board Member: Preston Smith
The Planning Board appointed Preston Smith to the position of Associate Planning Board Member. The Board also approved the revised minutes from the July 10 meeting and discussed updates to the Housing Production Plan.
- Appointed Preston Smith as Associate Planning Board Member (5-0)
- Approved revised July 10 regular meeting and public hearing minutes (5-0)
- Scheduled Housing Production Plan public hearing for September 25
Fire District 1
The Prudential Board will discuss the River Road update and a Special Meeting Warrant. The meeting will conclude with an executive session to conduct a Step 3 Grievance Hearing regarding a dental insurance plan change.
- Update on River Road
- Special Meeting Warrant
- Discussion regarding a camera inside the Clerk/Treasurer's office
- New business regarding 24/48
- Collective Bargaining Agreement Step 3 Grievance Hearing on dental insurance
Fire District 2
The Prudential Committee will meet to review warrants and approve minutes from previous meetings. The body will also discuss personnel policy, disclosure forms, and the committee's email presence on the district website.
- Review of Personnel Policy
- Review and signature of disclosure forms
- Discussion of PC email on website
- Approval of minutes from April 13, May 1, and July 17, 2023
- Review of Fire Chief and Ambulance reports
Capital Planning Committee
The Capital Planning Committee is meeting to reorganize and discuss project updates. The agenda includes the introduction of the Director of Building Operations and a discussion regarding a vacant committee position.
- Introduction of Director of Building Operations
- Project updates
- Discussion of vacant Capital Planning Committee position
The committee appointed a Chair, Vice Chair, and Clerk. Members approved the April 10, 2012, minutes and established a monthly hybrid meeting schedule from October 2023 through April 2024.
- Elected Ira Brezinsky as Chair (All Approved)
- Elected Kevin McAllister as Vice Chair (All Approved)
- Elected Jon Camp as Clerk (All Approved)
- Approved minutes from 04/10/2012 (All Approved)
- Scheduled monthly hybrid meetings for Oct 5, Nov 2, Dec 7, Jan 4, Feb 1, Mar 7, and Apr 4
Recreation Commission
The Recreation Commission is meeting to review bills and the schedule of events. The body will discuss follow-ups regarding soccer uniforms and plan for fall activities and an October arts and music event.
- Soccer uniform discussion follow-up
- Planning for fall activities
- October Arts and Music Event
The Recreation Commission approved the May 9, 2023, meeting minutes and bills payable. The commission discussed upcoming fall sports, an October arts and music event, and various town correspondence items.
- Approved May 9, 2023 minutes (5-0)
- Approved bills payable (5-0)
Selectboard
The Selectboard will conduct public hearings regarding license transfers and manager changes for Centerfold Anthony’s and Willits Hallowell & Kendade Atrium. The board will also discuss strategic goals and a license amendment for South Hadley Motors.
- Public hearing: Willits Hallowell & Kendade Atrium Change of Manager
- Public hearing: Centerfold Anthony’s Transfer of License & Change of Manager
- Class 2 License Amendment for South Hadley Motors
- One-Day Beer & Wine License requests for Larry Dubois, Laura Bowman, and Stephen McCray
- Resignations from the Historical Commission and Cultural Council
The Selectboard approved several liquor license management changes and a Class 2 license amendment for South Hadley Motors. The board also authorized a one-day street closure for the Showcase South Hadley event and accepted three commission resignations.
- Approved One-Day Beer & Wine Licenses for Larry Dubois, Laura Bowman, and Stephen McCray (Unanimous)
- Approved change of manager for Willits-Hallowell Center and Kendade Atrium (Unanimous)
- Approved license transfer and ownership changes for Anthony’s Dance Club (Unanimous)
- Approved Class 2 license amendment for South Hadley Motors to include rental vehicles (Unanimous)
- Approved closing College Street Bypass on Oct. 7 for Showcase South Hadley (Unanimous)
- Accepted resignations of Peter Scotto, Alexandra Ripp, and Robin Wagner (Unanimous)
- Approved July 11, 2023 meeting minutes (Unanimous)
Public Schools
The School Committee will meet via Zoom to discuss a transportation contract and an appointment for the Human Rights Commission. The body will also review grant awards and approve several warrants.
- Vote on transportation contract
- Vote on Human Rights Commission appointment
- Approval of warrants totaling $1,884,426.86
- Update on recent grant awards
- SHEA update
The School Committee approved several payroll and expense warrants and appointed Nina Nedrebo to a two-year seat on the Human Rights Commission. The committee also received reports on recent grant awards for school security, robotics, and math professional development.
- Approved warrants #2023-314 ($191,724.05), #2023-319 ($2,318.00), July 20 payroll ($729,011.39), and August 3 payroll ($735,549.27) (3-0)
- Approved warrant #2023-320 ($225,823.13) (3-0 with one abstention)
- Approved minutes from 7/6/23 and 7/27/23 (unanimous)
- Appointed Nina Nedrebo to a two-year seat on the Human Rights Commission (4-0)
Cultural Council
The Cultural Council is planning the FY 2024 grant cycle, with applications opening September 1, 2023. Members are discussing the use of reserve funds for the South by South Hadley event and updating grant guidelines.
- Proposal to commit reserve funds to South by South Hadley
- Updating grant Guidelines and Priorities by August 31
- Planning for FY 2024 grant applications starting September 1, 2023
- Reassignment of grant manager responsibilities following Alex Ripp's resignation
The Council detailed the organization of the South by South Hadley festival, including marketing and funding sources. The Council also initiated the FY24 grant cycle and approved the June 20, 2023, meeting minutes.
- Approved June 20, 2023, meeting minutes
- Tabled vote for $2,000 from Cultural Council reserve funds for festival
- Scheduled next meeting for September 6 at 6:00pm
Conservation Commission
The Conservation Commission is meeting to consider a request for an Order of Conditions regarding a home expansion and landscaping project. The body will also review a certificate of compliance and an emergency certification.
- Public hearing for home expansion, patio, and landscaping at 21 North Sycamore Lane
- Request for Certificate of Compliance for 35 Hillcrest Park Unit #15
- Ratification of Emergency Certification for Brunelle’s Marina at 1 Alvord St
The Conservation Commission approved a certificate of compliance for a condominium unit and ratified an emergency order for storm damage repairs at a marina. A public hearing regarding a home expansion at 21 North Sycamore Lane was continued to a later date.
- Approved July 19, 2023 meeting minutes (4-0, 1 abstention)
- Continued public meeting for 21 North Sycamore Lane to August 16, 2023 (5-0)
- Issued certificate of compliance for 35 Hillcrest Park Unit #15 (5-0)
- Ratified Emergency Order for cleanup and repair at Brunelle’s Marina, 1 Alvord Street (5-0)
Conservation Commission
The Diversity, Equity, Inclusion subcommittee of the Conservation Commission is meeting to plan collaborative events with the Hampshire Bird Club. The body will discuss an online talk and a bird walk.
- Online talk with Hampshire Bird Club on Tuesday, September 5th at 7:00pm
- Bird walk at Texon Mill Park on Saturday, September 9th at 8:00am
- Outreach for birding events
The subcommittee coordinated a two-part event featuring an online talk on September 5 and a bird walk at Texon Mill Park on September 9. The events will include bird identification instruction and local history. Outreach will be conducted via the Town Reminder and fliers.
- Scheduled online birding talk for September 5 at 7:00pm
- Scheduled bird walk at Texon Mill Park for September 9 at 8:00am
- Assigned Rebekah to send draft article for comments
- Assigned Kathy to distribute fliers
- Set next meeting for October 18, 2023, at 5:00 PM
Master Plan Implementation Committee
The committee will hold an election for new officers and conduct a review of its bylaws. Members will also discuss the June 6 joint meeting with the Select Board and Planning Board.
- Election of new officers
- Bylaw review
- Review of June 6 meeting minutes
The committee elected Nate as Chair, Ben as Vice-Chair, and Renee as Clerk. Members were assigned to monitor various town boards and commissions. The committee also discussed reporting frequency and the need for more town space.
- Approved June 6, 2023 meeting minutes
- Elected Nate as Chair
- Elected Ben as Vice-Chair
- Elected Renee as Clerk
- Assigned members to town committees and boards for monitoring
Fire District 1
The Board of Water Commissioners will meet to approve minutes and sign warrants. The board is scheduled to review and award bids for a lawnmower and hold a legal discussion with Attorney Mark Beauregard.
- Lawnmower bids and award
- Legal discussion with Attorney Mark Beauregard
Board of Assessors
The Board of Assessors will meet to discuss tax classifications and review monthly reports. The agenda includes updates on accessory dwelling unit policy and the 'Owner Unknown' project.
- Fiscal 2024 tax classification hearing
- Fiscal 2024 Revised and Omitted Assessment Report
- Accessory Dwelling Unit policy update
- Discussion on room occupancy excise
- Owner Unknown project update
The Board of Assessors approved monthly abatement reports for May and June, as well as the Omitted & Revised Assessment Report. The board also approved several bills for payment and the minutes from the May 15, 2023, meeting.
- Approved May 15, 2023 meeting minutes (3-0)
- Approved May 15, 2023 Executive Session minutes (3-0)
- Approved bills for Bishop & Associates ($40,463.00), New England Archives ($116.00), and CAI ($587.50) (3-0)
- Approved May monthly abatement reports for motor vehicle excise and real estate (3-0)
- Approved June monthly abatement report for motor vehicle excise (3-0)
- Approved Omitted & Revised Assessment Report (3-0)
🗳️ How they voted (1 roll-call vote)
Public Schools
The South Hadley School Committee, Superintendent, and administrators are meeting for a retreat. The objective is to facilitate conversation to create a shared vision for the 2023-2024 school year. Discussions will include committee goals as they relate to the South Hadley Master Plan.
- Discussion of School Committee goals regarding the South Hadley Master Plan
- Round table with district administration to identify shared goals for student support
The School Committee held a retreat to discuss goals related to the South Hadley Master Plan and administrative policy reviews. Members and administrators identified shared goals for student support and community outreach. No substantive policy or budget decisions were voted upon.
- Adjourned meeting at 4:06pm (4-0)
Fire District 2
The Water Commissioners of Fire District No. 2 will meet to review financial warrants and operational updates. Discussions include a cyber security assessment, test wells, and the status of drought regulation litigation.
- Cyber Security Assessment
- Isotope Study update
- Drought Regulation litigation update
- Granby Water Supply update
- Elmer Brook land and parking
Electric Light Department
The Board of Commissioners will meet to review May 2023 financials and the department's credit rating. The board is also scheduled to discuss the public comment policy.
- Review of May 2023 Financials
- Credit Rating Review
- Discussion of Public Comment Policy
Planning and Conservation Department
The committee is meeting to review responses from the Housing Strategies Survey. The group will also discuss next steps for the Housing Production Plan.
- Review of Housing Strategies Survey responses
Planning Board
The Planning Board will meet to discuss updates to Subdivision Regulations and the Flexible Development Bylaw, along with associated new bylaws. The meeting also includes a discussion with the board representative to the Capital Planning Committee.
- Updates to Subdivision Regulations
- Flexible Development Bylaw updates
- Discussion with Capital Planning Committee representative
- Planning & Conservation Department report on projects and development updates
Planning Board
The Planning Board will discuss updates to Subdivision Regulations and the Flexible Development Bylaw, along with associated new bylaws. The board will also hold a discussion with applicant Preston Smith for the Associate Planner position.
- Discussion on updates to Subdivision Regulations and Flexible Development Bylaw
- Discussion with Associate Planner applicant Preston Smith
- Discussion with Planning Board representative to the Capital Planning Committee
- Planning & Conservation Department Report on Planning Projects and Development Updates
The Planning Board approved the revised minutes from the June 26 meeting. Members discussed potential updates to subdivision regulations and the flexible development bylaw, and interviewed a candidate for an associate member position.
- Approved revised June 26 regular meeting and public hearing minutes (5-0)
- Decided to consider the appointment of Associate Planning Board member Preston Smith at the August 14 meeting
Conservation Commission
The Conservation Commission will meet virtually to discuss a land donation and a request for determination regarding slope stabilization. The body will also review property maintenance bylaws and farm field management.
- Request for Determination for slope stabilization at 14 Stonegate Dr
- Discussion of land donation at 654 New Ludlow Road
- Review of General Bylaw §179-4 regarding property maintenance
- Discussion on farm field management
- Presentation by Mark Stinson, Western Regional Circuit Rider MassDEP
The Conservation Commission issued a negative determination for slope stabilization at 14 Stonegate Drive and authorized spending for a title search on a potential land donation at 654 New Ludlow Road. The board also received a presentation from MassDEP regarding the Wetlands Protection Act.
- Approved June 21 meeting minutes (4-0-2)
- Approved July 5 meeting minutes (4-0-2)
- Issued negative determination #3 for slope stabilization at 14 Stonegate Drive with special conditions (6-0)
- Approved expenditure of funds from Conservation Land Management account for title search at 654 New Ludlow Road (6-0)
Conservation Commission
The Diversity, Equity, Inclusion subcommittee of the Conservation Commission is meeting to plan collaborative events with the Hampshire Bird Club. The group will discuss outreach and assign tasks for these activities.
- Online talk on Tuesday, September 5th at 7:00pm
- Bird walk at Texon Mill Park on Saturday, September 9th at 8:00am
The subcommittee coordinated a collaborative birding event featuring an online talk on September 5 and a walk at Texon Mill Park on September 9. Members discussed outreach strategies and the inclusion of local historical information.
- Scheduled online talk for September 5 at 7:00pm
- Scheduled bird walk at Texon Mill Park for September 9 at 8:00am
- Assigned Rebekah Cornell to contact local historian and provide Falls Walking brochures
- Set next meeting for August 2, 2023, at 5:00 PM
Tree Committee
The Tree Committee is meeting to discuss tree planting opportunities and updates regarding the arboretum. The body will also review the Grow Green program and potential collaborations with other boards and committees.
- Tree planting opportunities
- Grow Green program
- Arboretum updates
- Collaboration with other committees and boards
Commission on Disabilities
The Commission on Disabilities will meet to review accessibility recommendations and the status of the Master Plan and Transition Plan. Members will also discuss potential requests for remaining ARPA funding and the annual report.
- Review of accessibility recommendations including evacuation chairs
- Discussion of remaining ARPA funding requests
- Review of Master Plan and Transition Plan goals
- Discussion of a letter of support for the trail bill (unpavedtrailsforall.org)
- Review of annual report
The Commission unanimously voted to support state bills S.446 and H.769 regarding public trails. Members discussed evacuation chairs, emergency planning, and reasonable accommodations.
- Approved amended minutes from 05/17/2023 (unanimous)
- Voted to support public trails bills S.446 and H.769 (unanimous)
Sustainability & Energy Commission
The commission will discuss old business regarding new members and printing incentives fliers for Green Communities. The agenda also includes a discussion on SHELD’s new battery.
- Approval of minutes
- Green Communities incentives flier printing
- SHELD's new battery
Historical District Study Committee
The South Hadley Historic District Study Committee will meet to elect a Chair, Vice-Chair, and Clerk. The committee will also welcome new member Melissa Taylor and discuss the Local Historic District.
- Election of Chair, Vice-Chair, and Clerk
- Discussion of Local Historic District
- Welcome of new member Melissa Taylor
Fire District 2
The South Hadley Fire District No. 2 Prudential Committee will meet to review warrants. The committee may also vote on account transfers for the end of the fiscal year.
- Review of warrants
- End of fiscal year account transfers
Council on Aging
The Council on Aging Board of Directors will meet to conduct a quarterly MPIC review and receive updates on the Policy Review Committee. The board will also discuss a letter of concern regarding Lathrop Village and updates on dementia-friendly initiatives.
- MPIC Quarterly Review
- Letter of concern regarding Lathrop Village
- Alzheimer’s Walkathon on Oct. 15th at Holyoke Community College
- FY 2023 statistics report
- Friends of the South Hadley Seniors update
The board approved the minutes from the June 2023 meeting. Director Hennessey provided updates on MPIC goals and senior center statistics for June 2023.
- Approved June 2023 minutes
Historical Commission
The South Hadley Historical Commission will meet to discuss a proposal for a 'Slavery and Memory' collaboration with Mount Holyoke College. The body will also review a special permit application for 72 Lamb Street and plan a September 'Historic Walk'.
- Special permit application for 72 Lamb Street
- Collaboration proposal with Mount Holyoke College regarding 'Slavery and Memory'
- Local Historic District Study Committee meeting
- Planning for September 'Historic Walk'
- Canal Park discussion
The Commission approved the minutes from the April 18 meeting. Members discussed a proposed single-property historic district for the Firehouse Museum and Fred M. Smith Memorial Park, as well as plans for a historic walk in the Falls.
- Approved April 18 meeting minutes (unanimous)
Conservation Commission
The Growing Wild Subcommittee of the Conservation Commission is meeting to plan autumn activities and review property maintenance regulations. The group will discuss a specific event for veterans and a general bylaw.
- Veteran’s Picnic in the Park scheduled for Sunday, August 13th
- General Bylaw §179-4 regarding property maintenance
The subcommittee decided to host an educational table at the Veteran’s Picnic in the Park on August 13th. Members discussed potential collaborations with the High School Environmental Club and the Board of Health regarding property maintenance bylaws.
- Approved setting up an educational table at the Veteran’s Picnic in the Park (August 13th)
- Proposed joint meeting with Board of Health in September regarding General Bylaw §179-4
- Proposed outreach to High School Environmental Club to restore Plains Elementary School bio-retention areas
Fire District 2
The South Hadley Fire District No. 2 Prudential Committee will meet to review warrants and approve previous meeting minutes. The committee will also discuss personnel policy, disclosure forms, and end of fiscal year account transfers.
- Personnel Policy Review
- End of fiscal year account transfers
- Review of disclosure forms
- Fire Chief & Ambulance Report
Planning and Conservation Department
The committee is meeting to recap the planning process and discuss feedback from the June 22nd community forum. The session will also cover the Housing Strategies Survey due July 16.
- Review of June 22nd Community Forum feedback
- Discussion of Housing Strategies Survey due 7/16
- Planning process recap and schedule update
Town Meeting Review Committee
The committee is meeting to nominate a chair, vice chair, and clerk. The body will also establish a meeting schedule.
- Nomination of chair, vice chair, and clerk
- Establishment of meeting schedule
The committee held reorganization votes to fill leadership positions. John Hine was elected chair, Carlene Hamlin was elected vice chair, and Nicole Casolari was elected clerk.
- Elected John Hine as chair (5-4)
- Elected Carlene Hamlin as vice chair (unanimous)
- Elected Nicole Casolari as clerk (unanimous)
- Set meeting schedule for second and fourth Tuesday of the month
Fire District 1
The Prudential Board will meet to review reports from the Chief and Clerk/Treasurer. The body will discuss new insurance, annual meeting bylaws, and cell contracts.
- New insurance discussion
- Annual meeting new by-law discussion
- Cell contracts discussion
- New business 24/48
Appropriations Committee
The Appropriations Committee and Selectboard are holding a joint meeting. The body will discuss year-end transfers.
- Year-end transfers
Selectboard
The Selectboard will hold a public hearing regarding the potential suspension or revocation of the liquor license for 3 Corners Package Store. The board will also meet with Appropriations to discuss year-end transfers and consider the appointment of John Broderick as Director of Public Works.
- Public hearing on 3 Corners Package Store liquor license suspension or revocation
- Appointment of John Broderick as Director of Public Works
- One-day beer and wine license requests for Elizabeth Sawyer and Gregory Tiner
- 2023 Farm License Agreements
- Executive session to consider the purchase, exchange, lease or value of real property
The Selectboard appointed a new Superintendent of Public Works and approved 2023 farm license agreements. The board also approved several one-day beer and wine licenses and continued a public hearing regarding the 3 Corners Package Store liquor license.
- Appointed John Broderick as Superintendent of Public Works for a three-year term (Unanimous)
- Approved 2023 Farm License agreements for McCray and Barstow (Unanimous)
- Approved one-day beer and wine licenses for Elizabeth Sawyer and Gregory Tiner (Unanimous)
- Continued public hearing for 3 Corners Package Store liquor license to Sept. 5, 2023 (Unanimous)
- Approved year-end transfers via Appropriations Committee (Unanimous)
- Approved June 20, 2023 draft minutes (Unanimous)
Board of Health
The Board of Health will meet to ratify an emergency order to vacate a property and receive reports on public health initiatives. The board will also review the status of several ongoing projects, including a septic system installation and a syringe services program.
- Ratification of Emergency Order to Vacate for 43 San Souci Drive
- Status update on Skinnerwoods Estates Septic System Installation
- Update on South Hadley Drug & Alcohol Prevention Coalition
- Update on Syringe Services Program
- Status of Pollinator Resolution Study
The Board of Health ratified an emergency order to vacate a property on San Souci Drive and approved a non-binding resolution for pollinator species protection. The board also appointed Stephen Frantz to the Mount Holyoke Biosafety Committee.
- Ratified emergency order to vacate 43 San Souci Drive (4-0)
- Approved non-binding Pollinator Resolution for private property (4-0)
- Approved June 2023 meeting minutes (4-0)
- Appointed Stephen Frantz to the Mount Holyoke Biosafety Committee
Council on Aging
The Council on Aging Board of Directors will meet to conduct a quarterly MPIC review and discuss a letter of concern regarding Lathrop Village. The board will also receive updates on dementia-friendly initiatives and the Director's report on FY 2023 statistics.
- MPIC Quarterly Review
- Letter of concern regarding Lathrop Village
- Age & Dementia Friendly Committee updates
- Alzheimer’s Walkathon on Oct. 15th at Holyoke Community College
- FY 2023 Senior Center operations statistics
Fire District 1
The Board of Water Commissioners will meet to review updates on infrastructure projects and service amendments. The session includes discussions on specific watermain and tank locations.
- T-Mobile amendment for Industrial Drive Tank
- Pittroff Ave. update
- Graves St. Watermain
- Sprint on Alvord St. Tank
- Electrical service for blow off valve at District line
Board of Health
The Board of Health will meet to hold an executive session. The session is dedicated to discussing litigation strategy regarding the case of Chicopee Concrete Service, Inc v. Hutchinson, et al.
- Executive session regarding Chicopee Concrete Service, Inc v. Hutchinson, et al. (C.A. No. 2180CV00038)
Planning Board
The Planning Board is holding a virtual meeting to enter an Executive Session. The board will discuss legal strategy regarding a lawsuit involving Chicopee Concrete Service, Inc v. Hutchinson, et al.
- Executive Session regarding litigation: Chicopee Concrete Service, Inc v. Hutchinson, et al. (C.A. No. 2180CV00038)
Planning Board
The Planning Board will hold a public hearing regarding a special permit and illuminated sign request for the Gulf gas station. The board will also review a plan to create a new lot on Old County Road.
- Public hearing for Special Permit and Illuminated Sign Request at 72 Lamb Street
- Approval Not Required Plan for a new lot at 39 Old County Road
The Board endorsed an Approval Not Required (ANR) plan to create a new lot on Old County Road and issued a special permit for updated signage at the Gulf gas station on Lamb Street. The Board also approved several sets of previous meeting minutes and established a future meeting schedule.
- Endorsed ANR to create a new lot off 39 Old County Road (4-1)
- Authorized Director Anne Capra to sign the 39 Old County Road ANR (5-0)
- Issued special permit for non-conforming illuminated signage at 72 Lamb Street with conditions on canopy lighting and hours (5-0)
- Approved revised minutes from May 22 regular meeting (5-0)
- Approved revised minutes from June 2 joint and June 12 regular meetings (4-1, 1 abstention)
- Voted to enter executive session regarding Chicopee Concrete Service, Inc v. Hutchinson litigation (5-0)
Planning Board
The Planning Board will hold a virtual public hearing to review a Special Permit application. The request is to alter a non-conforming illuminated sign at the "Gulf" gas station.
- Special Permit application for illuminated sign at 72 Lamb Street (Assessor’s Map 18 Parcel 93)
Public Schools
The School Committee will meet to approve several payment warrants and budget transfers. The body will also conduct interviews for the Human Rights Commission and discuss the SHHS Moisture Mitigation Project.
- Approval of Warrant #2023-300 for $143,413.65
- Approval of Warrant #2023-306 for $181,720.05
- Approval of Biweekly Payrolls for $856,731.80 and $766,402.01
- Vote on IDEA Certification
- Update on SHHS Moisture Mitigation Project
The School Committee approved several payroll and expense warrants and a budget transfer. The committee also accepted the annual IDEA certification for grant assistance and interviewed candidates for the Human Rights Commission.
- Approved warrant #2023-300 for $143,413.65 (3-0-1)
- Approved warrant #2023-306 ($181,720.05) and two biweekly payrolls ($856,731.80 and $766,402.01) (4-0)
- Approved minutes from 6/15/23 (4-0)
- Approved $2,767.00 budget transfer from Mosier and SHHS Professional Services to Plains Therapeutic Contracted Services (4-0)
- Accepted the IDEA certification for the 240 grant (4-0)
Conservation Commission
The Conservation Commission will meet to discuss property maintenance bylaws and a specific request for determination. The body will also review meeting minutes from June 21, 2023.
- Request for Determination for slope stabilization at 14 Stonegate Dr (Map 42 Parcel 75)
- Discussion of General Bylaw §179-4 regarding property maintenance
The Commission voted to continue the public meeting regarding slope stabilization at 14 Stonegate Dr to July 19, 2023. A motion to approve the June 21 meeting minutes failed to reach the required four votes. Members discussed potential amendments to the property maintenance bylaw regarding grass height.
- Continued public meeting for 14 Stonegate Dr to July 19, 2023 (5-0)
- Tabled approval of June 21 meeting minutes (3-0, failed to meet 4-vote threshold)
- Canceled volunteer event scheduled for July 8
Fire District 1
The Board of Water Commissioners will meet to conduct interviews for a billing clerk position. The board will also discuss the office manager's vacation and approve previous meeting minutes.
- Billing Clerk interviews
- Office Manager vacation discussion
Board of Assessors
The Board of Assessors will meet to discuss and vote on the overlay surplus. The board will also review the Fiscal 2024 Revised and Omitted Assessment Report and monthly reports from May.
- Vote on overlay surplus
- Fiscal 2024 Revised and Omitted Assessment Report
- Exemption Analysis
- Owner Unknown project update
- Wage and Classification project update
Planning Board
The Planning Board will hold a continued public hearing regarding a Special Permit for Baltazar Dental to expand a non-conforming structure. The board will also discuss updates to the Open Comment Period Policy and appoint a liaison to the Capital Planning Committee.
- Public hearing continuation for Special Permit: Baltazar Dental expansion at 2078 Memorial Drive
- Discussion on updates to the Open Comment Period Policy
- Appointment of Planning Board liaison to the Capital Planning Committee
The Board approved the re-appointment of Jon Camp to the Capital Planning Committee and set the August meeting schedule. Members also agreed to extend public input periods for the Town's Housing Production Plan. A public hearing regarding a special permit for Baltazar Dental was continued.
- Approved minutes of May 8 regular meeting and May 22 public hearing (5-0)
- Scheduled August 14 as the only Planning Board meeting for August (5-0)
- Re-appointed Jon Camp as representative to the Capital Planning Committee (5-0)
- Agreed to extend community forum #2 survey period to three or four weeks
- Agreed to schedule a third community forum for early Fall
- Agreed to extend the final draft plan comment period from 30 to 60 days
- Tabled discussion on Open Comment Period Policy pending Town Counsel response
Planning and Conservation Department
The Planning and Conservation Department is holding a hybrid community forum to discuss housing goals and strategies. The meeting includes a recap of the planning process and a presentation on development opportunities.
- Recap of the planning process
- Discussion of development constraints and opportunities
- Presentation on housing goals and strategies
- Break-out sessions regarding housing strategies
Electric Light Department
The Board of Commissioners will review the 2022 audited financial statements and vote on battery storage. The board will also discuss public comment policy.
- Vote on battery storage
- Presentation of 2022 Audited Financial Statements Report
- Discussion of Public Comment Policy
Conservation Commission
The Conservation Commission will hold public hearings on two town projects involving Buttery Brook and Titus Pond. The body will also consider a request for storm clean up at 44 Canal St.
- Request for Determination for storm clean up at 44 Canal St
- Notice of Intent for Titus Pond water level lowering and viewing platform installation
- Notice of Intent for culvert replacement and restorative improvements at Mountain Avenue and Buttery Brook
The Commission issued Orders of Conditions for two Town projects involving the restoration of Buttery Brook's headwater wetlands at Titus Pond and a culvert replacement on Mountain Avenue. It also approved a request for storm debris cleanup at 44 Canal Street.
- Approved Negative Determination #3 for storm cleanup at 44 Canal Street (5-0)
- Issued OOC #288-0486 for Titus Pond restoration and viewing platform (4-0)
- Issued OOC #288-0485 for Mountain Avenue culvert replacement and brook improvements (4-0)
- Approved May 17 meeting minutes (4-0, 1 abstention)
- Approved June 7 meeting minutes as revised (4-0, 1 abstention)
Conservation Commission
The Conservation Commission's Diversity, Equity, Inclusion subcommittee is meeting to discuss a collaborative birding event with the Hampshire Bird Club. The group will also assign tasks and set a date for their next meeting.
- Collaborative Birding Event with Hampshire Bird Club
The subcommittee decided to host a 'Birding for Everyone' event at Texon Mill Park on September 9, with September 10 as a rain date. The Hampshire Bird Club will lead the walk and a preceding virtual talk. The Planning & Conservation Department will pay the collaboration fee.
- Selected Texon Mill Park as the event location
- Proposed September 9 as the event date (September 10 rain date)
- Determined Planning & Conservation Department will pay the HBC collaboration fee
Selectboard
The Selectboard will hold interviews for several town committee appointments. The meeting also includes requests for one-day beer and wine licenses and a mid-year update from the Traffic Review Committee.
- One-day beer & wine license requests from Larry DuBois, Elizabeth Sawyer, and Bridget Carroll
- Interviews for Trustees of the Old Firehouse Museum, MPIC, Town Meeting Review Committee, Cultural Council, Conservation Commission, Commission on Disabilities, COA, Tree Committee, and Bike Walk
- Traffic Review Committee mid-year update
The Selectboard unanimously accepted the 2023 annual board and committee renewals. The board also appointed 14 individuals to various town committees, including the Conservation Commission and the Cultural Council.
- Approved draft minutes of June 6, 2023 (Unanimous)
- Accepted annual board and committee renewals for 2023 (Unanimous)
- Appointed Anne Barry to 2024 Bike Walk term
- Appointed Linda Young to 2026 Bylaw Review Committee term
- Appointed Terry Rosenfield to associate 2025 Conservation Commission term
- Appointed Geraldine de Berly and David Solender to 2026 Cultural Council terms
- Appointed Anthony Dart to 2026 CoD term
- Appointed Nancy Bacis Wood to 2025 Historical Commission term
Cultural Council
This is a brief, procedural meeting of the South Hadley Cultural Council. The agenda includes only approval of minutes, a treasurer's report, and other business, with no substantive decisions or discussions listed.
- Approval of minutes
- Treasurer's report
The Cultural Council approved the minutes from the May 23 meeting and the treasurer's report. Members discussed email archiving protocols, the distribution of a community survey, and the recruitment of new members.
- Approved May 23 meeting minutes
- Approved Treasurer's Report
Sustainability & Energy Commission
The commission will meet to discuss old business regarding Green Communities incentives flier printing and consider new members for the commission.
- Printing of Green Communities Incentives flier
- Discussion of new members
Fire District 2
The Water Commissioners will meet to review updates on test wells, an isotope study, and the Granby water supply. The body will also discuss drought regulations and summer infrastructure projects.
- Test Wells Update
- Isotope Study Update
- Drought Regulation Update
- Granby Water Supply Update
- Summer Projects including dig jobs, tank cleaning, and Scada updates
Public Schools
The School Committee will meet to vote on the appointment of a Capital Planning Committee member and approve several budget warrants. The meeting includes a review of youth substance use data and year-end district improvement plans.
- Vote on Capital Planning Committee appointment
- Approval of Warrant #2023-281 for $201,252.85
- Approval of Warrant #2023-288 for $85,513.56
- Approval of Warrant #2023-293 for $412,611.49
- Approval of Biweekly Payroll for $784,534.54
The School Committee reappointed two members to the Capital Planning Committee for three-year terms. The board also approved several payment warrants and a budget transfer.
- Reappointed Charles Miles to the Capital Planning Committee (4-0)
- Re-elected Christine Philips to the Capital Planning Committee (4-0)
- Approved warrant #2023-293 for $412,611.49 (3-0-1)
- Approved warrant #2023-281 ($201,252.85), warrant #2023-288 ($85,513.56), and biweekly payroll ($784,534.54) (4-0)
- Approved minutes from 6/1/23 (4-0)
- Accepted budget transfer as presented (4-0)
Board of Health
The Board of Health will meet to ratify emergency orders to vacate several local addresses. The board will also receive reports on the Drug & Alcohol Prevention Coalition and the Mount Holyoke Biosafety Committee.
- Ratification of Emergency Order to Vacate: 79 Charon Terrace
- Ratification of Emergency Order to Vacate: 121 Main Street, Third Floor, Right
- Ratification of Emergency Order to Vacate: 69 Bardwell Street
- Ratification of Emergency Order to Vacate: 54 Bridge Street, Apt. C65
- Ratification of Emergency Order to Vacate: 55 School Street, Apt. B and 117 Main Street, Third Floor, Left
The Board of Health ratified seven emergency orders to vacate properties deemed uninhabitable due to disconnected utilities. The Board also approved the minutes from the May 16, 2023, meeting.
- Approved May 16, 2023 meeting minutes (Unanimous)
- Ratified emergency order to vacate 79 Charon Terrace (Unanimous)
- Ratified emergency order to vacate 121 Main Street, Third Floor, Right (Unanimous)
- Ratified emergency order to vacate 69 Bardwell Street (Unanimous)
- Ratified emergency order to vacate 54 Bridge Street, Apt. C65 (Unanimous)
- Ratified emergency order to vacate 55 School Street, Apt. B (Unanimous)
- Ratified emergency order to vacate 117 Main Street, Third Floor, Left (Unanimous)
- Ratified emergency order to vacate 20 Maple Street (Unanimous)
Board of Health
The Board of Health will meet to ratify emergency orders to vacate several local addresses. The board will also receive updates on the Master Plan, the Syringe Services Program, and the Drug & Alcohol Prevention Coalition.
- Ratification of emergency orders to vacate: 79 Charon Terrace, 121 Main Street (3rd Floor, Right), 69 Bardwell Street, 54 Bridge Street (Apt. C65), 55 School Street (Apt. B), 117 Main Street (3rd Floor, Left), and 20 Maple Street
- Water District 2 Consumer Confidence Report Certification
- Mount Holyoke Biosafety Committee discussion
- Syringe Services Program update
- Racial Equity 101 Training follow-up
The Board of Health ratified seven emergency orders to vacate properties deemed uninhabitable due to disconnected utilities. The Board also approved the minutes from the May 16, 2023, meeting.
- Approved May 16, 2023 meeting minutes (4-0)
- Ratified emergency order to vacate 79 Charon Terrace (4-0)
- Ratified emergency order to vacate 121 Main Street, Third Floor, Right (4-0)
- Ratified emergency order to vacate 69 Bardwell Street (4-0)
- Ratified emergency order to vacate 54 Bridge Street, Apt. C65 (4-0)
- Ratified emergency order to vacate 55 School Street, Apt. B (4-0)
- Ratified emergency order to vacate 117 Main Street, Third Floor, Left (4-0)
- Ratified emergency order to vacate 20 Maple Street (4-0)
Planning Board
The Planning Board will discuss the Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Bylaw adopted at the May 2023 Town Meeting. The board will also review updates to the Open Comment Period Policy and receive a report on planning projects and development updates.
- Discussion on Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Bylaw
- Discussion on Open Comment Period Policy updates
- Planning & Conservation Department report on development updates
Council on Aging
The Council on Aging Board of Directors will meet to nominate a Chairperson, Vice Chairperson, and Secretary. The board will also review MCOA training and evaluate board member limits within the bylaws.
- Nominations for Chairperson, Vice Chairperson, and Secretary
- Review of MCOA Board of Directors training from May 31st
- Bylaw review of board member limits
- Updates on Age & Dementia Friendly Committee
- Planning for Alzheimer’s Walkathon on Oct. 15th at Holyoke Community College
The Board elected a new Chairperson, Vice-Chairperson, and Secretary. The Board also determined that an anonymous complaint letter was not a Council on Aging issue and would be referred to the Director of Housing.
- Approved May 2023 Minutes (All in favor, 1 abstention)
- Elected Marilyn Ishler as Chairperson (All in favor)
- Elected Rachel Tierney as Vice-Chairperson (All in favor)
- Elected Susan LaBonte as Secretary (All in favor)
- Determined anonymous complaint letter was not a COA issue
Democratic Town Committee
The South Hadley Democratic Town Committee is holding a caucus to elect 10 delegates and 4 alternates. These representatives will attend the 2023 Massachusetts Democratic State Convention in September to adopt the Party Agenda and/or Platform.
- Election of 10 delegates and 4 alternates for the state convention
- Caucus held June 10, 2023, at South Hadley Public Library
Conservation Commission
The Commission issued several negative determinations for sign replacement, trail relocation, and parking lot drainage improvements. It also approved vegetation management for Eversource and utility repairs for Mount Holyoke College.
- Issued negative determination for sign replacement at Chap de Laine’s Furniture (5-0)
- Issued negative determination for Robert Frost Trail relocation (5-0)
- Granted waiver for Eversource vegetation removal in 50’ Conservation Zone (4-0)
- Issued Order of Conditions 288-0484 and accepted $23K mitigation payment from Eversource (4-0)
- Issued negative determination for River to Range Trail parking lot drainage improvements (6-0)
- Approved utility repairs at Prospect Bridge for Mount Holyoke College (6-0)
Selectboard
The South Hadley Selectboard, along with the MPIC and Planning Board, is holding a hybrid meeting to discuss an update to the town's Master Plan. The agenda includes only this one substantive item, with no other business listed.
- Discussion of Master Plan Update
The Selectboard, MPIC, and Planning Board held a joint meeting to discuss the Master Plan update. No substantive votes or formal decisions were recorded.
Master Plan Implementation Committee
This is a hybrid joint meeting between the Master Plan Implementation Committee, the Planning Board, and the Selectboard. The agenda contains no specific discussion topics or items for decision.
The Master Plan Implementation Committee (MPIC) discussed a draft of revised bylaws focusing on committee structure and responsibilities. The committee intends to send the new bylaw to the fall town meeting. Other discussions included communication priorities and town space needs.
- Proposed sending revised MPIC bylaws to fall town meeting
Selectboard
The South Hadley Selectboard is meeting to conduct interviews for various town boards and committees, hold a public hearing on the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) performance, and discuss new business including a potential room tax, ARPA funds for Judd Brook, and the summer meeting schedule. The agenda also includes approval of minutes and a consent agenda item for a one-day beer and wine license.
- Public hearing on CDBG performance at 7 p.m.
- Discussion of room tax
- ARPA funds for Judd Brook
- One-day beer and wine license for David Capriati on June 22, 2023
- Interviews for Historic District Study Committee, Town Meeting Review Committee, Commission on Disabilities, Cultural Council, Bylaw Review Committee
The Selectboard unanimously approved the use of $2.2 million in ARPA funds for the Judd Brook interceptor project. The board also approved a one-day beer and wine license and discussed the possibility of a room tax.
- Approved $2.2 million in ARPA funds for Judd Brook interceptor project (Unanimous)
- Approved one-day beer and wine license for David Capriati for June 22, 2023 (Unanimous)
- Accepted draft minutes of May 16, 2023 (Unanimous)
- Discussed potential room tax and noted need for public hearing
Planning Board
The South Hadley Planning Board and Select Board are holding a joint hybrid meeting. The only substantive item on the agenda is an update on the Master Plan, which is under new business. The rest of the agenda is procedural (call to order and adjournment).
- Joint meeting of Planning Board and Select Board
- Master Plan update discussion
The Planning Board participated in a joint meeting with the Selectboard and MPIC. Members discussed the Master Plan update, including reporting schedules, priorities for a fall 2023 forum, and space needs. No substantive votes or decisions were recorded.
Master Plan Implementation Committee
The Master Plan Implementation Committee is meeting to approve minutes from May 5, 2023, and receive updates on its task list. They will also discuss meetings with other boards and topics for a joint meeting with the Town Administrator, Selectboard, and Planning Board. The agenda is largely procedural, with no specific decisions or proposals detailed.
- Approval of minutes from May 5, 2023 meeting
- Task list updates
- Meetings with boards and committees
- Topics for joint meeting with Town Administrator, Selectboard, and Planning Board
The committee approved the minutes from the May 5, 2023 meeting. Members discussed pending task list updates from town departments and a proposed agenda for a joint meeting with the Town Administrator, Selectboard, and Planning Board.
- Approved May 5, 2023 meeting minutes (5-0, 1 abstention)
Public Schools
The School Committee will meet via Zoom to discuss several items including a summer foreign trip proposal and mask policy. The committee is also scheduled to vote on warrants, minutes, budget transfers, and a memorandum of agreement.
- Summer 2024 Foreign Trip Proposal (VOTE)
- Warrant #2023-265: $141,987.66
- Warrant #2023-273: $252,948.92
- Biweekly Payroll (May 11): $765,671.10
- Biweekly Payroll (May 25): $768,202.75
The School Committee unanimously approved a proposal for a Summer 2024 Foreign Trip. The board also approved several warrants and budget transfers, and received a report on $26,000 in grants distributed by the Michael E. Smith Endowment.
- Approved Summer 2024 Foreign Trip (5-0)
- Approved warrant #2023-273 for $252,948.92 (4-1 abstention)
- Approved warrant #2023-265 ($141,987.66) and two biweekly payrolls ($765,671.10 and $768,202.75) (5-0)
- Approved minutes from May 4, 2023 (5-0)
- Approved budget transfers dated 5/16/23 ($3,085.00) and 5/24/23 ($5,540.00) (4-1 abstention)
- Approved budget transfers dated 5/22/23 ($99,703.00), 5/23/23 ($3,103.00), and 5/23/23 ($1,011.00) (5-0)
Fire District 1
The Fire District 1 Board will meet to reorganize the Board and receive reports from the Chief and Clerk/Treasurer. The agenda also includes a discussion regarding dental insurance.
- Reorganize Board
- Chief's Report
- Clerk/Treasurer's Report
- Dental insurance
Electric Light Department
The Board of Commissioners will review the March 2023 financials and discuss the Old Lyman Road Battery Storage project. The meeting includes a manager's report and may move to an executive session regarding fiber projects.
- March 2023 Financials
- Old Lyman Road Battery Storage
- Executive session discussion of trade secrets or proprietary information pertaining to fiber projects
Conservation Commission
The Conservation Commission subcommittee is meeting to discuss the first steps of its work. The agenda includes assigning tasks and setting a date for the next meeting.
- Discussion of first steps for the Diversity, Equity, Inclusion subcommittee
- Assignment of tasks
- Setting of next meeting date
The subcommittee reviewed potential tasks for diversity, equity, and inclusion outreach, including translating materials into Spanish and collaborating with Mount Holyoke College. No formal votes were taken; members discussed short-term and long-term goals and assigned initial outreach tasks.
- Bill DeLuca to contact Mount Holyoke College biology department regarding DEI collaboration
- Scheduled next meeting for June 21, 2023
Housing Authority
The Board of Commissioners will meet to review the Executive Director's report and approve bills from April 7 to May 24, 2023. Discussion topics include shrub removal, water hoses, and tenant charges.
- Approval of bills for 4/7/2023-5/24/2023
- Discussion of shrub removal
- Discussion of water hoses
- Discussion of tenant charges
Cultural Council
The Council is reviewing the 2022 grant cycle documentation and upcoming events. Members are also planning for the 2023 grant cycle, including a community input survey and grantee reception. The meeting includes preparations for new officers and members starting July 1, 2023.
- Review of 2022 Grant Cycle documentation and events
- Planning for 2023 Community Input Survey
- Planning for 2023 Grantee Reception
- Selection of officers and members for term beginning July 1, 2023
The Council approved the 2024 leadership slate, naming John Anz as chair. Members also approved a community survey for distribution through local schools, the library, and social media. The Treasurer's report detailed $2,750 in dispersed grants.
- Approved April 24th meeting minutes
- Approved Treasurer's Report
- Approved Community Survey for distribution
- Approved 2024 leadership slate with John Anz as chair
Conservation Commission
The subcommittee is meeting to finalize details for the Massachusetts Pollinator Network event at the South Hadley Library. Members will also discuss potential fall events including a Veteran’s Picnic in the Park and a resident garden tour or talk.
- Finalize June 8th Massachusetts Pollinator Network event
- Discuss August 13th Veteran’s Picnic in the Park
- Discuss potential Resident Garden Tour or Talk
The Growing Wild South Hadley subcommittee finalized plant selections, door prizes, and press outreach for the June 8 event at the library. Members also discussed plans for a table at the August 13 Veteran’s Picnic in the Park and potential fall garden tours.
- Confirmed 4 plug species for the June 8 plant giveaway
- Agreed to video record the June 8 event for the Growing Wild SH page
- Planned attendance and information table for August 13 Veteran’s Picnic in the Park
Planning Board
The Planning Board approved a request for a replacement illuminated freestanding sign at 532 Newton Street. A public hearing was opened for a dental office expansion at 2078 Memorial Drive, but the matter was continued to a future meeting for additional materials.
- Approved illuminated sign for Min Min Kitchen at 532 Newton St (5-0)
- Approved April 10 regular meeting minutes as revised (5-0)
- Opened public hearing for Baltazar Dental expansion at 2078 Memorial Drive; continued to June 26 meeting
- Tabled discussion on Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) driveway and garage feasibility
Planning Board
The Planning Board will hold a virtual public hearing regarding a Special Permit application filed by Baltazar Dental. The applicant seeks to expand a non-conforming structure to establish a dentist office at 2078 Memorial Drive.
- Special Permit for dentist office at 2078 Memorial Drive
- Expansion of a non-conforming structure by Baltazar Dental
Fire District 1
The Board will conduct a reorganization of board members and review minutes from the April 25, 2023 meeting. Discussion topics also include the billing clerk interview schedule and dental insurance.
- Re-Organization of Board Members
- Approval of minutes from 4-25-23
- Billing Clerk interview schedule
- Dental Insurance discussion
Fire District 2
The South Hadley Fire District No. 2 Water Commissioners are holding their regular monthly meeting. They will discuss routine items like minutes and warrants, as well as updates on test wells, an isotope study, drought regulations, and the Granby water supply. The agenda also includes a high water bill for 13 Sycamore Park and planning for summer projects.
- High Water Bill – 13 Sycamore Park
- Test Wells Update
- Isotope Study Update
- Drought Regulation Update
- Summer Projects – Dig Jobs, Tank Cleaning, Scada Updates
Fire District 1
The District will meet to vote on Article 5 of the adjourned Annual Meeting. This article concerns raising and appropriating funds for the Personnel Services account.
- Vote to raise and appropriate $1,760,253
- Transfer $839,378 from the Ambulance Reserve Fund
- Transfer $100,000 from Free Cash
- Transfer $17,908 from Local Receipts
- Total proposed funding of $2,717,539 for Personnel Services
Commission on Disabilities
The Commission is reviewing progress on accessibility recommendations, including website and ASL accommodations. Members are also discussing updates regarding ADU Bylaw support and a letter of support request for unpavedtrailsforall.org.
- ADU Bylaw support updates
- Accessibility Recommendations Progress (website, Channel 15, ASL)
- Letter of Support Request: www.unpavedtrailsforall.org/trail-bill-ma
- Master Plan and Transition Plan goals
The commission approved the amended minutes from April 26, 2023. Members discussed accessibility issues including closed captioning, evacuation chairs, and trail access legislation. No other formal votes were taken.
- Approved amended minutes from 04/26/2023 (unanimous)
Conservation Commission
The Commission issued an Order of Conditions for a floating dock and walkway at 80 River Road. It also approved 2023 farm license agreements for McCray and Barstow Farms to hay town-owned properties. A subcommittee meeting for DEI initiatives was scheduled for May 23.
- Approved Order of Conditions #288-0477 for elevated walkway and floating dock at 80 River Road (4-0)
- Approved 2023 Farm License Agreements with McCray and Barstow Farms (7-0)
- Approved meeting minutes from May 3, 2023 (5-0, 2 abstentions)
Selectboard
The Selectboard and Board of Health are holding a joint meeting to discuss financial requests and funding. The discussion includes an ARPA Board of Health request and the use of Opioid Mitigation Funds.
- ARPA Board of Health Request
- Opioid Mitigation Funds
The Board of Health approved the establishment of a syringe services program and nominated Lori Souder to the Human Rights Commission. In a joint session, the Selectboard granted $25,000 in ARPA funding for a part-time administrative assistant. The Board also reorganized its leadership.
- Approved allowing a qualified organization to offer syringe services in town
- Approved $25,000 in ARPA funding for a part-time administrative assistant (19 hours/week)
- Nominated Lori Souder for the South Hadley Human Rights Commission
- Elected Dr. McKiernan as President, Collins as Vice Chair, and Walsh Pio as Clerk
- Approved February and April meeting minutes
Selectboard
The Selectboard will conduct tri-annual interviews for the Tree, Historical, and Sustainability & Energy commissions. The meeting also includes discussions on FY2025 budget planning, ARPA assessment requests, and a sewer use warrant.
- Tri-annual interviews: Marion Canning (Tree Committee), Eleanor Small (Historical Commission), and Mary Jane Else (Sustainability & Energy Commission)
- One-day beer and wine license requests for Buttery Brook Park, MHC, Chapin Hall, and Gaylord Library
- Sewer use warrant discussion
- ARPA request for needs and security assessments
- FY2025 budget planning
The Selectboard approved a sewer use fee warrant and several one-day beer and wine licenses. The board also accepted a committee resignation and authorized a vacation hour rollover for the town administrator.
- Approved sewer use fee warrant for April 1, 2023 in the amount of $1,221,080 (Unanimous)
- Approved multiple one-day Beer & Wine License requests for Larry Dubois, Margaret Boxold, Karen Franz, Bridget Carroll, and Jeff Millard (Unanimous)
- Approved rollover of up to 40 vacation hours for the town administrator from FY2023 to FY2024 (All favor)
- Accepted resignation of Kevin McCaffrey from the Master Plan Implementation Committee (Unanimous)
- Accepted draft minutes of May 2, 2023 (Unanimous)
Sustainability & Energy Commission
The commission will discuss old business regarding Green Communities incentives flier printing and new business regarding new members. The agenda includes a call to order, approval of minutes, and a public comment period.
- Green Communities incentives flier printing
- New member recruitment
Board of Health
The Board of Health will discuss COVID-19 wastewater testing, vaccine clinics, and a Master Plan update. A joint meeting with the Selectboard is scheduled to discuss an ARPA administrative position and the Opioid Mitigation Fund.
- COVID-19 report on wastewater testing and vaccine clinics
- Master Plan update
- Racial Equity 101 Training and Health Equity in the Fiscal Year 24 State Budget discussion
- Syringe Services Program discussion
- Joint meeting with Selectboard regarding ARPA administrative position and Opioid Mitigation Fund
The Board of Health approved the establishment of a syringe services program to be operated by a qualified organization. In a joint meeting with the Selectboard, the Board was granted $25,000 in ARPA funding for a part-time administrative assistant. The Board also reorganized its leadership and nominated a member for the Human Rights Commission.
- Approved nominations of Dr. McKiernan as President, Collins as Vice Chair, and Walsh Pio as Clerk
- Approved allowing a qualified organization to offer syringe services in town
- Nominated Lori Souder for the South Hadley Human Rights Commission
- Approved $25,000 in ARPA funding for a part-time administrative assistant (19 hours/week)
- Approved February and April meeting minutes
- Set next meeting for June 13th at 6:00 p.m. at the South Hadley Library
Board of Assessors
The Board of Assessors will conduct board reorganization and review monthly reports for March and April. The agenda includes discussions regarding personal exemptions, an overlay surplus, and property taxes for College Street.
- ADU bylaw update
- Fiscal 2023 Personal Exemptions and Reimbursements
- Vote on FY23 Prorata taxes for 79 College Street and 83 College Street
- Discussion of Overlay Surplus
- Owner Unknown project update
The Board reorganized its leadership and approved monthly abatement reports for March and April. The board also approved pro-rata taxes for two properties sold by Mount Holyoke College and authorized future submittals for owner-unknown properties.
- Elected Kevin Taugher as Chairman (3-0)
- Elected Thomas Reidy as Clerk (3-0)
- Approved March 27, 2023 meeting minutes (3-0)
- Approved $587.50 bill for quarterly map maintenance (3-0)
- Approved March and April monthly abatement reports (3-0)
- Rescinded prior vote to approve 101 bills for 2014 motor vehicle excise totaling $6,252.40 (3-0)
- Approved one additional fiscal 2023 exemption application totaling $400.00 (3-0)
- Approved fiscal 2023 pro-rata taxes for 79 College Street and 83 College Street (3-0)
🗳️ How they voted (1 roll-call vote)
Appropriations Committee
The Appropriations Committee is meeting to review financial articles and consider appointments. The agenda is brief and contains only procedural items, with no specific financial figures or decisions listed.
- Review financial articles
- Appointments
Recreation Commission
The South Hadley Recreation Commission is meeting virtually to handle routine business including approving minutes and bills, and to discuss upcoming spring and summer activities. Key items include the Buttery Brook Park PARC Grant survey, planning for events like Fireworks, Hideaway Circus, Big Rig Day, and Picnic in the Park, and a discussion on soccer uniforms.
- Buttery Brook Park PARC Grant survey link
- Fireworks scheduled for July 1
- Hideaway Circus on July 25/26
- Big Rig Day on July 27
- Picnic in the Park on August 13
The commission approved the bills payable and expressed full support for switching to a new uniform company for Roots Soccer. The board also reviewed upcoming summer events and the status of the Buttery Brook Park PARC Grant.
- Approved April 11, 2023 minutes (7-0)
- Approved bills payable (7-0)
- Supported use of new uniform company for Roots Soccer
Fire District 1
The Prudential Committee will meet to reorganize the board and set a date for the annual meeting. The agenda also includes updates on River Road, legal policy, and an AT&T cell tower renegotiation proposal.
- Board reorganization
- Annual Meeting reconvene date
- River Road update
- Legal Policy discussion
- AT&T Cell Tower Renegotiation Proposal
Planning Board
The Planning Board will hold a virtual open house regarding Zoning Related Annual Town Meeting Articles 20 through 25. The meeting also includes discussion of a potential Board appointment to the Town Meeting Review Committee.
- Virtual Open House on Zoning Related Annual Town Meeting Articles 20 thru 25
- Discussion of Planning Board Appointment to Town Meeting Review Committee
- Planning & Conservation Department Report on Planning Projects and Development Updates
The Board appointed Member Davis to the Town Meeting Review Committee and Clerk Brown as the PVPC Alternate Representative. The Board also held an open house to answer public questions regarding proposed Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) zoning bylaws.
- Approved revised regular meeting minutes of March 20 and March 27 (5-0)
- Approved revised public hearing minutes of March 27 (4-0, 1 abstention)
- Appointed Member Davis to the Town Meeting Review Committee (5-0)
- Appointed Member Brown as PVPC Alternate Representative (5-0)
Council on Aging
The Board of Directors will review bylaws regarding board member limits and discuss upcoming Alzheimer’s Walkathon details. The Director's report includes updates on senior center operations, class fee reductions, and the emergency fund for seniors.
- Bylaw review of Board member limits
- Alzheimer’s Walkathon planning for Oct. 15th
- Discussion of fee reduction for COA classes
- Review of Emergency Fund for Seniors statistics
The Board approved a change to the Policy Handbook regarding board member terms, pending Selectboard approval. A committee was formed to update the entire Policy Handbook by August. The Director also announced fee reductions for exercise and art classes.
- Approved April 2023 minutes as corrected
- Approved removal of requirement for members to hold office in first term or resign (pending Selectboard approval)
- Established Policy Handbook update committee chaired by Marilyn Ishler
- Reduced exercise class cost to $1.00
- Reduced art class cost from $4.00 to $3.00
Master Plan Implementation Committee
The Master Plan Implementation Committee is meeting to approve minutes, review task list updates, discuss meetings with other boards, vote on a bylaw draft, and prepare its annual report to Town Meeting. The agenda is routine, with no major funding or rezoning items listed.
- Vote on bylaw draft
- Annual Report to Town Meeting
- Approval of April 6, 2023 minutes
- Task list updates
- Meetings with boards and committees
The Master Plan Implementation Committee voted unanimously to send draft bylaws to a joint meeting with the School Board and Planning Board on June 6. The committee also approved minutes from the previous meeting with a typo correction and discussed updates on task lists and meetings with other boards.
- Approved minutes of April 6, 2023 meeting as amended (typo corrected) (unanimous)
- Voted to send draft bylaws to joint meeting with School Board and Planning Board on June 6 (unanimous)
Fire District 1
This is a brief procedural meeting of the Fire District No. 1 Prudential Committee. The only business is to choose the date, time, and place for the annual meeting, then adjourn. No other substantive decisions are on the agenda.
- Set date, time, and place for the annual meeting
- Call to order and motion to adjourn
Public Schools
The School Committee will vote on approving two warrants and the minutes from the April 27 meeting. Members will discuss the 2023-2024 School Choice Application and appoint representatives to the Human Rights Commission and Town Meeting Review Committee.
- Approval of Warrant #2023-253 for $217,540.98
- Approval of Warrant #2023-259 for $141,291.65
- Appointment of 2 members to the Human Rights Commission
- Appointment of 1 member to the Town Meeting Review Committee
- Update on 2023-2024 School Choice Application
The South Hadley School Committee approved two warrants totaling $358,832.63, accepted a donation to the music department, and appointed members to the Human Rights Commission and Town Meeting Review Committee. Discussion on future meeting formats was tabled, and the summer schedule remains undecided.
- Approved warrant #2023-253 for $217,540.98 (3-0)
- Approved warrant #2023-259 for $141,291.65 (3-0)
- Approved minutes from April 27, 2023 (3-0)
- Accepted donation to SHHS music department from Lisa Beauchemin and family (4-0)
- Appointed Danielle Cooke to Human Rights Commission for one-year term (4-0)
- Appointed Larry Dixon to Town Meeting Review Committee for one-year term (4-0)
Conservation Commission
The South Hadley Conservation Commission will hold public meetings and a continued hearing on four wetland-related permit requests, plus discuss an enforcement order. Items include shed construction, tree removal, a floating dock walkway, and school drainage repairs. The commission will also consider meeting minutes, an open public forum, and diversity/equity/inclusion topics.
- Enforcement order at 21 N Sycamore Knoll (Map 53, Parcel 39)
- Request for Determination: remove 2 accessory structures, diseased tree, build 12'x16' shed at 112 River Road
- Request for Determination: tree removal in Riverfront Area at 514 River Road
- Continued hearing: elevated walkway to floating dock on CT River cove at 80 River Road (DEP File #288-0477)
- Request for Determination: school footing drains and drainage repair in buffer zone at 153 Newton St
The Conservation Commission ratified an Enforcement Order for unpermitted vegetation removal within the 50-foot Conservation Zone at 21 North Sycamore Knolls. The order requires the property owner to file a Notice of Intent to bring the project into compliance. The commission also issued Negative Determinations for tree removal and shed construction at three other properties, and continued a public hearing for a floating dock project due to lack of quorum.
- Ratified Enforcement Order for unpermitted work at 21 North Sycamore Knolls (5-0)
- Issued Negative Determination #3 for shed construction and tree removal at 112 River Road with special conditions (5-0)
- Issued Negative Determination for tree removal at 514 River Road with mitigation conditions (5-0)
- Continued public hearing for elevated walkway and floating dock at 80 River Road to May 17, 2023 (5-0)
- Issued Negative Determination #2 for footing drains at South Hadley High School, 153 Newton Street (5-0)
Selectboard
The Selectboard will discuss the Town Meeting Warrant and review board policies. The meeting includes requests for one-day beer and wine licenses for various local venues and parks.
- One-day beer and wine license requests for Skinner Green, Rooke Theater, Rockafeller Hall, Art Building, Dining Commons, Fimble Maker, and Community Center
- One-day beer and wine license request for Buttery Brook Park
- Sewer Use Abatements
- Senior Work-Off Program
- ARPA Board of Health request
The Selectboard unanimously approved increasing the sewer use abatement to $100 per year and appointed Nicole Casolari to the Town Meeting Review Committee. A request from the Board of Health regarding ARPA funds was tabled for a future joint meeting. The board also accepted policy changes and approved multiple one-day beer and wine licenses.
- Approved sewer use abatement increase to $100 per year (unanimous)
- Appointed Casolari to Town Meeting Review Committee (unanimous)
- Tabled Board of Health ARPA request for future joint meeting
- Accepted policy changes (unanimous)
- Approved multiple one-day beer and wine licenses (unanimous)
Fire District 2
The Prudential Committee and Water Commissioners will review warrants for approval and hold a pre-meeting discussion regarding the upcoming Annual District Meeting. The agenda contains no specific dollar amounts, contracts, or ordinances listed.
- Review and vote on warrants
- Pre-meeting discussion on the Annual District Meeting
Fire District 2
The District will vote on funding requests for the Prudential Committee, Fire Department, Ambulance service, and Water Department. The meeting includes votes on debt payments for buildings and equipment, as well as water system capital improvements.
- Prudential Committee Operating budget: $543,811.00
- Fire Department operations: $775,419.00
- Water Department operations: $872,090.00
- Water System Capital Improvements: $370,000.00
- Backhoe lease payment for Water Department: $16,143
Public Schools
The School Committee will meet via Zoom to conduct routine business and reorganize the committee. The body is scheduled to vote on the approval of four warrants and minutes from previous meetings.
- Warrant #2023-241: $328,713.80
- Warrant #2023-248: $193,878.75
- Biweekly Payroll (April 13): $778,800.00
- Biweekly Payroll (April 27): $765,116.16
- School Committee Reorganization
The School Committee conducted its annual reorganization, electing new leadership and assigning members to subcommittees. The committee also approved several payment warrants and meeting minutes.
- Elected Eric Friesner as Chair (5-0)
- Elected Danielle Cooke as Vice Chair (5-0)
- Approved warrants #2023-241 ($328,713.80) and #2023-248 ($193,878.75) (4-0-1)
- Approved biweekly payrolls for April 13 ($778,800.00) and April 27 ($765,116.16) (5-0)
- Approved minutes from 3/28/2023 and 4/6/2023 (3-0-2)
- Disbanded Policies and Anti-Bullying subcommittees
- Assigned members to Budget, Joint Labor Management, and other subcommittees
Electric Light Department
The South Hadley Electric Light Department Board of Commissioners will hold a virtual meeting to reorganize its board, approve prior minutes, and hear public comment. The board will review December 2022 financials, 2023 customer survey results, an Open Meeting Law complaint update, and a proposal for battery storage at 545 Granby Road. An annual town disbursement transfer is also on the agenda.
- Reorganization of the Board, including the Audit Committee
- Approval of minutes from 3/23/2023 and 3/29/2023 open and executive sessions
- December 2022 financials
- 2023 customer survey results
- 545 Granby Road battery storage proposal
Fire District 1
The District will hold an Annual Meeting to vote on funding for fire and ambulance services, water department operations, and personnel compensation. Voters will decide on appropriations for equipment, building maintenance, and debt payments for the upcoming fiscal year.
- Salary and compensation for the Moderator, Prudential Committee, Clerk/Treasurer, and Water Commissioners
- Building improvements and preventative maintenance for the Fire Station at 144 Newton Street
- Funding for Fire Department Ladder Truck debt principal and interest
- Appropriations for SCBA, fire gear replacement, and ambulance computer accounts
- Funding for Water Department operating costs and Water Main Replacement Account
Commission on Disabilities
The South Hadley Commission on Disabilities will hold a virtual meeting to review minutes, hear announcements, and discuss old and new business. Old business includes updates on Buttery Brook Park, a letter of support for accessory dwelling units (ADUs), and a survey. New business includes planning next steps, possibly holding an accommodation drill, and coordinating with FD/Police/Triad/Board of Health on home safety initiatives.
- Buttery Brook Park update
- ADU letter of support
- Survey discussion
- Accommodation drill proposal
- FD/Police/Triad/Board of Health initiatives (home safety and sand buckets)
The Commission approved the amended minutes from March 10, 2023. Members discussed updating state contact information, the Buttery Brook Park PARC grant, and a support letter for Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs). No other formal votes were recorded.
- Approved amended minutes from 03/10/2023 (unanimous)
Bylaw Review Committee
The Bylaw Review Committee is meeting to conduct a review of town bylaws. This is a virtual meeting scheduled for April 25, 2023.
- Review of town bylaws
Sustainability & Energy Commission
The commission will meet to discuss old business regarding Green Communities incentives flier printing costs. The agenda also includes approval of minutes and a period for public comment.
- Printing costs for Green Communities incentives flier
Fire District 1
The Board of Water Commissioners will meet to reorganize board members and discuss the billing clerk and the upcoming annual meeting. The board will also receive an update on the Pittroff Avenue water main.
- Re-organization of Board Members
- Letter of Resignation from Kari Scytkowski
- Billing Clerk discussion
- Annual Meeting discussion
- Pittroff Avenue Water Main update
Appropriations Committee
The Appropriations Committee is holding a public hearing on the FY24 budget and financial Town Meeting warrant articles, followed by a review of the May 10 Town Meeting warrant articles. The meeting is virtual and may be recorded.
- Public hearing on FY24 budget and financial articles
- Review of May 10 Town Meeting warrant articles
Cultural Council
The Cultural Council is meeting to review the 2022 grant cycle and plan a community input survey. This survey will be used to determine funding priorities and guidelines for the next grant cycle.
- Report on additional funds for Children’s Summer Concert Series at Buttery Brook Park
- Grantee Reception scheduled for June 26
- Discussion of Community Input Survey to inform future funding priorities
- Update on Showcase South Hadley
- Review of 2023-24 Council membership and officers
The Council approved the minutes from the March 21 meeting and rescheduled the Grantee’s Reception for Fall 2023. Members discussed upcoming vacancies for the new fiscal year beginning July 1, 2023, and planning for Showcase South Hadley in October 2023.
- Approved minutes from March 21 meeting
- Postponed Grantee’s Reception from June to Fall 2023
Planning Board
The Planning Board will hold a public hearing regarding a home-based dog grooming business and discuss several zoning map amendments and bylaws. The board is also considering a special permit waiver for a residential structure expansion.
- Public hearing for site plan review for a dog grooming business at 93 Mountainview Street
- Request for waiver of Special Permit for a breezeway at 53 Woodbridge Street
- Reports to Town Meeting on Short Term Rental Zoning and General Bylaws
- Landowner Petition for 280 & 286 Granby Road Zoning Map Amendment
- Citizen Petition for 460 Amherst Road Zoning Map Amendment
The Planning Board appointed new officers and a representative to the Pioneer Valley Planning Commission. The board approved several reports for Town Meeting regarding short-term rentals and zoning map amendments. A special permit waiver was granted for a residential breezeway.
- Appointed Diane Mulvaney as Chair (5-0)
- Appointed Nate Therien as Vice-Chair (5-0)
- Re-appointed Joanna Brown as Clerk (5-0)
- Appointed Brad Hutchison as PVPC representative (4-1)
- Approved revised April 10 public hearing minutes (4-1)
- Approved special permit waiver for breezeway at 53 Woodbridge Street (5-0)
- Approved Town Meeting Reports for Articles 20 and 21 regarding Short Term Rentals (5-0)
- Approved Town Meeting Reports for Articles 23 and 24 regarding zoning map amendments (5-0)
Planning and Conservation Department
The South Hadley Planning and Conservation Department is holding an information session to present five Annual Town Meeting warrant articles covering zoning and general bylaws. Topics include residential short-term rentals, accessory dwelling units, and two zoning map amendments. A question-and-answer period follows the presentation.
- Article 20 - Residential Short-Term Rentals General Bylaw
- Article 21 - Residential Short-Term Rentals Zoning Bylaw
- Article 22 - Accessory Dwelling Units Zoning Bylaw
- Article 23 - Landowner Petition Zoning Map Amendment 280 & 286 Granby Road
- Article 24 - Citizens Petition Zoning Map Amendment 460 Amherst Road
Fire District 2
The Water Commissioners of Fire District No. 2 will hold a regular monthly meeting to review financial warrants and overdue bills. The body will discuss updates regarding an Isotope Study and drought regulations, as well as matters concerning Elmer Brook land and parking.
- Isotope Study update
- Drought Regulation update
- Elmer Brook land and parking
- Review of warrants, balances, and overdue bills
Planning Board
The Planning Board is holding an information session to present several Annual Town Meeting Warrant Articles. Director of Planning and Conservation Anne Capra will lead the presentation and a question-and-answer session.
- Article 20: Residential Short-Term Rentals General Bylaw
- Article 21: Residential Short-Term Rentals Zoning Bylaw
- Article 22: Accessory Dwelling Units Zoning Bylaw
- Article 23: Zoning Map Amendment for 280 & 286 Granby Road
- Article 24: Zoning Map Amendment for 460 Amherst Road
Planning and Conservation Department
The Planning and Conservation Department is hosting a webinar to discuss a proposed Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) bylaw. The session includes a presentation from AARP regarding flexible housing options like guest houses and in-law suites.
- Proposed South Hadley Accessory Dwelling Unit Bylaw
Conservation Commission
The South Hadley Conservation Commission is meeting virtually to discuss and decide on several environmental permits. They will hold public hearings on a proposed elevated walkway and floating dock on the Connecticut River, an amended order for E-Ink's redevelopment at 7 Gaylord St, and a continued aquatic management program at Hillcrest Park Pond. The commission will also consider a certificate of compliance for Hillcrest Park Condominiums and changes to an approved site plan at Delaney's Market.
- Public hearing on Notice of Intent by Val Shvetz for elevated walkway and floating dock at 80 River Road (DEP File #288-0477)
- Public hearing on Amended Order of Conditions for E-Ink redevelopment at 7 Gaylord St, including pipe and headwall replacement (DEP File #288-0475)
- Request for Certificate of Compliance for Hillcrest Park Condominiums (DEP File #288-434)
- Public hearing on Order of Conditions for aquatic management program at Hillcrest Park Pond, 20 Lawrence Ave (DEP File #288-0483)
- Discussion of changes to approved site plan at 459 Granby Rd – Delaney's Market (DEP File #288-0492)
The Commission approved an amended Order of Conditions for E-Ink Corporation and a pond aquatic management program for Hillcrest Park Condominiums. It also granted administrative approval for site plan changes at Delaney’s Market and issued a Certificate of Compliance for Hillcrest Park Condominiums.
- Approved amended Order of Conditions #288-0475 for E-Ink Corporation at 7 Gaylord Street (7-0)
- Issued Certificate of Compliance to DEP file #288-0434 for Hillcrest Park Condominiums (7-0)
- Approved Order of Conditions 288-0483 for Hillcrest Park pond aquatic management (7-0)
- Approved site plan changes for Delaney’s Market under OOC 288-0492 (7-0)
- Continued public hearing for 80 River Road walkway and dock to May 3, 2023 (7-0)
- Approved March 15, 2023 meeting minutes (5-0-2)
Selectboard
The South Hadley Selectboard will hold a public hearing on a liquor license violation by White Wing, followed by an information session on wastewater rates. The board will also consider a retirement system COLA option, the Annual Town Meeting Warrant, and a Capital Planning Committee report.
- Public hearing on White Wing liquor violation at 7:10 p.m.
- Information session on wastewater rates at 7:30 p.m.
- Multiple one-day beer & wine license requests from Karen Franz for April 22, 24, May 2 & 3
- Hampshire County Retirement System COLA Option
- Annual Town Meeting Warrant and Capital Planning Committee Report
The Selectboard increased the sewer rate for FY24 and approved the annual town meeting warrant. The board also issued a warning to White Wing for a liquor license violation and approved a cost-of-living adjustment for retirees.
- Raised FY24 sewer rate by $80 to $360 (Unanimous)
- Issued warning to White Wing for liquor license policy violation (Unanimous)
- Approved annual town meeting warrant (Unanimous)
- Approved Chapter 269 of the Acts of 2022 regarding retiree cost-of-living adjustments (Unanimous)
- Accepted resignation of George Francis as Veteran Grave Officer (Unanimous)
- Approved multiple one-day beer & wine license requests for Karen Franz (Unanimous)
- Reorganized board: Miles as chair, Constant as vice chair, Casolari as clerk
- Accepted April 4, 2023 draft minutes (Unanimous)
Historical Commission
The South Hadley Historical Commission will meet to discuss an application for the Old Firehouse Museum to be added to the Massachusetts Register of Historic Places. The commission will also discuss a potential collaboration with the Bike/Walk Committee.
- Application to the Massachusetts Register of Historic Places for the Old Firehouse Museum
- Collaboration discussion with Lucia Foley of the Bike/Walk Committee
- Review of draft minutes from the March 23, 2023 meeting
- Status of the FY 22 Annual Report submitted March 24, 2023
- Response to Pioneer Valley Planning Commission regarding 17 Highland Drive
The Historical Commission approved working with the Old Firehouse Museum trustee to seek placement on the Massachusetts Register of Historic Places. Members also agreed to develop a historic walk by September 2023 and to request information from the Conservation Commission regarding Canal Park. The minutes from the March 23 meeting were approved.
- Authorized Chair to work with Diane Laroche to place Old Firehouse Museum on the Massachusetts Register of Historic Places (unanimous)
- Approved March 23 meeting minutes (unanimous)
- Authorized Chair to email Conservation Commission regarding the plan to remove the boardwalk at Canal Park (unanimous)
- Agreed to prepare a historic walk and publicity for September 2023
Appropriations Committee
The Appropriations Committee will meet to review the school fiscal year 2024 budget and financial articles for the Town Meeting. The body will also discuss capital planning committee recommendations and a multiyear budget plan.
- Review of school fiscal year 2024 budget
- Review of Town Meeting financial articles
- Review of capital planning committee recommendations
- Multiyear budget plan
- Items for the annual report
Recreation Commission
The South Hadley Recreation Commission will hold a virtual meeting to review the FY2024 budget and the Buttery Brook Park PARC Grant. The agenda includes discussion of spring and summer activities, pickleball rules, and the Hideaway Circus event scheduled for July 25 and 26. The meeting is presented by Recreation Director Andrew Rogers.
- Review of Budget FY2024
- Discussion of Buttery Brook Park PARC Grant
- Proposal for Hideaway Circus on July 25/26
- Discussion of Pickleball Rules
- Review of Spring/Summer Activities
The Commission approved sponsoring the Hideaway Circus at Buttery Brook Park on July 25 and 26, with proceeds going to the Buttery Brook Revolving Fund. The board also nominated the 2023 Taylor Volunteer Award of the Year. Other business included updates on pickleball court usage and the FY2024 budget.
- Approved March 14, 2023 minutes (6-0)
- Approved bills payable (7-0)
- Nominated the 2023 Taylor Volunteer Award of the Year (8-0)
- Approved sponsoring Hideaway Circus at Buttery Brook Park on July 25-26 (8-0)
Board of Health
The Board of Health ratified three emergency orders to vacate uninhabitable properties and approved a new rental registry regulation. The Board also adopted a Health Equity Framework and a regulation regarding Glufosinate/Glyphosate.
- Ratified emergency orders to vacate 76 Alvord St, 100 Abbey St, and 13-15 Canal St (4-0)
- Approved Rental Registry regulation (4-0)
- Approved Health Equity Policy Framework (4-0)
- Approved Glufosinate / Glyphosate Regulation (4-0)
- Accepted proclamation declaring May Asthma Awareness month (4-0)
- Postponed approval of February 14, 2023 minutes due to lack of quorum
- Tabled PFAS purchase restriction pending further data
Fire District 2
The Fire District No. 2 will hold an annual election on April 11, 2023, at South Hadley High School. Voters will elect a Moderator, two Prudential Committee members, and a Water Commissioner.
- Election of Moderator (one-year term)
- Election of Prudential Committee person (one-year term)
- Election of Prudential Committee person (three-year term)
- Election of Water Commissioner (three-year term)
Council on Aging
The Board decided to keep the age requirement for programs at 60+, though younger seniors may attend if space is available. The Board also approved the February 2023 meeting minutes.
- Approved February 2023 minutes (All in favor, 1 abstention)
- Maintained age requirement of 60+ for programs (All in favor)
- Approved changes to the age requirement policy (All in favor)
Capital Planning Committee
The South Hadley Capital Planning Committee is meeting to discuss and possibly vote on recommendations for departmental capital requests. They will also approve minutes and schedule any remaining April meetings. The agenda is otherwise procedural.
- Discussion and possible vote on CPC recommendations for departmental requests
- Approval of meeting minutes
- Scheduling of remaining April meetings
The committee approved a list of capital projects totaling $1,556,700, including funding for the library and nature trails. Buttery Brook Park Improvements were approved contingent on grant funding. No action was taken on the street sweeper request.
- Approved $710K Buttery Brook Park Improvements contingent on grant approval (6-1)
- Approved $1,556,700 listing of projects, including $10K for Leaping Well Nature Trail and $25K for Library Ceiling (All Approved)
- Approved Ledges Pump Replacement and Clubhouse insulation (All Approved)
- Approved WWTP Channel Grinder #2, Thickener Room System heater, and Comprehensive Wastewater Management Plan from retained earnings (All Approved)
- Approved Landfill container funded from Landfill Funds (All Approved)
- Approved recommendations for Basketball Courts and Library-Acoustical Treatment (All Approved)
- No action taken on Street Sweeper
Planning Board
The South Hadley Planning Board will hold a public hearing on April 10, 2023, to discuss a citizen's petition to amend the zoning map. The request seeks to change the designation of a 0.7-acre parcel at the intersection of Amherst Road and Pearl Street from Business B and Agricultural to fully Business B. The property, currently a small retail store, is identified as Assessor’s Map 58, Parcel 80. The hearing location depends on state virtual meeting extensions, with in-person attendance at the Senior Center if remote options are not extended.
- Public hearing on zoning map amendment for 460 Amherst Road
- Proposed change from Business B and Agricultural to fully Business B
- Property is a 0.7-acre parcel at Amherst Road and Pearl Street
- Assessor’s Map 58, Parcel 80
- Hearing scheduled for Monday, April 10, 2023, at 6:45 p.m.
Planning Board
The Planning Board will conduct public hearings regarding a dog grooming business and a zoning map amendment. The board will also discuss a special permit extension for a library conversion and updates to ADU and short-term rental bylaws.
- Site Plan Review for dog grooming business at 93 Mountainview Street
- Zoning map amendment request to change designation to Business B at 460 Amherst Road
- Special permit extension request for multifamily conversion at 27 Bardwell Street
- Administrative changes to proposed Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Bylaw
- Review of Short Term Rental (STR) Zoning and General Bylaws report
The Planning Board voted to recommend that Town Meeting not change the zoning of 460 Amherst Road from Agricultural and Business B to fully Business B. The Board also extended a special permit for multifamily housing at 27 Bardwell Street and approved an administrative change to the proposed Accessory Dwelling Unit Bylaw.
- Recommended Town Meeting not amend zoning map for 460 Amherst Road (5-0)
- Extended special permit for multifamily dwellings at 27 Bardwell Street through December 31, 2023 (5-0)
- Approved administrative change to proposed Accessory Dwelling Unit Bylaw regarding Site Plan Review (5-0)
- Deferred public hearing for dog grooming business at 93 Mountainview Street to April 24, 2023 (5-0)
- Approved March 20 and 27 public hearing minutes as revised (4-0, 1 abstention)
Master Plan Implementation Committee
The South Hadley Master Plan Implementation Committee is meeting virtually to discuss routine business, including approving minutes, receiving status updates, and reviewing a draft bylaw. The committee will also discuss themes for its Annual Report to Town Meeting. The agenda is largely procedural with no major decisions listed.
- Approval of March 2, 2023 meeting minutes
- March status updates
- Bylaw draft status
- Themes for Annual Report to Town Meeting
The committee approved the minutes from the March 2, 2023 meeting. Members discussed status updates from various town boards and committees and identified themes for the Annual Report to Town Meeting. A sub-committee will review language for the bylaw draft regarding reporting schedules.
- Approved March 2, 2023 meeting minutes (5-0-1)
Public Schools
The South Hadley School Committee will meet to vote on a statement of interest to the Massachusetts School Building Authority and approve substitute rates. The body will also review warrants for payment and receive updates on digitized handbooks and grants at MESMS.
- Vote on Statement of Interest to Massachusetts School Building Authority
- Vote on Sub Rate Approval
- Warrant #2023-227 for $168,039.68
- Warrant 2023-235 for $628,724.66
- Biweekly Payroll for $786,515.77
The School Committee approved a request to the Massachusetts School Building Authority to seek funding for the replacement, renovation, or modernization of Mosier Elementary School. The committee also approved several financial warrants and updated substitute pay rates.
- Authorized submission of Statement of Interest to MA School Building Authority for Mosier Elementary School (5-0)
- Approved three warrants totaling $1,623,279.11 (5-0)
- Approved substitute rates for paraprofessionals, ETAs, Unit D positions, and custodians (5-0)
- Approved meeting minutes from 3/2/23, 3/16/23, and 3/16/23 joint meeting (5-0)
Housing Authority
The provided text is a Letter of Agency for changing telephone service providers to ESI Hosted Services, LLC. It is not a meeting agenda and contains no government decisions or discussions.
Fire District 2
The Water Commissioners for Fire District 2 in South Hadley, MA, are holding a regular monthly meeting to discuss the budget. The agenda lists only general budget discussion and other business, with no specific dollar amounts or line items provided in the notice. The meeting is scheduled for April 6, 2023, at the District #2 Station.
- Budget Discussion
- Other Business
Fire District 1
The Prudential Committee of Fire District No. 1 is holding a public meeting with an executive session to discuss an open meeting law complaint filed against the committee regarding its conduct at the March 8, 2023 meeting. The agenda includes only the call to order, the executive session, and a motion to adjourn.
- Executive session to discuss open meeting law complaint filed March 27, 2023
- Complaint concerns committee conduct at March 8, 2023 meeting
Fire District 1
The Fire District No. 1 Prudential Committee will meet to review departmental reports and discuss personnel and infrastructure updates. Key items include a wage reopener and IT firewall protection.
- Wage reopener per Union Contract Finalization
- Verizon Contract – Marshall Foote
- Complete IT Fire Wall Protection
Selectboard
The Selectboard will conduct a public hearing regarding the FY24 Budget. The body will also discuss wastewater rates, ARPA requests, and seasonal licensing.
- Public hearing for FY24 Budget
- One-Day Beer & Wine License Request from Karen Franz for May 2
- The Boathouse Seasonal License Approval
- Wastewater Rates discussion
- ARPA Requests
The Selectboard authorized the submission of a Statement of Interest to the Massachusetts School Building Authority for Mosier Elementary School. The board also allocated ARPA funding for the school department and approved a shared Facilities Department agreement.
- Authorized Statement of Interest for Mosier Elementary School (4-0-1)
- Approved $605,000 ARPA funding for school department FY25 and $293,000 for FY26 (4-0-1)
- Approved Memorandum of Agreement to create a shared Facilities Department (4-0-1)
- Approved 2023 seasonal alcohol license renewal for The Boathouse, including mobile bar use (Unanimous)
- Approved One-Day Beer & Wine License for Karen Franz for May 2 (Unanimous)
- Accepted March 21, 2023 draft minutes (Unanimous)
Tree Committee
The Tree Committee is meeting to discuss the timeline for Arbor Day and cleanup efforts for the Arboretum. The body will also consider ways to increase public awareness regarding the importance of the tree warden.
- Arboretum clean up
- Arbor Day progress and timeline
- Exposure for tree warden importance
The committee scheduled a cleanup day for April 14 and sent invitations for Arbor Day on April 28. Members discussed the vacant tree warden position and a grant application for a city-wide tree inventory. No formal votes were recorded.
- Scheduled cleanup day for April 14, 2:00-4:00 (Rain date April 15, 10:00-12:00)
- Sent invitations for Arbor Day on April 28, 2023
- Proposed fall visits to the arboretum to improve winter survival rates
Electric Light Department
The Board of Commissioners will hold a special virtual meeting. The primary purpose is to enter an executive session to discuss strategy regarding an open meeting law complaint.
- Executive session regarding open meeting law complaint litigation
Public Schools
The School Committee will meet to review a budget presentation and hear public comment. The body is scheduled to hold a discussion and vote regarding the budget.
- Budget presentation by Mark McLaughlin and Jennifer Voyik
- Public comment on the budget
- Vote on the budget
The School Committee held a public budget hearing featuring a presentation on enrollment, special education tuition, and state funding. The committee voted unanimously to accept the FY24 School Department budget request. No public comments were made during the hearing.
- Approved FY24 School Department’s Budget request of $24,526,460.00 (4-0)
Selectboard
The South Hadley Selectboard meets at 3:30 p.m. on March 28, 2023, at the Waste Water Treatment Plant located at 2 James St., Chicopee. The agenda consists solely of a call to order, a tour of the facility, and adjournment. No decisions, votes, or public hearings are listed on the agenda.
- Tour of the Waste Water Treatment Plant at 2 James St., Chicopee
Planning Board
The Planning Board will hold a public hearing regarding a special permit for a covered porch at 25 North Sycamore Knolls. The meeting also includes a discussion on proposed bylaws for short-term rentals and a report on the Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Bylaw.
- Special Permit request by Thomas R Reidy to expand a nonconforming structure at 25 North Sycamore Knolls
- Public hearing regarding proposed Short Term Rental General Bylaw and Short Term Rental Zoning Bylaw
- Discussion of Report to Town Meeting on Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Bylaw
The Planning Board approved sending proposed General and Zoning Short Term Rental Bylaws to the Selectboard for the May 2023 Town Meeting warrant. The Board also approved a report on the Accessory Dwelling Unit bylaw and granted a special permit for a home expansion.
- Approved General Short Term Rental Bylaw for May 2023 Town Meeting warrant (4-1)
- Approved Zoning Short Term Rental Bylaw for May 2023 Town Meeting warrant (4-1)
- Approved report to Town Meeting regarding proposed Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) bylaw (5-0)
- Approved special permit for covered porch expansion at 25 North Sycamore Knolls (4-0)
- Approved March 13 regular meeting and public hearing minutes (5-0)
Board of Assessors
The Board of Assessors will discuss the Fiscal 2024 budget and a draft ADU bylaw. The body will also vote on a request to abate old excise and review 12 abatement applications in executive session.
- Vote on request to abate old excise per M.G. L. Ch. 60A S.7
- Approval of additional Fiscal 2023 Personal Exemptions applications
- Discussion of draft ADU bylaw
- Review of Fiscal 2022 annual report
- Vote on 12 abatement applications in executive session
The Board approved February abatement reports and wrote off 102 uncollectible 2014 excise bills. The board also approved two tax exemptions and granted 90-day filing extensions to three entities. Members discussed a draft Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) bylaw and decided to seek clarification from the Director of Planning.
- Approved February monthly abatement reports (3-0)
- Approved abatements for 102 uncollectible 2014 excise bills totaling $6,264.28 (3-0)
- Denied fiscal year 2023 exemption request for Kenneth Watts (3-0)
- Approved two fiscal 2023 exemption applications totaling $800.00 (3-0)
- Approved 90-day filing extension for Robert F. Kennedy Action Corp (3-0)
- Approved 90-day filing extensions for Beers & Story and Vantage Health Care (3-0)
- Accepted the fiscal 2022 annual report as amended (3-0)
- Approved $25.22 mileage reimbursement for Melissa Couture Rimbold (3-0)
Capital Planning Committee
The committee is meeting to review departmental presentations and requests. Members will determine the process and timeline for ranking these requests and discuss the preparation of a report for the Selectboard and Town Meeting.
- Discussion of departmental presentations and requests
- Determination of evaluation and ranking process for requests
- Preparation of report to Selectboard and Town Meeting
The committee reviewed changes and new additions to the capital requests spreadsheet dated 03/27/2023. Members were informed that ranking sheets are due to the Town Administrator by April 6, with votes on recommendations scheduled for April 10.
- Approved minutes from 03/20/2023
Historical Commission
The Historical Commission will hold elections for Chair, Vice-Chair, and Clerk. The body will also discuss potential collaborations with Professor Joshua Roth and the Master Plan Implementation Committee.
- Election of Chair, Vice-Chair, and Clerk
- Request for sponsorship of 2023 historical tours from Robert Comeau
- Application to the National Register of Historic Places for the Old Firehouse Museum
- Review of FY 22 Annual Report
- Letter from Pioneer Valley Planning Commission regarding 17 Highland Drive
The Commission elected Bob Judge as Chair, Frank DeToma as Vice-Chair, and Emelie Lyszchyn as Clerk. The board voted to sponsor historical tours organized by Robert Comeau and declined to comment on a PVPC matter regarding 17 Highland Drive.
- Approved sponsorship of 2023 historical tours organized by Robert Comeau (unanimous)
- Elected Bob Judge as Chair (unanimous)
- Elected Frank DeToma as Vice-Chair (unanimous)
- Elected Emelie Lyszchyn as Clerk (unanimous)
- Voted to provide no comment to PVPC regarding 17 Highland Drive (unanimous)
Electric Light Department
The Board of Commissioners will meet to discuss the department's final strategic plan and manager's goals. The board is scheduled to vote on the designation of a voting representative for the New York Power Authority (NYPA).
- Vote on NYPA Designation of Voting Representative
- Review of Strategic Plan Final
- Discussion of Manager's Goals
- Review of Board Code of Conduct/Chapter 268A
Fire District 1
The Prudential Committee of Fire District No. 1 is holding a public meeting to discuss the budget and the date for the annual meeting. The agenda also includes confirmation of future agenda items and the next meeting date. No specific budget figures or decisions are listed in the notice.
- Budget discussion
- Annual Meeting Date Discussion
- New business unforeseen 48 hours or less before the meeting
- Confirmation of agenda items for future meetings and next meeting date
Planning and Conservation Department
The committee is meeting to review the draft Housing Needs and Demands Assessment. Members will discuss goals, strategies, and site selection for conceptual affordable housing development.
- Draft Housing Needs and Demands Assessment comment submittal
- Review of Housing Production Plan goals
- Review of Housing Production Plan strategies
- Site selection for conceptual affordable housing development
Selectboard
The South Hadley Selectboard will hold a hybrid meeting on March 21, 2023. They will enter executive session to discuss strategy regarding a collective bargaining or litigation matter related to an Open Meeting Law complaint. The board will also review the FY2024 budget presentation and consider adopting public comment rules.
- Executive session to discuss strategy re: March 9, 2023 Open Meeting Law complaint from Bob Authier
- FY2024 Budget Presentation
- Public Comment Rules discussion
- One-day beer and wine license request from Karen Franz for March 23
- Resignation of Marie Rohan from Commission on Disabilities
The Selectboard approved a one-day beer and wine license and updated the board's policy to rename 'Open Forum' as 'Public Comment.' The board also accepted the resignation of Marie Rohan from the Commission on Disabilities.
- Approved draft minutes of March 7, 2023 (Unanimous)
- Approved one-day beer and wine license for Karen Franz for March 23 (Unanimous)
- Accepted resignation of Marie Rohan from the Commission on Disabilities (Unanimous)
- Approved policy change renaming 'Open Forum' to 'Public Comment' (Unanimous)
Cultural Council
The Cultural Council is meeting to discuss the 2022 grant cycle and current council business. The body will review a request for additional funds from a grantee and plan a grantee reception.
- Request for additional funds from Caroline Martin for Children’s Concerts
- Planning for a Grantee Reception
- Update on Showcase South Hadley
- Creation of a calendar to publicize grantee events
The Council approved the February 28 meeting minutes and the treasurer's report. Members discussed the 2023 grant cycle, the hiring of a marketing consultant for Showcase South Hadley, and the potential addition of youth members to the council.
- Approved minutes from Feb. 28 meeting
- Approved Treasurer's Report
- Hired Laudable Productions as marketing consultant for Showcase South Hadley
Sustainability & Energy Commission
The Sustainability and Energy Commission will meet virtually to discuss ongoing business. Discussion topics include updates to the Green Communities incentives flier, MEI data, and Library HotPlate.
- Green Communities Incentives Flier update
- MEI Data discussion
- Library HotPlate discussion
Fire District 1
The Board of Water Commissioners will meet to discuss and potentially vote on the FY24 budget and water rates. The board will also address infrastructure and equipment matters.
- FY24 Budget discussion and vote
- Water Rate discussion and possible vote
- Verizon wireless on Alvord St tank
- Implementation of Leaping wells Dam Safety Report recommendations
Capital Planning Committee
The Capital Planning Committee will meet to hear presentations on capital requests from several town departments. The body will discuss these requests and determine the next steps in the planning process.
- Police Department capital requests
- Department of Public Works capital requests
- Waste Water Treatment Plant capital requests
- Public Schools capital requests
The committee reviewed capital requests from the Police, DPW, School District, and Water Treatment Plant. Several vehicle and equipment replacements were pushed to 2025 or 2026 to manage budget constraints. The committee also discussed the need for a new Comprehensive Wastewater Management Plan and potential sewer rate increases.
- Approved minutes from 3/13/2023
- Deleted WTTP forklift request
- Moved WTTP Sewer Jetter/Vac Truck to 2025 or later
- Moved WTTP Pickup #20 to 2025
- Moved DPW Truck #39, Truck #8, and Truck #31 to 2026
- Moved Landfill Truck #13 to future years
- Removed Landfill container and flatbed from capital items
Planning Board
The Planning Board revised draft short-term rental (STR) bylaws to limit individuals to one license and require Site Plan Review for STRs in business zoning districts. The public hearing on these bylaws was continued to March 27, 2023, pending review by Town Counsel.
- Approved March 6 regular meeting minutes as amended (5-0)
- Revised draft STR zoning bylaw to require Site Plan Review for all STRs in business zoning districts (4-1)
- Revised STR bylaw to limit individuals to one short-term rental license (5-0)
- Continued STR public hearing to March 27, 2023 (5-0)
Public Schools
The Selectboard and School Committee approved a Memorandum of Agreement to establish a shared Facilities Department overseen by the Superintendent and Town Administrator. The Selectboard also approved specific ARPA funding allocations for FY25 and FY26.
- Approved $605,000 in ARPA funding for FY25 and $293,000 for FY26 (4-0-1)
- Selectboard approved Memorandum of Agreement to create shared Facilities Department (4-0-1)
- School Committee approved Memorandum of Agreement to create shared Facilities Department (5-0)
Fire District 2
The Water Commissioners will review warrants, balances, and the budget. Discussion includes updates on an isotope study and drought regulations, as well as 2023 capital projects.
- Isotope Study Update
- Drought Regulation Update
- 2023 Capital Projects: Faculty Lane, Stanton Ave., Wright Place, Burnett Ave, Tank Cleaning, Hydrants and Building Server
- Budget review
Public Schools
The School Committee will meet via Zoom to approve spending warrants and discuss school operations. The body will vote on a Memorandum of Agreement regarding Speech & Language Pathology Assistants and a 7th grade field trip.
- Approval of Warrant #2023-210 for $243,128.53
- Approval of March 16, 2023 Biweekly Payroll for $775,449.37
- MOA regarding oversight of Speech & Language Pathology Assistants
- MESMS 7th Grade Bronx Zoo Field Trip
- Approval of School Choice openings
The School Committee approved a memorandum of agreement for a pilot program to hire speech and language assistants. The board also authorized school choice openings by grade and approved a 7th grade field trip to the Bronx Zoo.
- Approved MOA for speech and language pathology assistants pilot program (5-0)
- Approved MESMS 7th grade Bronx Zoo field trip (5-0)
- Approved school choice openings as presented (5-0)
- Approved Warrant #2023-210 for $243,128.53 (4-0, 1 abstention)
- Approved biweekly payroll warrant for $775,449.37 (5-0)
Commission on Disabilities
The Commission on Disabilities will meet to review the status of the Master Plan and a letter of support for Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs). The body will also discuss accessibility improvements and review agenda accommodation language.
- Master Plan updates regarding accessibility improvements and Human Rights Commission
- ADU letter of support
- Review of agenda accommodation language
- Approval of minutes from November 30, 2022, December 14, 2022, and February 15, 2023
The Commission on Disabilities voted to support the use of Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) and adopted state law allowing remote meetings without a quorum. The commission also authorized a representative to support remote meetings in the future.
- Approved minutes from Oct. 19 2022, Dec. 14 2022, and Feb. 15 2023 (unanimous)
- Adopted Mass general law Part 1 Title 3 Chapter 38 Section 20E for remote meetings not subject to a Quorum (unanimous)
- Approved sending a letter in support of ADUs (unanimous)
- Authorized Tay to represent the COD in supporting remote meetings in the future (unanimous)
Conservation Commission
The Conservation Commission will meet virtually to discuss a request for extension of conditions for Orchards Golf Club. The body will also consider a Social Justice Trailhead Statement and review the February 15, 2023 meeting minutes.
- Request for Extension Orchards Golf Club of Conditions #288-0463
- Social Justice Trailhead Statement
The Commission approved a three-year extension for the Orchards Golf Club's Orders of Condition. Members also approved a revised social justice statement for trailhead kiosks. The State Attorney General's Office approved the town's most recent Wetlands Bylaw revision.
- Approved March 1, 2023 meeting minutes (4-0-2)
- Approved three-year extension of OOC #288-0463 for Orchards Golf Club (6-0)
- Approved revised social justice trailhead statement (6-0)
Fire District 1
The Fire District No. 1 Prudential Committee will meet to discuss the budget and the date for the Annual Meeting. The committee also intends to adopt Acts of 2018 Chapter 407.
- Adoption of Acts of 2018 Chapter 407
- Budget discussion
- Annual Meeting date discussion
Board of Health
The meeting scheduled for March 14, 2023, was cancelled due to weather. The agenda included planned ratifications of emergency orders to vacate properties and updates on COVID-19 and the Master Plan.
- Emergency Order to Vacate – 76 Alvord Street (Ratify)
- Emergency Order to Vacate – 100 Abbey Street (Ratify)
- COVID-19 Report including wastewater testing and vaccine clinics
- Master Plan update
- Glufosinate/Glyphosate Regulation signing
Fire District 1
The Prudential Committee will meet to discuss the budget and the adoption of Acts of 2018 Chapter 407. The meeting includes time for unforeseen new business and scheduling future meetings.
- Adoption of Acts of 2018 Chapter 407
- Budget discussion
Recreation Commission
The South Hadley Recreation Commission will meet to review the FY2024 budget and the Buttery Brook Park PARC Grant. The commission will also discuss the SHHS Turf Scoreboard and spring/summer activities.
- Budget FY2024
- Buttery Brook Park PARC Grant
- SHHS Turf Scoreboard
- Spring/Summer Activities
- Taylor Volunteer of the Year Award
The Commission approved the bills payable and the minutes from the January 10, 2023 meeting. Members discussed ongoing budget planning, grant applications for Buttery Brook Park, and upcoming seasonal sports programs.
- Approved January 10, 2023 minutes (8-0)
- Approved bills payable (8-0)
Board of Health
The South Hadley Board of Health will hold a hybrid meeting to ratify two emergency orders to vacate properties at 76 Alvord Street and 100 Abbey Street. The agenda includes a COVID-19 update covering wastewater testing and vaccine clinics, as well as a status update on the Master Plan. The board is also scheduled to sign a regulation regarding Glufosinate/Glyphosate.
- Ratification of Emergency Order to Vacate – 76 Alvord Street
- Ratification of Emergency Order to Vacate – 100 Abbey Street
- Sign Glufosinate/Glyphosate Regulation
- COVID-19 Update including wastewater testing and vaccine clinics
- Master Plan Update
Appropriations Committee
The South Hadley Appropriations Committee will meet virtually to discuss new business, including a clerk appointment and the FY24 budget. The agenda is brief and may not cover all listed topics.
- Clerk appointment
- FY 24 budget discussion
Capital Planning Committee
The Capital Planning Committee will conduct site visits at Buttery Brook Park and Ledges Golf Course. The body will also review capital requests from the Recreation Department and Ledges Golf Course.
- Tour of Buttery Brook Park
- Tour of Ledges Golf Course
- Capital requests from Recreation Department
- Capital requests from Ledges Golf Course
The committee reviewed several capital requests for the Ledges Golf Course and the Recreation Department. No votes were taken on the funding requests; the only formal action was the approval of the previous meeting's minutes.
- Approved minutes from 2/27/2023
Planning Board
The Planning Board will hold a public hearing regarding a zoning change for properties on Granby Road. The board will also consider an illuminated sign request for White Wing Convenience Store and Gas Station.
- Zoning map amendment to change 280 and 286 Granby Road from Residence A-1 to Business A
- Illuminated wall sign request for White Wing Convenience Store and Gas Station at 568 Newton Street
Planning Board
The South Hadley Planning Board will hold a virtual public hearing to discuss a petition from RLB Management. The petitioner seeks to change the zoning designation of a 3.17-acre tract of land from Residence A-1 to Business A.
- Zoning Map Amendment request for 280 and 286 Granby Road (Assessor’s Map 15 Parcels 122, 123, 124, 125, 175, 176 and 113)
Fire District 2
The Prudential Committee will meet to review warrants and approve minutes from February meetings. The committee will also discuss the budget and the employee policy handbook.
- Review of warrants
- Approval of February 9 and February 15, 2023 meeting minutes
- Fire Chief and Ambulance report
- Employee Policy/Handbook discussion
- Budget review
Fire District 1
The Prudential Committee of Fire District No. 1 is meeting to discuss the annual election and annual meeting. No other substantive business is listed on the agenda.
- Annual Election and Annual Meeting discussion
Selectboard
The Selectboard will conduct a public hearing regarding heavy commercial vehicle exclusions on several town roads. Members will also review ARPA funding requests and the draft FY2024 budget.
- Public hearing on heavy commercial vehicle exclusion for Spring Street, Hartford Street, Smith Street, and Ludlow Road
- ARPA request for COA Medical Transportation Program: $10,000
- ARPA request for multiple purpose audio visual room funding
- Presentation of FY2024 Draft Budget
- Beer and wine license requests for Jeff Milard and David Smith
The Selectboard established a rule restricting heavy commercial vehicles over 2 1/2 tons on Spring Street, Hartford Street, Smith Street, and Ludlow Road. The board also approved $80,000 in ARPA funds for Senior Center improvements and extended the Republic trash contract.
- Restricted heavy commercial vehicles (>2 1/2 tons) on Spring, Hartford, Smith, and Ludlow Streets (Unanimous)
- Approved $10,000 ARPA funds for Senior Center medical transportation (Unanimous)
- Approved $70,000 ARPA funds for Senior Center Multi-Purpose Room audio visual improvements (Unanimous)
- Extended Republic trash/recycling contract for one year (Unanimous)
- Approved April 11, 2023 annual town election warrant (Unanimous)
- Approved beer and wine licenses for Jeff Millard and David Smith (Unanimous)
- Accepted resignation of Jose Vazquez from Historical Commission (Unanimous)
- Appointed members to Council on Aging, Bike/Walk Committee, Historical Commission, Human Rights Commission, Recreation Commission, and Commission on Disabilities (Unanimous)
Capital Planning Committee
The Capital Planning Committee will meet to tour the police station and hear presentations on capital requests. These requests are being submitted by the Police Department, DPW, and Wastewater Treatment.
- Police Department capital requests
- DPW capital requests
- Wastewater Treatment capital requests
- Tour of the Police Station
The meeting scheduled for March 6, 2023, was cancelled. No substantive decisions were made.
Conservation Commission
The Conservation Commission subcommittee is meeting as a working group to address specific tasks. The primary focus of this session is a discussion regarding Growing Wild South Hadley.
- Discussion on Growing Wild South Hadley
The Commission confirmed a collaboration with the Massachusetts Pollinator Network for two spring lectures at the South Hadley Library. Members discussed the potential giveaway of herbaceous plugs and a possible garden tour.
- Confirmed 'How to Create Natural Ecosystems in Your Yard' lecture for May 11
- Confirmed 'Transform Your Yard to Support Pollinators: A 12 Step Program' lecture for June 8
Planning Board
The Planning Board will discuss referring a draft Accessory Dwelling Unit bylaw to the Selectboard for the May 2023 Town Meeting Warrant. The board will also review a sign request for a local business.
- Illuminated sign request for WhiteWing Convenience Store and Gas Station at 568 Newton Street
- Discussion on draft Accessory Dwelling Unit bylaw
The Board approved revisions to the draft Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Bylaw and voted to submit it to the Selectboard for the May 2023 Town Meeting Warrant. A proposal to increase permitting requirements for detached ADUs from Site Plan Review to Special Permit was denied. A request for a new illuminated sign at White Wing Convenience Store was continued for further clarity.
- Approved revisions to draft ADU Bylaw including footnotes in the use regulation schedule (5-0)
- Denied motion to change detached ADU permitting from Site Plan Review to Special Permit (1-4)
- Approved submission of draft ADU Bylaw to Selectboard for May 2023 Town Meeting Warrant (4-1)
- Continued illuminated sign request for 568 Newton Street to March 13, 2023 (5-0)
Master Plan Implementation Committee
The committee is meeting to discuss the status of the Master Plan implementation task list and bylaw drafts. The session includes updates on meetings held with other boards and committees.
- Approval of Feb. 2, 2023 meeting minutes
- Bylaw draft status review
- Update to MPIC task list
- Reports on meetings with boards and committees
The committee approved the minutes from the February 2, 2023 meeting. Members discussed status updates for task lists and reported on meetings with other boards, including the Council on Aging and the ZBA. The committee noted that a bylaw draft likely will not be ready for the May Town Meeting.
- Approved Feb. 2, 2023 meeting minutes (6-1 abstention)
Public Schools
The South Hadley School Committee will vote on approving a Washington DC trip for MESMS and the FY24 school calendar. They will also discuss upcoming budget meetings and a memorandum of agreement regarding clinical fellows. Other items include routine approvals of warrants and minutes.
- Vote on MESMS Washington DC trip
- Vote on FY24 calendar approval
- Approval of warrants totaling $903,692.58
- National Merit Scholarship Finalist recognition
- Grinspoon Foundation Teaching Excellence Awards
The School Committee approved the FY24 school calendar and a Spring 2023 trip to Washington D.C. for Michael E. Smith Middle School. The committee also approved a memorandum of agreement to allow the supervision of a Speech and Language Pathology Clinical Fellow.
- Approved FY24 calendar (3-0)
- Approved Michael E. Smith Middle School Washington D.C. trip for Spring 2023 (4-0)
- Approved MOA regarding supervision of clinical fellows in the district (4-0)
- Approved warrants dated 2/14/23 ($151,192.67), 2/17/23 ($1,000.23), and 3/2/23 ($751,499.73) (3-0)
- Approved minutes from 2/16/2023 (4-0)
Capital Planning Committee
The Capital Planning Committee is meeting to review capital requests from the Library, Planning & Conservation, and Maintenance & Facilities departments. The agenda also includes a tour of the library and discussion of how capital projects align with the Master Plan. No decisions or votes are listed beyond approval of minutes.
- Presentation of capital requests from the Library
- Presentation of capital requests from Planning & Conservation
- Presentation of capital requests from Maintenance & Facilities
- Discussion of capital projects in relation to the Master Plan
- Tour of the South Hadley Library
The committee approved the minutes from the February 6, 2023 meeting. Members toured the library and discussed facility maintenance, solar panel requests, and the Leaping Well Trailhead project, though no formal actions were taken on these items.
- Approved minutes from 02/6/2023 (6-0)
Conservation Commission
The Conservation Commission will discuss Master Plan goals and objectives. The body will also consider requests for Certificates of Compliance for three specific properties.
- Certificate of Compliance request for Ledges Golf Course O&M OOC (#288-0437)
- Certificate of Compliance request for 3 Ethan Circle OOC (#288-0429)
- Certificate of Compliance request for 2 Ethan Circle OOC (#288-0429)
- Proposed name change for Newton-Carver-Jones Conservation Area
- Discussion of Growing Wild South Hadley
The Conservation Commission approved the release of two lots in the Ethan Circle Subdivision from their Order of Conditions. The board also discussed renaming the Newton-Carver-Jones Conservation Area and provided updates for the Master Plan Implementation Committee.
- Approved February 1, 2023 meeting minutes as revised (5-0)
- Issued partial certificates of compliance to 2 and 3 Ethan Circle to release lots from Order of Conditions #288-0429 (5-0)
Cultural Council
The Council is reviewing the status of the 2022 grant cycle, including specific grantee requests and outstanding paperwork. The meeting also includes a report from the Master Plan Implementation Committee and an update on Showcase South Hadley.
- Review of 'Music for the Soul' grant outcome
- Grant consolidation request from Diana Alvarez
- Date and participant description change request from Maureen Shea
- Review of grantees with outstanding paperwork
- Update on Showcase South Hadley
The Council approved requests from Art at Home and the Hampshire Young People’s Chorus to move 2022 funded events into 2023. It also approved the consolidation of a grant for the Quiero Volver project with two other LCC grants. The Council reviewed the Treasurer's Report showing total funds of $5,330.86 as of December 31, 2022.
- Approved January 17 meeting minutes
- Approved Treasurer's Report
- Approved event date moves to 2023 for Art at Home and Hampshire Young People’s Chorus
- Approved consolidation of Quiero Volver project grant with two LCC grants
- Set next meeting for March 21 at 5:30 p.m.
Planning Board
The Planning Board will hold a public hearing to discuss proposing articles to Town Meeting for a new Accessory Dwelling Unit Zoning Bylaw. The board will also consider an extension request for a retail store development at 501 Newton Street.
- Public hearing for a new Accessory Dwelling Unit Zoning Bylaw
- Extension request for Site Plan Review and Stormwater Management Permit for South Hadley Plaza, LLC at 501 Newton Street
Planning Board
The South Hadley Planning Board will conduct a virtual public hearing to discuss proposing articles to Town Meeting. The discussion focuses on the creation of a new Accessory Dwelling Unit Zoning Bylaw.
- Public hearing on proposed Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Zoning Bylaw
Planning and Conservation Department
The Housing Production Plan Advisory Committee is reviewing a draft assessment of housing needs and demands. The meeting includes discussions on proposed goals, strategies, and site selection for conceptual affordable housing development.
- Draft Housing Needs and Demands Assessment
- Draft Housing Production Plan Goals
- Draft Housing Production Plan Strategies
- Site Selection for Conceptual Affordable Housing Development
Fire District 2
The Water Commissioners for Fire District No. 2 will meet to review the budget and provide updates on drought regulations and an isotope study. The body will also discuss 2023 capital projects located at Brockway and Morgan St.
- 2023 Capital Projects (Brockway and Morgan St.)
- Budget review
- Isotope Study Update
- Drought Regulation Update
- Review of warrants, balances, charts, and overdue bills
Electric Light Department
The Board of Commissioners will hold a virtual meeting to discuss the strategic plan, employee survey, and November 2022 financials. The board will also vote on a MMWEC voting representative and consider entering executive session to discuss trade secrets and confidential information.
- Vote on MMWEC Designation of Voting Representative
- Discussion of Strategic Plan
- Review of Employee Survey
- November 2022 Financials review
- Move to Executive Session for trade secrets and confidential information
Appropriations Committee
The Appropriations Committee is meeting to discuss the School Department budget for fiscal year 2023-24.
- School Department FY23-24 budget
Sustainability & Energy Commission
The Sustainability and Energy Commission will meet virtually to discuss old business items including Green Communities, an incentives flier update, data input for the MEI system, and a library hot plate. New business includes adding an intern and defining their role and responsibilities, as well as discussing the Master Plan. The meeting is open to the public via Zoom.
- Green Communities discussion
- Incentives flier update
- Helping input data to MEI system
- Library Hot Plate item
- Adding SEC intern and writing role and responsibilities
Selectboard
The Selectboard will conduct public hearings regarding an E-Ink flammable storage license and the Trash/Recycle contract. The meeting also includes tri-annual interviews for various town commissions and discussions on the FY24 budget.
- Public hearing: E-Ink Flammable Storage License
- Public hearing: Trash/Recycle Contract
- Tri-annual interviews for Bike/Walk, Historical Commission, and Recreation Commission
- One-Day Beer & Wine License Request for Karen Franz
- Discussion of FY24 Budget
The Selectboard approved the town's participation in several national opioid settlements and appointed William Sutton as Town Accountant. The board also adopted a remote participation policy for multi-member bodies and granted a flammable storage license for 7 Gaylord Street.
- Granted flammable storage license to 7 Gaylord Street (Unanimous)
- Authorized Town Administrator to sign Allergan, Teva, CVS, Walgreens and Walmart settlement forms (Unanimous)
- Appointed William Sutton as Town Accountant for a five-year term starting Jan. 1, 2023 (Unanimous)
- Adopted Remote Participation Policy for all future multi-member body meetings (Unanimous)
- Appointed subcommittee of Cyr and Miles to negotiate Town Administrator contract (Unanimous)
- Accepted resignations of Pamela Peck, Raghu Raghavan, and Jennifer Deforge (Unanimous)
- Approved draft minutes of Feb. 7 and Feb. 9, 2023 (Unanimous)
- Approved consent agenda (Unanimous)
Fire District 1
The Prudential Committee will review reports from the Chief, Ambulance, and Clerk/Treasurer. The body will discuss the FY24 budget and enter executive session to discuss collective bargaining strategy with the SH Dist. 1 Professional Firefighters Association.
- FY24 Budget Discussion
- Collective bargaining strategy with SH Dist. 1 Professional Firefighters Association
- Verizon Zoom with Marshall Foote
- Ambulance Adjustments
Public Schools
The School Committee will vote on warrants totaling over $1.7 million and approve minutes from prior meetings. They will also discuss the 2023-2024 budget, estimated signage costs for the Plains renaming initiative, and enhanced programming at Michael E. Smith Middle School. Additionally, the committee will consider contracts for the Superintendent and Assistant Superintendent of Finance.
- Approval of warrants totaling $1,740,450.42 for January 31, February 7, and February 16, 2023
- Estimated signage costs associated with the Plains renaming initiative
- 2023-2024 budget update
- Possibilities for enhanced programming at Michael E. Smith Middle School & Beyond
- Interim Superintendent contract and Assistant Superintendent for Finance and Business Operations contract
The School Committee approved several financial warrants and updated the field trip and excursions Form A to ensure equity and accessibility. The committee also received reports on a recent lockdown at South Hadley High School and a proposal for enhanced programming at Michael E. Smith Middle School.
- Approved Warrant #2023-183 for $417,469.34 (3-2)
- Approved Warrant #2023-191 for $234,640.55 and biweekly payroll for $1,088,465.53 (4-1)
- Approved minutes from 1/26/2023 (5-0)
- Approved minutes from 2/2/2023 (5-0)
- Approved updated field trip and excursions Form A (5-0)
Fire District 1
The Board of Water Commissioners will meet to discuss the Fiscal Year 2024 budget. The meeting also includes the approval of minutes from the February 2, 2023, meeting.
- FY24 Budget discussion
Commission on Disabilities
The Commission on Disabilities will meet to discuss accessibility improvements and the proposed Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) bylaw. The body will also review accommodation language and previous meeting minutes.
- Proposed Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Bylaw
- Accessibility improvements and recommendations
- Human Rights Commission and MP initiatives
- Accommodation language
The commission discussed the planning board's proposal for Accessory Dwelling Units and expressed support for both attached and detached units. Members suggested encouraging ADA-accessible designs for these units to assist seniors and people with disabilities.
- Expressed support for attached and detached ADU proposal
- Recommended encouraging ADA-accessible designs for ADUs
- Adjourned meeting at 5:51 pm (unanimous)
Fire District 2
The Prudential Committee is meeting to discuss the budget. The agenda also includes an executive session to discuss the results and resolution of an investigation into a complaint against a member of the organization.
- Budget discussion
- Executive session regarding an investigation into a complaint against a member
Board of Health
The Board of Health will review the Rental Registry Regulation and discuss the regional cannabis industry. The meeting includes updates on COVID-19, the Buttery Brook Watershed Restoration reports, and septic systems at Skinner Woods Estates.
- Review and discussion of Rental Registry Regulation
- Overview of Buttery Brook Watershed Restoration Reports from Fuss & O’Neill, Inc.
- Update on septic systems at Skinner Woods Estates
- Overview of the Cannabis Control Commission
- Board Member sign-off on Glufosinate/Glyphosate Regulation
The Board of Health approved the glufosinate and glyphosate regulation pending specific definition changes. The Board also agreed to nominate Jessica Collins to the Human Rights Commission. Other items, including a rental registry and health equity framework, remain under review.
- Approved glufosinate and glyphosate regulation pending definition changes (Unanimous)
- Agreed to nominate Jessica Collins to the Human Rights Commission
- Accepted January 10, 2023 meeting minutes (Unanimous)
Council on Aging
The South Hadley Council on Aging Board of Directors is meeting to review participation and visitor policies. The board is discussing a letter of support for a February 27 public hearing regarding accessory dwelling unit (ADU) bylaws. The meeting also includes a review of the FY 2024 budget.
- Policy approval for Standards of Participation
- Policy approval for Visitors Under 18 years of age
- Letter of support for Feb. 27 public hearing on ADU bylaws
- Review of FY 2024 budget
- Discussion on recording Board of Directors meetings
The Board approved a letter of support for Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) and adopted new guidelines for visitors under 18 at the Senior Center. The Board also decided not to record its meetings. A comprehensive policy on standards of participation is currently being developed with the Town Attorney.
- Approved January 2023 minutes as amended (unanimous)
- Approved guidelines for visitors under 18 years of age (unanimous)
- Approved letter of support for ADU bylaws (unanimous)
- Decided not to pursue recording of Board of Directors meetings (unanimous)
Fire District 2
The Prudential Committee will review warrants and approve minutes from January 12 meetings. They will discuss Elmer Brook parking, the annual report picture, and the SHFD2 election scheduled for April 11, 2023. An executive session is planned to discuss a complaint investigation.
- Review and approval of warrants per Sections 57-58 of the Municipal Modernization Act
- Approval of minutes from January 12, 2023 Joint PC and WC Meeting and PC Meeting
- Discussion of Elmer Brook Parking with the Water Superintendent
- Announcement of SHFD2 Election on April 11, 2023 at South Hadley High School
- Executive session to discuss results of an investigation into a complaint against a member
Selectboard
The Selectboard and Appropriations Committee are holding a joint meeting to conduct general discussions on the FY2024 Budget. The meeting includes budget presentations from several town departments.
- FY2024 Budget general discussion
- Budget presentations from Clerk/Elections, Council on Aging, and Health
- Budget presentations from Inspectional Services, IT, and Library
- Budget presentations from Planning/Conservation, Recreation/Ledges, and Veterans
The Selectboard and Appropriations Committee met to review the draft FY24 budget. Department heads from several town services presented their respective budgets. No formal votes on budget approvals were recorded.
- Reviewed draft FY24 budget
- Heard budget presentations from town clerk, COA, health, inspection services, IT, library, planning/conservation, recreation/Ledges, and veteran departments
Appropriations Committee
The committee is holding a joint meeting to conduct general discussions on the FY2024 Budget. The session includes budget presentations from several town departments.
- FY2024 Budget general discussion
- Budget presentations for Clerk/Elections, Council on Aging, and Health
- Budget presentations for Inspectional Services, IT, and Library
- Budget presentations for Planning/Conservation, Recreation/Ledges, and Veterans
Board of Assessors
The Board of Assessors will review December and January monthly reports and consider Fiscal 2023 Personal Exemption applications. The meeting also includes discussion regarding the Fiscal 2024 Budget and the upcoming meeting schedule.
- Approval of December 21, 2022 minutes
- Review of Fiscal 2024 Budget, narrative, and goals
- Approval of December and January monthly reports
- Approval of additional Fiscal 2023 Personal Exemption applications and reversals
- Executive Session: Discussion/Vote on 14 Abatement Applications
The Board of Assessors approved the Fiscal 2024 budget submission, narrative, and departmental goals. The board also approved abatement reports for December and January, as well as five additional exemption applications for fiscal 2023.
- Approved minutes from December 21, 2022 (3-0)
- Approved bills for CAI ($587.50), Melissa Couture Rimbold ($84.25), and Marcus Printing ($245.00) (3-0)
- Approved Fiscal 2024 budget submission, narrative, and departmental goals (3-0)
- Approved December abatement reports for motor vehicle and boat excise (3-0)
- Approved January abatement reports for motor vehicle, boat, and real estate excise (3-0)
- Approved five additional fiscal 2023 exemption applications totaling $2,237.50 (3-0)
- Rescinded fiscal 2023 exemption for Mooney, map 20 parcel 76 unit 74 in the amount of $400.00 (3-0)
Appropriations Committee
The body is holding a joint meeting to conduct general discussions regarding the FY2024 budget. The meeting includes budget presentations from several town departments.
- FY2024 Budget general discussion
- Department of Public Works budget presentation
- Wastewater Treatment Plant budget presentation
- Building Operations/Facilities budget presentation
- Police and Cable budget presentations
Fire District 2
The Water Commissioners of Fire District No. 2 will hold a regular monthly meeting to discuss several operational items. The body will review the budget and drought regulation updates.
- Drought Regulation Update
- Isotope MOA
- Lythia Springs Parking Area
- Budget
Selectboard
The Selectboard and Appropriations Committee will hold a joint meeting to conduct general discussions on the FY2024 Budget. The meeting includes budget presentations from several town departments.
- FY2024 Budget general discussion
- Department of Public Works budget presentation
- Wastewater Treatment Plant budget presentation
- Building Operations/Facilities budget presentation
- Police and Cable budget presentations
Town Administrator Lisa Wong reviewed the draft FY24 budget and noted that state revenues have not yet been set, preventing the budget from being balanced. Department heads for DPW, WWTP, facilities, police, and the cable studio presented their respective budgets. No formal votes on budget approvals were recorded.
Selectboard
The Selectboard will hold a public hearing regarding Iona’s Kitchen beer and wine license. The meeting also includes discussions on various town contracts, zoning amendments, and the police collective bargaining agreement.
- Public Hearing: Iona’s Kitchen General On Premise Beer & Wine License
- Petition to Amend Zoning at 460 Amherst Road
- Petition to Amend Zoning at 280 & 286 Granby Road
- Landfill Post Closure Contract
- Police Collective Bargaining Agreement
The Selectboard approved a police unit contract through June 30, 2025, and granted a beer and wine license to Iona’s Kitchen. The board also authorized ARPA funding for a school department consultant and referred two zoning amendment petitions to the Planning Board.
- Approved general on-premise beer and wine license for Iona’s Kitchen (Unanimous)
- Certified temporary increased population of 18,150 as of July 1, 2023 (Unanimous)
- Amended Town Common use for SHOWCASE South Hadley festival to Oct. 7 & 8 (Unanimous)
- Referred zoning amendment at 460 Amherst Road to Planning Board (Unanimous)
- Referred zoning amendment at 280 & 286 Granby Road to Planning Board (Unanimous)
- Accepted MOA with MASSCOP, Local 428 for police contract July 1, 2022 to June 30, 2025 (Unanimous)
- Extended contract with Tighe and Bond for Landfill Post Closure Services (Unanimous)
- Approved up to $10,000 in ARPA funds for school department SOI consultant (Passed; 1 abstention)
Planning Board
The Planning Board will hold a public hearing to discuss proposing new Short-Term Rental General and Zoning Bylaws to Town Meeting. The board will also consider minutes, correspondence, and a report from the Planning & Conservation Department.
- Public hearing on proposed Short-Term Rental General Bylaw and Zoning Bylaw
- Planning & Conservation Department Report on Planning Projects and Development Updates
- Open Comment Period for public input
The Board held a public hearing to discuss proposed General and Zoning bylaws for short-term rentals. Following public testimony, the Board voted to continue the hearing to a later date to allow for further feedback and draft revisions.
- Approved December 19, 2022 meeting minutes as revised (4-0, 1 abstention)
- Approved January 9 and 23, 2023 meeting minutes as revised (5-0)
- Continued short-term rental bylaw public hearing to March 20, 2023 (5-0)
Planning Board
The South Hadley Planning Board is holding a virtual public hearing to discuss proposing two new bylaws to Town Meeting. These proposals include a Short Term Rental General Bylaw and a Short Term Rental Zoning Bylaw.
- Public hearing on Proposed New Short Term Rental General Bylaw
- Public hearing on Proposed New Short Term Rental Zoning Bylaw
Capital Planning Committee
The committee is meeting to review the FY24 Draft Capital Plan and the development of a 5-year capital plan. Members will also discuss the Mosier School and the FY24 budget for facilities and capital.
- FY24 Draft Capital Plan
- 5 Year Capital Plan Development
- Mosier School discussion
- FY24 Budget for Facilities/Capital
- Tour of Senior Center
The committee approved the minutes from May 3, 2022, and December 21, 2022. Members discussed the FY2024 Draft Capital Plan, including potential costs for the Mosier School study and the goal to keep the projected budget between $1.3M and $1.5M.
- Approved minutes from 5/3/2022 and 12/21/2022
Master Plan Implementation Committee
The Master Plan Implementation Committee is meeting virtually to approve minutes from a previous meeting and discuss November status updates. The committee will also consider February check-ins with other boards and committees, criteria for adding or removing tasks, and a draft of bylaws.
- Approval of the minutes from the Jan. 5, 2023 meeting
- Discussion of November status updates
- Consideration of February check-ins with boards and committees
- Criteria for adding or removing tasks
- Review of bylaws draft
The committee approved the January 5, 2023, meeting minutes. Members discussed aligning Master Plan status updates with the Annual Town Meeting and proposed a new reporting schedule. The committee noted that draft bylaws will be brought to the Planning Board for discussion, potentially for the fall Town Meeting.
- Approved Jan. 5, 2023 meeting minutes
Master Plan Implementation Committee
The committee is meeting to review status updates and establish criteria for adding or removing tasks. The agenda includes a review of a bylaws draft and planning for February check-ins with other boards and committees.
- Review of bylaws draft
- Establishment of criteria for adding/removing tasks
- November status updates
- Planning for February check-ins with boards and committees
The committee approved the minutes from the January 5, 2023 meeting. Members discussed the timing and process for gathering status updates from town entities and the potential timeline for presenting draft bylaws to the Planning Board.
- Approved January 5, 2023 meeting minutes
Fire District 1
The Board of Water Commissioners will meet to discuss the FY24 budget and capital expenditures. The board will also review leak detection survey results and the backhoe account.
- FY24 Budget discussion
- Capital discussion
- Leak detection Survey Results
- Backhoe account discussion
Tree Committee
The Tree Committee is meeting to discuss filling a tree warden vacancy. The body will also review the Arbor Day checklist and plans for arboretum cleanup.
- Tree warden vacancy
- Arbor Day checklist
- Arboretum cleanup
Public Schools
The South Hadley School Committee will vote on approval of warrants for January 17, January 24, and a biweekly payroll, totaling $1,576,545.81. They will also discuss budget updates, Chapter 70 funding, and an update on the Plains Renaming Project. The meeting includes reports from the Superintendent, Student Representative, and a presentation of the All-State School Committee Award to Chair Allison Schlachter.
- Vote on warrants totaling $1,576,545.81 (Warrant #2023-171, #2023-177, and biweekly payroll)
- Budget Update from Superintendent Mark McLaughlin and Assistant Superintendent Jenn Voyik
- Information on Chapter 70 funding
- Update on Plains Renaming Project
- All-State School Committee Award presented to Chair Allison Schlachter
The School Committee unanimously approved three payment warrants totaling $1,576,545.81. The committee also received updates on the budget process and the Plains renaming project.
- Approved Warrant #2023-171 ($299,850.32) (5-0)
- Approved Warrant #2023-177 ($297,567.17) (5-0)
- Approved Bi-weekly payroll dated February 2, 2023 ($979,128.32) (5-0)
- Entered executive session for strategy sessions regarding nonunion personnel negotiations (5-0)
Conservation Commission
The Conservation Commission will meet to discuss the acquisition of land at 120 River Road and the addition of the Town as a co-holder for the Lauzier Farm APR acquisition. The body will also consider the FY24 Conservation Lands Management Plan.
- Land acquisition: 120 River Road
- Lauzier Farm: adding the Town as a co-holder to APR acquisition
- Conservation Lands Management Plan FY24
- Administrative Review: Mount Holyoke College Upper Lake Outfall Maintenance (Order of Conditions #288-0396)
The Commission approved the Town as a co-holder for the Lauzier Farm Agricultural Preservation Restriction and authorized funds for a title search and survey of 120 River Road. Administrative approval was granted for outfall maintenance at Mount Holyoke College. The Commission also discussed renaming the Carver Newton Jones Conservation Area and revising a social justice statement.
- Approved Town as co-holder for Lauzier Farm Agricultural Preservation Restriction (5-0)
- Authorized funds from Land Conservation Account for title search and survey of 120 River Road (5-0)
- Approved Mount Holyoke College Upper Lake outfall maintenance administrative review (5-0)
- Approved December 21, 2022 meeting minutes (3-0-2)
- Approved January 18, 2023 meeting minutes (5-0)
Public Schools
The South Hadley School Committee will meet via Zoom to review routine items including payroll warrants and meeting minutes. The committee will also discuss elementary literacy program changes, social emotional wellness needs, and an update on renaming Plains Elementary.
- Approval of warrants totaling $1,854,510.82
- Ratification of Unit E Contract (VOTE)
- Ratification of Unit A Contract (VOTE)
- Ratification of Unit C Contract (VOTE)
- Information regarding Elementary Literacy Program Changes
The School Committee unanimously approved several multi-year and one-year contracts for SHEA Units A, C, and E. The committee also approved various payment warrants and the minutes from the January 5, 2023 meeting.
- Approved Unit E one-year contract for 2021-2022 (5-0)
- Approved Unit E three-year contract for 2022-2025 (5-0)
- Approved Unit A one-year contract for 2021-2022 (5-0)
- Approved Unit A three-year contract for 2022-2025 (5-0)
- Approved Unit C one-year contract for 2021-2022 (5-0)
- Approved Unit C three-year contract for 2022-2025 (5-0)
- Approved Unit C MOA for 2023-2024 (5-0)
- Approved warrants totaling $1,854,510.32 (4-1 and 5-0)
Electric Light Department
The Board of Commissioners will meet to vote on the General Manager's contract and a strategic plan refresh. The board will also review October 2022 financials and a customer satisfaction survey.
- Vote on General Manager’s contract
- Vote on Strategic Plan Refresh
- Review of October 2022 financials
- Discussion of Customer Satisfaction Survey
Appropriations Committee
The Selectboard, School Committee, and Appropriations Committee are meeting jointly to discuss the FY2024 budget, financial projections, and priorities. The session includes a mid-year financial report and the processing of two one-day liquor licenses.
- FY2024 Budget & Financial Projections
- One Day Beer & Wine License for Robert Adam on Feb. 16
- One Day Beer & Wine License for Jeff Millard for Feb. 10
- Mid-Year Financial Report
- Resignation of Gregory R. Dubreuil from Municipal Light Board
Selectboard
The Selectboard, School Committee, and Appropriations boards will meet jointly to discuss FY2024 budget projections and financial priorities. The meeting also includes a mid-year financial report and discussions regarding Municipal Light Board vacancies and resignations.
- FY2024 Budget & Financial Projections for Administration, Accounting, Assessor, HR, and Treasurer
- One Day Beer & Wine License for Robert Adam (Feb. 16)
- One Day Beer & Wine License for Jeff Millard (Feb. 10)
- Mid-Year Financial Report
- Resignation of Gregory R. Dubreuil from Municipal Light Board
The Selectboard, School Committee, and Appropriations Committee approved the creation of a joint facilities department for the FY2024 budget and a Statement of Interest for Mosier Elementary School. The Selectboard also approved two one-day liquor licenses and accepted a board resignation.
- Approved creation of joint town and school facilities department for FY2024 budget (Unanimous/Passed)
- Approved submission of Statement of Interest to MSBA for Mosier Elementary School (Unanimous/Passed)
- Approved one-day beer and wine licenses for Robert Adam (Feb 16) and Jeff Millard (Feb 10)
- Accepted resignation of Gregory Dubreuil from Municipal Light Board
- Reduced notice period for agricultural preservation restriction at 73 Alvord Street to 60 days
- Approved filling Municipal Light Department vacancy during April 2023 annual town election
- Accepted Dec. 19, 2022 draft minutes as amended
Fire District 1
The South Hadley Fire District No. 1 is meeting to discuss and potentially vote on several operational items, including the FY24 preliminary budget, a Verizon cell phone tower contract, and the chief position. Other agenda items include a software proposal for IT, an update on a dry hydrant, and a Route 202 sign easement.
- FY24 Preliminary Budget
- Verizon Cell Phone Tower Contract
- Chief position
- Managed Solution Software Proposal for IT
- Route 202 Sign Easement
Planning Board
The Planning Board will consider a request from Delaney’s Market for an illuminated freestanding sign at 459 Granby Road. The board will also hold a public hearing regarding amended permits for the Skinner Woods Flexible Residential Development on Amherst Road.
- Illuminated Sign Request by Delaney’s Market at 459 Granby Road
- Amended Special Permit and Stormwater Management Permit for Skinner Woods, LLC on Amherst Road
- Discussion regarding draft Accessory Dwelling Unit Bylaw
The Board approved the replacement of an illuminated freestanding sign at 459 Granby Road. Members also held a discussion with the Building Commissioner regarding a draft Accessory Dwelling Unit Bylaw. A public hearing was held for a permit application by Skinner Woods, LLC.
- Approved replacement of illuminated freestanding sign at 459 Granby Road (5-0)
- Approved December 5 regular meeting and public hearing minutes (5-0)
Planning Board
The Planning Board will hold a public hearing to consider modifications to a Special Permit and Stormwater Management Permit. The applicant, Skinner Woods, LLC, seeks to reconfigure the locations of some dwellings within a ten-unit residential development.
- Modification of Special Permit and Stormwater Management Permit for Skinnerwoods Flexible Development
- Proposed reconfiguration of dwelling locations for ten detached residential units
- Project location: Northwest side of Amherst Road (Route 116), Assessor’s Map #58, Parcel #21
The Planning Board approved an amendment to a Special Permit and Stormwater Management Permit for Skinner Woods, LLC to correct site violations. The developer had built units in incorrect locations and orientations and encroached on designated open space. Approval was granted with special conditions to remedy these issues.
- Approved amendment to Special Permit and Stormwater Management Permit for Skinnerwoods Flexible Development (5-0)
- Approved restoration of reduced open space as a pollinator meadow
- Approved $3,125 voluntary financial mitigation for tree removal
- Required construction of a front porch on unit 10 to correct street orientation
Housing Authority
The Board of Commissioners will meet to review the Executive Director and Treasurer's reports. The agenda includes discussions on abandoned property and ARPA projects.
- Approval of bills for the period 12/15/2022-1/19/2023
- Discussion of abandoned property (Project # 275070 rm)
- ARPA updates
- Unfinished business regarding project 275069
Conservation Commission
The Conservation Commission will hold a continued public hearing on a Notice of Intent for an elevated walkway and floating dock on the Connecticut River at 80 River Road. They will also discuss reorganization, approve prior meeting minutes, consider an extension for an Order of Conditions, and review the Growing Wild South Hadley program.
- Public hearing (continued) for Val Shvetz's Notice of Intent for elevated walkway and floating dock at 80 River Road
- Request for extension of SHELD Order of Conditions #288-0462
- Discussion of Growing Wild South Hadley
- Reorganization of the Commission
- Approval of December 21, 2022 meeting minutes
The Commission re-appointed Neva Tolopko as Chair and April Doroski as Vice-Chair. A one-year extension was granted for a municipal electric supply connection project. A public hearing for a walkway at 80 River Road was continued to February 15, 2023.
- Re-appointed Neva Tolopko as Chair (7-0)
- Appointed April Doroski as Vice-Chair (7-0)
- Tabled approval of December 21, 2022 meeting minutes due to lack of quorum
- Continued public hearing for 80 River Road walkway to February 15, 2023 (4-0)
- Approved one-year extension for SHELD Order of Conditions #288-0462 (6-0)
Sustainability & Energy Commission
The commission will meet virtually to discuss old business items including Green Communities, a flier update, and the Master Plan, as well as a new house rule. The agenda notes that not all listed topics may be reached for discussion.
- Discussion of Green Communities program
- Flier update
- Master Plan discussion
- Helping input data to MEI system
- House rule (new business)
Cultural Council
The South Hadley Cultural Council will meet to approve minutes, review the treasurer’s report, and receive an update from the South Hadley Human Rights Commission. They will also discuss old business from previous grant cycles, an update on Showcase South Hadley, and preparation of a mailing to 2022 grantees.
- Approval of minutes
- Treasurer’s report
- South Hadley Human Rights Commission update
- Update on Showcase South Hadley
- Preparation of mailing to 2022 grantees
The South Hadley Cultural Council approved the appointment of Dick Matteson to the Human Rights Commission. The council also approved previous meeting minutes and postponed the Showcase South Hadley event to fall 2023.
- Approved minutes from November 28 and December 5, 2022 meetings
- Approved appointment of Dick Matteson as representative to the South Hadley Human Rights Commission (unanimous vote)
- Postponed Showcase South Hadley to fall 2023
Fire District 2
The Prudential Committee and Water Commissioners will meet to appoint a Water Commissioner and review warrants. The Prudential Committee will also discuss a preliminary budget and a proposed by-law change to increase the Moderator term to 3 years.
- Appointment of Water Commissioner
- Proposed by-law change to increase Moderator term to 3 years
- Preliminary Budget discussion
- Review of Fire Chief & Ambulance Report
Fire District 1
The Fire District No. 1 Prudential Committee will meet to review reports and discuss several operational items. The agenda includes the FY24 preliminary budget and a contract with Verizon for a cell phone tower.
- FY24 Preliminary Budget
- Verizon Cell Phone Tower Contract
- Route 202 Sign Easement
- Dry hydrant update
- Chief position
Fire District 2
The Water Commissioners for Fire District No. 2 will meet to review the budget and policy updates. The body will also discuss an isotope study and the passed drought law.
- 2023 Capital jobs (Brockway to Morgan St.)
- Isotope Study
- Drought Law Passed
- Budget review
- Policy and Procedure Updates
Selectboard
The City Council will consider a Human Rights Commission appointment and special municipal employees. They will also receive updates on ARPA funds, capital projects, and the FY2024 budget. A TA report is scheduled.
- Human Rights Commission Appointment
- Special Municipal Employees
- ARPA Update
- Capital Update
- FY2024 Budget
The Selectboard designated the School Committee and Board of Assessors as Special Municipal Employees. The board also accepted the minutes from the December 19, 2022 meeting. No decisions were made regarding the FY24 budget.
- Accepted draft minutes of Dec. 19, 2022 (Unanimous)
- Designated School Committee and Board of Assessors as Special Municipal Employees (4-0, 1 abstention)
Board of Health
The Board of Health will discuss updates regarding the Health Department website, a Master Plan, and a Health Equity Policy Framework. The Board is also scheduled to sign regulations concerning Glyphosate and Glufosinate, as well as minimum standards for keeping animals.
- Signing of Glyphosate and Glufosinate Regulation
- Signing of Minimum Standards for the Keeping of Animals Regulation
- Health Department Website Update
- South Hadley Drug & Alcohol Prevention Coalition update
- Health Equity Policy Framework discussion
The Board of Health formally signed two previously approved regulations regarding glyphosate/glufosinate and minimum standards for keeping animals. The Board also reviewed a new health equity framework and discussed septic system issues at Skinner Woods Estate.
- Approved minutes from November 11, 2022 (3-0, 1 abstention)
- Signed Glyphosate and Glufosinate Regulation
- Signed Minimum Standards for the Keeping of Animals Regulation
- Tabled approval of Health Equity Framework for review until next meeting
- Scheduled next meeting for February 14 at 6:00 p.m.
Planning Board
The South Hadley Planning Board will hold a virtual meeting to continue a hearing on an illuminated sign request for Delaney's Market at 459 Granby Road, discuss an Approval Not Required (ANR) plan for a lot split at Morgan and Park Streets, and consider an Accessory Dwelling Unit bylaw. The meeting includes public comment, minutes, and department reports.
- Continued hearing on illuminated sign request for Delaney's Market at 459 Granby Road
- ANR plan by Averi Barthelette to create three parcels at Morgan and Park Streets
- Discussion on Accessory Dwelling Unit bylaw
- Planning & Conservation Department report on projects and development updates
The Board approved an Approval Not Required (ANR) plan to create three parcels from one existing lot. Members also continued discussions on a draft Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) bylaw and scheduled a public hearing for February 27.
- Approved November 21 regular and public hearing minutes (5-0)
- Endorsed ANR plan to create three parcels at corner of Morgan and Park Streets (5-0)
- Continued illuminated sign request for 459 Granby Road to January 23 (5-0)
- Scheduled ADU bylaw public hearing for February 27
Redevelopment Authority
The South Hadley Redevelopment Authority is meeting to review the status of the Master Plan Implementation Plan and municipal projects. The body will also discuss project ideas for FY23-24 and a Housing Topics Forum Series.
- Master Plan Implementation Plan status
- FY23-24 project ideas
- Housing Topics Forum Series
- Falls Facade Improvement Grant closeout
- Municipal Projects Status Report
Redevelopment Authority
The Redevelopment Authority will review the status of the Master Plan Implementation Plan and municipal projects. The body will also discuss project ideas for FY23-24 and a Housing Topics Forum Series.
- Master Plan Implementation Plan status
- FY23-24 project ideas
- Housing Topics Forum Series
- Falls Facade Improvement Grant closeout
- Municipal Projects Status Report
Council on Aging
The South Hadley Council on Aging Board of Directors will meet to discuss accessible housing units with the Planning Director. The board will also address a Human Rights Commission appointment and receive updates on elder mental health and dementia-friendly resources.
- Discussion on Accessible Housing Units with Planning Director Anne Capra
- Human Rights Commission Appointment
- Update on EMHOT (Elder Mental Health Outreach Teams) WMEC grant funded program
- Age & Dementia Friendly Committee Resource Guide update
- Spring 2023 Senior Center operations outlook
The Board approved the November meeting minutes and appointed one member to the Human Rights Commission. The Planning Director provided an update on proposed by-laws for Accessible Dwelling Units (ADUs).
- Approved November meeting minutes
- Appointed Susan Labonte to a 3-year term on the Human Rights Commission
Recreation Commission
The South Hadley Recreation Commission will hold a virtual meeting to discuss old business including the SHHS turf scoreboard/sinkhole, a winter program update, the FY2024 budget, and a Buttery Brook Park PARC grant planning meeting. New business includes sub-committees, a PCA presentation by Jason Pratt at 8:30pm, and spring/summer activities.
- SHHS Turf Scoreboard/Sinkhole
- Budget FY2024
- Buttery Brook Park PARC Grant (planning meeting 1/11/23 at 7pm)
- Jason Pratt – PCA (8:30pm)
- Spring/Summer Activities
The Commission approved the bills payable and the minutes from the December 13, 2022 meeting. Members discussed the FY2024 budget, capital planning for the Ledges, and upcoming spring and summer programming.
- Approved December 13, 2022 minutes (7-0)
- Approved bills payable (7-0)
Master Plan Implementation Committee
The Master Plan Implementation Committee will meet virtually to approve minutes from the December 1, 2022 meeting. The committee will also discuss November status updates and establish criteria for adding or removing tasks.
- Approval of December 1, 2022 meeting minutes
- Discussion of criteria for adding/removing tasks
- Review of bylaws draft
The committee voted to send a draft of its bylaws to the Select Board, Planning Board, and Town Administrator for comment. Members discussed potential changes to the frequency of status updates from town entities and established criteria for adding or removing tasks from the Master Plan.
- Approved minutes of Dec. 1, 2022 meeting
- Approved sending bylaws draft to SB/PB/TA for comments
Public Schools
The South Hadley School Committee will meet to discuss the resignation of the Superintendent and a possible vote on an Interim Superintendent. The committee will also consider the Assistant Superintendent position and conduct a second reading of the Employee Use of Technology Policy.
- Approval of warrants totaling $1,683,499.78
- Approval of minutes from 6/30/22, 8/18/22, 9/1/22, and 12/15/22
- Second reading of Employee Use of Technology Policy
- Discussion regarding Superintendent vacancy and possible vote on Interim Superintendent
- Discussion regarding Assistant Superintendent and possible vote
The School Committee voted unanimously to appoint Dr. Mark McLaughlin as Interim Superintendent for the remainder of the 2022-2023 school year. The committee also unanimously approved the appointment of Jennifer Voyik to the office of Assistant Superintendent. Additionally, the board approved several warrants and budget transfers.
- Appointed Dr. Mark McLaughlin as Interim Superintendent for the 2022-2023 school year (5-0)
- Appointed Jennifer Voyik to the office of Assistant Superintendent (5-0)
- Approved warrant #2023-137 ($172,169.99), warrant #2023-146 ($614,568.01), and two biweekly payrolls ($752,200.85 and $744,560.93) (5-0)
- Approved two budget transfers over $1,000.00 (5-0)
- Approved meeting minutes from 6/30/22, 8/18/22, 9/1/22, and 12/15/22 (5-0)
Fire District 1
The Board of Water Commissioners will meet to discuss the preliminary budget and receive an update regarding the repeater at Nash Hill. The agenda also includes a discussion regarding cell phones.
- Approval of minutes from 10-17-22, 11-14-22, and 11-28-22
- Preliminary budget discussion
- Repeater update at Nash Hill
- Cell phone discussion