Springfield public meetings in 2024

Office of Emergency Preparedness Advisory Council

The Local Emergency Planning Committee will meet on December 20, 2024, at the Public Safety Complex to receive a presentation on the Performance Food Group Expansion Project and an update from the National Weather Service. The next meeting is scheduled for February 21, 2025.

• Presentation on Performance Food Group Expansion Project
• National Weather Service update
• Next meeting scheduled for February 21, 2025

Animal Control

The Springfield Animal Control board will hold hearings on four dog cases, including nuisance and dangerous dog designations. The agenda includes a follow-up nuisance hearing for a dog named Mia at 64 California Ave, and dangerous dog hearings for dogs named Abby and Cuban, as well as a nuisance hearing for Coco.

• Nuisance Dog Hearing for Mia at 64 California Ave (follow-up from July and August hearings)
• Dangerous Dog Hearing for Abby at 192 Harkness Ave
• Dangerous Dog Hearing for Cuban at 67 Bowles Park
• Nuisance Dog Hearing for Coco at 45 Redfern Dr

The Springfield Animal Control Advisory and Hearing Committee approved minutes from October 17, 2024, and held four hearings. It deemed Mia a nuisance with conditions, deemed Abby dangerous and upheld a euthanasia order plus a $500 fine for non-compliance, deemed Cuban dangerous with conditions, and deemed Coco a nuisance with a leash condition. All votes were 3-0.

• Approved October 17, 2024 minutes (3-0)
• Deemed dog Mia a nuisance with restraint and tethering conditions (3-0)
• Deemed dog Abby dangerous, upheld euthanasia order, and fined owner $500 (3-0)
• Deemed dog Cuban dangerous with leash/muzzle, insurance, and license conditions (3-0)
• Deemed dog Coco a nuisance with leash condition (3-0)

School Committee- Regular

The Springfield School Committee will vote on several field trip requests and two financial items: a $200,000 grant from the EOS Foundation for the After the Bell Grant, and a $15,556,000 appropriation from carryover to fund investments. The committee will also recognize Senator Adam Gomez, a student representative, and youth football teams. Reports from standing committees and the superintendent are scheduled.

• Vote to appropriate $15,556,000 from carryover for listed investments
• Vote to accept $200,000 grant from EOS Foundation for After the Bell Grant
• Vote on overnight field trip for Central High to Babson College (Jan 13-14, 2025)
• Vote on overnight field trip for Central High to Wright State University (Mar 13-16, 2025)
• Vote on overnight field trip for Central High to Bridgeton High School (Apr 25-26, 2025)

Historical Commission

The Historical Commission will hold public hearings on several property modification petitions. The body will also consider petitions for the demolition of two buildings on Tyler Street.

• Demolition petition for 191 Tyler Street (ID # 8390)
• Demolition petition for 193 Tyler Street (ID # 8391)
• Roof and solar panel petition for 25 Marengo Park (ID # 8375)
• Ramp, renovations, and remediation petition for 5 Madison Avenue (ID # 8389)
• Ramp petition for 385 Maple Street (ID # 8388)

The Springfield Historical Commission approved six petitions, including window replacements at 96 Firglade Avenue and 17 Garfield Street, ADA ramps at 385 Maple Street and 5 Madison Avenue, and demo delay waivers for 191 and 193 Tyler Street. Two hearings were continued: the roof and solar panel project at 25 Marengo Park and window replacements at 90 Garfield Street. All votes were unanimous.

• Continued 25 Marengo Park roof/solar petition to Jan 16, 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved 96 Firglade Avenue window remediation with exterior mullions and black paint (unanimous)
• Approved 17 Garfield Street rear window replacement with exterior grids (unanimous)
• Continued 90 Garfield Street window replacement to Jan 16, 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved 385 Maple Street ADA ramp with lattice matching rear ramp (unanimous)
• Approved 5 Madison Avenue ADA ramp, brick steps, façade repaint, rear ramp remediation (unanimous)
• Approved demo delay waiver for 191 Tyler Street (unanimous)
• Approved demo delay waiver for 193 Tyler Street (unanimous)

City Council

The Working Group on Digital Equity & Internet Access is meeting to receive an update from the Pioneer Valley Planning Commission (PVPC).

• Update from PVPC

City Council

The Springfield City Council Working Group on Digital Equity & Internet Access is meeting to receive an update from the Pioneer Valley Planning Commission (PVPC). No votes or binding decisions are scheduled; the agenda consists solely of this informational item and a public portion.

• Update from PVPC on digital equity and internet access in the region

Board of Public Works

The Springfield Board of Public Works convened on December 18, 2024 at 3:30 PM in the Richard Neal Municipal Operations Center, located at 70 Tapley Street. The agenda listed only the meeting’s location and a call to order. No specific decisions, proposals, or public hearings were noted on the agenda.

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a regular meeting to consider one petition (ID #8393) involving properties at 395-401 - 417 Liberty St., 35 Heywood St., and SS Melrose Dt. The board may vote on a variance or special permit, but no details on the request are provided in the agenda.

• Petition (ID #8393) for 395-401 - 417 Liberty St. / 35 Heywood St / SS Melrose Dt.

Public Health Council

The Public Health Council will receive presentations from Deputy Commissioner Ann Kissel. Discussions will focus on the opioid crisis and tobacco regulation updates.

• Opioids Crisis Overview and RFP process for ORRF funding
• Tobacco Regulation Process updates

City Council

The City Council will meet to discuss audits regarding citywide and Fire Department overtime. The meeting includes a public portion for resident input.

• Citywide Overtime Audit
• Fire Department Overtime Audit

Commission on Disability

The agenda for the Commission on Disability meeting on December 17, 2024, includes only standard procedural items: call to order, sign in, approval of minutes, new business (listed as 'Topic 1'), old business, other, and adjournment. No specific discussions or decisions are detailed. The next meeting is scheduled for January 21, 2025, at Mason Square Library.

• Approval of minutes
• New business (Topic 1 - unspecified)
• Next meeting scheduled for January 21, 2025

School Committee- Regular

The Budget & Finance Subcommittee will vote to recommend two items to the full School Committee: an expenditure of $200,000 from the EOS Foundation for the After The Bell Grant and an appropriation of $15,556,000 from carryover funds for specific investments.

• Vote to approve $200,000 from EOS Foundation for After The Bell Grant
• Vote to approve $15,556,000 from carryover for investment list
• Budget & Finance Subcommittee meeting
• After The Bell Grant funding
• Carryover appropriation for investments

City Council

The Springfield City Council will consider two ordinances at its December 16 meeting. Ordinance 2024-1 adds a new section allowing veterans with a veteran license plate to use municipal parking meters without a fee. Ordinance ID #8382 amends the residency requirement for city employees, changing the required residency period from one year to two years for hires after September 1 2023. An informal caucus will also be held to elect the council president and vice‑president for the 2025 legislative session.

• Ordinance 2024-1: Add Section 385-17A granting fee‑free municipal parking meter use to veterans with a veteran license plate.
• Ordinance ID #8382: Amend Chapter 73 Article II A to require city employees hired on/after Sept 1 2023 to reside in Springfield for 24 months.
• Informal caucus to elect President and Vice‑President of the City Council for the 2025 legislative session.

The City Council unanimously adopted an ordinance allowing veterans with Veteran license plates to use municipal parking meters without a fee. The council also discussed but did not finalize an amendment to the city's residency requirement for employees, with a motion to add a sunset clause and a proposal to send it to committee. No final vote was taken on the residency amendment.

• Adopted ordinance granting free municipal parking meter use to veterans with Veteran plates (unanimous)
• Approved amendment to the ordinance as moved by Councilor Davila (unanimous)
• Tabled discussion on residency requirement amendment; no final vote taken

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors is reviewing several tax warrants to be sent to collectors for the 2025 fiscal year. These items include real estate, personal property, and various liens and fees.

• Real Estate Tax FY2025: $122,402,321.51
• Personal Property Tax FY2025: $20,245,239.58
• CPA Surcharge FY2025: $1,357,276.33
• Trash Fee Lien FY2025: $713,822.27
• 38D Penalty FY2025: $158,500.00

School Committee- Regular

The Legislative & Contracts Subcommittee of the Springfield School Committee is holding a public input session on the Interdepartmental Agreement between Springfield Public Schools and the Springfield Police Department regarding access to school security cameras. This is an informational/discussion item only; no vote is scheduled.

• Public Speak Out Session on the Interdepartmental Agreement between Springfield Public Schools and the Springfield Police Department Access to School Security Cameras Agreement

School Committee- Regular

The Springfield School Committee will meet to vote on a single item regarding student travel. The committee is asked to approve a field trip for the Renaissance School.

• Renaissance School field trip to Red Gate Farm in Ashfield, MA (Dec 17-19, 2024)

Board of Police Commission

The Board of Police Commissioners will determine the 2025 meeting schedule and the date and location for the annual meeting. The board will also discuss Law Department representation and a personnel matter in executive session.

• 2025 meeting schedule
• Annual meeting date and location
• Law Department board representation
• Executive Session regarding Special Order (SO) #24-026 Rules and Regulations

License Commission

The Springfield Board of License Commissioners will hold a virtual public hearing on December 11, 2024, to decide on new licenses and address violations. Items include a new all-alcoholic beverages brew pub license for White Lion Brewing Company, two new used car dealer licenses, and informational hearings for Wingz and Waffles (missing 2024 Common Victualler License) and a one-day beer and wine permit for Sweet Spice. Pre-hearing conferences will address alleged violations at Bueno y Sano (intoxicated employee) and Rose (entertainment after 1 am without a permit). The board will also conduct administrative reviews of incident reports for five establishments.

• New petition for Annual All Alcoholic Brew Pub License for The White Lion Brewing Company at 1500 Main St
• New petitions for Class II (Used) Car Dealer licenses for NEMC MA LLC at 890 Boston Rd and BBB Auto Inc at 289-291 Mill St
• Informational hearing for Wingz and Waffles at 74 Island Pond Road — no 2024 Common Victualler License
• Pre-hearing conference for Bueno y Sano at 415 Cooley St regarding intoxicated employee and unsanitary conditions
• Pre-hearing conference for Rose at 555 Worthington St concerning entertainment past 1:00 am without a late-night permit

The Springfield License Commission approved several new licenses, including a brew pub license for The White Lion Brewing Company, used car dealer licenses for NEMC MA LLC and BBB Auto Inc, and a one-day beer and wine permit for Sweet Spice. The board also took no action on five incident reports and continued a Section 77 hearing for The Hookah Factory to January 15, 2025.

• Approved new annual all-alcoholic brew pub license for The White Lion Brewing Company (unanimous)
• Approved new used car dealer license for NEMC MA LLC dba New England Motor Cars (unanimous)
• Approved new used car dealer license for BBB Auto Inc (unanimous)
• Approved one-day beer and wine permit for Sweet Spice event on Dec 21, 2024 (unanimous)
• Took no action on incident reports for 350 Grill, Top Shelf, Pot Belly's Pub, Solmar, and Theodore's (unanimous)
• Continued Section 77 hearing for The Hookah Factory to Jan 15, 2025 (unanimous)

City Council

The City Council will review several grant applications and free cash transfers for police vehicles and pension reserves. The body will also consider utility petitions for Eversource and Comcast, as well as amendments to city compensation ordinances.

• EPA Community Change Grant Program: $19,989,241.00
• Free Cash for Police Vehicles: $1,500,000.00
• BJA FY24 Substance Use Site-Based Program: $1,300,000.00
• Parks Department LWCF Grant for Magazine Park: $1,000,000.00
• Amendment to Chapter 61 regarding compensation for City Council, School Committee, and Mayor

The Springfield City Council voted 6-5 to defeat an ordinance amendment that would have set salaries for the mayor, city council, and school committee with annual cost-of-living increases. The council also approved multiple grants and fund transfers, including a $19.99 million EPA grant for climate initiatives. A proposal to extend the city residency requirement for new hires from 1 to 2 years was not voted on and will go to committee.

• Defeated ordinance amending Chapter 61 for council, mayor, and school committee compensation (6-5)
• Adopted October Revenue vs. Expenditure Report (11-0)
• Approved Eversource and Comcast utility petitions for various streets (11-0)
• Adopted quitclaim deed transfer for two non-buildable lots to Conservation Commission (11-0)
• Adopted FY25 Mass Cultural Council Grant of $18,300 (11-0)
• Adopted $1,000,000 LWCF Grant for Magazine Park (11-0)
• Adopted $1,300,000 opioid and substance use grant (11-0)
• Adopted $19,989,241 EPA Community Change Grant (11-0)

City Council

The Springfield City Council will hold a continued discussion on potential new revenue sources during its December 9 meeting. No votes or formal actions are scheduled; the item is listed for discussion only.

• Continued discussion on new revenue sources

City Council

The City Council Finance Sub-Committee will consider several financial orders, including a $19.99 million EPA Community Change Grant with no match required. Other items include transferring three parcels of land to the Conservation Commission for $1, allocating $1.5M in free cash for police vehicles, and depositing millions into reserve and trust funds.

• EPA Community Change Grant Program - $19,989,241 (no match required)
• Quitclaim deed for ES Deboo Dr. and Lois St. lots to Springfield Conservation Commission for $1
• Free cash to Pay-Go for police vehicles - $1,500,000
• Free cash to Stabilization Reserve Fund - $1,700,000
• Free cash to OPEB Trust and Pension Stabilization Reserve - $2,127,530 each

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will vote to enter executive session to discuss litigation strategy at the Appellate Tax Board, personal exemption applications, and preliminary tax abatements for FY2023. Specific items include abatements for Smith & Wesson, Outdoor Media, and Springfield College, as well as charitable exemption applications from Grit And Gratitude Wrestling Academy and the Basketball Hall of Fame.

• Smith & Wesson – ATB docket litigation strategy
• Outdoor Media – ATB docket litigation strategy
• Grit And Gratitude Wrestling Academy, 184-186 Stafford Street – charitable exemption application
• Basketball Hall of Fame, 1000 Columbus Ave – charitable exemption application
• Springfield College – real estate property tax abatement (PID# 043250097)

Residency Commission

The Residency Commission will discuss items from the City Council Government Sub Committee meeting. The session includes a review of the residency ordinance and specific hiring requirements for city employees.

• Discussion of Residency Ordinance
• Review of hiring full/part time employees and rehires
• Discussion of residency hiring requirements (1yr) to move into city
• Discussion of domestic violence and hospice care
• Executive session to discuss complaints or charges against an individual

The Residency Commission met on December 5, 2024, and approved the minutes from the November 7, 2024 meeting. The main discussion focused on a proposed amendment to the residency ordinance, filed at the request of City Councilor Victor Davila, to extend the residency requirement from one year to two years, retroactive for employees hired from September 1, 2023. The commission also discussed concerns raised by DPW Director Cignoli and PBRM Director Tom Ashe about employees facing hardships, such as caring for family members or finding housing. The meeting moved into executive session for employment matters and did not return to open session.

• Approved minutes from November 7, 2024 meeting (4-0)
• Moved into executive session for employment matters (5-0)

School Committee- Regular

The Springfield School Committee will meet to conduct regular business and hear from student advisory speakers. The primary voting item is the approval of a field trip for Renaissance School. The meeting also includes reports from various standing committees.

• Vote to approve Renaissance School field trip to Red Gate Farm, Ashfield, MA (Dec 17-19, 2024)
• Approval of November 22, 2024, Special School Committee meeting minutes

Historical Commission

The Historical Commission will hold public hearings on several petitions for building alterations, including painting, chimney work, shed, heat pump, steps, roof and solar panels, windows, porch and roof. They will also discuss protocols for historical review of municipally owned or funded projects, specifically the renovation of the former fire station at ES Oak Street, and consider other matters such as antennas at 1355 Liberty Street and a public speak-out session.

• Continued hearings: 3 Clarendon Street, 94 Elliot Street (paint), 63 Clarendon Street (chimney), 175 Mill Street (shed)
• New hearings: 141 Pineywoods Avenue (heat pump), 184 Thompson Street (steps/railings/window), 25 Marengo Park (roof and solar panels), 96 Firglade Avenue (windows)
• Environmental review: 86 Sherman Street (porch and roof)
• Protocols for historical review of municipally owned or funded projects: ES Oak Street renovations to former fire station (ID 8378)
• Other matters: 1355 Liberty Street antennas (ID 8379) and public speak-out session

The Springfield Historical Commission approved several exterior renovation projects, including a partial approval for 3 Clarendon Street (roof, windows, porch, etc.) but denied the vinyl siding due to missing information. It also approved painting at 94 Elliot Street, a new shed at 175 Mill Street, a heat pump at 141 Pineywoods Avenue, and steps/window replacement at 184 Thompson Street. The commission denied a chimney shortening at 63 Clarendon Street because the petitioner failed to appear, and continued two applications (25 Marengo Park and 96 Firglade Avenue) to December 19, 2024.

• Approved exterior renovations at 3 Clarendon St, denied vinyl siding (4-0)
• Approved painting at 94 Elliot St with specified colors (4-0)
• Denied chimney shortening at 63 Clarendon St (0-4)
• Approved new shed at 175 Mill St (4-0)
• Approved heat pump installation at 141 Pineywoods Ave (4-0)
• Approved steps, railings, and window replacement at 184 Thompson St (4-0)
• Continued roof/solar panel application at 25 Marengo Park to 12/19/24 (4-0)
• Continued window replacement at 96 Firglade Ave to 12/19/24 (4-0)

City Council

The City Council's Health and Human Services and Elder Affairs committees are jointly meeting to discuss the issue of veteran fraud. The agenda lists a single public portion item on this topic, with no further details on specific actions or proposals.

• Public discussion on veteran fraud

Traffic Commission

The Traffic Commission is convening for a regular meeting. The provided agenda contains only procedural boilerplate and does not list specific discussion items or decisions.

Retirement Board

The Board will consider involuntary accidental disability applications for police and fire personnel. Members will also vote on eight superannuation applications and the approval of several financial warrants.

• Warrant #78 for retirement payroll of $8,146,624.20 and PRIT fund redemption of $6,000,000.00
• Involuntary Accidental Disability applications for Hector Morales, Ahmad Sharif, and Randolph Blake
• Superannuation applications for 8 employees including police, school, and community development staff
• Warrants #73 through #77 totaling $300,260.40 for refunds, transfers, and expenses
• Consideration of 53 new members and 35 requests for refunds or transfers to other systems

Board of Library Commissioners

The Board of Library Commissioners will meet to receive a presentation from Brightwood Branch Supervisor Haydee Hodis. The body will also review minutes from October and November 2024 meetings.

• Presentation by Haydee Hodis, Supervisor of Brightwood Branch
• Approval of October 2, 2024 meeting minutes
• Approval of November 6, 2024 meeting minutes

Planning

The Springfield Planning Board will hold a public hearing on a Site Plan Review for a proposed new mixed-use building with nine residential units at ES Parker Street. The meeting also includes acceptance of minutes and other routine matters.

• Public hearing for Site Plan Review (Tier 2) of a new mixed-use building with 9 residential units at ES Parker Street (petition ID #8347)

The Springfield Planning Board approved a Tier 2 site plan review for a new mixed-use building with nine residential units and one non-medical office at ES Parker Street. The approval was granted 5-0 with conditions including a six-foot fence, landscaping, irrigation, enclosed dumpsters, and DPW review before a building permit is issued. Three members were absent.

• Approved site plan for 9-unit mixed-use building at ES Parker Street (5-0)
• Required 6-foot solid fence along property perimeter
• Required full DPW review before building permit issuance
• Required all building and sign permits before construction

Community Preservation Committee

The committee will approve the November 12, 2024 meeting minutes and discuss the Historic Homes Preservation Program lottery. It will consider a request to terminate the contract with Trinity United Methodist Church, adopt the annual CPA plan, and adopt a new application template and instructions. Additional items include administrator updates, other matters, and scheduling the next meeting.

• Approve November 12, 2024 meeting minutes
• Historic Homes Preservation Program lottery
• Requested termination of contract with Trinity United Methodist Church
• Adopt annual CPA plan
• Adopt application template and instructions

The Springfield Community Preservation Committee approved its annual Community Preservation Act plan and application materials. The committee also conducted a lottery for the Historic Home Restoration program and denied a request to waive a local historic district requirement for Trinity United Methodist Church.

• Approved November 12, 2024 meeting minutes (passed)
• Selected 10 addresses for Historic Home Restoration program via lottery
• Denied request to waive local historic district requirement for Trinity United Methodist Church (0-5)
• Adopted revised Community Preservation Plan (passed)
• Retained 'in perpetuity' preservation restriction requirement for historic resources (4-0, 1 abstention)
• Approved new application template and instructions (passed)

License Commission

The License Commission holds a virtual public hearing to consider two one-day all-alcohol permits at 250 Albany St, a pre-hearing conference for alleged violations at P2B Springfield LLC dba The Place 2 be (1000 Hall of Fame Ave), and discussion of liquor license renewals and seasonal extensions. The board will also review a Section 77 final hearing for Graham's Package Store at 1649-1651 Main Street and receive an update on Palate, Inc. at 8 Temby Rd.

• One-day all-alcohol permit for Gun Violence Elimination Alliance, Inc. on Dec 14 –15 at 250 Albany St (birthday party)
• One-day all-alcohol permit for Gasoline Alley Foundation on Dec 8 at 250 Albany St (holiday market)
• Pre-hearing conference for P2B Springfield LLC dba The Place 2 be on four counts: selling alcohol without a license, displaying alcohol without a license, manager not on scene, and operating without required Certificate of Inspection
• Section 77 final hearing for Graham's Package Store (1649-1651 Main St) regarding license status after renovations
• Discussion of seasonal license extension requests

The Springfield Board of License Commissioners approved the minutes from the November 13, 2024 meeting, granted two one-day alcohol permits for events at 250 Albany St, and approved 2025 liquor license renewals for licensees who met all obligations. The board also accepted renewals for licensees with unpaid taxes, contingent on payment, and denied renewals for those who failed to apply. Several hearings were continued to future dates.

• Approved minutes of November 13, 2024 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved one-day all-alcohol permit for Gun Violence Elimination Alliance event Dec 14-15 at 250 Albany St (unanimous)
• Approved one-day beer & wine permit for Gasoline Alley Foundation holiday market Dec 8 at 250 Albany St (unanimous)
• Continued P2B Springfield LLC hearing to Jan 29, 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved 2025 liquor license renewals for licensees meeting all obligations (unanimous)
• Accepted 2025 renewals for licensees with unpaid taxes, contingent on payment (unanimous)
• Denied renewals for licensees who failed to apply; must apply for new license (unanimous)
• Continued Graham's Package Store hearing to Jan 15, 2025 (unanimous)

City Council

The City Council will consider multiple orders from Mayor Sarno, including accepting a $19,989,241 EPA Community Change Grant with no match required, allocating $1,500,000 from free cash for police vehicles, transferring $1,700,000 to the Stabilization Reserve Fund, $2,127,530 to OPEB Trust, and $2,127,530 to Pension Stabilization Reserve. The council will also review the October Revenue vs. Expenditure report and hold public hearings on several Eversource utility pole installations.

• Accept $19,989,241 EPA Community Change Grant - no match required
• Approve $1,500,000 from free cash for police vehicles
• Transfer $2,127,530 to Pension Stabilization Reserve from free cash
• Transfer $2,127,530 to OPEB Trust from free cash
• Public hearing on Eversource pole installations at 1650 Boston Road and other locations

Board of Public Works

The Board of Public Works will hold a public hearing to consider Comcast's request to install and maintain approximately 450 feet of 4-inch conduit with fiber optic line on Cadwell Drive. The installation would run from an Eversource pole to a location in front of 365 Cadwell Drive.

• Public hearing for Comcast: install 450 ft of 4-inch conduit with fiber optic line on Cadwell Drive
• Route from Eversource pole 22/16 at Cadwell Drive and Curve Street to 365 Cadwell Drive

City Council

The City Council will consider several financial orders, including a $4,022,550.97 transfer from stabilization reserves to cover the Abbe Brook culvert failure deficit, adoption of a local option tax exemption for elderly and disabled residents, and multiple transfers of certified free cash for tax relief and revenue. A special act on property tax assessment and the FY25 tax factor are also on the agenda.

• Transfer $4,022,550.97 from Stabilization Fund to Abbe Brook Culvert Failure Emergency fund
• Order accepting local option for aiding elderly and disabled tax exemption and establishing taxation fund
• Special Act relative to assessment of local property taxes in Springfield
• Transfer $1M from FY24 certified free cash to stabilization for targeted tax relief
• Transfer $3,000,000 from FY24 certified free cash to FY25 estimated revenues

City Council

The City Council will hold a hearing on three items. The main item is an ordinance amendment replacing the entire chapter on solid waste, setting new definitions and fees for bulk waste stickers ($8 each, two for mattresses) and extra bag stickers ($2). Also up for discussion: a one-year extension of a special permit for 11 residential units at 169 Maple Street, and a zoning change for ES Ingersoll Grove from Residence A to Residence B.

• Amendment to Chapter 327, Solid Waste (replacing entire code, setting $8 bulk sticker, $2 extra bag sticker)
• One-year extension of special permit for 11 residential units at 169 Maple Street
• Zoning change for ES Ingersoll Grove from Residence A to Residence B
• Public hearing on all items at 7:00 PM on November 25, 2024

The City Council approved a zoning change for ES Ingersoll Grove from Residence A to Residence B, allowing a multifamily property, by a 9-4 vote. The council also unanimously adopted an amendment to Chapter 327 on solid waste and granted a one-year extension for a special permit at 169 Maple Street.

• Approved zoning change for ES Ingersoll Grove from Residence A to Residence B (9-4)
• Adopted amendment to Chapter 327, Solid Waste (unanimous)
• Granted one-year extension of special permit for 169 Maple Street (unanimous)

City Council

The City Council is holding a special meeting to receive information regarding property tax rates for Fiscal Year 2025. Assessors will present data on available tax rates and how the tax levy is allocated across different property types.

• Public hearing on Fiscal Year 2025 property tax rates

City Council

The City Council will consider several financial orders including a $4,022,550.97 transfer from stabilization reserves to cover the Abbe Brook culvert failure deficit. Also up for discussion are accepting a local option for elderly/disabled tax exemption, a special act on property tax assessment, and multiple transfers of certified free cash and stabilization funds for tax relief and revenue. A tax factor for FY25 is also on the agenda.

• Transfer $4,022,550.97 from Stabilization Fund to Abbe Brook Culvert Failure Deficit Fund
• Accept local option for elderly/disabled tax exemption and establish fund under M.G.L. c. 60 § 3D
• Special Act relative to assessment of local property taxes (attached, no further details in agenda)
• Transfer $1,000,000 from FY24 Certified Free Cash to Stabilization for targeted tax relief
• Transfer $3,000,000 from FY24 Certified Free Cash to FY25 Estimated Revenues

City Council

The General Government Sub-Committee will discuss two personnel policy topics: a relocation timeline requirement for new employees and residency rules for employees affected by domestic violence. No votes or decisions are scheduled; these are discussion items only.

• Discussion of relocation timeline requirement for new employees
• Discussion of residency of employees affected by domestic violence

School Committee- Regular

The Springfield School Committee will hold a special meeting to interview and vote on a candidate for the Executive Confidential Assistant position. No other business is on the agenda.

• Interview and vote on Executive Confidential Assistant to the School Committee

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors reviews monthly abatement totals for September and October 2024, including $37,400.69 in real estate and $96,468.05 in personal property abatements. They also consider uncollectible personal property taxes from Griffins Judo & Karate at 227 & 237 Main Street. The Board then votes to enter executive session to discuss litigation strategy at the Appellate Tax Board, personal exemptions, charitable exemptions, and veterans exemption reviews, and will not return to public session.

• October 2024 Real Estate Abatement Total: $37,400.69
• October 2024 Personal Property Abatement Total: $96,468.05
• October 2024 Motor Vehicle Excise Abatement Total: $17,147.13
• Uncollectible Personal Property for Griffins Judo & Karate at 227 & 237 Main St (FY 2002–2024)
• Executive session includes ATB docket review (Smith & Wesson, Outdoor Media) and charitable exemption for Springfield College

Board of Public Works

The Springfield Board of Public Works will hold a hearing on installing an electric pole and anchoring support to feed a new service to house 65 Edgeland Street. The request is presented by Eversource. The meeting takes place at the corner of Edgeland Street and Longview Street at 3:30 PM on November 21, 2024.

• Hearing on installation of electric pole and anchoring support for 65 Edgeland St (Eversource)
• Meeting location: corner of Edgeland Street and Longview Street, Springfield, MA
• Call to order at 3:30 PM, November 21, 2024

Park Commission

The Springfield Park Commission will vote to approve the September 19, 2024 meeting minutes. It will consider a proposal for a “V” for Victory monument and the acceptance of a parcel on SS Marble Street as park land. The commission will also discuss two memorial bench proposals honoring Marlene Kimball and Karen Spinelli.

• Approve September 19, 2024 meeting minutes
• Consider “V” for Victory monument
• Accept parcel on SS Marble Street as park land
• Memorial bench proposal for Marlene Kimball
• Memorial bench proposal for Karen Spinelli

School Committee- Regular

The School Committee will enter executive session to discuss negotiation strategies for the Springfield Education Association (SEA). In open session, they will vote on several field trips and approve four grants totaling $338,303.80 from state and foundation sources, including $200,303.80 for STEM curricula and $75,000 for multilingual newcomer support. Reports from standing committees and the superintendent will also be presented.

• Executive session to discuss SEA negotiation strategies
• Approve $200,303.80 grant from Executive Office of Education for High-Quality STEM Curricula
• Approve $75,000 grant for Multilingual Newcomer and Homeless Support
• Approve Putnam and Science & Tech field trips to Fall State Leadership Conference
• Approve Putnam field trips to SkillsUSA state and national competitions

Historical Commission

The Historical Commission is holding public hearings to review petitions for property modifications. The body will also discuss the appointment of a Trust Fund Trustee.

• Petition #8289: 3 Clarendon Street
• Petition #8327: Paint at 94 Elliot Street
• Petition #8328: Solar at 117 Firglade Avenue
• Petition #8330: Front Porch at 61 Mountainview Street
• Appointment of Trust Fund Trustee

The Springfield Historical Commission approved eight petitions for exterior renovations, including solar panels, windows, porches, and siding, with votes of 4-0 or 5-0. Four petitions were continued to December 5, 2024: 3 Clarendon Street, 94 Elliot Street, 63 Clarendon Street, and 175 Mill Street. Commissioner Vana Nespor was recommended for appointment as a Springfield Historic Preservation Trust Fund Trustee without objections. A public speak-out session was also held.

• Approved solar panels at 117 Firglade Avenue (4-0, one abstention)
• Approved front porch changes at 61 Mountainview Street (5-0)
• Approved replacement windows at 51 Pineywoods Avenue (5-0)
• Approved replacement windows at 2 Washington Road (4-0)
• Approved replacement windows at 7 Washington Road (4-0)
• Approved replacement windows at 52 Mattoon Street (4-0)
• Approved windows and balcony removal at 16-20 Sumner Avenue (4-0, one abstention)
• Approved siding, windows, and door changes at 43 Ingersoll Grove (4-0)

School Committee- Regular

The Springfield School Committee will consider several approvals, including multiple student field trips and four grant expenditures. The largest financial item is a $200,303.80 grant from the Executive Office of Education for expanding high‑quality STEM curricula. The meeting also includes routine approvals of prior minutes and reports from standing committees.

• Approve $200,303.80 STEM curricula grant from Executive Office of Education
• Approve $30,000 Innovation Career Pathways Planning Grant
• Approve $33,000 Healthy Start Award Grant
• Approve $75,000 Multilingual Newcomer and Homeless Support Grant
• Approve field trips for Putnam Vocational Technical Academy and High School of Science and Technology to Marlborough, MA

Board of Public Works

The Board of Public Works will hold a hearing on Eversource's proposal to install four 4-inch conduits from an existing manhole on East Columbus Avenue to the property at 55 Emery Street. The conduits are intended to provide primary feeders to a newly installed transformer on the customer's property. No other substantive business is listed on the agenda.

• Public hearing for Eversource to install four 4-inch conduits from manhole MH 366B/71 on East Columbus Ave to 55 Emery St

Board of Police Commission

The Board of Police Commissioners will meet to discuss and vote on the discipline or dismissal of an employee. This action follows the suspension of a police officer's certification by the Peace Officer Training and Standards (POST) Commission on November 13, 2024.

• Vote on discipline or dismissal of employee regarding POST Case No: 24-046

Planning

The Springfield Planning Board will continue a public hearing on a proposed zone change for the ES Ingersoll Grove property (map 06925-0025) from Residence A to Residence B. The board will also consider requests to formally petition for new Accessory Dwelling Units (ADU) zoning and an amendment to the Registered Marijuana Dispensary section of the zoning code.

• Continued public hearing on zoning change for ES Ingersoll Grove (06925-0025) from Residence A to Residence B
• Request to formally petition for new Accessory Dwelling Units (ADU) zoning
• Request to formally petition for amendment to Article 4, Section 4.7.100 (Registered Marijuana Dispensary)

The Springfield Planning Board denied a zoning change for ES Ingersoll Grove from Residence A to Residence B by a 7-0 vote. The board also voted to petition for proposed amendments to zoning for new Accessory Dwelling Units and to Article 4, Section 4.7.100 regarding Registered Marijuana Dispensaries.

• Denied zoning change for ES Ingersoll Grove from Residence A to Residence B (7-0)
• Voted to petition for proposed amendment on new Accessory Dwelling Units zoning
• Voted to petition for proposed amendment to Article 4, Section 4.7.100 (Registered Marijuana Dispensary)

Public Health Council

The Public Health Council will receive presentations from Deputy Commissioner Ann Kissel regarding opioid abatement and tobacco legislation. The body will also discuss COVID-19 vaccination and testing distributions. A vacant spot on the council will be addressed.

• RFP process for Opioid Abatement Funds
• Tobacco legislations and regulations
• Gas station weed and hemp
• COVID-19 vaccination clinics and test kit distributions
• PHC vacant spot

City Council

The Springfield City Council is holding a meeting with a public portion that includes only an update from the Pioneer Valley Transit Authority (PVTA). No other business or decisions are listed on the agenda. The meeting takes place at Colonial Estates community room.

• PVTA update during public portion

Board of Public Works

The Board of Public Works will hold a public hearing on Eversource's request to install an electric handhole at 26 Cambridge Street. The board will also consider minutes and other routine business.

• Public hearing: Eversource installation of electric handhole at 26 Cambridge Street

City Council

The Springfield City Council Finance Sub-Committee will convene to call the order of business and hold a public hearing concerning real estate tax classification and the real estate tax ratio for Fiscal Year 2025.

• Public Hearing: Real estate tax classification and ratio for FY'25
• Finance Sub-Committee meeting at 36 Court Street
• Hybrid meeting format in Room 200

School Committee- Regular

The Budget & Finance and Buildings & Maintenance subcommittees are meeting to vote on recommending several grant expenditures to the full School Committee. The body will also discuss the School Building Permit Policy.

• Recommendation for $200,303.80 from Executive Office of Education for Expansion of High-Quality STEM Curricula Grant
• Recommendation for $75,000.00 from MA Dept of Elementary and Secondary Education for Multilingual Newcomer and Homeless Support Grant
• Recommendation for $33,000.00 from EOS Foundation for FY25 Healthy Start Award Grant
• Recommendation for $30,000.00 from MA Dept of Elementary and Secondary Education for FY25 Innovation Career Pathways Planning Grant
• Discussion of the School Building Permit Policy

City Council

The City Council will vote on multiple petitions from Eversource to replace aging low-pressure cast-iron gas mains with medium-pressure lines on several streets in the McKnight neighborhood. They will also consider several grants and financial orders, including a $10,000 anti-meth grant, a $71,335 fire management grant, and approval of prior-year bills totaling $12,238.49. A resolution supporting a bench return plan for Stearns Square is also on the agenda.

• Eversource gas infrastructure replacement on Wellesley, St James, Worthington, Dartmouth, Harvard, Princeton, Campus, Cornell, Lafayette streets
• Donation of goods to Springfield Library (video magnifier)
• COPS Anti-Methamphetamine Program Grant - $10,000
• Fire Emergency Management Performance Grant - $71,335 with in-kind match
• Decertification of Tax Increment Financing (TIF) for SNAPland 59, LLC at 51-59 Taylor Street

The Springfield City Council approved all six Eversource gas line petitions (Wellesley, Fisher, James, Armory, Worthington, Carol Ann streets) and adopted 10 fiscal orders, including grants, donations, and budget adjustments. Councilor Whitfield voted against accepting committee reports due to lack of diversity on the Finance Committee. A resolution on the Stearns Square bench was sent to the Maintenance and Development Committee for further planning.

• Approved Eversource gas petition for Wellesley St (12-0)
• Adopted Eversource gas petitions for Fisher, James, Armory, Worthington, and Carol Ann St (12-0 each)
• Adopted donation of video magnifier to Springfield Library (12-0)
• Adopted Parks bench donation of $2,381.70 (12-0)
• Adopted COPS Anti-Methamphetamine Program Grant of $10,000 (12-0)
• Adopted Fire Emergency Management Performance Grant of $71,335 (12-0)
• Adopted FY25 SHINE Grant amendment increase of $80,158.15 (12-0)
• Adopted FY24 Free Cash transfer of $99,517.09 to cover deficits (11-1, Govan opposed)

City Council

The Springfield City Council Finance Sub-Committee will review several grant acceptances, donations, fee payments, and budget transfers. Key items include a decertification of a Tax Increment Financing agreement for 51-59 Taylor Street, an $80,158.15 SHINE grant amendment, and a $71,335.00 Fire Emergency Management Performance Grant. The committee will also consider a $137,635.59 PEG franchise fee payment and a $99,517.09 free cash transfer to cover deficits.

• Decertification of Tax Increment Financing Agreement for SNAPland 59, LLC at 51-59 Taylor Street
• FY25 SHINE Grant Amendment Increase - $80,158.15, no match required
• Fire Emergency Management Performance Grant - $71,335.00, in-kind match required
• COPS Anti-Methamphetamine Program Grant - $10,000, no match required
• PEG Access and Cable Related Fund FY25 Q2 Franchise Fee Payment - $137,635.59

School Committee- Regular

The Springfield School Committee's Legislative & Contracts Subcommittee will hold a public input session to discuss an interdepartmental agreement regarding police access to school security cameras.

• Public input session on police access to school security cameras
• Meeting at DeBerry/Swan Elementary School, 680 Union Street
• Legislative & Contracts Subcommittee meeting scheduled for 5:30 PM

Historical Commission

The Historical Commission will meet to review minutes and conduct both continued and new public hearings. The agenda includes a discussion regarding an update to RFP 24-203.

• Discussion of RFP 24-203 update (ID # 8307)
• Continued public hearings
• New public hearings
• Preservation of historically significant buildings

City Council

The City Council's Working Group on Digital Equity & Internet Access will hold a listening session and receive a recommendation from the Pioneer Valley Planning Commission (PVPC). No formal votes or decisions are scheduled; the meeting is primarily for discussion and public input.

• Listening session on digital equity issues
• PVPC recommendation to the working group

Board of Police Commission

The Board of Police Commissioners will discuss its responsibilities, support for the IIU Department, and a draft community engagement plan. The board also intends to enter executive session regarding personnel matters.

• Discussion of Board responsibilities
• Discussion of support for IIU Department
• Update on Draft Community Engagement Plan
• Executive session regarding Special Order (SO) #24-021
• Executive session regarding Special Order (SO) #24-024 and #24-028

License Commission

The Springfield Board of License Commissioners will approve minutes from the October 23 meeting and review several petitions, including a new Class I car dealer license for AJAW LLC at 890 Boston Rd. They will also consider new beer and wine licenses, ownership changes for existing liquor businesses, and discuss a farmer winery license for a market stall at 220 Trafton St. Additional items include informational hearings on local food establishments and administrative reviews of recent incident reports.

• Petition for a new Class I car dealer license for AJAW LLC dba AJAW LLC at 890 Boston Rd.
• Petition for a Beer & Wine License for The Farmers House dba the Farmers House at 600 Belmont Ave.
• Informational hearing on Wingz and Waffles at 74 Island Pond Road (no 2024 Common Victualler License).
• Discussion of Farmer Winery License to sell at a Farmers Market at 220 Trafton St inside the Monkey House Building.
• Administrative review of incident report for Mojitos Bar & Restaurant (incident of 10-17-24).

The Springfield Board of License Commissioners approved several license changes, including for Forest Park Liquors, Dickinson Deli, and a one-day alcohol permit for the White Lion. They continued several petitions, including a new car dealer license for AJAW LLC and a beer & wine license for The Farmers House, to future meetings. The board also took no action on complaints against Mojitos Bar & Restaurant and continued a hearing for Bueno y Sano over health violations.

• Approved minutes of October 23, 2024 (unanimous)
• Continued AJAW LLC new car dealer license to 1-15-2025 (unanimous)
• Approved change of stock/officers for Forest Park Liquors (unanimous)
• Continued The Farmers House beer & wine license to 12-11-2024 (unanimous)
• Approved ownership/manager changes for Dickinson Deli (unanimous)
• Continued Wingz and Waffles informational hearing to 12-11-2024 (unanimous)
• Took no action on Mojitos Bar & Restaurant complaint (unanimous)
• Approved one-day alcohol permit for White Lion on Dec 7 (unanimous)

City Council

The City Council Finance Sub-Committee will hold a public hearing to consider real estate tax classification and the real estate tax ratio for fiscal year 2025. This is the only substantive item on the agenda.

• Public hearing on real estate tax classification and real estate tax ratio for FY'25

Board of Public Works

The Board of Public Works is considering a communication from Eversource to install a 100-foot section of underground gas facilities at 1655 Boston Road (Eastfield Mall) to prepare for future development of the Springfield Crossing Plaza. The meeting also includes call to order, approval of previous minutes, and old/new business.

• Eversource requested to install 100 ft underground gas line at 1655 Boston Rd for Springfield Crossing Plaza development

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will hold public hearings on two Notices of Intent and one Request for Determination of Applicability. The first is a proposed plan change at 171 Hickory Street, the second is a notice of intent for Neal Park at 1708 Page Boulevard, and the third is a request for expansion at 665 Cottage Street. The commission will also discuss several parcel acquisitions on Deboo, Elijah, Sumner, and Lois Streets.

• Public hearing: proposed plan change at 171 Hickory Street (ID #8310)
• Public hearing: notice of intent for Neal Park at 1708 Page Boulevard (ID #8308)
• Request for Determination: expansion of maintenance facility at 665 Cottage Street (ID #8309)
• Parcel acquisitions on ES Deboo Drive, ES Elijah Drive, NS Sumner Avenue, ES Lois Street

The Commission approved two Notices of Intent (171 Hickory Street and 1708 Page Boulevard/Neal Park) with Orders of Conditions to be issued at the next meeting, and issued a Negative #3 Determination for the PVTA maintenance facility expansion at 665 Cottage Street. It also voted to accept three land parcels (ES Deboo Drive, NS Sumner Avenue, ES Lois Street) and declined one (ES Elijah Drive). All votes were 6-0 with Clarence Jones absent.

• Approved plan change to Notice of Intent at 171 Hickory Street (6-0)
• Approved Notice of Intent for Neal Park redevelopment at 1708 Page Boulevard (6-0)
• Issued Negative #3 Determination for PVTA expansion at 665 Cottage Street (6-0)
• Voted to accept parcel at ES Deboo Drive
• Voted not to accept parcel at ES Elijah Drive
• Voted to accept parcel at NS Sumner Avenue
• Voted to accept parcel at ES Lois Street

Board of Elections

The Board of Elections will conduct a random post‑election audit of two Springfield precincts, as required by Section 109A of Chapter 54 of the General Laws. Precinct 4A and Precinct 6C have been selected, and the audit will occur on November 12, 2024. The agenda lists this audit as the sole item for the meeting.

• Audit of Precinct 4A
• Audit of Precinct 6C
• Compliance with Section 109A of Chapter 54 General Laws

Community Preservation Committee

The Springfield Community Preservation Committee will consider adopting the annual Community Preservation Act plan, extending contracts for several projects including East Springfield Library and Godfrey Triangle through June 2025, and electing a chair and vice chair. The committee will also review application templates and authorize the vice chair to sign contracts.

• Adopt annual CPA plan
• Contract extensions: East Springfield Library, Godfrey Triangle, Bay Path Cemetery to June 30, 2025
• Election of Chair and Vice Chair
• Authorize Vice Chair to sign contracts and approve payments
• Review application template and instructions

City Council

The City Council is meeting to continue discussions regarding new revenue sources. No other specific legislative actions or votes are listed on the agenda.

• Continued discussion of new revenue sources

City Council

The City Council will hold an executive session to discuss strategy in the Perrot litigation, then consider a $3,375,000 transfer from FY24 certified free cash to the Law Department settlement account to pay pending settlements. The transfer is sponsored by Mayor Sarno and certified by the Chief Administrative and Financial Officer as not harming municipal services.

• Executive session to discuss strategy in Perrot litigation
• Transfer of $3,375,000 from FY24 Free Cash to Law Department Settlement Account (01151-576400-CCR25)
• CAFO certification that the transfer will not impact existing services

The City Council held a special meeting and voted 8-0 to adopt Order #8305, transferring $3,375,000 from FY24 Free Cash to the Law Department Settlement Account to settle litigation involving George Perrot. The vote followed an executive session where the city solicitor discussed the case, noting potential exposure of up to $30 million. The settlement amount was approved as recorded.

• Adopted $3,375,000 transfer from FY24 Free Cash to Law Department Settlement Account (8-0)

School Committee- Regular

The School Committee will vote on approving two field trips for Putnam Vocational Technical Academy to Marlborough, MA for the Fall State Leadership Conference (Nov 24-25, 2024) and the Massachusetts SkillsUSA Championships (May 1-3, 2025). The agenda also includes approval of minutes, standing committee reports, and a student representative report.

• Approve field trip to Fall State Leadership Conference in Marlborough, Nov 24-25, 2024
• Approve field trip to Massachusetts SkillsUSA Championships in Marlborough, May 1-3, 2025
• Approve minutes of October 23, 2024 Special School Committee meeting

Residency Commission

The Residency Commission will meet to approve minutes from the October 3, 2024 meeting. The body will then move into an executive session to discuss complaints or charges brought against an individual.

• Approval of October 3, 2024 meeting minutes
• Executive session under Section 21(a)(1) of the Open Meeting Law regarding case assignments

The Residency Commission met on November 7, 2024, with four commissioners present. They approved the minutes from the October 3, 2024 meeting via a roll call vote. No other substantive decisions were made; the commission did not enter executive session.

• Approved October 3, 2024 meeting minutes (4-0)

Board of Public Works

The Board of Public Works is meeting to discuss a proposed underground gas facility installation by Eversource Gas in the Pine Point Neighborhood, covering Marsden Street, Newhall Street, Dalton Place, Crismer Place, and Sidney Place. The agenda also includes routine items such as approval of previous minutes and old business.

• Proposed underground gas facility installation by Eversource Gas on Marsden Street, Newhall Street, Dalton Place, Crismer Place, and Sidney Place.

School Committee- Regular

The Springfield School Committee will vote on two field trips for Putnam Vocational Technical Academy to Marlborough, MA, for leadership and skills conferences. The meeting also includes committee reports, student representative remarks, and superintendent report.

• Approve Putnam Vocational Technical Academy field trip to Fall State Leadership Conference, Nov 24-25, 2024
• Approve Putnam Vocational Technical Academy field trip to Massachusetts SkillsUSA Championships, May 1-3, 2025

City Council

The Springfield City Council Committee on Elder Affairs is meeting for an informational session. No specific proposals, votes, or financial items are listed on the agenda; the meeting is purely procedural.

• No substantive agenda items; only a public informational meeting

Traffic Commission

The Springfield Traffic Commission will consider new traffic regulations including no-parking zones near two elementary schools, installation of four-way stop signs at two intersections, and a crosswalk and speed limit update on Bay Street. The meeting also includes a tabled item regarding no parking on Homer Street and a public comment period.

• No parking on south side of McKnight Street near Rebecca Johnson School
• No parking on north side of Apple Street near Balliet Elementary School
• 4-way stop signs at Connecticut Avenue and Athol Street
• 4-way stop signs at Fenwick Street and Crest Street
• Bay Street crosswalk and speed limit update in McKnight neighborhood

Board of Public Works

The Board of Public Works is meeting to discuss new business regarding utility infrastructure. The primary item is a request from Eversource to install a utility pole to service new buildings.

• Eversource request to install (1) 50’ class I joint owned pole at 1650 Boston Rd.

Retirement Board

The Retirement Board will hear the system's audit as of December 31, 2023, and a presentation on investment performance from PRIM. The board will vote on several items including two involuntary accidental disability applications for firefighters, seven superannuation (retirement) applications, redeposits of refunds, warrants totaling over $8.8 million, and 99 new members. The meeting also includes approval of monthly financial reports and setting 2025 meeting dates.

• Audit presentation for Springfield Retirement System as of Dec 31, 2023 by Marcum
• Vote on involuntary accidental disability applications for Firefighters William Lee and Seth Cournoyer
• Seven superannuation applications including Stephen Balboni (Fire, 38.5 yrs) and Susan Montmeny (School, 26.25 yrs)
• Warrants totaling $8,838,479.18 including $8,085,648.44 for retirement payroll
• Vote to accept 99 new members for the retirement system

Board of Library Commissioners

The Springfield Library Commission will hear a presentation from branch manager Gregg Mitchell on the Mason Square Branch, Library Express at Pine Point, and Read/Write/Now. The meeting also includes approval of October 2024 minutes, committee and director reports, public comment, and an executive session.

• Presentation on Mason Square Branch, Library Express at Pine Point, and Read/Write/Now
• Approval of minutes from October 2, 2024 meeting
• Commission committee reports
• Director’s and chairman’s reports
• Executive session (closed to public)

School Committee - Building & Maintenance

The School Building Commission will meet to approve meeting minutes and vote on a construction amendment for the DeBerry / Benjamin Swan Elementary School. The meeting will be held in person at the Springfield School Department and virtually.

• Approval of May 14, 2024 meeting minutes
• Vote on Fontaine Brothers Amendment #9 for DeBerry / Benjamin Swan Elementary
• Meeting held at Springfield School Department, 1550 Main Street

The School Building Commission approved three contract amendments for DiNisco Design regarding the DeBerry/Homer Elementary School project, covering surveying, hazardous materials consulting, and traffic engineering. The commission also approved a contract amendment for Fontaine Brothers to extend the project's substantial completion date to August 11, 2023.

• Approved May 30, 2023 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved DiNisco Design Amendment #11 for $3,520 (unanimous)
• Approved DiNisco Design Amendment #12 for $44,990 (unanimous)
• Approved DiNisco Design Amendment #13 for $8,360 (unanimous)
• Approved Fontaine Brothers Amendment #8 to extend completion date (unanimous)

City Council

The City Council is convening a joint meeting of the General Government and Health & Human Services committees to act on filed items. The meeting will be held at Hybrid Room 200, 36 Court Street, Springfield, MA.

• Emergency Placement of Domestic Violence Victims and the Elderly

City Council

The Springfield City Council will hold a hybrid meeting to discuss liquor licenses and property tax matters. The session is scheduled for November 1, 2024, at 10:30 AM in Room 200.

• Call to Order
• Public Portion: Liquor License and Property Tax Discussion

Board of Public Works

The Board of Public Works will meet to discuss the installation and replacement of underground gas facilities. The primary focus is the retirement of low-pressure cast iron gas infrastructure in specific city sections.

• Hearing regarding Eversource gas facility installation and replacement on Winter Street, Pearl Street, and Byers Street

City Council

The City Council is meeting to review a draft of the Urban Woodlands Ordinance. This is the only substantive item listed on the agenda.

• Draft of the Urban Woodlands Ordinance

City Council

The City Council will hold hearings to discuss changing traffic patterns on Trenton and Patton Streets. The body will also consider a zoning change for a property on Connecticut Avenue and the placement of panhandling reduction signs.

• Proposal to make Trenton Street one-way westbound from Commonwealth Avenue to Dickinson Street
• Proposal to make Patton Street one-way southbound from Dwight Street to Main Street
• Zoning change request for WS Connecticut Avenue (Plot #3247) from Residence A to Residence B
• Proposed locations for panhandling reduction signs across multiple city neighborhoods
• Planning Board hearing report for WS Connecticut Avenue showing 2 people in favor and 8 in opposition

The City Council approved three petitions: making Trenton Street and Patton Street one-way, and installing panhandling signs with donation information. A zoning change for WS Connecticut Avenue was withdrawn without prejudice due to the petitioner's absence. All votes were recorded with specific tallies.

• Approved Trenton Street one-way designation (11-0)
• Approved Patton Street one-way designation (11-0)
• Approved panhandling signs with donation info (10-1, Brown opposed)
• Withdrew without prejudice zoning change for WS Connecticut Avenue (9-2, Curran and Delgado opposed)

City Council

The City Council Finance Sub-Committee is meeting to review a financial report. The session focuses on the June Revenue Vs. Expenditure Report.

• Review of June Revenue Vs. Expenditure Report (Order ID # 8270)

Commission on Disability

The Commission on Disability will hold a regular meeting to approve previous minutes and discuss new and old business. The agenda does not list specific topics for discussion.

Board of Public Works

The Springfield Board of Public Works will meet to hear a proposal from Eversource Gas to replace underground gas facilities on James Street, Cedar Street, Ashley Street, Lebanon Street, and Hancock Street to retire low-pressure cast iron infrastructure.

• Public hearing: Eversource Gas James Street gas infrastructure replacement
• Meeting location: Richard Neal Municipal Operations Center, 70 Tapley Street
• Meeting date: Thursday, October 24, 2024 at 3:30 PM

School Committee- Regular

The Springfield School Committee will approve the minutes from its October 10 meeting, hear a presentation from the Community Music School, and vote on several items. Voting items include approving field trips for Central High School and the Sci-Tech program, appointing a delegate and an alternate delegate to the Massachusetts Association of School Committees conference, and granting temporary authority for the superintendent to review student transportation access. The meeting also includes reports from standing committees, a student representative report, and a superintendent report.

• Approve Central High School field trip to Shakespeare and Company, Lenox, MA (Nov 22‑23, 2024)
• Approve Sci-Tech field trip to Washington, DC (Apr 5‑7, 2025)
• Approve Ms. Latonia Monroe Naylor as delegate to MASC/MASS Joint Conference (Nov 2024)
• Approve an alternate delegate to MASC/MASS Joint Conference (Nov 2024)
• Authorize superintendent to review student transportation access for 90 days

City Council

The City Council will convene a virtual meeting to hear a business climate update for Stern Square and address issues regarding Dewey's liquor license.

• Stern Square Business Climate Update
• Dewey's Liquor License Issues

School Committee- Regular

The Springfield School Committee will approve minutes from the October 10 meeting, hear a presentation from the Community Music School, and vote on several items. Voting items include field trips for Central High School and Sci-Tech, appointments of a delegate and alternate delegate to the Massachusetts Association of School Committees conference, and temporary authority for the superintendent to review student transportation access. The meeting also includes reports from standing committees, the student representative, and the superintendent.

• Approve Central High School field trip to Shakespeare and Company, Lenox, MA (Nov 22‑23, 2024)
• Approve Sci-Tech field trip to Washington, DC (Apr 5‑7, 2025)
• Approve Ms. Latonia Monroe Naylor as delegate to MASC/MASS Joint Conference (Nov 2024)
• Approve alternate delegate to MASC/MASS Joint Conference (Nov 2024)
• Approve temporary authority for superintendent to review student transportation access for 90 days

School Committee- Regular

The Springfield School Committee will hold its regular meeting on October 24, 2024, at City Hall. The agenda includes approval of field trips for Central High School and Sci-Tech, delegation to a state conference, and a temporary policy review for student transportation access.

• Approve Central High School field trip to Shakespeare and Company, Lenox, MA on November 22–23, 2024
• Approve Sci-Tech field trip to Washington, DC on April 5–7, 2025
• Approve Ms. Latonia Monroe Naylor as delegate to MASC/MASS Joint Conference in November 2024
• Vote to approve an alternate delegate to the MASC/MASS Joint Conference
• Temporary authorization for Superintendent to review student transportation access for 90 days

Board of Public Works

The Board of Public Works will hold a hearing on an Eversource Gas proposal. The proposal seeks to install and replace underground gas facilities on a portion of Armory Street and Liberty Street. The work aims to retire low‑pressure cast‑iron gas infrastructure.

• Hearing on Eversource Gas proposal to install and replace underground gas facilities on Armory Street and Liberty Street

License Commission

The Board of License Commissioners is conducting hearings regarding liquor license violations, transfers, and potential cancellations under Section 77. The body will also review an incident report for the Irish Ale House.

• Pre-hearing for P2B Springfield LLC (The Place 2 be) at 1000 Hall of Fame Ave regarding four counts of selling and displaying alcohol without a license
• Discussion of liquor license transfer for Palate, Inc. (Palate) at 8 Temby Rd to La Taqueria Del Pueblo Bar & Restaurant
• Section 77 final hearing for Graham’s Package Store at 1649-1651 Main Street regarding license status and renovations
• Section 77 final hearing for Assad & Paul, LLC (The Hookah Factory) at 296 Cooley St regarding license cancellation
• Administrative review of an October 6, 2024 incident report for Irish Ale House

The Springfield Board of License Commissioners met virtually and approved the prior meeting's minutes. All substantive items were continuances: The Place 2 be's violation hearing was continued to December 2, 2024; Palate's license transfer was continued to November 13, 2024; Graham's Package Store's license status was continued to December 2, 2024; The Hookah Factory's license status was continued to December 11, 2024. The board took no action on an incident report for Irish Ale House.

• Approved minutes of October 9, 2024 (unanimous)
• Continued The Place 2 be violation hearing to 12-2-2024 (unanimous)
• Continued Palate license transfer to 11-13-2024 (unanimous)
• Continued Graham's Package Store license status to 12-2-2024 (unanimous)
• Continued The Hookah Factory license status to 12-11-2024 (unanimous)
• Took no action on Irish Ale House incident report (unanimous)

School Committee- Regular

The Springfield School Committee will meet on October 23, 2024 for a special session. After the usual call to order, invocation, and pledge of allegiance, the committee will interview and vote on its legal counsel. No other agenda items are listed.

• Interview and vote on School Committee legal counsel

Conservation Commission

The Springfield Conservation Commission met on October 22, 2024, and the minutes record only the call to order and attendee list. No substantive decisions, approvals, or discussions were documented in the provided minutes.

City Council

The Springfield City Council meeting on Oct 22, 2024 will include a presentation and discussion of the follow‑up review of the Big Y Gift Card Program at Springfield Public Schools. Council members will also hear a presentation and discussion reviewing the First Student Transportation Services contract.

• Presentation and discussion of the Follow Up Review of the Big Y Gift Card Program at Springfield Public Schools
• Presentation and discussion of the Review of the First Student Transportation Services Contract

City Council

The City Council is reviewing several grant allocations and budget increases. The body will also consider a bond for a school feasibility study and an amendment to solid waste regulations.

• Bond Authorization for Gerena School Feasibility Study: $2,500,000
• DPW Massworks Infrastructure Program Grant: $2,800,000
• Supplemental Budget increase in State Aid: $587,478
• Amendment to Chapter 327, Solid Waste
• RFP for School Department time and attendance services (five-year term)

The City Council approved a $2.8 million Massworks Infrastructure Program grant for pedestrian and bridge improvements. The council also authorized a $2.5 million bond for a feasibility study at Gerena School and adopted an amendment to the solid waste ordinance.

• Approved $2.8M DPW Massworks Infrastructure Program Grant (12-0)
• Authorized $2.5M bond for Gerena School Feasibility Study (12-0)
• Adopted amendment to Chapter 327, Solid Waste (12-0)
• Approved State Election Warrant (11-0)
• Approved September Revenue Vs. Expenditure Report (11-0)
• Approved Private Acceptance Petition #10,304 (11-0)
• Approved $587,478 supplemental budget for state aid increase (12-0)
• Approved 5-year RFP for School Department time and attendance services (12-0)

City Council

The Finance Sub‑Committee will review the September revenue versus expenditure report and consider several grant awards, including a $2.8 million MassWorks infrastructure grant and a $2.5 million bond for a Gerena School feasibility study. It will also discuss a $60,000 early‑childhood services grant increase, a $39,898 senior employment grant increase, a $20,000 health and wellness grant, and a $732 library cash donation. The committee will consider a supplemental budget increase of $587,478 in state aid and will approve a five‑year contract solicitation for school time‑and‑attendance services.

• DPW MassWorks Infrastructure Program Grant – $2,800,000
• Bond Authorization – Gerena School Feasibility Study – $2,500,000
• Prevention in Early Childhood Services Grant Increase – $60,000
• FY24 Senior Community Service Employment Grant Increase – $39,898
• FY25 Libraries Cash Donations – $732

City Council

The General Government Sub-Committee is meeting to discuss the possibility of providing free parking for veterans with veterans plates in the City of Springfield.

• Discussion of free parking for veterans with veterans plates

City Council

The City Council General Government Sub‑Committee will consider Ordinance 2024‑1, which proposes an amendment to Article V of Chapter 385 of Springfield’s ordinances. The item is scheduled for discussion during the October 21 meeting. No further details of the amendment are provided in the agenda.

• Ordinance 2024‑1 – amendment to Article V of Chapter 385 of the City of Springfield ordinances

Animal Control

The Springfield Animal Control department will hold second hearings for three dogs deemed dangerous. The hearings address cases involving dogs named Waffle, Rex, Abby, and a second dog.

• Dangerous dog hearing for Waffle and Rex at 111 Berard St
• Dangerous dog hearing for Abby at 192 Harkness Ave
• Approval of August 15, 2024 minutes

The Animal Control board held two dangerous dog hearings. In the first, they deemed Rex dangerous after an attack that killed another dog, imposing conditions including confinement, muzzling, sterilization, and insurance. In the second, they deemed Abby dangerous and ordered impoundment and euthanasia. Both decisions passed 3-0.

• Deemed Rex dangerous after attack on another dog (3-0)
• Imposed conditions on Rex: confinement, muzzling, sterilization, insurance, and enclosure (3-0)
• Deemed Abby dangerous and ordered impoundment and euthanasia (3-0)
• Approved minutes from August 15, 2024 (3-0)

Historical Commission

The Springfield Historical Commission will hold public hearings on several petitions requesting property alterations, including moving an electric meter, porch renovations, chimney caps, antenna installations, and window replacements at specific addresses. The commission will also discuss preservation of historically significant buildings and an informational public speak‑out session.

• Petition ID #8208 – 99 Randolph Street: Relocate electric meter to exterior of home
• Petition ID #8289 – 3 Clarendon Street
• Petition ID #8290 – 127 Forest Park Avenue: Front porch renovations
• Petition ID #8291 – 64 Washington Road: Chimney caps
• Petition ID #8292 – 577 Carew Street: Antennas

The Commission approved six petitions for exterior modifications to historic properties and one request to relocate an electric meter. A petition for renovations at 3 Clarendon Street was continued to a future meeting.

• Approved relocating electric meter at 99 Randolph Street (5-0)
• Continued vote for renovations at 3 Clarendon Street to 11/21/2024 (5-0)
• Approved front porch renovations at 127 Forest Park Avenue (5-0)
• Approved installation of two chimney caps at 64 Washington Road (5-0)
• Approved replacement of six telecommunication antennas at 577 Carew Street (5-0)
• Approved replacement windows at 161 Longhill Street (5-0)
• Approved replacement windows at 122 Firglade Avenue (5-0)
• Approved replacement windows at 51 Clarendon Street (5-0)

Board of Public Works

The Board of Public Works will hold a public hearing to discuss installing a handhold between properties at 97 and 107 Carol Ann Street to upgrade electricity service. The meeting is scheduled for 3:30 P.M. on October 16, 2024.

• Public hearing: Eversource utility work at 97 Carol Ann Street
• Meeting location: In front of #97 Carol Ann Street
• Meeting time: 3:30 P.M. on October 16, 2024

Planning

The Springfield Planning Board will meet to discuss a proposed zoning change for a specific property. The board will also review meeting minutes and other non-subdivision plans.

• Public hearing for Zoning Change (ID # 8257) to change ES Ingersoll Grove (06925-0025) from Residence A to Residence B

Public Health Council

The Public Health Council will receive presentations from Deputy Commissioner Ann Kissel regarding tobacco legislation and an opioids forum. The body will also follow up on agenda suggestions concerning air quality, homelessness, COVID-19, and wastewater.

• Tobacco legislations and regulations presentation
• Opioids forum overview
• Discussion on air quality, homelessness, COVID-19, and waste water
• Review of Public Health Council vacant spot

Board of Assessors

The Springfield Board of Assessors will vote to move three agenda items into executive session. The items are a review of the Appellate Tax Board docket and related litigation strategy, discussion of personal exemption applications, and consideration of FY 2023 preliminary tax abatements.

• Enter executive session to discuss Appellate Tax Board docket and litigation strategy
• Enter executive session to discuss personal exemption applications
• Enter executive session to discuss FY 2023 preliminary tax abatements

School Committee- Regular

The Legislative & Contracts Subcommittee and the School Safety Subcommittee will vote to recommend that the full School Committee approve a delegate and an alternate delegate to the Massachusetts Association of School Committees Joint Conference in November 2024 and authorize them to vote on conference resolutions. They will also vote to temporarily authorize the superintendent to review student transportation access for 90 days or until an attorney reviews the policy. Discussion items include the student assignment policy, the process for selecting a law firm for the School Committee, and a community meeting regarding a camera memorandum of understanding.

• Vote to recommend approval of a delegate to the MASC/MASS Joint Conference (Nov 2024)
• Vote to recommend approval of an alternate delegate to the MASC/MASS Joint Conference (Nov 2024)
• Vote to recommend authorizing the delegate/alternate to vote on conference resolutions
• Vote to temporarily authorize the superintendent to review student transportation access for 90 days or until attorney review
• Discussion of student assignment policy, law‑firm selection process, and community meeting on camera MOU

City Council

The City Council is meeting to continue discussions regarding new revenue sources. No other specific legislative items or votes are listed on the agenda.

• Continued discussion of new revenue sources

City Council

The Springfield City Council will hold a continued discussion on the proposed Urban Woodlands Ordinance. Council members will consider the ordinance's provisions for protecting and managing urban forested areas. No final vote is indicated in the agenda.

• Urban Woodlands Ordinance – continued discussion

City Council

The City Council is holding a joint meeting of the M&D and Finance committees to consider an amendment to Chapter 327, Solid Waste.

• Amendment to Chapter 327, Solid Waste (Mayor Sarno)
• Joint meeting of M&D and Finance committees
• Meeting held at Hybrid Room 200, 36 Court Street

Board of Public Works

The Board of Public Works will hold a hearing on an Eversource Gas project to install and replace underground gas facilities in the McKnight Neighborhood. The project covers streets including St James Ave, Worthington St, Dartmouth Terr., Harvard St., Wellesley St., Princeton St., Campus Pl., Cornell St., and Lafayette St. No other decisions are listed for this meeting.

• Eversource Gas: install and replace underground gas facilities in the McKnight Neighborhood (St James Ave, Worthington St, Dartmouth Terr., Harvard St., Wellesley St., Princeton St., Campus Pl., Cornell St., Lafayette St.)

Board of Police Commission

The Board of Police Commissioners will meet to discuss and vote on a personnel matter. The session is scheduled as an Executive Session to address complaints or discipline regarding a specific officer.

• Hearing on Special Order (SO) #24-006 regarding Violation of Rules & Regulations

School Committee- Regular

The Springfield School Committee will vote to enter an executive session to discuss negotiation strategies for SAS, SEA, and a confidential assistant. After the executive session, the committee will approve the minutes from the September 12 and September 26 meetings, recognize Ms. Mattie Jenkins with a plaque, and hear a virtual school and Hispanic Heritage Month presentation. The meeting also includes reports from standing committees and a student representative.

• Vote to enter executive session to discuss negotiation strategies for SAS, SEA, and a confidential assistant
• Approve minutes of the September 12, 2024, School Committee meeting
• Approve minutes of the September 26, 2024, School Committee meeting
• Present plaque to Ms. Mattie Jenkins, Family Liaison at William N. DeBerry School
• Virtual School/Hispanic Heritage Month presentation by Alyson Lingsch & team

Board of Public Works

The Board of Public Works will hold a hearing on an Eversource Gas project to install and replace underground gas facilities in the Pine Point Neighborhood. The work will cover Fisher Street, Nathaniel Street, Samuel Street, Sila Street, Benham Street, and Humber Street, aiming to retire low‑pressure cast‑iron gas infrastructure. The board will discuss the proposal during the October 9 meeting.

• Eversource Gas hearing to install and replace underground gas facilities on Fisher, Nathaniel, Samuel, Sila, Benham, and Humber Streets in Pine Point Neighborhood

Board of Police Commission

The Board of Police Commissioners is meeting to approve previous minutes and discuss upcoming training. The agenda contains no votes or formal decisions.

• Approval of September 11, 2024 minutes
• Discussion on upcoming training

License Commission

The Board will consider a pre‑hearing conference on the suspension of the Common Victualler license and possible cancellation of the liquor license for The Place 2 Be, located at 1000 Hall of Fame Ave. The meeting will also approve minutes from the September 25 hearing and review three new license petitions for The Farmers House, Le Souk Hookah Lounge, and Faces Grill Bar Lounge. An administrative review of an incident at The Place 2 Be on September 26, 2024, will be discussed.

• Pre‑hearing conference: suspension of Common Victualler license and possible liquor license cancellation for The Place 2 Be (1000 Hall of Fame Ave)
• New annual beer and wine liquor license petition for The Farmers House (600 Belmont Ave)
• Ownership and officer change petition for Le Souk Hookah Lounge (1 Worthington St)
• DBA change petition from Shadow Lounge to Faces Grill Bar Lounge (234 Chestnut St)
• Approval of minutes from the September 25 Board of License Commissioners hearing

The Springfield License Commission approved several license changes and continued one petition. It canceled the new Common Victualler license for The Place 2 Be, restoring its old hours with an 8:00 PM closing for all alcohol. The board also scheduled a pre-hearing conference for an incident report at the same establishment.

• Approved minutes of September 25, 2024 (unanimous)
• Continued Farmers House new beer/wine license to 10-23-2024 (unanimous)
• Approved ownership change for Le Souk Hookah Lounge (3-0-1, Ramirez abstained)
• Approved DBA change from Shadow Lounge to Faces Grill Bar Lounge (unanimous)
• Canceled The Place 2 Be's new Common Victualler license, restored old hours (unanimous)
• Scheduled pre-hearing conference for 10-23-2024 on The Place 2 Be incident of 9-26-24 (unanimous)

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will vote to enter executive session. In that session they will review the Appellate Tax Board docket and discuss litigation strategy. They will also consider personal exemption applications and FY 2023 preliminary tax abatements.

• Review of Appellate Tax Board docket and litigation strategy
• Discussion of personal exemption applications
• Consideration of FY 2023 preliminary tax abatements

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission met on October 8, 2024 at the Richard Neal Municipal Operations Center and called the meeting to order at 5:00 PM. The minutes as provided record only the call to order and a public portion heading, with no motions, votes, or decisions documented. No substantive actions can be reported from this record.

City Council

The Springfield City Council meeting on October 7, 2024 will consider a series of financial orders, including a $1.2 million transfer from the Stabilization Reserve Fund to the Law Department’s OTPS line item. The council will also review grant appropriations for Blunt Park Phase II, a $5 million Brownfields Clean‑Up Grant, and other library and road‑safety donations. An informational zoning change referral for ES Ingersoll Grove from Residence A to Residence B will be presented. Additional items include a solid‑waste amendment and collective bargaining ratification.

• Transfer $1,200,000 from Stabilization Reserve Fund to Law Department OTPS line item
• Approve $300,000 city funds and accept $500,000 state grant for Blunt Park Phase II improvements
• Authorize $5,000,000 Brownfields Clean‑Up Grant (no match required)
• Parks Department PARC Grant for Blunt Park Phase II – $500,000 (match required)
• Zoning change referral for ES Ingersoll Grove from Residence A to Residence B (informational)

The City Council approved the appropriation and order of taking for the Sumner Avenue (Route 83) 'The X' Improvement Project, despite concerns about process and timing. The council also adopted a $1.2 million transfer from stabilization reserves to Law OTPS, accepted several grants and donations, and referred the solid waste ordinance amendment back to committee.

• Approved $569,900 appropriation for Sumner Ave 'X' project (unanimous)
• Approved order of taking for easements for 'X' project (12-0, Walsh away)
• Adopted $1.2M transfer from stabilization reserves to Law OTPS (12-0, Govan abstained)
• Adopted $5M Brownfields Clean Up Grant for ES Pinevale (unanimous)
• Adopted $500,000 PARC Grant for Blunt Park Phase II (unanimous)
• Adopted $300,000 library donation (unanimous)
• Referred solid waste ordinance amendment to Finance and Maintenance committees
• Ratified SPSA collective bargaining agreement (unanimous)

City Council

The Finance Sub‑Committee will review several financial orders, including approval of a $5,000,000 FY24 Brownfields Clean‑Up grant that requires no matching funds. Other items include a $500,000 PARC grant for Blunt Park Phase II that requires a match, a $59,999.94 FY25 Municipal Road Safety grant, and library donations totaling $300,000. The committee will also consider June and August revenue versus expenditure reports and ratify the SPSA collective bargaining agreement.

• FY24 Brownfields Clean Up Grant – $5,000,000, no match required
• Parks Department – PARC Grant for Blunt Park Phase II – $500,000, match required
• FY25 Municipal Road Safety Grant – $59,999.94, no match
• Springfield City Library donation – $300,000
• Collective Bargaining Agreement Ratification – SPSA

City Council

The City Council is meeting to enter an executive session. The body will discuss legal strategy regarding eleven pending litigation matters involving the City of Springfield.

• Executive session to discuss 11 litigation matters, including Roman-Bodner v. City of Springfield, Parillo v. Leon Davis, and Paredes v. COS

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will meet to conduct business in executive session. The board is scheduled to discuss litigation strategies for Appellate Tax Board matters and review exemption applications.

• ATB Docket Review regarding litigation strategy
• Review of personal exemption applications
• FY 2023 Preliminary Tax Abatements
• Appellate Tax Board matter regarding F B Development

Residency Commission

The Residency Commission will meet to approve previous minutes and discuss decision letters for employees. The body will then enter an executive session to discuss complaints or charges against individuals.

• Approval of September 20, 2024 minutes
• Review of Residency Commission Decision Letter for employees
• Executive session regarding case assignments and individual complaints

The Residency Commission approved the meeting minutes from September 20, 2024. Commissioners also approved a standardized decision letter to be issued to employees following residency hearings and placed in their personnel files.

• Approved September 20, 2024 meeting minutes (4-0)
• Approved employee residency decision letter template (4-0)

School Committee- Regular

The Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Subcommittee is meeting to review the DIRE update and determine next steps. This is a focused subcommittee session rather than a full committee meeting.

• DIRE Update & Next Steps

Historical Commission

The Historical Commission is meeting to conduct continued and new public hearings regarding property petitions. The body will also review a Section 106 review for 577 Carew Street and discuss annual elections.

• Continued public hearings for 91-97 Chestnut Street, 175 Mill Street, and 77 Clarendon Street
• New public hearing for 42 Ridgewood Terrace regarding a mailbox
• New public hearing for 194 Sumner Avenue regarding roof shingles
• Informational review of Section 106 for 577 Carew Street

The Springfield Historical Commission approved a Certificate of Appropriateness for a Dr. Seuss-themed mural and storefront remodel at 91-97 Chestnut Street, and approved exterior repairs at 77 Clarendon Street. It also approved a mailbox relocation at 42 Ridgewood Terrace and a roof shingle replacement at 194 Sumner Avenue, both under hardship. A petition for an accessory building at 175 Mill Street was withdrawn by the applicant.

• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for mural and storefront at 91-97 Chestnut Street (unanimous)
• Approved exterior repairs at 77 Clarendon Street (unanimous)
• Approved mailbox relocation at 42 Ridgewood Terrace under hardship (unanimous)
• Approved roof shingle replacement at 194 Sumner Avenue under hardship (5-0, Nardi recused)
• Withdrawn: accessory building/garage at 175 Mill Street

Traffic Commission

The Traffic Commission is meeting to discuss new items including panhandling reduction sign locations and parking restrictions on Homer Street. The body will also address resident traffic concerns on Park Drive and review previously tabled items.

• 24-31 Panhandling Reduction Signs Locations by Neighborhood
• 24-32 Removal of 'No Parking 7 am-4 pm School Days' at Homer St.
• 24-33 Resident traffic concerns on Park Drive
• 24-20 Crosswalk for Springfield Commonwealth Academy at Maple Street (Tabled)
• 24-24 Change of traffic pattern on Patton Street (Tabled)

Retirement Board

The Springfield Retirement Board will approve minutes from the September 4 meeting, consider several disability and superannuation applications, and vote on financial items including refunds, warrants, and the 2025 administrative budget. The meeting also includes reports on audits, actuarial valuations, and fund updates.

• Vote on 2025 Administrative Budget (Director’s Report)
• Warrants totaling $8,137,216.51 for retirement payroll and $7,000,000.00 redemption from PRIT fund
• Superannuation application for Keith Pouliot, Police Officer (41 years service)
• Involuntary Accidental Disability applications for fire, police, and animal control staff
• Redeposit of refunds for multiple school and city employees

Board of Library Commissioners

The Springfield Library Commission will consider routine business, including approval of the June 5 and September 4, 2024 meeting minutes. Commissioners will hear committee, chairman, and director reports, discuss any new or other business, and allow public comment before entering an executive session.

• Approval of minutes from June 5 and September 4, 2024 meetings
• Commission committee reports
• Chairman’s report
• Director’s report
• New/Other business and public comment

Planning

The Springfield Planning Board is holding a regular meeting to conduct public hearings. The primary item on the agenda is a petition for a new beer and wine liquor license.

• Petition (ID # 8216) for a new Beer & Wine Liquor License at 600 Belmont Avenue

The Springfield Planning Board approved a new beer and wine liquor license for The Farmers House at 600 Belmont Avenue by a 6-0 vote, subject to conditions regarding operating hours and signage. The board also addressed meeting minutes, acceptance of minutes, non-subdivision plans, and other matters properly before them.

• Approved new Beer & Wine Liquor License for 600 Belmont Avenue (6-0)

Springfield Empowerment Zone

The Springfield Empowerment Zone Partnership Board of Directors will meet virtually on October 1, 2024, to approve minutes from the April 10 meeting, discuss state accountability data and strategic initiatives, and vote on the 2024-25 school plans and budget. Public comments are limited to 15 minutes.

• Vote on SEZP SY 2024-25 School Plans
• Vote on SEZP SY 2024-25 Proposed Budget
• Review of 2023-24 State Accountability Data
• Discussion of 2024-25 Strategic SEZP Initiatives
• Approval of minutes from 4/10/24 meeting

Community Preservation Committee

The Springfield Community Preservation Committee will meet remotely to approve September minutes, review contract extensions for local projects, and discuss policies for the Historic Homes Program.

• Approval of September 2, 2024 meeting minutes
• Contract extension and change of scope requests for Myrtle Street Playground, Spanish American War Monument, and Indian Orchard Fire Station
• Reconsideration of Historic Homes Program policies
• Review of annual Community Preservation Act plan
• Setting dates for the 2025 application cycle

The Community Preservation Committee approved several contract changes: combining two CPA grants for the Indian Orchard Fire Station, shifting the scope of the Myrtle Street Playground project, and extending the Spanish American War Monument contract to June 30, 2025. The committee also voted to keep the income eligibility test for the Historic Homes Program but raise the AMI threshold to 100% for a full $30,000 grant and increase the minimum grant from $10,000 to $15,000, while keeping the cap at 200% AMI. An amendment to allow anyone over 200% AMI to receive the minimum grant failed. The 2025 application cycle dates were set, and the annual CPA plan was reviewed with minimal changes.

• Approved combining two CPA grants for Indian Orchard Fire Station exterior work and stabilization (unanimous)
• Approved shifting scope of Myrtle Street Playground to eliminate fitness course and install playground (unanimous)
• Approved extending Spanish American War Monument contract from Nov 30, 2024 to June 30, 2025 (unanimous)
• Amendment to allow anyone over 200% AMI to receive minimum $15,000 grant failed (2 yes, 7 no)
• Approved keeping income test but raising AMI to 100% for full $30,000 grant and raising minimum grant to $15,000, cap remains 200% (4 yes, 3 no, 1 abstain)
• Approved 2025 application cycle dates: workshop Jan 7, applications due Feb 27, recommendations to City Council in June (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of September 4, 2024 (abstentions by Juanita and Rhonda)

City Council

The City Council is meeting to discuss a specific environmental project. The agenda focuses on a single item regarding solar energy infrastructure.

• Discussion of Solar Farm on Allen St.

Board of Assessors

The Springfield Board of Assessors held its regular meeting on September 27, 2024. The board presented the August 2024 abatement totals for real estate ($78,003.07), motor vehicle excise ($36,016.12), and personal property ($32,775.06). It also noted uncollectible excise taxes from calendar years 1986‑1989 and uncollectible personal property files (F, J, K, L). No formal decisions were indicated in the agenda.

• August 2024 real estate abatement total: $78,003.07
• August 2024 motor vehicle excise abatement total: $36,016.12
• August 2024 personal property abatement total: $32,775.06
• Review of uncollectible excise taxes for 1986‑1989
• Review of uncollectible personal property files (F, J, K, L)

Office of Emergency Preparedness Advisory Council

The Local Emergency Planning Committee will meet to receive a presentation on dam safety from Springfield Water and Sewer. The session will also include an update from the National Weather Service and a review of upcoming trainings and exercises.

• Dam safety presentation by Springfield Water and Sewer
• National Weather Service (NWS) update
• Discussion of upcoming events, trainings, and exercises

School Committee- Regular

The Springfield School Committee will hold a regular meeting to review presentations on student assignment services, Pre-K, and conditions for success. The body will vote on one field trip request and receive reports from various standing committees.

• Vote on Walsh Elementary School field trip to Red Gate Farm, Ashfield, MA (Oct. 2-4, 2024)
• Presentation on Student Assignment Services long term/short term improvements
• Pre-K presentation by Principals Keisa Williams, Michele Campbell, and Jessica McCloskey
• Presentation on Conditions for Success
• Superintendent update on Transition Plan

School Committee- Regular

The Springfield School Committee will hold a regular meeting to review several presentations and approve previous meeting minutes. The body will vote on a specific field trip for Walsh Elementary School. The Superintendent will also provide an update on the Transition Plan.

• Vote on Walsh Elementary School field trip to Red Gate Farm, Ashfield, MA (Oct 2-4, 2024)
• Presentation on Conditions for Success
• Presentation on Student Assignment Services improvements
• Pre-K Presentation by Principals Keisa Williams, Michele Campbell, and Jessica McCloskey
• Superintendent update on Transition Plan

License Commission

The Board of License Commissioners will meet to approve minutes from September 11, 2024. The commission will conduct administrative reviews of incident reports for five specific establishments.

• Administrative review: Irish Ale House (incident of 9-2-24)
• Administrative review: Forest Park Liquors (incident of 9-12-24)
• Administrative review: Rose (incident of 8-31-24)
• Administrative review: Solmar (incident of 9-3-24)
• Administrative review: Top Shelf (incident of 9-1-24)

The Springfield Board of License Commissioners met virtually on September 25, 2024, and approved the minutes from the September 11, 2024 hearing. The board reviewed five incident reports and voted unanimously to take no action on each, meaning no penalties or further steps were taken. The meeting adjourned at 6:00 PM.

• Approved minutes of September 11, 2024 hearing (unanimous)
• Irish Ale House incident of 9-2-24: no action (unanimous)
• Forest Park Liquors incident of 9-12-24: no action (unanimous)
• Rose incident of 8-31-24: no action (unanimous)
• Solmar incident of 9-3-24: no action (unanimous)
• Top Shelf incident of 9-1-24: no action (unanimous)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will meet to conduct a public session and review petitions. The agenda includes one specific petition for a property located at 64 Berkshire Avenue.

• Petition (ID # 8255) for 64 Berkshire Avenue

City Council

The Springfield City Council Maintenance and Development Sub-Committee will meet to discuss amendments to the city's trash regulations and solid waste chapter. The meeting will also include a general discussion on crosswalks.

• Amendment to Chapter 327, Solid Waste
• Amendment to City of Springfield Trash Rules and Regulations
• General discussion of crosswalks

Conservation Commission

The Springfield Conservation Commission convened on September 24, 2024, and called the meeting to order. The minutes list attendees but contain no substantive decisions, approvals, or discussions beyond the procedural call to order.

City Council

The City Council will hold a hearings meeting to discuss several special permits and zoning changes. The body is also considering multiple traffic control petitions, including new stop signs and parking restrictions.

• Traffic Control Agreement for Sumner Ave (Route 21), Belmont Ave (Route 83), and Dickinson Street
• Special Permit for an equipment/auto repair and junk yard at 298 Rocus Street
• Zoning change from Residence A to Residence B for WS Connecticut Avenue and SS Wisteria Street
• New stop signs at Gillette Ave/Arvilla Street, Farnsworth St/Hamburg Street, and Catharine St/McKnight Street
• No Parking restriction on the north side of White Street starting at Allen Street

The Springfield City Council approved all six traffic petitions (Sumner Ave traffic control agreement, Dillinger's Way honorary street sign, stop signs on Gillette Ave, Farnsworth St, and Catharine St, and no parking on White Street) unanimously 11-0. It also adopted three special permits: an equipment/auto repair and junk yard at 298 Rocus Street with an amended condition to maintain the fence, a change in petitioner for motor vehicle sales at 289-291 Mill Street, and a special permit at 1387 Boston Road. A zoning change for WS Connecticut Avenue was continued to October 28, 2024, while a zoning change for SS Wisteria Street was approved 11-0.

• Approved traffic control agreement for Sumner Ave (11-0)
• Approved honorary street sign 'Dillinger's Way' (11-0)
• Approved stop signs on Gillette Ave, Farnsworth St, and Catharine St (11-0)
• Approved no parking anytime on White Street (11-0)
• Adopted special permit for auto repair/junk yard at 298 Rocus St with amended condition to maintain fence (11-0)
• Adopted special permit amendment for motor vehicle sales at 289-291 Mill St (11-0)
• Adopted special permit at 1387 Boston Road (11-0)
• Continued zoning change for WS Connecticut Ave to Oct 28, 2024

Residency Commission

The Residency Commission will enter an executive session under Section 21(a)(1) of the Open Meeting Law. In that closed session, the body will discuss complaints or charges brought against an individual. The commission has indicated it will not return to an open session after the executive session.

• Executive session to discuss complaints or charges against an individual (no public return)

Park Commission

The Park Commission will convene to approve the minutes from its July meeting, consider requests for memorial benches, and authorize the Executive Director to sign contracts with the Hampden County Sheriffs Department.

• Approval of July 25, 2024 meeting minutes
• Request for memorial bench at John Zebb
• Request for memorial bench for homicide victims
• Request for significant tree removal at 48 Kings Lane
• Approval for Executive Director to sign contracts with Hampden County Sheriffs Department

Emergency Medical Services

The Emergency Medical Services body is meeting to approve previous minutes and review monthly reports from AMR. No other specific business items were listed on the agenda.

• Approval of June 15, 2023 meeting minutes
• Review of AMR Monthly Reports

Historical Commission

The Springfield Historical Commission will meet to continue public hearings on petitions regarding property changes, including rooftop solar installations and window replacements, and to discuss protocols for reviewing municipally owned projects.

• Public hearings continued for Chestnut Street properties
• New hearings for rooftop solar at Bowdoin and Marengo Park
• Review of exterior meter relocation at 99 Randolph Street
• Informational update on Walker Grandstand at 270 Trafton Road
• Discussion on protocols for municipal project reviews

The Springfield Historical Commission approved the removal and limestone infill of windows at the Museum of Fine Arts (49 Chestnut Street) unanimously. It also approved rooftop solar installations at 181 Bowdoin Street and 82 Marengo Park, replacement windows at 164-166 Washington Blvd, porch repairs at 144 Washington Road, and egress reconfiguration at 34 Kopernik Street. Several other petitions were continued to future meetings, including murals at 91-97 Chestnut Street and an electric meter relocation at 99 Randolph Street.

• Approved window removal and limestone infill at 49 Chestnut Street (Museum of Fine Arts) (unanimous)
• Approved rooftop solar installation at 181 Bowdoin Street (5-0)
• Approved rooftop solar installation at 82 Marengo Park (unanimous)
• Approved replacement windows at 164-166 Washington Blvd (unanimous)
• Approved porch step and handrail replacement at 144 Washington Road (unanimous)
• Approved rear egress reconfiguration at 34 Kopernik Street (unanimous)
• Continued mural installation at 91-97 Chestnut Street to 10/3/2024 (unanimous)
• Continued electric meter relocation at 99 Randolph Street to 10/17/2024 (unanimous)

Planning

The Springfield Planning Board will hold a public hearing on a petition for a new beer and wine liquor license at 600 Belmont Avenue. The board will also review any non‑subdivision plans submitted for consideration. Additional items may be addressed under all other matters properly before the board.

• Petition (ID #8216) for a new beer & wine liquor license at 600 Belmont Avenue
• Review of non‑subdivision plans
• Consideration of any other matters properly before the board

The Springfield Planning Board voted 5-0 to continue the public hearing for a new beer and wine liquor license at 600 Belmont Avenue, requested by The Farmers House, to October 2, 2024. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting was otherwise procedural.

• Continued Farmers House liquor license hearing to 10/2/2024 (5-0)

Commission on Disability

The Springfield Commission on Disability will meet on September 17, 2024 at the Mason Square Library, 765 State St. The agenda includes routine items such as call to order, sign‑in, and approval of minutes, and a new‑business item to consider the Monkey Building Plan. No other substantive business is listed.

• Monkey Building Plan – new business item for discussion
• Approval of Minutes – routine approval of prior meeting minutes

City Council

The City Council is meeting to continue discussions regarding the Urban Woodlands Ordinance. No other substantive business items are listed on the agenda.

• Continued discussion of Urban Woodlands Ordinance

City Council

The Springfield City Council will meet to discuss plans for a Domestic Violence Awareness Luncheon. This is a procedural item with no formal decisions scheduled.

City Council

The City Council will vote on multiple quitclaim deed sales, including the sale of 18 Highland St. to Springfield City of Homes Development, LLC for $2,440.39. It will also consider zoning change petitions for WS Connecticut Avenue and SS Wisteria Street, both requesting a change from Residence A to Residence B. Additional items include approval of several grant awards, lease contract amendments, and amendments to the solid waste and trash fee ordinances.

• Order authorizing Mayor to execute quitclaim deed for sale of 18 Highland St. for $2,440.39 (Springfield City of Homes Development, LLC)
• Quitclaim deed sales to Old Hill Infill, LLC for properties on ES Hancock St., SS Union St., ES Wilbraham Ave., NS Melrose St., SS Lebanon St., SS Melrose St. (considerations ranging $500–$1,500)
• Zoning change petition for WS Connecticut Avenue (Residence A to B) – Planning Board recommendation denied
• Zoning change petition for SS Wisteria Street (Residence A to B) – pending decision
• Amendments to Chapter 327 Solid Waste ordinance and to the City Trash Fees Rules and Regulations

The Springfield City Council approved a $6 million 'Speak for the Trees' grant for the Parks Department, along with 13 other grants and donations. It also authorized the sale of 11 city-owned properties to Old Hill Infill, LLC and Springfield City of Homes Development, LLC for redevelopment, and approved two infrastructure petitions from GONETSPEED. Two zoning changes were received for referral, and two trash-related ordinances were referred to committee.

• Approved $6,000,000 Speak for the Trees grant (unanimous)
• Approved sale of 11 city-owned lots/homes to Old Hill Infill, LLC and Springfield City of Homes Development, LLC (12-0, Fenton recused)
• Approved GONETSPEED infrastructure petitions for Jennings St. and Wisteria St. (12-0)
• Approved FY25 Senior Community Service Employment Grant of $499,661 (unanimous)
• Approved FY24 Shared Streets and Spaces Program Grant of $240,144.53 (unanimous)
• Approved Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant of $197,920 for Barney Carriage House boiler repair (unanimous)
• Approved Police Department 5-year Motorola lease amendment (unanimous)
• Referred Solid Waste ordinance amendment and Trash Rules and Regulations amendment to committee (unanimous)

City Council

The Finance Sub-Committee is meeting to review a series of grant setups, donations, and contract amendments. The agenda includes a revenue and expenditure report for July and various funding requests for city departments.

• Parks - Speak for the Trees Grant: $6,000,000
• FY25 Senior Community Service Employment Grant: $499,661.00
• FY24 Shared Streets and Spaces Program Grant: $240,144.53
• PEG Access and Cable Related Fund FY25 Q1 Franchise Fee Payment: $145,829.18
• Police Department 5-Year Motorola Lease contract amendment

City Council

The General Government Sub-Committee will meet to consider a single appointment: Ellen Hurley to the Springfield Redevelopment Authority for an unexpired term ending July 10, 2029. The appointment was made by Mayor Domenic J. Sarno.

• Appointment of Ellen Hurley to Springfield Redevelopment Authority (term until July 10, 2029) by Mayor Domenic J. Sarno

School Committee- Regular

The School Committee will vote on several policy updates, including a new rule for policy changes and amendments. The body will also consider approving the School Committee Legal Counsel and Executive Confidential Assistant positions. An executive session is scheduled to discuss two litigation matters.

• Vote on Policy AC and Policy ACA
• Vote to require one vote for policy changes and two votes for new policies
• Approval of Access to School Security Cameras MOU
• Approval of transportation changes in the Foster Care Policy
• Approval of School Committee Legal Counsel and Executive Confidential Assistant positions

City Council

The Springfield City Council will hold a hybrid meeting to receive an informational update on the oversight of the Impacted Neighborhood Stabilization Fund. This is a procedural review with no formal decisions scheduled.

City Council

The Maintenance and Development Sub-Committee will discuss and likely vote on nine orders authorizing the mayor to execute quitclaim deeds for the sale of vacant lots to two development companies. The orders involve properties on Lebanon, Melrose, Union, Wilbraham, Highland, Terrence, and Hancock streets, with total consideration amounts ranging from $439.62 to $2,440.39.

• Sale of SS Lebanon St. (07627-0047) to Old Hill Infill, LLC for $500.00
• Sale of NS Melrose St. (08520-0012) to Old Hill Infill, LLC for $500.00
• Sale of 18 Highland St. (06600-0004) to Springfield City of Homes Development, LLC for $2,440.39
• Sale of 26-28 Terrence St. (11465-0006) to Springfield City of Homes Development, LLC for $439.62
• Sale of 524 Union St. (11750-0121) to Springfield City of Homes Development, LLC for $784.00

Board of Police Commission

The Springfield Board of Police Commissioners will discuss how members are notified about incidents involving officer-involved lethal force. The meeting will also cover updates from the Use of Force Committee and the POST Executive Director. Earlier agenda items include approval of August 14 minutes and a discussion of upcoming training.

• Review of notification process for officer-involved lethal force events
• Update on the Use of Force Committee and SPD's Force Training Review Committee
• Discussion of upcoming police training
• Review of manual interpretation procedures
• Review of complaint disposition process

License Commission

The Board of License Commissioners will hold a virtual public hearing to discuss license petitions and operational status for several local businesses. The board will also conduct administrative reviews of incident reports for two establishments.

• Manager change for Mojitos Bar & Restaurant at 497 Belmont Ave
• Operational status hearing for Island Blaze Restaurant at 708 Main St
• License review for Select Imports at 95 Boston Road
• Security plan and hookah license review for The Zone at 80 Worthington St
• Incident report reviews for Mojitos Bar & Restaurant (8-15-24) and Irish Ale House (8-24-24)

The Board of License Commissioners approved a change of manager for Mojitos Bar & Restaurant and continued an informational hearing for Island Blaze Restaurant to November 13, 2024. They also took no action on several incident reports and a liquor license violation, and discussed a lapsed license for Select Imports.

• Approved minutes of August 28, 2024 with corrections (unanimous)
• Approved change of manager for Amapola Bakery and Bistro LLC dba Mojitos Bar & Restaurant to Nykesha M Perez (unanimous)
• Continued informational hearing for Blaze Restaurant Inc. dba Island Blaze Restaurant to 11-13-24 (unanimous)
• Took no action on P2B Springfield LLC dba The Place 2 be liquor license violation (unanimous)
• Took no action on Mojitos Bar & Restaurant incident of 8-15-24 (unanimous)
• Took no action on Irish Ale House incident of 8-24-24 (unanimous)

School Committee- Regular

The Legislative & Contracts and Budget & Finance subcommittees will meet to vote on recommending approval of two new staff positions and a change to the foster care transportation policy. The meeting is open to the public and can be viewed live online.

• Vote to recommend approval of Executive Confidential Assistant to the School Committee position
• Vote to recommend approval of School Committee Legal Counsel position
• Vote to recommend adoption of transportation changes in the Springfield Public Schools Foster Care Policy

Conservation Commission

The Springfield Conservation Commission met on September 10, 2024, and called the meeting to order at 5:00 PM. The minutes record only the call to order and attendee list; no substantive decisions, approvals, or discussions are documented.

City Council

The Women's Commission is meeting to discuss plans for a Domestic Violence Awareness Luncheon. No other substantive business is listed on the agenda.

• Plans for Domestic Violence Awareness Luncheon

City Council

The City Council is meeting to continue a discussion regarding new revenue sources. No other substantive business items are listed on the agenda.

• Continued discussion on new revenue sources

City Council

The City Council is meeting to discuss the occurrence of Cephalitis related to mosquitos in surrounding areas. The meeting is scheduled for September 9, 2024.

• Discussion of Mosquitos Cephalitis occurrence in surrounding areas

Residency Commission

The Springfield Residency Commission will meet to approve past meeting minutes and enter a closed executive session to discuss complaints or charges against an individual under state open meeting law. No public votes or decisions are scheduled.

• Approval of minutes from August 1 and August 29, 2024
• Executive session under Open Meeting Law Section 21(a)(1) to discuss complaints

Historical Commission

The Springfield Historical Commission will hold public hearings on two new petitions for rooftop solar installations at 181 Bowdoin Street and 82 Marengo Park. Additional petitions include relocating an electric meter at 99 Randolph Street and replacing windows at 164‑166 Washington Boulevard. The meeting also includes discussion of preserving historically significant buildings and reviewing protocols for municipally owned projects.

• Petition ID #8206 – rooftop solar installation at 181 Bowdoin Street
• Petition ID #8207 – rooftop solar installation at 82 Marengo Park
• Petition ID #8208 – relocate electric meter to exterior at 99 Randolph Street
• Petition ID #8209 – replacement windows at 164‑166 Washington Blvd
• Item V – preservation of historically significant buildings

City Council

The City Council is meeting to discuss inactive voter processes and data. This is the only substantive item listed on the Race and Civil Rights Agenda.

• Discussion of inactive voter processes and data

Traffic Commission

The Springfield Traffic Commission met on Wednesday, September 4, 2024 at 10:15 AM in the Richard Neal Municipal Operations Center. The agenda, posted by Gladys Oyola‑Lopez, contains no specific items, indicating only routine or procedural business. No decisions, proposals, or public hearings are detailed in the agenda.

Retirement Board

The Board will vote on retirement allowance calculations, superannuation applications, and disability claims. Members will also consider several financial warrants and the placement of deposits through IntraFi Services.

• Warrant #58: Retirement payroll in the amount of $8,047,309.06
• Redemption from the PRIT fund in the amount of $5,000,000.00
• Involuntary Accidental Disability application for Ahmad Sharif (Police Department)
• Accidental Disability benefit responses for Jorge Vega (Water and Sewer Commission)
• Warrant #57: Expenses in the amount of $918,066.48

Board of Library Commissioners

The Board of Library Commissioners will meet to receive a presentation from the manager of the East Springfield and Sixteen Acres branches. The meeting also includes reports from the commission, the chairman, and the director.

• Presentation by Reggie Wilson, Manager of East Springfield and Sixteen Acres Branches

Planning

The Springfield Planning Board will hold a public hearing on a zoning change for a property at 12413 Wisteria Street and a new special permit request for an accessory wall sign at 1386 Main Street. The board will also review non-subdivision plans and other matters before adjourning.

• Zone change for 12413 SS Wisteria Street from Residence A to Residence B (ID #8173)
• Special permit for accessory wall sign at 1386 Main Street (ID #8190)
• Review of non-subdivision plans
• Public hearings on zoning and sign permit requests

The Springfield Planning Board approved a zoning change for SS Wisteria Street from Residence A to Residence B, with a 6-0 vote and one abstention. The board also adopted a special permit for an accessory wall sign at 1386 Main Street, voting 7-0. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved zoning change for SS Wisteria Street from Residence A to Residence B (6-0, 1 abstention)
• Adopted special permit for accessory wall sign at 1386 Main Street (7-0)

School Committee- Regular

The Legislative & Contracts and Budget & Finance subcommittees are meeting to recommend several items for full School Committee approval. These include a security camera memorandum of understanding and changes to committee voting and student assignment policies.

• Access to School Security Cameras MOU
• Policy requiring one vote for amendments and two votes at separate meetings for new policies
• Changes to BEB and BEDB policies
• Creation of the Executive Confidential Assistant to the School Committee position
• Amendments to Student Assignment Policy language

Community Preservation Committee

The committee will hold its annual public hearing to collect comments on needs and opportunities for the Community Preservation Agency. It will also approve the minutes from the June 4, 2024 meeting, consider contract change requests for the Indian Orchard Fire Station and Myrtle Street Playground, and review policies for the Historic Homes Program. Administrator updates and scheduling of the next meeting are included.

• Annual public hearing on Community Preservation Agency needs and opportunities
• Approval of June 4, 2024 meeting minutes
• Contract change request for Indian Orchard Fire Station
• Contract change request for Myrtle Street Playground
• Review of Historic Homes Program policies

The Community Preservation Committee held its annual public hearing and approved the June 4 minutes. Two proposed policy changes to the Historic Homes Program—raising income eligibility to 100% AMI and increasing the minimum grant to $15,000—were both voted down. Requests to change the scope of the Myrtle Street Playground and Indian Orchard Fire Station projects were discussed but deferred to the next meeting. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved June 4, 2024 minutes (unanimous)
• Motion to raise Historic Homes Program income eligibility to 100% AMI failed (1-2-1, with 1 abstention)
• Motion to raise minimum grant from $10,000 to $15,000 failed (1-2, with 2 abstentions)
• Motion to reconsider the vote at next meeting failed (2-3)
• Deferred Myrtle Street Playground scope change pending IOCC representative at next meeting
• Deferred Indian Orchard Fire Station scope change pending Brian Connors at next meeting

Residency Commission

The Residency Commission will meet to discuss complaints or charges brought against an individual. The body will move into executive session and will not return to open session.

• Executive session under Section 21(a)(1) of the Open Meeting Law regarding case assignments

School Committee- Regular

The Springfield School Committee will vote on the FY2025 amended budget and several new course offerings. The body is also deciding on the approval of two confidential assistant positions and legal counsel. A presentation on Ignite Mentoring Through Music is scheduled.

• Approval of FY2025 Amended Budget
• Expenditure of $373,486.11 for FY2025 Intensive Assistance Grant (IAG)
• Expenditure of $35,000.00 for FY2025 Interpreter in Education Training Grant
• Approval of Programming and Web Development Program at High School of Science & Technology
• Approval of Student Assignment Policy

License Commission

The Springfield Board of License Commissioners will meet to approve minutes, hear new petitions for liquor licenses, and conduct administrative reviews of recent incidents.

• Approval of minutes from August 14, 2024
• New petition for a Class I New Car Dealer license at 890 Boston Rd
• Change of manager for OSJL Spirits at 1686 Boston Rd
• Change of DBA for Wing Madness to Red Mango Kitchen at 1287 Liberty St
• Administrative review of incidents at The Zone and Rose

The Springfield Board of License Commissioners approved a change of manager for Ocean State Job Lot, a DBA change for Red Mango Kitchen, and continued several petitions. They also dismissed a capacity violation against Mojitos Bar & Restaurant and scheduled an informational hearing for The Zone.

• Approved minutes of August 14, 2024 (unanimous)
• Continued AJAW LLC new car dealer petition to 11-13-2024 (unanimous)
• Approved manager change for Ocean State Job Lot to Peter Diaz (unanimous)
• Approved DBA change from Wing Madness Springfield LLC to Red Mango Kitchen (unanimous)
• Continued P2B Springfield LLC informational hearing to 9-11-2024 (unanimous)
• Dismissed capacity violation against Mojitos Bar & Restaurant (unanimous)
• Set informational hearing for The Zone incident of 7-28-24 (unanimous)
• Took no action on Rose incident of 8-11-24 (unanimous)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Springfield Zoning Board of Appeals meets to review a single petition (ID #8194) covering three adjacent properties at 1643 Wilbraham Rd, 83 Meadowlark Ln, and SS Pine St. No other substantive items are listed on the agenda.

• Petition ID #8194 for properties at 1643 Wilbraham Rd, 83 Meadowlark Ln, and SS Pine St

Conservation Commission

The Springfield Conservation Commission will meet on August 27, 2024 at the Richard Neal Municipal Operations Center. The agenda includes a petition (ID #8192) requesting a Certificate of Compliance for the property at 106-126 Island Pond Road. The commission will consider this petition and any other matters properly before it.

• Petition ID #8192 – Certificate of Compliance for 106-126 Island Pond Road

The Conservation Commission approved a certificate of compliance for the property at 106-126 Island Pond Road, related to DEP file #294-0278 from December 5, 1991. The vote was 4-0, with all present members voting in favor. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting was otherwise procedural.

• Approved certificate of compliance for 106-126 Island Pond Road (4-0)

School Committee- Regular

The Springfield School Committee Budget and Finance Subcommittee will vote to approve three grants totaling $408,486.11 and two administrative positions. The group will also discuss a Title IX update and legal counsel.

• Vote to approve $35,000.00 for Interpreter in Education Training Grant
• Vote to approve $373,486.11 for Intensive Assistance Grant (IAG)
• Vote to approve FY2025 Amended Budget
• Vote to approve Confidential Senior Executive Assistant position
• Vote to approve Springfield Public Schools Legal Counsel

City Council

The Springfield City Council will meet on August 22, 2024 at the Duggan Academy Cafeteria, 1015 Wilbraham Road. The council’s public portion will include a continued discussion of the Duggan Sports Complex. No decisions are noted on the agenda.

• Continued discussion of Duggan Sports Complex

Board of Assessors

The Springfield Board of Assessors meets to review public meeting minutes, July 2024 tax abatement totals, and uncollectible taxes. The board will also discuss and vote on 8 of 58 exemption applications, including charitable exemptions for New North Citizens Council Inc. and Springfield College.

• Review of July 2024 real estate abatement total: $164,397.92
• Review of July 2024 motor vehicle excise abatement total: $13,730.36
• Review of July 2024 personal property abatement total: $78,699.93
• 8 of 58 exemption applications under review, including RRC# 519070 at 380 Plainfield St
• Charitable exemption applications for FY2025: 4 Birnie Ave., 1666 Main St, and 263 Alden St

Planning

The Springfield Planning Board will hold public hearings on three matters: a petition to relocate an all‑alcoholic liquor license from 296 Cooley Street to 436 Boston Road (Petition ID 7891); a site‑plan review for a new pavilion at the charter school on 160 Joan Street (Petition ID 8174); and two zoning changes converting Residence A to Residence B for properties on WS Connecticut Avenue (ID 8172) and SS Wisteria Street (ID 8173). Additional agenda items include non‑subdivision plans and other routine business.

• Petition ID 7891: Change liquor license location from 296 Cooley St to 436 Boston Rd
• Petition ID 8174: Site‑plan review for new pavilion at 160 Joan St (charter school)
• Petition ID 8172: Zoning change of WS Connecticut Ave from Residence A to Residence B
• Petition ID 8173: Zoning change of SS Wisteria St from Residence A to Residence B

The Springfield Planning Board approved a site plan review for a new pavilion at Springfield International Charter School (160 Joan Street) with conditions, and denied a zoning change for WS Connecticut Avenue from Residence A to Residence B. A liquor license relocation petition was withdrawn, and a zoning change for SS Wisteria Street was continued to September 4, 2024.

• Approved site plan review for new pavilion at 160 Joan Street (6-0)
• Denied zoning change for WS Connecticut Avenue from Residence A to Residence B (6-0)
• Continued zoning change for SS Wisteria Street from Residence A to Residence B (6-0)
• Withdrew liquor license relocation petition from 296 Cooley Street to 436 Boston Road (6-0)

Commission on Disability

The Springfield Commission on Disability will hold its regular meeting at Mason Square Library to approve minutes from a prior session and conduct new business. No specific decisions or dollar amounts are listed on this procedural agenda.

School Committee- Regular

The Curriculum & Programs Subcommittee will vote on three new courses to recommend to the full School Committee: Mindful Movement, Video Games as Narrative, and a Chapter 74 Programming and Web Development Program at the High School of Science & Technology for the 2024-2025 school year.

• Vote to approve course: Mindful Movement
• Vote to approve course: Video Games as Narrative
• Vote to approve Chapter 74 course: Programming and Web Development Program at High School of Science & Technology for 2024-2025

City Council

The City Council is meeting to discuss the Urban Woodlands Ordinance. This is the only item of business listed for the Sustainability and Environment Agenda.

• Discussion of the Urban Woodlands Ordinance

City Council

The Springfield City Council will vote on ratifying two new collective bargaining agreements covering four years of wage increases for municipal employees. It will also hold hearings on four zoning petitions, including special permits for motor-vehicle sales at 365 Cadwell Drive and re-use of large apartment buildings at State Street addresses.

• Ratify UFCW Local 1459 contract with $1.00/hour raises (FY25) and 2% annual raises (FY26-28)
• Ratify AFSCME Local 3065 contract with $1.00/hour raise (FY25) and 2% annual raises (FY26-28)
• Hear special permit for motor-vehicle sales/leasing at 365 Cadwell Drive and NS Cadwell Drive
• Hear special permit to re-use existing 41-unit structure at 195 State Street and ES Maple Street
• Hear special permit to re-use existing 52-unit structure at 310 State Street, 300 State Street and ES Spring Street

The Springfield City Council unanimously adopted a resolution supporting a SNAP Restaurant Meal Plan, amended to include all families using SNAP benefits. It also ratified collective bargaining agreements with UFCW Local 1459 and AFSCME Local 3065, both unanimously. Several special permits for motor vehicle sales, signage, and residential re-use projects were approved, along with multiple honorary street sign petitions.

• Adopted SNAP Restaurant Meal Plan resolution with amendment (unanimous)
• Ratified UFCW Local 1459 collective bargaining agreement (unanimous)
• Ratified AFSCME Local 3065 collective bargaining agreement (unanimous)
• Approved special permit for motor vehicle sales/leasing at 365 Cadwell Drive (12-0)
• Approved special permit for accessory wall sign at 35 Heywood Street (12-0, Brown abstained)
• Approved special permit for re-use of existing structure at 195 State Street (unanimous)
• Approved special permit for re-use of existing structure at 310 State Street (12-0)
• Approved honorary street sign for Jerald 'Jay' Griffin Sr. (11-0, Click-Bruce abstained)

Animal Control

The Animal Control board is meeting to conduct hearings regarding dogs designated as dangerous or nuisances. The session includes several cases continued from the July meeting and new hearings for specific properties.

• Dangerous/Nuisance Dog Hearing: 90 High St
• Nuisance Dog Hearing: 64 California Ave
• Dangerous Dog Hearing: 373 Orange St
• Nuisance Dog Hearing: 98 Garnet St
• Nuisance Dog Hearing: 27 Hickory St

The Springfield Animal Control board amended previous minutes, dismissed several dog complaints due to non-appearing complainants, and deemed multiple dogs as nuisances with specific safety conditions imposed. All decisions passed by 5-0 roll call votes.

• Approved amending July 18 minutes by 5-0 vote
• Dismissed dangerous/nuisance dog hearing for 90 High St by 5-0 vote
• Dismissed nuisance dog hearing for Mia at 64 California Ave by 5-0 vote
• Dismissed dangerous dog hearing for 373 Orange St by 5-0 vote
• Deemed dogs at 98 Garnet St a nuisance with restraining conditions imposed (5-0)
• Deemed Ace & Kodi at 27 Hickory St a nuisance with confinement conditions imposed (5-0)
• Dismissed Scooby at 460 Canon Cir by 5-0 vote
• Deemed Cuban at 67 Bowles Park a nuisance with enclosure, muzzle, insurance, and license conditions (5-0)

Board of Public Works

The Springfield Board of Public Works will meet to discuss a public hearing regarding the installation of a 500-foot fiber-optic conduit on Wisteria Street. The project involves burying 4-inch conduit 24 inches below ground, connecting pole #12 to pole #2073/3B.

• Public hearing on fiber-optic conduit installation (4" conduit, 500 ft, 24" depth) from pole #12 to pole #2073/3B on Wisteria Street

Board of Public Works

The Board of Public Works is meeting to discuss the installation of fiber optic cable. The board will hold a hearing regarding a proposal by Gonetspeed to install conduit below ground level.

• Hearing for Gonetspeed to install 324 ft of 4” conduit with fiber optic cable from pole #22 on Grayson Drive to pole #8 on Jennings St.

Historical Commission

The Historical Commission is meeting to conduct continued and new public hearings regarding petitions for specific properties. The body will also review informational items related to building preservation.

• Continued public hearings for 91-97 Chestnut Street (ID # 7901) and 34 Westernview Street (ID # 8169)
• New public hearings for 80 Fairfield Street (ID # 8185)
• New public hearings for 83-85 Thompson Street (ID # 8186)
• New public hearings for 49 Chestnut Street (MOFA) (ID # 8187)
• Informational Section 106 Review for 101 State Street (ID # 8033)

The Commission denied a request to replace a slate roof with asphalt shingles after finding the work had already been performed without approval. The board approved a temporary handicap ramp at 80 Fairfield Street and a porch restoration at 83-85 Thompson Street.

• Denied roof replacement at 34 Westernview Street (1-5)
• Approved temporary handicap access ramp at 80 Fairfield Street (Unanimous)
• Approved Certificate of Non-Applicability for porch restoration at 83-85 Thompson Street (Unanimous)
• Continued mural installation petition at 91-97 Chestnut Street
• Continued window infill petition at 49 Chestnut Street
• Withdrew antenna installation request at 101 State Street

Board of Police Commission

The Board of Police Commissioners will meet to discuss the Internal Investigations Unit (IIU) training schedule. The board also intends to enter an executive session to determine if a hearing is necessary regarding officer misconduct in Special Order #24-015.

• Discussion of IIU Training schedule
• Executive session regarding Special Order (SO) #24-015 officer misconduct

Retirement Board

The Springfield Retirement Board will vote on multiple disability applications for police and fire department employees, superannuation requests for long-serving staff, and redeposit of refunds. The board will also approve monthly financial reports and warrants totaling over $8.5 million in retirement payroll and expenses.

• Vote on Involuntary Accidental Disability applications for Quinton Rogers, Dennis Borrero, Hector Morales (Police Department)
• Vote on superannuation applications for 7 employees with 18–40 years of service
• Approve warrants totaling $8,533,937.35 including $8,037,477.42 in retirement payroll
• Consider redeposit of refunds for 5 employees including Alisha Cameron and Theresa Glenn
• Accept monthly financial reports for June

License Commission

The Board of License Commissioners will hold a virtual public hearing to review license transfers and business conduct. The board will address specific complaints regarding car titles and security plan violations.

• License transfer petition for Peacock Chinese Restaurant at 338 Cooley Street
• Informational hearing for Fast Lane Auto Sales & Service, Inc. at 18 Berkshire Avenue regarding a car title complaint
• Pre-hearing conference for Le Souk Hookah at 1 Worthington Street regarding outdoor entertainment and dress code violations
• Final hearing for Graham’s Package Store at 1649-1651 Main Street regarding liquor license status
• Administrative review of incident reports for Irish Ale House and Rose

The Board approved the transfer of the liquor license from Peacocks MA Inc. to Dragon Castle Inc. for Peacock Chinese Restaurant at 338 Cooley Street, with hours of operation Monday through Saturday 11 AM to 9 PM and Sunday 12 PM to 9 PM. The board also imposed a 14-day suspension on Le Souk Hookah Lounge for entertainment and security plan violations, and continued several other matters to future dates.

• Approved transfer of liquor license to Dragon Castle Inc. for Peacock Chinese Restaurant (unanimous)
• Approved hours of operation for Peacock Chinese Restaurant: Mon-Sat 11 AM-9 PM, Sun 12 PM-9 PM (unanimous)
• Continued Fast Lane Auto Sales hearing to 8-28-24 (unanimous)
• Continued Panache Banquet Hall hearing to 10-23-24 (unanimous)
• Imposed 14-day suspension on Le Souk Hookah Lounge, served on Fridays and Saturdays from Aug 23 to Oct 5, 2024 (4-0-1)
• Continued Graham's Package Store hearing to 10-23-24 (unanimous)
• Took no action on Irish Ale House incident of 7-26-24 (unanimous)
• Took no action on Rose incident of 8-4-24 (unanimous)

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will hold a public hearing to determine the applicability of regulations for a geotechnical boring program. This work is part of the Line 1322 Replacement Project.

• Petition (ID # 8164): Geotechnical Boring Program for Line 1322 Replacement Project near North Branch Parkway, Sunrise Terrace, and Breckwood Circle

The Conservation Commission approved a Request for Determination of Applicability for a geotechnical boring program related to the Line 1322 Replacement Project by NSTAR Electric (Eversource). The vote was 4-0, with three members absent. No other substantive matters were discussed.

• Approved geotechnical boring program for Line 1322 Replacement Project (4-0)

City Council

The City Council is meeting to continue a discussion regarding strategies to increase city revenue. No other substantive business items are listed on the agenda.

• Discussion on strategy to increase City revenue

Board of Assessors

The Springfield Board of Assessors will review public meeting minutes and discuss tax abatements and personal exemptions. The board will also enter executive session to discuss litigation strategy with the Appellate Tax Board.

• Review of public meeting minutes from June and July 2024
• Review of 8 of 58 preliminary tax abatement applications
• Executive session to discuss litigation strategy with the Appellate Tax Board
• Review of personal exemption applications
• Review of charitable exemption applications

Traffic Commission

The Traffic Commission will meet to discuss several traffic control changes, including new stop signs and parking restrictions. The body is also reviewing requests for honorary street signs and a new crosswalk.

• Change traffic pattern on Trenton Street to 'One Way'
• 3-way stop signs at Fair Oak Rd. and Forest Hill Rd.
• No parking on Sheldon Street from 8 am Wednesday to 1 pm Thursday
• Crosswalk for Springfield Commonwealth Academy at Maple Street
• Trial 90-day 'No Parking Any Time' at 642-640 Dickinson Street

Board of Public Works

The Springfield Board of Public Works will hold a hearing on a proposal to install Automatic License Plate Reader cameras at four proposed locations within the county Right of Way on Lowell Street. The discussion will focus on the placement and implementation of the cameras. No other items are listed for decision at this meeting.

• Hearing on proposal to install Automatic License Plate Reader cameras at four locations on Lowell Street (county Right of Way)

Residency Commission

The commission approved the minutes from the July 1, 2024 meeting. They reviewed salary and residency requirement data from surrounding cities and towns, gathered by Assistant Director of Human Resources Caitlyn Julius, who was present to discuss it. The commission then moved into executive session for employment matters and did not return to open session.

• Approved meeting minutes from July 1, 2024 (roll call vote)
• Moved into executive session for employment matters; no return to open session

Historical Commission

The Springfield Historical Commission denied a certificate of hardship for replacing cedar shakes with vinyl siding at 43 Ingersoll Grove (2-4). It approved certificates of appropriateness for porch renovations at 92 Buckingham Street and 27-29 Dartmouth Street, window replacements at 11 High Street, roof replacements at 53 Fairfield Street and 55 Emery Street, and continued several other matters.

• Denied certificate of hardship for vinyl siding at 43 Ingersoll Grove (2-4)
• Approved certificate of appropriateness for side porch rebuild at 92 Buckingham Street (unanimous)
• Approved certificate of appropriateness for front porch flooring at 27-29 Dartmouth Street (unanimous)
• Approved certificate of appropriateness for window replacement at 11 High Street (unanimous)
• Approved certificate of hardship for slate-to-asphalt roof at 53 Fairfield Street (unanimous)
• Approved certificate of appropriateness for doors and sign at 55 Emery Street (unanimous)
• Continued mural petition at 91-97 Chestnut Street to 08/15/2024
• Continued roof replacement at 34 Westernview Street to 08/15/2024 for site visit

Board of Police Commission

The Board of Police Commissioners will meet to discuss a personnel matter. The board intends to enter an executive session to hold a hearing and vote regarding the discipline or dismissal of an individual.

• Hearing and vote on Special Order (SO) #23-181 regarding employee discipline or dismissal

Zoning Board of Appeals

The agenda for this meeting consists of procedural boilerplate. No specific zoning cases, variances, or ordinances are listed for decision or discussion.

Retirement Board

The board will meet to discuss and consider funding schedules. These schedules are based on the actuarial valuation from January 1, 2024.

• Funding schedules resulting from the 1-1-24 actuarial valuation

Park Commission

The Springfield Park Commission will hold a virtual meeting to approve previous minutes and address several specific requests. Key decisions include a tree removal at 34 Oregon Street, a rate increase for Cyr Arena, and fee waivers for local events. The agenda also covers site-specific discussions for Greenleaf Park, Kenefick Park, and Joe Luvera Way.

• Significant tree removal request at 34 Oregon Street
• Cyr Arena rate increase
• Request to waive all event fees for WAKEUP MOVEMENT
• Request to waive all event fees and one-day liquor license for Veronica McNair
• Discussion of Greenleaf Park, Kenefick Park, and Joe Luvera Way

Board of Assessors

The Springfield Board of Assessors will review minutes from previous meetings and process specific property reassessments and abatement requests. The board will enter executive session to discuss litigation strategy for Appellate Tax Board cases involving properties like Smith & Wesson and Liberty Medical. Additionally, the board will review charitable exemption applications for 2025, including those for the New North Citizens Council and Omnipoint Technology.

• Reassessment of Parcel ID # 043250097 on Eastern Ave for FY2014-FY2024
• Abatement requests totaling approximately $8,000 across multiple parcel IDs
• Executive session to discuss Appellate Tax Board litigation for Smith & Wesson, Liberty Medical, and Boston Road Properties LLC
• Review of FY2025 charitable exemption applications for 4 Birnie Ave and 1666 Main St
• Review of 8 of 58 preliminary tax abatement applications, including 380 Plainfield St

License Commission

The Springfield License Commission will hold a virtual public hearing on July 24, 2024, to consider a new liquor license application, a disciplinary pre-hearing for Mojitos Bar & Restaurant, and an administrative review of an incident at Le Souk Hookah. The board will also approve minutes from its July 10 meeting.

• New annual wines and malt beverage restaurant license for Banana Brasil at 995 Boston Rd
• Pre-hearing for Mojitos Bar & Restaurant at 497 Belmont Ave on alleged capacity violation (exceeding 67-person limit)
• Administrative review of incident report for Le Souk Hookah (incident of 6-28-24)
• Approval of minutes from July 10, 2024 hearing

The Board of License Commissioners approved the minutes from July 10, 2024, and approved a new annual wines & malt beverage restaurant license for Nilale LLC d/b/a Banana Brasil at 995 Boston Rd. A pre-hearing conference for Amapola Bakery and Bistro LLC d/b/a Mojitos Bar & Restaurant was continued to August 28, 2024, to review body-worn camera footage. A pre-hearing conference for Le Souk Hookah was scheduled for August 14, 2024, regarding an incident report from June 28, 2024.

• Approved minutes from July 10, 2024 (unanimous)
• Approved new annual wines & malt beverage restaurant license for Nilale LLC d/b/a Banana Brasil at 995 Boston Rd (unanimous)
• Continued pre-hearing conference for Amapola Bakery and Bistro LLC d/b/a Mojitos Bar & Restaurant to 8-28-24 (unanimous)
• Scheduled pre-hearing conference for Le Souk Hookah for 8-14-24 (4-0-1, Ramirez abstaining)

City Council

The Springfield City Council is holding a meeting that includes a public portion for discussion of street lights in the city. No other substantive items are listed on the agenda.

• Discussion of street lights in the City of Springfield

Animal Control

The Springfield Animal Control board meets to approve minutes from March and May 2024. The primary agenda consists of public hearings to determine if specific dogs are dangerous or nuisance animals. These proceedings involve owners at ten different residential addresses and include one follow-up review of a previous case.

• Hearings for two dogs at 90 High St owned by Harrison Bonner
• Hearings for dogs at 1859 Roosevelt Ave, 64 California Ave, and 46 Hampden St
• Hearings for dogs at 373 Orange St, 192 Harkness Ave, and 98 Garnet St
• Hearings for dogs at 27 Hickory St and 460 Canon Cir
• Follow-up hearing for five dogs at 101 Quincy St owned by Kimberly Toote

The Springfield Animal Control Board held hearings on July 18, 2024, and took action on several dog cases. The board deemed dogs dangerous or nuisance in multiple instances, imposing conditions such as fencing, muzzling, and impoundment. Several hearings were continued or dismissed due to lack of appearance.

• Approved minutes for March 13 and May 2, 2024 (3-0)
• Continued dangerous/nuisance dog hearing for two dogs at 90 High St (4-0)
• Deemed dog Emmy at 1859 Roosevelt Ave a nuisance; ordered fence installed within 2 weeks and TJO visit (4-0)
• Deemed dog Dino at 46 Hampden St dangerous; ordered humane restraint and muzzling/leash requirements (4-0)
• Continued dangerous dog hearing for two dogs at 373 Orange St
• Continued nuisance dog hearing for dog Mia at 64 California Ave (4-0)
• Deemed dog Abby at 192 Harkness Ave dangerous; ordered impoundment (4-0)
• Deemed five dogs at 101 Quincy St dangerous; ordered impoundment (4-0)

License Commission

The Springfield Board of License Commissioners is holding an entertainment hearing on July 18, 2024, at City Hall. The session will address license applications for two establishments located on Main Street. Mayor Domenic J. Sarno is the issuing authority for these entertainment licenses.

• Entertainment license hearing for Cafe D 'Jolie at 1365 Main St, managed by Pedro Perez
• Entertainment license hearing for Nosh at 1341 Main St, managed by Teri L. Skinner

Historical Commission

The Springfield Historical Commission will hold public hearings on nine property preservation petitions, including continued reviews for 91-97 Chestnut Street and 55 Emery Street. The body will also review informational items regarding the Thomas M. Balliet School, Daniel B. Brunton School, and Barney Carriage House. Additionally, the commission will address Section 106 reviews for 101 State Street and R.M. Johnson Elementary School, along with several non-applicability determinations.

• Public hearings on petitions for 91-97 Chestnut Street, 55 Emery Street, and 43 Ingersoll Grove
• New public hearings for 300 Forest Park Avenue, 76 Maple Street, 78 Maple Street, 213 Pine Street, 134 Buckingham Street, and 92 Buckingham Street
• Informational review of 52 Rosewell Street (Thomas M. Balliet School)
• Informational review of 1801 Parker Street (Daniel B. Brunton School)
• Informational review of 270 Trafton Road (Barney Carriage House)

The Springfield Historical Commission approved five certificates of appropriateness or hardship, including new duplexes at 213 Pine Street and mailbox installations at 76 and 78 Maple Street. Three petitions were continued to the next meeting, and one application was withdrawn. The commission also issued no-adverse-impact determinations for several municipal projects.

• Approved window style change at 300 Forest Park Avenue (5-0)
• Approved mailbox installation at 76 and 78 Maple Street with stipulations (5-0)
• Approved certificate of hardship for two duplexes at 213 Pine Street (5-0)
• Approved front steps, vents, and foundation paint at 134 Buckingham Street (5-0)
• Approved side porch reconstruction at 92 Buckingham Street; continued steps to 9/5/2024 (5-0)
• Continued mural petition at 91-97 Chestnut Street to 8/1/2024
• Withdrawn application for window color change at 55 Emery Street
• Continued vinyl siding petition at 43 Ingersoll Grove to 8/1/2024

Board of Assessors

The Springfield Board of Assessors will review meeting minutes, monthly abatement totals, and unpaid tax project reviews. The board will also vote to enter executive session to discuss litigation strategy, exemption applications, and preliminary tax abatements, and will not return to public session.

• May 2024 real estate abatement total: $7,473.65; June: $81,838.09
• May 2024 motor vehicle excise abatement total: $24,792.26; June: $48,851.38
• May 2024 personal property abatement total: $125,707.47; June: $3,390.71
• Executive session to discuss ATB docket including Smith & Wesson, Outdoor Media, Liberty Medical (125 Liberty Street), Boston Road Properties (625-635 Boston Road), South Campus BH Holdings (120, 140, 160 High Street)
• Executive session to discuss FY2023 preliminary tax abatements and personal exemptions

Residency Commission

The Springfield Residency Commission is meeting virtually on July 11, 2024, to approve minutes from April 4 and enter an executive session. Under Section 21(a)(1) of the Open Meeting Law, the commission will discuss complaints or charges against a specific individual and will not return to public session, meaning residents cannot observe the discussion. The agenda contains only procedural approvals and a closed personnel matter.

• Approval of April 4, 2024 meeting minutes
• Executive session under Section 21(a)(1) of the Open Meeting Law
• Discussion of complaints or charges against an individual
• Virtual meeting via Zoom at 36 Court Street, Springfield, MA

The Residency Commission approved its April 4, 2024 meeting minutes by roll call vote. The Commission then moved into executive session to discuss employment matters, stating it would not return to open session, though it later did return to public session. In public session, commissioners discussed a letter from Chief Procurement Officer Lauren Stabilo on the residency ordinance's impact on her department, and a June 17 City Council meeting where residency requirements and hiring impacts were discussed. No substantive decisions on the ordinance itself were recorded.

• Approved April 4, 2024 meeting minutes (roll call vote)
• Moved into executive session for employment matters
• Returned to public session
• Discussed letter from Chief Procurement Officer Lauren Stabilo on residency ordinance impacts
• Discussed June 17 City Council meeting on residency requirements and hiring

Board of Public Works

The Board of Public Works will hold a hearing concerning proposed utility work by Eversource. The proposal involves the installation of ten manholes and twelve 5-inch duct banks on Central Street.

• Hearing: Installation of (10) manholes with 12-5” duct banks on Central Street by Eversource

School Committee- Regular

The Springfield School Committee will hold an executive session to discuss negotiation strategy for Dr. Sonia Dinnall's employment contract. During the regular session, members will vote to approve that contract and appoint Teresa Montemayor as the committee's interim secretary. These actions will finalize district leadership terms and committee administration until a permanent secretary is named.

• Executive session to discuss negotiation strategy for Dr. Sonia Dinnall's employment contract
• Vote to approve the Springfield Public Schools Employment Contract for Dr. Sonia Dinnall
• Vote to appoint Teresa Montemayor as Interim Secretary to the School Committee
• Meeting location: City Hall, 36 Court St. Rm. 220

City Council

The City Council will meet at the Duggan Academy cafeteria on Wilbraham Road. The agenda includes a discussion regarding the Duggan Sports Complex.

• Discussion of Duggan Sports Complex

Board of Police Commission

The Board will review the June 12, 2024 minutes and discuss the BOPC budget. The agenda also includes a discussion regarding upcoming quarterly status with the court and training dates.

• Approval of June 12, 2024 minutes
• BOPC Budget discussion
• Discussion on upcoming quarterly status with the Court
• Discussion on all other Training dates

Retirement Board

The Springfield Retirement Board will vote on disability applications, superannuation applications, redeposits, warrants, and other routine matters. The agenda includes updates on banking services and financial reports, but the main decisions involve individual retirement benefits and financial approvals.

• Involuntary disability applications for Daniel McKay (Police) and Timothy McCullough (Housing Authority)
• Superannuation applications for 7 employees, including police officers and school staff
• Warrants totaling over $8 million, including retirement payroll of $7,834,422.61
• Redeposit of refunds for 13 individuals from various retirement systems
• Approval of 38 new members and 30 refund/transfer requests

License Commission

The Board of License Commissioners will review several new business petitions and conduct informational hearings. These include a capacity violation hearing for Mojitos Bar & Restaurant and various manager or officer changes for local restaurants.

• New annual wines & malt beverage restaurant license for Banana Brasil at 995 Boston Rd
• Change of manager and closing hours for Osteria at 301 Bridge Street
• Change of manager and officers for Uno Chicago Grill at 1722 Boston Rd
• Informational hearing regarding a capacity violation at Mojitos Bar & Restaurant at 497 Belmont Ave

The Board of License Commissioners approved management and officer changes for Osteria and Uno Chicago Grill. The board also approved a petition for New England Motorcars with a warning letter. Two other petitions were continued to July 24, 2024.

• Approved June 26, 2024 minutes (unanimous)
• Continued Nilale LLC (Banana Brasil) new license petition to 7-24-24 (unanimous)
• Approved manager change to Lyndsay Bousquet and closing time extension to 2am for 301 Bridge LLC (Osteria) (unanimous)
• Approved manager and officer/director changes for Uno Restaurant LLC (Uno Chicago Grill) (unanimous)
• Continued pre-hearing conference for Amapola Bakery and Bistro LLC (Mojitos Bar & Restaurant) to 7-24-24 (unanimous)
• Approved NEMC, LLC (New England Motorcars) petition with a letter of warning regarding car sales locations (unanimous)

Board of Public Works

The Board of Public Works will hold a hearing regarding proposed gas utility work. The discussion involves installing new underground plastic gas facilities and retiring existing low-pressure cast iron infrastructure near the intersection of Main Street and Morgan Street.

• Hearing: Eversource Gas installation of new plastic underground gas facilities at Main Street and Morgan Street
• Hearing: Retirement of low-pressure cast iron gas infrastructure at Main Street and Morgan Street

Conservation Commission

The Commission will meet to review a Petition for a Certificate of Compliance regarding the property at 1112 Boston Road. This is the only specific item listed on the agenda.

• Certificate of Compliance petition (ID # 8119) for 1112 Boston Road

The commission approved a certificate of compliance for the property at 1112 Boston Road. This allows the property to be sold after a 2005 Notice of Intent was never commenced.

• Approved certificate of compliance for 1112 Boston Road (4-0)

School Committee- Regular

The School Committee will meet to vote on the Custodians (SASCE) collective bargaining agreement. The committee will also consider approving an appointment and an employment contract for Dr. Sonia Dinnall.

• Approve the Custodians (SASCE) collective bargaining agreement
• Approve Dr. Sonia Dinnall's appointment to SEZP Chief of Family and Community Engagement (July 1, 2024-July 21, 2024)
• Approve the Springfield Public Schools Employment Contract for Dr. Sonia Dinnall

City Council

The Springfield City Council is scheduled to act on financial orders, grant acceptances, and an election warrant. Key items include a $634,000 appropriation for property damages on Liberty Street, a $500,000 transfer to the city retirement account, and a $152,642.64 Comcast franchise fee payment for public access cable services. The council will also review an ordinance amendment initiated by Councilor Ciara Hanlon and confirm polling locations for the September 3, 2024 state primary, which establishes voting dates and sites for residents.

• Appropriation of $634,000 for damages on nine properties along Liberty Street
• Acceptance of multiple state grants, including $2,864,800 for municipal mitigation and $1,500,000 for transportation construction
• Transfer of $500,000 from the stabilization reserve to the city retirement account
• Acceptance of $152,642.64 Comcast franchise fee for PEG access and cable services
• Posting of the September 3, 2024 state primary election warrant with polling locations for Wards 1–6

The City Council adopted several state and federal grants for public safety, aging services, and environmental mitigation. It also approved a $500,000 transfer from the Stabilization Reserve to the City Retirement Account and ratified a collective bargaining agreement with AFSCME Local 1596A.

• Approved $500,000 transfer from Stabilization Reserve to City Retirement Account (12-0)
• Adopted $2.86M Municipal Community Mitigation Fund grant (12-0)
• Adopted $1.5M MGC Transportation Construction Grant (12-0)
• Adopted $1.12M State 911 Support & Incentive Grant (11-0)
• Adopted $1.21M Mass Gaming Commission Grant for Police (12-0)
• Approved $634,000 for damages to nine properties on Liberty Street (12-0)
• Ratified AFSCME Local 1596A Collective Bargaining Agreement (12-0)
• Approved Special Act for disability retirement benefits for Misael Rodriguez (12-0)

City Council

The Finance Sub-Committee is reviewing several grant awards, city donations, and fund transfers. The agenda includes various municipal funding requests and a $500,000 transfer to the City Retirement Account.

• $2,864,800 FY25 Municipal Community Mitigation Fund
• $1,500,000 FY24 MGC Transportation Construction Grant
• $1,210,383.40 Mass Gaming Commission Grant for Police Department costs
• $634,000 appropriation for damages to nine properties on Liberty Street
• $500,000 transfer from Stabilization Reserve to City Retirement Account

City Council

The City Council is holding a continued discussion regarding strategies intended to increase City Revenue. This item is part of the PILOT- New Revenue Agenda.

• Continued discussion on strategy to increase City Revenue

City Council

The agenda is largely procedural boilerplate, listing a call to order and a public comment period. The Springfield City Council will meet on July 8, 2024, at 36 Court Street to review one specific order. The council will consider a special act to grant disability retirement benefits to Misael Rodriguez, which requires council approval and affects city payroll administration.

• Special Act for Disability Retirement Benefits for Misael Rodriguez (Order ID #8127)

License Commission

The Board of License Commissioners will hold entertainment hearings for two establishments on Main Street. The hearings involve Cafe D 'Jolie at 1365 Main St and Nosh at 1341 Main St.

• Entertainment hearing: Cafe D 'Jolie, 1365 Main St
• Entertainment hearing: Nosh, 1341 Main St

Responsible Employer Ordinance Committee (REO)

The committee will meet to review reports on all completed and upcoming projects. The agenda includes a call to order and a public portion.

• Report on all projects to date
• Report on all future projects

City Council

The Springfield City Council will meet on July 2, 2024, at 36 Court Street to discuss the Urban Woodlands Ordinance. The agenda contains only procedural notices and this single discussion item, with no votes or additional proposals listed.

• Discussion of the Urban Woodlands Ordinance

Board of Elections

The Commission will welcome new members and elect a Chair. The meeting includes reviews of the election calendar, early voting schedules/locations, and specific polling locations.

• Election of Chair
• Review of Election Calendar
• Early Voting calendar and locations review
• Polling location review for Ward 1 Precinct D, D1, E

Animal Control

The Springfield Animal Control board is scheduled to review multiple dangerous and nuisance dog hearings on June 26, 2024. These hearings determine compliance and restrictions for specific dogs at listed addresses. The agenda also includes a compliance follow-up at 101 Quincy St, a rescheduled hearing at 49 Girard Ave, and approval of the May 2, 2024 minutes. No budget, zoning, or contract items are on the agenda.

• Dangerous and nuisance dog hearings for properties at 1859 Roosevelt Ave, 90 High St, 64 California Ave, 46 Hampden St, and 373 Orange St
• Compliance follow-up for conditions at 101 Quincy St
• Rescheduled dangerous dog hearing for properties at 49 Girard Ave
• Approval of May 2, 2024 meeting minutes

Board of Public Works

The Board of Public Works will hold a hearing concerning an Eversource proposal. The request involves installing one fully owned stub pole, guy, and anchor near the east side of the road.

• Eversource: Install (1) stub pole, guy, and anchor at St. James Circle

License Commission

The Board of License Commissioners will review several business matters including an informational hearing for Fuego Sports Bar regarding manager presence during specific incidents. The board will also conduct a final hearing under Section 77 and perform an administrative review of incident reports for Irish Ale House and One Stop Discount Liquors.

• Informational hearing: Fuego Sports Bar LLC at 885 Carew St regarding manager presence during incidents on August 26, 2023, September 16, 2023, and May 9, 2024
• Informational hearing: NEMC, LLC dba New England Motorcars at 720 Berkshire Avenue regarding car sales in Denver
• Administrative review of incident report for Irish Ale House dated 5-27-24
• Administrative review of incident report for One Stop Discount Liquors dated 6-1-24

The Springfield Board of License Commissioners approved minutes from a previous hearing, took no action regarding incident reports for Fuego Sports Bar, Irish Ale House, and One Stop Discount Liquors, and continued a hearing for New England Motorcars. Commissioners also discussed a pending license petition for AJAW LLC.

• Approved minutes for June 12, 2024 hearing with corrections (unanimous)
• Took no action regarding Fuego Sports Bar at 885 Carew St (unanimous)
• Continued New England Motorcars hearing to July 10, 2024 (unanimous)
• Took no action on Irish Ale House incident report from May 27, 2024 (unanimous)
• Took no action on One Stop Discount Liquors incident report from June 1, 2024 (unanimous)

Board of Assessors

The Springfield Board of Assessors will review meeting minutes and approve FY2025 tax warrants for real estate, personal property, and CPA surcharge. The board will draft a policy for unpaid motor vehicle excise and review charitable exemption applications. Most of the meeting will be closed to discuss litigation strategy for specific properties and review personal exemptions and tax abatements. These items determine property tax collections, exemption eligibility, and appeal outcomes that affect local revenue and individual assessments.

• FY2025 tax warrants: Real Estate Tax ($113,023,553.46), Personal Property Tax ($16,416,935.26), CPA Surcharge ($1,183,356.96)
• Policy creation for unpaid motor vehicle excise
• Executive session on Appellate Tax Board litigation for Smith & Wesson, Liberty Medical, and others
• Review of charitable exemption applications for 4 Birnie Ave and Latino Counseling Center
• Review of FY2023 preliminary tax abatements and personal exemptions

Board of Public Works

The Board of Public Works will hold a hearing regarding utility infrastructure work by Eversource. The project involves installing new manholes and laying various lengths of concrete-encased conduits on Sumner Avenue.

• Hearing for Eversource to install 6 new precast manholes
• Rebuilding 4 existing manholes on Sumner Avenue
• Installation of 1501 ft. of 5" conduits encased in concrete
• Installation of 297 ft. of 4" conduits encased in concrete
• Installation of 584 ft. of 4"/5" conduit lateral runs encased in concrete

Emergency Medical Services

The Emergency Medical Services body will meet at the Public Safety Complex. The agenda includes a review of AMR monthly reports and the approval of previous minutes.

• Approval of June 15, 2023 Minutes
• AMR Monthly Reports

School Committee- Regular

The committee will meet to vote on several financial items, including a $1.44 million appropriation for investments and a FAFSA completion grant. The agenda also includes ratifying a union agreement with Clerks (AFSCME) and discussing legal matters in executive session.

• Approve $47,730.00 expenditure for the FAFSA Completion Grant
• Approve $1,440,000.00 appropriation from carryover for investments
• Ratify the MOA with the Clerks (AFSCME) union
• Extend starting date of Dr. Sonia Dinnall as Superintendent to on or before July 15, 2024
• Approve extension of Access to School Security Cameras MOU for 90 days

Historical Commission

The Historical Commission will conduct public hearings for several property petitions. The meeting also includes an environmental review and informational updates regarding various street addresses.

• Continued public hearings for 91-97 Chestnut Street, 144 Buckingham Street, 29 George Street, and 55 Emery Street
• New public hearings for 55 Emery Street, 14 Fairfield Street, 33 Avon Place, 137 Forest Park Avenue, and 43 Ingersoll Grove
• Environmental review for 134 Catharine Street
• Informational updates for 101 State Street, 85 Westminster Street, 47 Riverview Street, 54 Fairfield Street, and 62 Westminster Street

The Historical Commission approved certificates of appropriateness or hardship for window replacements, a porch rebuild, a sliding door, and a solar installation, and issued no-adverse-impact or non-applicability findings for several other properties. It continued four matters to July 18, 2024, including murals at 91-97 Chestnut Street, window color remediation at 55 Emery Street, vinyl siding at 43 Ingersoll Grove, and a Section 106 antenna review at 101 State Street. All votes were 4-0, with Commissioners Judith Crowell and Marisa Zorzi absent.

• Approved certificate of appropriateness for replacement windows at 144 Buckingham Street (4-0)
• Approved certificate of appropriateness for spindle installation only at 29 George Street, spindles to be painted within one year (4-0)
• Approved certificate of hardship for sliding door at 55 Emery Street Columbus Avenue entryway (4-0)
• Approved certificate of appropriateness for demolish/rebuild front porch at 14 Fairfield Street, conditioned on matching column caps and tongue-and-groove flooring (4-0)
• Approved certificate of appropriateness for two replacement windows at 33 Avon Place (4-0)
• Approved certificate of appropriateness for solar installation at 137 Forest Park Avenue, conditioned on conduits running under rear eaves and painted to match exterior (4-0)
• Approved certificate of hardship for window item only at 43 Ingersoll Grove; continued siding item to July 18 (4-0)
• Issued no adverse impact for aluminum siding repair at 134 Catharine Street (4-0)

Commission on Disability

The Commission on Disability will hold its regular meeting at the Mason Square Library. The agenda includes call to order, sign-in, and approval of minutes, but contains no specific discussion items or new business listed.

Board of Public Works

The Board of Public Works will hold a hearing concerning Eversource and the Emma Lane subdivision. The discussion involves the installation of 140 feet of 8-inch sanitary sewer pipe on Allen Street.

• Hearing: Install 140 feet of 8” inches sanitary sewer pipe on Allen Street for Emma Lane subdivision

School Committee- Regular

The Student and Parent Concerns Subcommittee will meet to review the school system's attendance guidelines. The primary action is a vote to recommend the revised Attendance Policy to the full School Committee.

• Vote to recommend the revised Attendance Policy to the full School Committee

City Council

The City Council will consider several petitions including a new stop sign on Fountain Street and an honorary street sign for Stephen Athas Way. Additionally, the council will review special permit requests regarding motor vehicle repair and junk yard operations.

• Stop sign installation at the intersection of Fountain Street and Sylvan Street
• Honorary street sign 'Stephen Athas Way' at the Green Leaf Community parking lot entrance
• Special permit for motor vehicle repairs at 235 Mill Street
• Amendment to an existing motor vehicle junk yard special permit at 33 Oakdale Street

The Springfield City Council approved four items during its June 17, 2024 hearings meeting. All four items passed with unanimous 12-0 votes. The approvals included a new stop sign on Fountain Street, an honorary street naming for Stephen Athas Way, and two special permits for motor vehicle repair and junkyard businesses.

• Approved stop sign on Fountain Street (12-0)
• Approved honorary sign for Stephen Athas Way (12-0)
• Adopted special permit for motor vehicle repairs at 235 Mill Street (12-0)
• Adopted amendment to special permit for motor vehicle junk yard at 33 Oakdale Street (12-0)

City Council

The Committee of the Whole will meet to discuss requirements within the Residency Ordinance. The discussion will focus on how these requirements impact hiring processes.

• Discussion of Residency Ordinance requirements and hiring impact

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors is reviewing several financial warrants related to property taxes for the 2024 fiscal year. These items include omitted real estate and personal property, supplemental taxes, and a CPA surcharge.

• Omitted Property / Personal Property FY2024: $6,462.33
• Omitted Property / Real Estate FY2024: $42,658.57
• Pro Forma Real Estate Tax FY2024: $20,976.75
• Supplemental Real Estate Tax FY2024: $26,977.59
• CPA Surcharge FY2024: $1,236.26

Park Commission

The Park Commission will meet virtually to discuss several park updates and requests. Items include updates on Blunt Park Phase II and various name designations for park facilities.

• Blunt Park Phase II update
• Fee waiver request for Bay Area Neighborhood Council
• Porter Lake Dam Road gate discussion
• One day liquor license/arcade/gyrospace ride request
• One day liquor license request for Jazz & Roots

License Commission

The Board of License Commissioners will hold entertainment hearings for two establishments on Main Street. The hearings involve Cafe D 'Jolie at 1365 Main St and Nosh at 1341 Main St.

• Entertainment hearing: Cafe D 'Jolie, 1365 Main St
• Entertainment hearing: Nosh, 1341 Main St

School Committee- Regular

The Budget & Finance Subcommittee will meet to vote on several financial recommendations for the full School Committee. These include a FAFSA completion grant, a large carryover appropriation, and FY2025 tuition rates.

• $47,730.00 expenditure for FY24 FAFSA Completion Grant
• $1,272,895.00 appropriation from carryover to fund specific investments
• FY2025 Tuition Rates for Public Day and Alternative School programs
• Amendment to the Student Assignment Policy language
• Year-End update on District Student Activity Funds

School Committee- Regular

The subcommittee will vote on recommendations regarding the Access to School Security Cameras MOU and the Empowerment Zone MOU. Members will also discuss changes to School Committee policy and agenda setting processes.

• Vote: Access to School Security Cameras MOU
• Vote: Empowerment Zone MOU
• Discussion: Amendments to School Committee Policy (File: BEDB)
• Review: Bulkley, Richardson, and Gelinas, LLP contract
• Review: School Legal Counsel contract