Easthampton public meetings in 2021

Nashawannuck Pond Committee

The Nashawannuck Pond Committee will meet remotely to address ongoing business items. The agenda includes discussions regarding cyanobacteria/water quality monitoring, WinterFest, and 501C3 status.

• Cyanobacteria/water quality monitoring discussion
• Discussion of 501C3 status
• WinterFest update

The committee decided to proceed with Winterfest 2022, reducing the venue deposit to $680 and capacity to 170 people due to COVID. Sponsorships total $5,450, with River Valley confirming $2,000. Several event details remain pending vendor responses.

• Approved minutes from 12/15/2021
• Decided to wait out COVID concerns and proceed with Winterfest
• Reduced Meyers deposit to $680 and capacity to 170 people
• Confirmed River Valley sponsorship of $2,000
• Set poster printing deadline for 1/7

Contributory Retirement Board

The Easthampton Retirement Board will discuss the COVID-19 surge and upcoming election procedures. The agenda includes approving retirement intents, member transfers, and deduction withdrawals. The board will also review November trial balances and Warrant #12.

• Intent to retire: Ann Marie Levy (4/21/2022) and Brian Geraghty (1/5/2022)
• Approval of deduction transfers for Joseph Friedrichs and Joseph Meczywor
• Approval of new members Daryl Brosseau and Amy Winnie
• Review of Audit-PERAC 2015-2018 and MEDEX
• Approval of Warrant #12

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors is meeting to review and sign several administrative applications and warrants. This includes processing motor vehicle abatement applications and real estate exemptions. The board will also review liens related to real estate, personal property, and water and sewer services.

• Review and signing of Motor Vehicle Abatement Applications
• Review and signing of Real Estate Exemptions
• Review and signing of Real Estate, Personal Property, Water & Sewer Liens
• Review and signing of I&E Warrants

Community Relations Committee

The Community Relations Committee will hear remarks from Mayor Nicole LaChapelle regarding the committee's future and new appointment plans. The committee will also consider a statement regarding the MAP gallery exhibit for Native American Heritage Month.

• Mayor's vision for the CRC
• "Undoing Racism" training plans
• Plan for new committee appointments
• Statement regarding MAP gallery exhibit
• CRC participation in WinterFest

The Community Relations Committee met remotely and unanimously approved the November 30, 2021 minutes. The mayor presented a vision for the committee's future, including data analysis and community engagement. A statement on the MAP gallery exhibit was not finalized, with the subcommittee to continue work. No formal decisions were made beyond approving minutes and scheduling a work session.

• Approved November 30, 2021 minutes (unanimous)
• Scheduled work session for January 11, 2022
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous, 5 in favor)

City Council - Finance Committee

This meeting consists of procedural items only. The committee will approve the minutes from the December 14 meeting and adjourn for the 2020-2021 term.

• Approval of December 14 meeting minutes
• Adjournment of the 2020-2021 Committee

The Finance Committee met remotely and approved the minutes from its October 13 and December 14, 2021 meetings by a 3-0 vote. No other substantive business was conducted, and the committee concluded its work for the 2020/2021 City Council term.

• Approved minutes from 10/13/2021 and 12/14/2021 (3-0)

Council on Aging

The Council on Aging will discuss the potential future of the center's building at Manchester Hardware. The meeting also includes updates on COVID-19 precautions and the Senior Tax Work-Off Program.

• Acceptance of ECOA Financial Report
• Discussion regarding potential building future at Manchester Hardware
• Updates on Covid precautions and vaccination discussions
• Continuation of Senior Tax Work-Off Program

Development & Industrial Commission

The commission will review meeting minutes from October and November. The agenda includes Planning Department updates on Wayfinding, LRRP, and the Smart Growth Overlay District proposal. Members will also discuss 2022 ideas regarding public education on water and sewer infrastructure.

• Approval of October and November meeting minutes
• Planning Department updates on Wayfinding, LRRP, and Smart Growth Overlay District proposal
• Discussion of BPW public education regarding water/sewer infrastructure needs and rates

The Economic Development & Industrial Commission approved prior minutes, discussed planning updates including a Smart Growth district expansion, and celebrated 2021 accomplishments. No formal votes were taken; the meeting focused on reports and planning for 2022.

• Approved minutes from October 19 and November 3 meetings
• Discussed applying for additional $25K for wayfinding design
• Noted LRRP final report submitted to the state
• Discussed Smart Growth district expansion to include Pepin School property
• Set next meeting for January 18, 2022

Easthampton Cultural Council

The Easthampton Cultural Council will meet to discuss grantee and liaison contact. The council is also scheduled to vote on submitted proposals and discuss outreach for new grantees.

• Vote on submitted proposals
• Grantee/liaison contact
• New grantee outreach

City Council - Ordinance Committee

The City Council Ordinance Committee will discuss a rezoning request for 7 Groveland Street and amendments to the city holiday ordinance regarding Juneteenth. The committee will also review the Vacant Storefront Ordinance and affordable housing zoning amendments.

• Re-zoning request for 7 Groveland Street from R-15 to HB
• Juneteenth resolution and related amendments to city holiday ordinance
• Ordinance Review Committee’s final report review
• Vacant Storefront Ordinance
• Affordable housing zoning amendments in Smart Growth District and Planned Res. Developments

City Council - Public Safety Committee

The committee will meet to approve minutes from previous meetings. No substantive new business is listed on this agenda. The meeting is scheduled to be held remotely due to COVID-19 restrictions.

• Approval of minutes not previously approved

City Council - Rules & Government Relations Committee

This meeting consists of procedural boilerplate. The committee is scheduled to consider the approval of minutes that have not been previously approved.

• Approval of minutes not previously approved

The Rules and Government Relations Committee approved minutes from October 7 and October 14, 2021, by a 3-0 vote. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting concluded the committee's business for the 2020/2021 City Council term.

• Approved minutes from 10/7 and 10/14 (3-0)

Community Preservation Act Committee

The committee will hold hearings on applications for a skate park design and a temporary outdoor skating rink at Daley Field. Members will also discuss a historic preservation deed restriction for the Emily Williston Library. Administrative business includes reviewing account balances and approving minutes from November 18, 2021.

• Temporary outdoor skating rink application at Daley Field
• Skate Park Design application
• Emily Williston Library historic preservation deed restriction
• Approval of November 18, 2021 meeting minutes

The Easthampton Community Preservation Act Committee approved $42,500 for the skate park design, which includes $2,500 for contingency funds and $5,000 for pedestrian connections. The committee also approved the minutes from the November 18 meeting and discussed updates on other projects, including the Emily Williston Library historic preservation restriction and the state's CPA match surplus.

• Approved $42,500 for skate park design (8-0)
• Approved minutes of 11/18/2021 (6-0)
• Noted City Council approved all pending CPA appropriations from November meeting

Nashawannuck Pond Committee

The Nashawannuck Pond Committee scheduled a remote meeting for December 15, 2021. The agenda is limited to a single item regarding a WinterFest Workshop.

• WinterFest Workshop

The committee planned the Winterfest Gala, including hiring ice carver Mike Rondeau and securing a quote from Meyers for a 250-person event. Several vendors were contacted or hired, and the committee set deadlines for responses. No formal votes were taken; all actions were planning steps.

• Hired ice carver Mike Rondeau for Gala ice bar/luge and table tops
• Received quote from Meyers for 250-person Gala; Beth to process paperwork and deposit
• Set 12/29 deadline for responses from Film Festival, Juggernaut Glass, Emily Williston, Council on Aging, Art in Motion
• Hired Dennis Picard and Clay Hill Farm for horse-drawn wagon rides
• Planned online events to be uploaded to Timely
• Arranged for Big E's Bumble mascot; Mary Lou to pick up later
• Contacted The 1 Man Party for trivia in Boylston room west
• Poster ready for January; print cutoff 1/7

Licensing Board

The Licensing Board will review minutes from October and November 2021. The meeting includes discussions on a proposed 10% late fee for renewal applications starting in 2022. The board will also consider car dealership licensing and special one-day permits.

• Proposed 10% late fee for all renewal applications received late beginning in 2022
• Class II Car Dealership License application for ESP Auto
• Special one-day permit request from River Valley Co-op for a community bonfire event
• License renewals for Sunset Motors and Ison’s Auto Repair
• Guidance on Pleasant Variety & Package regarding landlord building/fire non-compliance

The Easthampton Licensing Board approved all annual license renewals, including alcohol, junk, trash, auto, entertainment, and amusements, with corrections to managers where noted. They also approved a 10% late fee for renewal applications received late, starting in the 2022 renewal season. Several licenses were not renewed due to non-compliance, withdrawal, or non-response. A special one-day permit for a community bonfire was approved conditionally.

• Approved transfer of premises for Daily Operation (all in favor)
• Approved all annual license renewals, including alcohol, junk, trash, auto, entertainment, and amusements (all in favor)
• Approved 10% late fee for late renewal applications starting 2022 (all in favor)
• Approved special one-day permit for Valley Malts/River Valley Co-Op community bonfire, conditional on Health, Fire, and Police approval (all in favor)
• Did not renew Pleasant Variety and Package due to non-compliance with Building and Fire Safety Codes
• Did not renew Harilee, LLC (withdrawn by applicant)
• Did not renew Sunset Motors (no response to renewal packet)
• Did not renew Ison's Auto (did not want to renew)

City Council

The Easthampton City Council will hold public hearings on utility pole locations for Ballard Street and Park Street. The council will also consider several fund transfers, including $255,576 for HVAC and electrical upgrades and $150,000 for Union Street project easements. Additionally, the agenda includes requests for water meter purchases and sewer infrastructure work.

• Eversource pole installation request for Ballard Street and Park Street
• $255,576 CPA transfer for HVAC, boiler replacement, and electrical upgrades
• $150,000 Cannabis Fund appropriation for Union St. TIP project easements
• $112,000 appropriation for Waste Water system component replacement
• $27,462.13 Cannabis Fund appropriation for Pay Plan COLA and minimum wage increase

The Easthampton City Council approved a $53,000,000 transfer from the PEG Access Account for cable-related purposes, a $255,576 transfer for Old Town Hall construction, and several smaller appropriations for items like postage, workers' compensation, and archival records. The council also approved a new utility pole on Park Street, a boundary line agreement with Daniel Daigle, and confirmed numerous mayoral appointments, including the reappointment of Eric Poulin to the Parks & Recreation Commission by a 6-2 vote. A public hearing for a pole location on Ballard Street was continued to January 19, 2022, due to the need for Eversource input.

• Approved $53,000,000 transfer from PEG Access Account for cable purposes (Flood abstained)
• Approved $255,576 transfer for Old Town Hall construction phase 1 (unanimous)
• Approved $150,000 for Union Street TIP project easements (unanimous)
• Approved Park Street utility pole placement (unanimous)
• Approved boundary line agreement with Daniel Daigle (unanimous)
• Confirmed Eric Poulin reappointment to Parks & Recreation Commission (6-2)
• Approved 26 mayoral reappointments, removed Stan Diamond (unanimous)
• Continued Ballard Street pole location hearing to Jan. 19, 2022 (unanimous)

Board of Public Works

The scheduled meeting for the Easthampton Board of Public Works on December 15, 2021, was cancelled. No items were discussed or voted upon.

Easthampton City Arts Public Art Subcommittee

The subcommittee will receive updates regarding the Ferry Street Gateway to the Mills sculpture proposal. The meeting also includes a discussion on funding and award amounts for the Volunteer Sculpture.

• Ferry Street Gateway to the Mills sculpture proposal update
• Discussion of funding and award amount for Volunteer Sculpture
• Approval of November 17th meeting minutes

The Easthampton City Arts Public Art Subcommittee approved the November meeting minutes and discussed funding for the Volunteer sculpture, with Pasqualina Azarello securing $7,500 to support its installation. The committee debated the artist award amount, considering $7,500, $8,000, or $10,000, but tabled the decision to the next meeting for full committee input. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved November meeting minutes (all in favor)
• Secured $7,500 in funding for Volunteer sculpture
• Tabled artist award amount discussion to next meeting

Planning Board

The Planning Board and City Council Ordinance Subcommittee will hold a joint public hearing regarding proposed zoning ordinance amendments. The proposal involves changing approval requirements for certain districts and expanding the Smart Growth Overlay District.

• Change approval from Special Permit to Plan Approval in R-5, R-10, R-15, DB, HB, NB, and MI districts
• Extend Downtown Mixed Use Smart Growth Overlay over 4 Park Street (parcel 52-82)
• Create a new Highway Business Mixed Use Smart Growth Overlay over 21 parcels

City Council - Finance Committee

The Finance Committee approved multiple supplemental appropriations from Free Cash, Cannabis Fund, and CPA funds, totaling over $300,000, for items including insurance renewals, records management, pay plan increases, Union Street easements, and park improvements. All votes were unanimous (3-0 or 2-0). The committee also approved a CPA change of scope for the Payson Ave. rail trail crossing design.

• Approved $1,324 from Free Cash for Fire/Police insurance renewal (3-0)
• Approved $14,730 from Free Cash for Worker's Comp policy (3-0)
• Approved $27,000 from Free Cash for archival records project Phase III (3-0)
• Approved $27,462.13 from Cannabis Fund for pay plan COLA and minimum wage increase (3-0)
• Approved $10,000 from Cannabis Fund for CRC educational forum (3-0)
• Approved $150,000 from Cannabis Fund for Union St. TIP easements (2-0)
• Approved $1,400 from Free Cash for Retirement Board postage (3-0)
• Approved $5,730 from CPA funds for National Historic Register forms (3-0)

School Committee

The Easthampton School Committee will meet via Zoom to discuss updates regarding COVID advisory, safety, and wellness. The committee is scheduled to vote on pooled testing for athletes and approve several payroll and accounts payable authorizations. An executive session will also be held to discuss collective bargaining strategy with the Easthampton Education Association.

• Vote on pooled testing for athletes
• Approve school payroll dated 12/2/2021 in the amount of $762,612.72
• Approve accounts payable authorization dated 11/4/2021 in the amount of $741,819.38
• Out of Country Field Trip Request – Antonietta Mango
• Collective bargaining strategy with Easthampton Education Association

The Easthampton School Committee voted 5-1 to require all Easthampton athletes participating in winter sports to participate in mandatory pooled testing starting the first week of January 2022. A subsequent motion to also require per-testing as an option for athletes passed 5-1. The committee also approved payrolls and accounts payable authorizations totaling over $3.2 million, and moved into executive session to discuss collective bargaining.

• Approved mandatory pooled testing for Easthampton winter athletes (5-1)
• Approved amendment to include per-testing as a requirement for athletes (5-1)
• Approved minutes of November 9, 2021 meeting (6-0)
• Approved payroll 11/4/2021 for $553,695.96 (6-0)
• Approved payroll 11/18/2021 for $562,036.26 (6-0)
• Approved payroll 12/2/2021 for $762,612.72 (6-0)
• Approved accounts payable 11/4/2021 for $741,819.38 (6-0)
• Approved accounts payable 11/18/2021 for $466,656.00 (6-0)

City Council - Ordinance Committee

The Planning Board and City Council Ordinance Subcommittee are holding a joint public hearing regarding zoning amendments. The proposal includes changing the approval process for affordable housing from Special Permit to Plan Approval in several districts. It also involves extending and creating new Smart Growth Overlay zones.

• Amend Zoning Ordinance Table 5-1 regarding parking and design standards
• Change affordable housing approval from Special Permit to Plan Approval in R-5, R-10, R-15, DB, HB, NB, and MI districts
• Extend Downtown Mixed Use Smart Growth Overlay over 4 Park Street
• Create new Highway Business Mixed Use Smart Growth Overlay over 21 parcels

Conservation Commission

The Commission will continue a public hearing regarding trail improvements at 100 Bassett Brook Drive. The meeting also includes enforcement actions and updates on various active environmental permits.

• Public hearing for trail improvements at 100 Bassett Brook Drive
• Enforcement actions for CFN Properties LLC and B. Gawle
• Updates on Echodale West Orchard Area Improvements
• Review of active permits, including solar projects and school construction
• Discussion of a draft Tree Removal Policy

The Commission approved a revised plan for the Beacon Solar project at 50 Florence Road as a minor change, replacing an 8-foot concrete slab with two 16-foot slabs and adding rigid foam over the culvert. The change was approved with Commissioner August abstaining due to recusal. The Commission also continued the Lathrop Community trail hearing to January 10, 2022, and directed staff to send an enforcement letter to CFN Properties with a response deadline.

• Approved Beacon Solar crossing plan as minor change with two 16ft concrete slabs (unanimous, August abstained)
• Continued Lathrop Community trail hearing to January 10, 2022
• Directed sending enforcement letter to CFN Properties with response deadline of January 10
• Approved November 22, 2021 meeting minutes (Coady abstained)
• Adjusted 2022 meeting schedule, moving October meeting to mid-month
• Agreed to Tree Warden suggestions on draft tree removal policy

City Council - Property Committee

The City Council Property Committee will discuss continuing business regarding utility poles and property boundaries. This includes reviewing requests for pole installations on Ballard Street and Park Street.

• Boundary line agreement with owner of 99 Hendrick Street
• Eversource request to install one pole near 20/30 Ballard St.
• Request to install one jointly owned pole on Park St. near South St.

Housing Authority

The board will consider approving a $33,984.00 insurance renewal for property and crime coverage. Members will also hold an election for the position of Vice-Chairperson. The meeting includes updates on the 2022 budget and recent unit inspections.

• Approval of $33,984.00 for property, boiler, machinery, and crime insurance renewal
• Election of Board Vice-Chairperson
• Review of 2022 budget with accountant Gary DePace
• Notice of board member vacancy following the death of Jane Kovalski
• Completion of 188 DHDC annual unit inspections

The Easthampton Housing Authority unanimously approved the December 13, 2021 warrant of $193,507.21, elected Joe McCoy as Vice-Chair, and approved payments for insurance and construction projects. The board also noted the passing of longtime member Jane Kovalski and discussed ongoing issues with the CHAMP waitlist system.

• Approved December 13, 2021 warrant of $193,507.21 (unanimous)
• Elected Joe McCoy as Vice-Chair (unanimous)
• Approved $33,984.00 insurance renewal payment for Property, Boiler, & Machinery and Crime (unanimous)
• Approved 2nd payment of $6,655.04 to Larochelle Construction for roof project #087075 Glad Acres (unanimous)
• Approved 3rd payment of $7,063.45 to Compass Restoration for asbestos project #087072 Sunrise Manor (unanimous)
• Accepted minutes of November 8, 2021 meeting (unanimous)
• Accepted October 31, 2021 Financial Report (unanimous)

City Council - Ordinance Committee

A scheduled site visit regarding a rezoning request for 7 Groveland Street was cancelled. The proposal sought to change the property zoning from R-15 to HB.

• Cancelled rezoning request for 7 Groveland St.

Affordable & Fair Housing Partnership

The Affordable & Fair Housing Partnership will meet via Zoom to approve minutes from the November meeting. The agenda also includes an update on CHAPA’s MEI program and advocacy updates.

• Approval of November meeting minutes
• Update on CHAPA’s MEI program
• Advocacy updates

Historical Commission

The commission will discuss demolition requests for a barn on East Street and structures on Cottage Street. The meeting also includes reviews of the Demo Delay Bylaw and updates on various grants.

• Demolition request for barn at 449 East St
• Historical significance determination for 47-49 Cottage St
• Revision of the Demo Delay Bylaw
• CPA Request for inventory of Daley Field and Brookside Cemetery
• Updates on Main Street Extension Area Inventory grant

The Easthampton Historical Commission unanimously approved a demolition permit for a barn at 449 East Street after meeting with the absentee owner. The commission also reviewed several environmental and historical impact reports, finding no significant issues. No other substantive decisions were made; officer elections were tabled.

• Approved demolition of barn at 449 East Street (unanimous roll call)
• Approved minutes of 10/13/2021 meeting (unanimous roll call)
• Tabled election of officers until next meeting

School Committee - Finance Subcommittee

The Easthampton School Committee Finance Subcommittee is meeting to discuss the preliminary annual budget. The agenda also includes a period for public speech and other business.

• Discussion of the preliminary annual budget

The Finance Subcommittee discussed the preliminary annual budget, noting that state aid figures won't be available until late January and that the budget schedule may need to be accelerated. They set tentative Finance Subcommittee meetings for February 7, 14, 28, and March 7, 2022, at 4 p.m. No formal budget decisions were made; the meeting was procedural and adjourned at 4:45 p.m.

• Set tentative Finance Subcommittee meetings for 2/7, 2/14, 2/28, and 3/7 (Mondays at 4 p.m.)
• Adjourned meeting (3-0)

Elementary School Re-Use Committee

The Elementary School Re-Use Committee is continuing its review of reuse criteria based on the Downtown Plan. The meeting includes a discussion on weighting and priorities, as well as a review of minutes from previous 2021 meetings.

• Review of reuse criteria, weighting, and priorities based on Downtown Plan
• Review of meeting minutes from September 15, October 13, and November 17, 2021

The committee continued reviewing reuse criteria for the former elementary schools, discussing objectives like affordable housing, mixed-use, and public space. No formal decisions were made; the discussion focused on how to structure the RFP process and whether to allow demolition. The committee approved minutes from September 15 and October 13, 2021.

• Approved September 15, 2021 minutes (all in favor)
• Approved October 13, 2021 minutes as amended (all in favor)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold public hearings regarding special permits for Fort Hill Road and the expansion of Fort Hill Brewery. The board will also consider site plan approval for a new mixed-use building at 118 Union Street. Other items include a solar change request and a covenant discussion.

• Site Plan Approval for two apartments and retail at 118 Union Street
• Special Permit for parking, storage, and recreational uses on Fort Hill Road
• Expansion of operations at Fort Hill Brewery (30 Fort Hill Road)
• Minor change request for Beacon Solar, LLC (50 Florence Road)
• Discussion regarding a covenant at 218 East Street

The Easthampton Planning Board approved a Site Plan Review for a new mixed-use building at 118 Union Street, which will include two apartments and ground-floor retail. The board also continued a public hearing for Fort Hill Brewery's special permit requests to January 18, 2022, and approved a minor change for a solar facility's fencing.

• Approved Site Plan Review for 118 Union Street mixed-use building (5-0)
• Continued Fort Hill Brewery special permit hearing to January 18, 2022 (5-0)
• Approved minor change for Beacon Solar fencing at 50 Florence Rd (5-0)

Board of Health

The Board of Health denied a variance for an irrigation well at Hampton East Condominium Trust, citing the existing public water connection and lack of manifest injustice. The board also approved reducing water testing frequency at Go with the Float, and continued the COVID-19 mask mandate after reviewing current metrics.

• Denied well variance for Hampton East Condominium Trust (2-0, 1 abstention)
• Denied second motion for well variance due to existing public water connection (2-0, 1 abstention)
• Approved reduced water testing at Go with the Float: from 3x/day to 2x/day and lab tests from bi-weekly to every 3 weeks (3-0)
• Approved Tavern on the Hill's plan to continue using a 2-bay sink (3-0)
• Reopened and closed public hearing for well variances (3-0)
• Accepted November 2, 2021 meeting notes (3-0)

Agricultural Commission

The Easthampton Agricultural Commission met to introduce a new member and approve minutes from September 14, 2021. The commission discussed defining agriculture and the right to farm community. Members also addressed the commercial use of home kitchens.

• Introduction of new member Gerry
• Discussion on definition of agriculture and right to farm community
• Discussion on commercial use of home kitchens

City Council - Public Safety Committee

The Public Safety Committee will review the Ordinance Review Committee’s final report for action. The agenda also includes a sidewalk review at South Street and Main Street, a parking request for 19 Wemelco Way, and a Fire Department quarterly report.

• Sidewalk review: South Street at Main Street intersection
• Ordinance Review Committee final report review
• Parking review request for 19 Wemelco Way
• Fire Department quarterly report

The Public Safety Committee approved a motion to create a no parking area on the south side of Wemelco Way from Route 10 to the end of the road, in response to a request from a cannabis facility owner about tractor trailers parking there. The committee also discussed sidewalk safety improvements on South Street, snow removal inequities, and reviewed ordinance sections, but took no final action on those items. The minutes of the 8/10/21 meeting were approved with a 2-0 vote, with one abstention.

• Approved no parking on south side of Wemelco Way from Route 10 to end (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of 8/10/21 (2-0, Gomez abstained)

Commission on Disability

The Commission on Disability will meet remotely to approve minutes from September and October. The agenda includes a presentation from DPPC and discussions regarding the Safety Committee snow ordinance and survey subcommittee update.

• Approval of September/October minutes
• DPPC speaker presentation
• Safety Committee meeting regarding snow ordinance
• Survey subcommittee update
• Discussion of school field trips

The Easthampton Commission on Disability met on December 7, 2021, and unanimously approved the minutes from September, October, and November. The meeting included a presentation by Sarah Nechamen from the Disabled Persons Protection Commission on reporting abuse of disabled adults, and discussions on various community topics. No other formal decisions were made.

• Approved September, October, and November meeting minutes (unanimous)

City Council

The City Council will hold public hearings on Eversource pole installations at Ballard Street and Park Street. The agenda includes several supplemental appropriations, including using Cannabis Stabilization funds for the library and police contract costs. The council will also review committee reports regarding zoning amendments and public safety.

• Eversource request to install utility poles at 20/30 Ballard Street and Park Street
• $328,771.50 appropriation from Cannabis Stabilization for police contract and retirement payout
• $30,000.00 appropriation from Cannabis Stabilization for Emily Williston Memorial Library
• $255,576.00 CPA transfer for HVAC, boiler, and electrical upgrades
• Zoning amendments regarding affordable housing and 7 Groveland Street

The City Council unanimously approved four supplemental appropriations, including $328,771.50 from Cannabis Stabilization for the FY '22-'24 police union contract and Sgt. Bruce Nicol's retirement payout, $30,000 for the Emily Williston Library, $5,000 for veteran's district recertification, and $17,688.35 from Free Cash to cover an Urban Agenda Grant deficit. Two pole location public hearings were continued to the December 15th meeting due to unanswered questions. The council also approved the 2022 meeting calendar with the first October meeting moved to Oct. 6th.

• Approved $328,771.50 from Cannabis Stabilization for police contract costs and Sgt. Bruce Nicol's retirement payout
• Approved $30,000 from Cannabis Stabilization for Emily Williston Memorial Library support
• Approved $5,000 from Free Cash for veteran's district recertification contract
• Approved $17,688.35 from Free Cash to cover Urban Agenda Grant deficit
• Continued pole location hearings for 20/30 Ballard Street and Park Street to Dec. 15
• Approved 2022 council meeting calendar with first October meeting on Oct. 6th
• Referred 31 mayoral re-appointments and two new appointments to Appointments Committee
• Added quarterly Fire Department reports to Public Safety Committee agenda

Board of Public Works

The Board will continue discussions regarding Sewer/Water rates with Tighe & Bond. The meeting also includes the approval of November 17, 2021 meeting minutes and a Director's report.

• Discussion of Sewer/Water rates with Tighe & Bond
• Approval of November 17, 2021 meeting minutes
• Director’s report

The Board of Public Works held a continued discussion on water and sewer rates with consultants Tighe & Bond, exploring rate structure models and capital planning for fiscal years 24/25. No rate decision was made. The board also approved the November 17, 2021 meeting minutes and received the Director's Report on various DPW projects.

• Approved the November 17, 2021 meeting minutes (2 yes, 1 n/a).
• Continued discussion on water/sewer rates with Tighe & Bond; no action taken.
• Discussed exploring modern rate structures and addressing storm water funding.
• Heard Director's Report on Main Street work, snow readiness, smoke test results, and VHB studies.

Easthampton City Arts Public Art Subcommittee

The subcommittee will discuss a proposal for the Ferry Street Gateway to the Mills sculpture. The meeting also includes approval of the November 17 meeting minutes.

• Ferry Street Gateway to the Mills sculpture proposal
• Approval of November 17 meeting minutes

City Council - Finance Committee

The committee will review quarterly fiscal reports from the City Auditor and COVID-19 grant spending. Members will also consider several fund transfers involving Free Cash and Cannabis Stabilization funds. A public hearing is scheduled for December 1, 2021, regarding these new business items.

• $328,771.50 from Cannabis Stab. for police contract funding & retirement payout
• $30,000.00 from Cannabis Stabilization in support of the Emily Williston Library
• $17,688.35 from Free Cash to cover a deficit in the Urban Agenda Grant account
• $5,000.00 from Free Cash for Veterans District assistance
• Review of quarterly fiscal reports from the City Auditor

The Finance Committee approved four supplemental appropriations. These included $17,688.35 from Free Cash to cover an Urban Agenda Grant deficit, $30,000 from Cannabis Stabilization for the Emily Williston Library, $5,000 from Free Cash for Veterans District assistance, and $328,771.50 from Cannabis Stabilization for police contract funding and a retirement payout. All items were approved 3-0. The committee also approved the minutes from the 11/16 meeting.

• Approved $17,688.35 from Free Cash to cover a deficit in the Urban Agenda Grant account (3-0).
• Approved $30,000 from Cannabis Stabilization for the Emily Williston Library (3-0).
• Approved $5,000 from Free Cash for Veterans District assistance (3-0).
• Approved $328,771.50 from Cannabis Stabilization for police contract funding and retirement payout (3-0).
• Approved the minutes from the 11/16 meeting (3-0).

Easthampton Cultural Council

The Easthampton Cultural Council will hold a remote meeting via Zoom. The agenda consists of procedural items including discussion of submitted proposals, grantee/liaison contact, and a financial report.

• submitted proposals
• financial report

The council voted to approve Liz Ryan's request to amend her proposal, delaying her performance at the Senior Center to next year. The council will review grant proposals at the next meeting. Two dates for the voting meeting were discussed: 12/21/22 and 1/4/22. The meeting adjourned on a motion by Casey, seconded by Rachel.

• Approved Liz Ryan's request to amend her proposal to delay her event to 2022
• Discussed funding studio space with ECC state funds or self-generated funds
• Scheduled review of grant proposals for the next meeting
• Considered 12/21/22 and 1/4/22 as dates for the voting meeting
• Adjourned the meeting

City Council - Ordinance Committee

The City Council Ordinance Committee will discuss a new Vacant Storefront Ordinance and a re-zoning request for 7 Groveland Street. The committee will also review the Juneteenth resolution and related amendments to the city holiday ordinance. Additionally, members will address affordable housing zoning amendments.

• Re-zoning request for 7 Groveland Street from R-15 to HB
• Juneteenth resolution and related amendments to city holiday ordinance
• Vacant Storefront Ordinance
• Affordable housing zoning amendments in Smart Growth District & Planned Res. Developments
• Review of the Ordinance Review Committee’s final report

The Ordinance Committee met via Zoom and approved prior meeting minutes 3-0. Public comment on a Groveland Street rezoning proposal included concerns from residents about traffic, neighborhood disruption, and the process. No votes were taken on the rezoning itself; the committee set a site visit for December 11 at approximately 10 AM. Vacant storefronts were briefly discussed with no votes taken.

• Approved minutes from 10/12 and 9/28 by a 3-0 vote
• Set a site visit for the Groveland Street rezoning proposal on 12/11 at approximately 10 AM
• Adjourned the meeting at 20:07 by a 3-0 vote

Community Relations Committee

The committee will discuss Mayor Nicole LaChapelle's vision for the CRC and plans for "Undoing Racism" training. Members will also review strategic planning items regarding community outreach lists and city website tutorials. Follow-up discussions include Native American Heritage Month and recent meetings with Dr. Lomax Campbell.

• Mayor's remarks on committee appointments and "Undoing Racism" training plans
• Follow-up on Native American Heritage Month and community concerns
• Review of outreach lists for schools, activists, and cultural organizations
• Report on Easthampton Media tutorials and introductory videos for the city website
• Status update from the Forum Subcommittee

The Community Relations Committee approved the minutes from November 9, 2021, and formed a subcommittee to draft a statement regarding an incident at the MAP Gallery. The committee also discussed outreach, including a potential warming station at WinterFest, and noted that both co-chairs are not seeking renewal of their terms.

• Approved minutes of November 9, 2021 (unanimous)
• Formed subcommittee to propose statement on MAP Gallery incident (Margaret and Rebecca)
• Agreed to explore participating in WinterFest with a warming station (Emily to gather details)
• Noted co-chairs Patti Dougherty and Deb Lusnia are not seeking renewal of committee membership

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will meet to discuss a tax rate hearing. The board is also scheduled to review and sign motor vehicle abatement applications, commitments, and real estate exemptions.

• Discussion regarding a tax rate hearing
• Review of motor vehicle abatement applications
• Review of motor vehicle commitments and recommitments
• Review of real estate exemptions

The Board of Assessors reviewed and signed the bi-monthly reports, including motor vehicle abatements, commitments, recommitments, and real estate exemptions. A motion to accept these reports was made, seconded, and passed 3-0. The meeting adjourned at 5:30 pm.

• Approved MV abatements totaling $1,670.39 for years 2019-2021
• Approved MV commitment 2021-5 of $26,567.41
• Approved MV recommitments totaling $423.71 for years 2007-2017
• Approved real estate exemptions totaling $6,650.00 for categories 22, 22E, 17D, 41C, and 37A
• Adjourned meeting at 5:30 pm

City Council - Property Committee

The Property Committee will discuss requests for new utility pole locations. This includes an Eversource request near 20/30 Ballard St. and a joint pole installation on Park St. near South St.

• Eversource request to install one pole near 20/30 Ballard St.
• Request to install one jointly owned pole on Park St. near South St.
• Approval of minutes from previous meeting

School Building Committee

The committee will consider approval of PCO 149 regarding existing sewer repair. The meeting also includes reports from the OPM and Design Team, as well as an update on FF&E delivery.

• Approval of October 26, 2021 minutes
• Approval of PCO 149 for existing sewer repair
• OPM Report
• Design Team Report
• FF&E delivery update

The committee approved the October 26 minutes and discussed the $105.8 million project budget, with $80.3 million approved and $21.1 million completed. A $158,008 potential change order for lining a sewer line under a stream was discussed as time-sensitive, but no formal vote was recorded. The Middle School remains on schedule for occupancy on January 5, 2022, and the committee will stay active until final payment.

• Approved the 10/26/21 meeting minutes
• Discussed $158,008 potential change order for sewer line lining (no vote recorded)
• Confirmed Middle School occupancy on schedule for 1/5/2022
• Noted WBMS access ends 1/3/2022; items to be auctioned or transferred
• Scheduled next meeting for 12/28/2021
• Adjourned at 6:24 PM

Contributory Retirement Board

The board will review the intent to retire of Paul Carrier and approve several new members. The agenda also includes discussing transfers of deductions and fiduciary premium increases. Additionally, the board is scheduled to approve minutes from October 27, 2021, and Warrant #11.

• Intent to retire: Paul Carrier, Head Custodian (effective 1/4/2022)
• Approval for buyback and liability: Erin O’Brien
• Transfer of deductions for Laurie Solomon and Marie Regonini
• Approval of new members: Jennifer Jones, Jesse Clark, and Malania Hollister
• Review of fiduciary premium increase

The Easthampton Retirement Board approved the FY 2023 PERAC appropriation memo, the use of the City's postage machine, and several member transfers and new members. It also voted not to approve liability for Erin O'Brien and discussed a holiday premium memo, deciding to email the Mayor for reconsideration.

• Approved FY 2023 PERAC appropriation memo (unanimous)
• Approved use of City postage machine (unanimous)
• Denied liability approval for Erin O'Brien (unanimous)
• Approved transfers of deductions for Laurie Solomon and Marie Regonini (unanimous)
• Approved new members Jennifer Jones, Jesse Clark, Malania Hollister (unanimous)
• Approved October trial balance (unanimous)
• Approved Warrant #11 for $440,110.64 (unanimous)
• Voted to email Mayor about MEDEX holiday premium (Jennifer Gallant abstained)

Conservation Commission

The commission will hold a public hearing regarding proposed improvements to the trail network at 100 Bassett Brook Drive. The meeting also includes reviews of enforcement actions and updates on various active compliance projects. Additionally, the board will discuss a Liberty Street gas main proposal and a draft tree removal policy.

• Public hearing: trail improvements at 100 Bassett Brook Drive
• Enforcement actions for CFN Properties LLC and B. Gawle
• Liberty Street gas main proposal
• Draft tree removal policy
• Echodale West Orchard Area improvements

The Commission unanimously approved a request by R. Levesque Associates, Inc. to designate changes to the condominium development at 69 and 73 Loudville Road as minor, requiring no further permitting. The changes include reconfiguring units, adding garages, rotating some units, and relocating a sidewalk, resulting in a reduction of impervious surface by 2,969 sq ft. The Commission also continued a public hearing for Lathrop Community's trail improvements to December 13, 2021, and discussed but did not decide on a proposed change to the Beacon Solar project's first crossing, with commissioners indicating that an Amended Order or new Notice of Intent may be required.

• Approved as minor: R. Levesque Associates' changes to the Loudville Road condo development, no further permitting required.
• Continued to December 13, 2021: Public hearing for Lathrop Community's trail improvements at 100 Bassett Brook Drive.
• Determined no motion needed: DPW's request to install lighting along Manhan Rail Trail, as it falls under Work Category III of the bundled Order.
• Discussed but not decided: Beacon Solar's proposed change to the first crossing at 50 Florence Road; commissioners indicated a minor change determination is not appropriate, with some favoring an Amended Order or new Notice of Intent.
• Approved minutes: October 25, 2021 and November 8, 2021 meeting minutes as written.
• Continued to next meeting: Review of 2022 meeting schedule draft.
• No action: Enforcement case for CFN Properties LLC, with agent to contact Assessor's Office for a valid address.
• No action: Enforcement case for B. Gawle, no updates.

Nashawannuck Pond Committee

The committee will meet remotely to discuss cyanobacteria/water quality monitoring and the 501C3 status. The agenda also includes a discussion regarding WinterFest.

• Cyanobacteria/water quality monitoring
• 501C3 status
• WinterFest

The committee voted to hire and pay Picard Historical Ics Harvesting $400 and Clay Hill Farms $600 for wagon rides, and set a $40 per person charge for the Fire & Ice Gala, requiring proof of COVID vaccination and ID at the door. They also discussed Winterfest logistics, including a film festival, trivia, fire by the pond, and a snowflake craft workshop, with follow-ups assigned. No substantive decisions were made on other agenda items.

• Approved hiring Picard Historical Ics Harvesting for $400
• Approved hiring Clay Hill Farms for $600 for wagon rides
• Voted to charge $40 per person for the Fire & Ice Gala
• Voted to require proof of COVID vaccination and ID at the gala door
• Approved last month's meeting minutes (10.27.2021)
• Deferred decision on Big E sponsorship (gift cards vs. in-kind) to follow up

Energy Advisory Committee

The Energy Advisory Committee will discuss the process and next steps for municipal aggregation. The meeting includes updates on the Green Community Grant proposal and the Solar Ordinance Working Group. Additionally, the committee will discuss the Honeywell RFP.

• Municipal Aggregation process and next steps
• Green Community Grant Proposal and Annual Report
• Solar Ordinance Working Group updates
• Honeywell RFP updates and discussion
• Committee recruitment social media posts

The committee approved prior meeting minutes and discussed next steps for municipal aggregation, expecting Council action in January after new committee assignments. They submitted the Green Community grant proposal and await feedback, with plans to apply again in spring after spending current funds. The solar ordinance working group continues balancing solar promotion with land-use restrictions, and the committee will send feedback to Curtis. The Honeywell RFP update is pending from the Mayor, and social media posts will recruit members and inform about aggregation.

• Approved prior meeting minutes
• Discussed municipal aggregation next steps with Good Energy, targeting Council via Rules Committee in January
• Submitted Green Community grant proposal; awaiting review
• Planned to apply for next grant cycle in spring after spending current grant
• Will send solar ordinance feedback to Curtis; next working group meeting Dec. 2
• Will email Mayor for updated Honeywell documentation
• Will create social media posts on EAC recruitment and municipal aggregation
• Scheduled next meetings Dec. 20 and Jan. 24, 2022

Community Preservation Act Committee

The CPA Committee will review several project applications including park master plans and housing programs. The committee will also discuss historic preservation at Emily Williston Library and emergency rental assistance updates.

• Nonotuck Park Pool Area Master Plan application
• Daley Field Stone House Building Historic Preservation application
• CitySpace Old Town Hall 2nd Floor construction funding
• Emily Williston Library historic preservation deed restriction
• Reprogramming of rail trail funds

The Community Preservation Act Committee approved four funding requests: $5,730 for historic designation of park facilities, $14,600 for Nonotuck Park pool area restoration design, $255,576 for Old Town Hall phase 1 construction, and $25,985.30 for rail trail crossing design. All votes were unanimous (9-0). The skate park design request was continued to the December 16 meeting.

• Approved $5,730 for historic designation of Daley Field Stone House and Brookside Cemetery (9-0).
• Approved $14,600 for pool area restoration design at Nonotuck Park (9-0).
• Approved $255,576 transfer for Old Town Hall phase 1 construction (HVAC, boiler, electrical) (9-0).
• Approved $25,985.30 reallocation for rail trail crossing design at Payson Ave (9-0).
• Approved minutes from 4/15, 6/17, 9/20, and 10/21 meetings.
• Continued skate park design discussion to December 16 meeting.
• Noted FY21 state match of $414,626 (70%) exceeded budgeted $112,500 (25%).
• Noted Emily Williston Library historic preservation restriction moving forward pending Incorporators' approval.

City Council

The City Council will vote on FY 2022 tax classification percentages and a $2,000,000 appropriation from Free Cash. The council will also consider amendments to the city ordinance regarding single-use plastic straws and containers. Other items include reviewing supplemental appropriations for police funding and library support.

• Vote on FY 2022 Tax Classification percentages
• $2,000,000 appropriation from Free Cash to various funds
• Amendment to single-use plastic bag and container ordinance
• $328,771.50 appropriation from Cannabis Stabilization for police funding
• Re-zoning request for 9 Groveland St

The City Council unanimously voted to set a single tax rate for all property classes for FY2022, with no exemptions or open space discount, as recommended by the Board of Assessors. The Council also unanimously approved appropriating $2,000,000 from Free Cash to three stabilization funds: $1.2M to General, $500,000 to Capital, and $300,000 to Tax Rate Stabilization. Additionally, the Council unanimously voted to amend the city's plastics ordinance to add straw-on-request rules, variance procedures, and a one-year compliance period. The Council also unanimously voted to acquire 5.52 acres along Reservation Road for conservation for $367,000 and to send a letter of support for a Safe Routes to Schools grant application.

• Approved a single tax rate factor of 1.000 for all property classes for FY2022, with no exemptions or open space discount.
• Appropriated $2,000,000 from Free Cash to General ($1.2M), Capital ($500,000), and Tax Rate ($300,000) Stabilization Funds.
• Amended the plastics ordinance to require straws only upon request, add a variance process, and give businesses one year to comply.
• Approved acquiring 5.52 acres along Reservation Road for conservation and passive recreation for $367,000.
• Voted to send a letter of support for the Safe Routes to Schools grant application for the Park Street corridor.
• Capped DPW Revolving Fund spending for EV charging stations and bike share at $20,000 for FY2022.
• Referred four supplemental appropriation requests to the Finance Committee and set public hearings for December 1st.
• Disbanded the Ranked Choice Voting Ad Hoc Committee after its goals were completed.

Elementary School Re-Use Committee

The Elementary School Re-Use Committee will discuss reuse criteria, weighting, and priorities based on the Downtown Plan. The committee will also review minutes from meetings held on September 15 and October 13, 2021.

• Review of reuse criteria, weighting, and priorities
• Review of meeting minutes from September 15 and October 13, 2021

The committee discussed and continued refining reuse criteria for the former elementary schools, based on the Downtown Plan. No formal votes or decisions were made; the meeting was a working session. The city did not receive a $100,000 One Stop for Growth grant, but MassDevelopment is interested in working with the city on the project.

• No formal votes or decisions taken; meeting was a working session
• Reviewed and discussed reuse criteria, weighting, and priorities
• Noted city did not receive $100,000 One Stop for Growth grant; MassDevelopment to work with city
• Discussed example RFPs from Adams and Amherst for school reuse
• Agreed to continue refining criteria and begin drafting written criteria by next meeting

Affordable & Fair Housing Partnership

The Easthampton Affordable & Fair Housing Partnership will meet to discuss ARPA funds and priorities for the Housing Production Plan. The agenda also includes approving minutes from the October meeting and receiving advocacy updates.

• Approval of October meeting minutes
• Discussion regarding ARPA funds
• Discussion regarding Housing Production Plan Priorities
• Advocacy updates

Board of Public Works

The Board of Public Works will hold a continued discussion regarding sewer and water rates. The agenda also includes the approval of minutes from the November 3, 2021 meeting and a director's report.

• Approval of November 3, 2021 meeting minutes
• Continued discussion of Sewer/Water rates
• Director’s report

The Board of Public Works voted to approve the November 3, 2021 meeting minutes. They continued discussion of water and sewer rates, directing staff to contact Tighe & Bond to resume a rate study, including stormwater and irrigation considerations, with a possible rate change for fiscal year 23. The board also discussed public education efforts about wastewater plant needs. No rate changes were voted on at this meeting.

• Approved the November 3, 2021 meeting minutes (2-0).
• Continued water/sewer rate discussion; directed staff to contact Tighe & Bond to resume the rate study, including stormwater and irrigation, with a possible FY23 rate change.
• Discussed public education efforts, including possible tours, on wastewater plant deterioration and city upgrades.
• Noted Main Street paving scheduled for November 19-20 with a detour via Coleman Road to Gun Road to Park/Line Street.
• Adjourned the meeting at 5:17 p.m. (2-0).

Easthampton City Arts Public Art Subcommittee

The subcommittee will receive an update on the Ferry Street Gateway to the Mills sculpture proposal and discuss a volunteer sculpture. The meeting also includes approval of the October 20th meeting minutes.

• Ferry Street Gateway to the Mills sculpture proposal update
• Discussion regarding a Volunteer Sculpture
• Approval of October 20th meeting minutes

The artist for the Ferry Street Gateway to the Mills sculpture amended the design for readability but reported that a donation of fabrication costs was rescinded, raising the price above the grant. The committee discussed cost-cutting options and another fabricator, and agreed to drop the 2022 Winterfest installation deadline. A special meeting is set for December 1 to decide whether to proceed with the current proposal or move to the runner-up. The committee also renewed its commitment to the Volunteer Sculpture for the Nashawannuck Boardwalk and will explore grant funding.

• Approved the October 20 meeting minutes (moved by Marcia, seconded by Jean-Pierre).
• Agreed to drop the 2022 Winterfest installation deadline for the Ferry Street sculpture.
• Scheduled a special meeting for December 1 at 5:00 PM via Zoom to decide on the sculpture proposal.
• Renewed commitment to the Volunteer Sculpture for the Nashawannuck Boardwalk.
• Agreed to research other municipal grant opportunities for the Volunteer Sculpture.

City Council - Finance Committee

The committee will review quarterly fiscal reports and COVID-19 grant spending. The agenda also includes a discussion on a $2,000,000.00 supplemental appropriation from Free Cash.

• $2,000,000.00 supplemental appropriation from Free Cash
• DPW Revolving Account
• Request from Assessors regarding annual tax classification hearing
• Quarterly fiscal reports from the City Auditor
• Quarterly report on COVID-19 grant funding and spending

The Finance Committee approved a $2,000,000 supplemental appropriation from free cash to fund General, Capital, and Tax Rate Stabilization accounts. It also set a $20,000 FY2022 spending cap for the DPW Electric Vehicle charging stations and bike share revolving fund. The committee scheduled a tax classification hearing for 11/17 and received quarterly fiscal and COVID-19 spending reports.

• Approved $2M supplemental appropriation from free cash for stabilization funds (3-0)
• Set $20,000 FY2022 spending cap for DPW EV charging and bike share revolving fund (3-0)
• Scheduled annual tax classification hearing for 11/17 with single tax rate recommendation (3-0)

Council on Aging

The Council on Aging will review the ECOA financial report and discuss potential building plans involving Manchester Hardware. The meeting also includes a proposal for a new council member and discussions regarding community programming feedback.

• Acceptance of ECOA Financial Report
• Highland Valley Report update
• Discussion on center building future at Manchester Hardware
• Proposed new COA member Crystal Cote-Stosz
• Community feedback regarding programming

Development & Industrial Commission

The commission will receive updates from the Planning Department regarding wayfinding and LRRP. The meeting also includes a discussion on communications with landlords about the vacant storefront ordinance.

• Planning Department updates on Wayfinding and LRRP
• Update on vacant storefront ordinance communication with landlords
• Discussion of EDIC news blasts
• Approval of October meeting minutes

The Economic Development & Industrial Commission tabled approval of both November meeting minutes to December. No substantive decisions were made; the commission discussed next steps for a vacant storefront letter, noted the Mayor's Office declined a city email address, and announced upcoming events.

• Tabled approval of prior minutes to December meeting
• Advanced vacant storefront letter distribution planning (labels, path forward)

Easthampton Cultural Council

The Easthampton Cultural Council will meet to review submitted proposals and a financial report. The agenda also includes updates on grantee/liaison contact and new business.

• Review of submitted proposals
• Financial report
• Grantee/liaison contact updates

City Council - Ordinance Committee

The City Council Ordinance Committee will discuss a re-zoning request for 7 Groveland Street. The committee is also scheduled to review the Ordinance Review Committee’s final report and discuss amendments to single-use plastics ordinances.

• Re-zoning request for 7 Groveland Street from R-15 to HB
• Review of the Ordinance Review Committee's final report
• Discussion with EDIC regarding a vacant storefront ordinance
• Amendments to city holiday ordinance related to Juneteenth resolution
• Amendments to single-use plastics ordinance 6-21

The Ordinance Committee discussed a proposed smart growth overlay district stretching from Groveland to Florence Road, covering design standards, building height, and environmental elements. The committee voted 3-0 to schedule a joint public hearing with the planning board on December 14. A petition to rezone 7 Groveland (parcel B) from residential to highway business was discussed but no vote was taken.

• Approved December 14 joint public hearing with planning board (3-0)
• Discussed smart growth overlay proposal from Groveland to Florence Road
• Discussed petition to rezone 7 Groveland parcel B to highway business (no vote)

City Council - Public Safety Committee

The Public Safety Committee will review the final report from the Ordinance Review Committee for potential action. The committee will also continue reviewing a PVPC report regarding sidewalk safety at the South Street and Main Street intersection.

• Review of Ordinance Review Committee’s final report
• Review of PVPC report on sidewalk safety at South Street and Main Street intersection
• Approval of minutes not previously approved

School Committee

The School Committee is holding a focus session titled 'Strategy Matters.' The agenda consists only of procedural items, including a call to order and discussion.

Parks & Recreation Commission

The Parks and Recreation Commission will review the 2021 park season and HarvestFest 2021. The meeting also includes discussions regarding CPA requests, the FY2022 budget, and bike path facilities.

• Review of HarvestFest 2021
• FY2022 Budget discussion
• CPA Request review
• Park Facilities – Bike Path discussion

The Easthampton Parks and Recreation Commission approved the October 20th meeting minutes unanimously with one abstention. The original bike path study was tabled as of November 15, with funds potentially redirected to improve Park Street infrastructure. The commission also discussed the 2021 park season, Harvest Fest, programming, CPA requests, and the FY2022 budget.

• Approved October 20th meeting minutes (unanimous, one abstention)
• Tabled original bike path study (as of 11/15)
• Requested $7,500 for tree work in FY2022 budget

Nashawannuck Pond Committee

The Nashawannuck Pond Committee is holding a remote meeting via Zoom. The agenda consists of a workshop regarding WinterFest.

• WinterFest Workshop

The Nashawannuck Pond Committee met to plan Winterfest, discussing sponsorships, entertainment, and activities. No formal votes were taken; the committee will vote on hiring the band Jonny & the Flashbacks at a future meeting. All members were present, and the meeting was procedural in nature.

• No formal votes taken; band hire vote deferred
• Discussed hiring Jonny & the Flashbacks for Winterfest
• Discussed ice carver Mike Rondeau's participation
• Discussed Juggernaut Glass blowing demo
• Discussed horse-drawn wagon rides with Clay Hill Farm
• Discussed fire at the pond from 12-3 PM

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will meet remotely to review minutes from August 25, 2021. No public hearings are scheduled for this meeting, but the board will continue a discussion regarding public hearing procedures.

• Review of meeting minutes from August 25, 2021
• Discussion of Public Hearing procedure

The Zoning Board of Appeals approved amended Rules and Regulations for public hearing procedures. During discussion, the board struck proposed time limits on meetings and agenda items over concerns about statutory response periods, and agreed city staff would serve as the board secretary. The motion passed 5-0, with Matt Waugh voting against.

• Approved amended Rules and Regulations (5-0, Waugh opposed)
• Struck proposed time limits on meetings and agenda items from rules
• Agreed city staff will serve as board secretary
• Approved automatic promotion of associate members to full membership on vacancy

City Council - Finance Committee

The committee will review quarterly fiscal reports from the City Auditor and COVID-19 grant spending. The agenda also includes a $2,000,000 supplemental appropriation from free cash.

• $2,000,000 supplemental appropriation from free cash
• DPW Revolving Account
• Annual tax classification hearing request from Assessors
• Quarterly fiscal reports from the City Auditor
• Quarterly report on COVID-19 grant funding and spending

Cultural District Subcommittee

The Cultural District Committee is meeting remotely to discuss updates regarding the Cottage Street Cultural District. The agenda also includes approval of minutes and discussion of new business.

• Approval of minutes
• Cultural District updates
• Discussion of Cottage Street merchants

Ranked Choice Voting Ad Hoc Committee

The committee will discuss post-election comments and suggestions regarding the Ranked Choice Voting process. The agenda also includes addressing the committee secretary position and potential committee dissolution.

• Post-election discussion of RCV process, comments, and suggestions
• Committee secretary position or rotation
• Potential committee dissolution
• Approval of minutes

The Ranked Choice Voting Implementation Ad Hoc Committee reviewed the November 2021 election process, noting it went smoothly overall, with minor issues like a dirty tabulator and illegible write-in scans. The committee discussed options for reporting write-in totals on election night and agreed unofficially that providing total write-in numbers would best preserve public trust. The committee voted unanimously to dissolve, with no new business or future meetings scheduled.

• Dissolved the Ranked Choice Voting Implementation Ad Hoc Committee (unanimous)
• Unofficially agreed to report total write-in numbers on election night to preserve public trust
• Noted cast vote records will be made available to the public
• Took no action on vendor outreach regarding illegible write-in scans

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold a public hearing regarding an amendment to a 2019 Special Permit for Pleasantrees, Inc. The proposal aims to expand operations to include cannabis manufacturing for beverages. The board will also consider a minor change request for Wildflower Condominiums.

• Amendment to expand cannabis manufacturing at 195 Northampton Street
• Minor change determination for Wildflower Condominiums (69 & 73 Loudville Road)

The Planning Board approved Pleasantrees' application to amend a 2019 special permit, allowing cannabis-infused beverage manufacturing at 195 Northampton Street. The board also voted 3-2 to classify changes to a residential development at 69 & 73 Loudville Road as minor, avoiding a new public hearing. Both decisions were made during the November 9, 2021 meeting.

• Approved special permit amendment for cannabis manufacturing at 195 Northampton St (4-0, chair abstained)
• Determined changes at 69 & 73 Loudville Road as minor, not requiring public hearing (3-2)

School Committee

The Easthampton School Committee will meet remotely to discuss updates regarding COVID advisory, safety, and wellness. The committee is scheduled to vote on the FY2022 budget, school payroll, and accounts payable. They will also recognize newly elected members and a donation to Maple Elementary School.

• Approval of FY2022 Budget in the amount of $17,097,693
• Approval of school payroll dated 11/4/2021 for $553,695.96
• Approval of accounts payable authorization for $741,819.38
• Vote to approve a monetary donation from Karen Doyle to the Maple Elementary School library
• Review and request for endorsement of Safe Routes Application

The Easthampton School Committee approved a $0.37 adjustment to the FY2022 school budget, bringing it to $17,097,692.63, and approved the superintendent's goals for 2021-2023. They also approved a letter of support for a Safe Routes to School grant for the Park Street corridor, accepted a donation for Maple Elementary School's library, and approved payroll and accounts payable warrants. All votes were unanimous (6-0 or 5-0).

• Approved FY2022 budget adjustment of $0.37 to $17,097,692.63 (6-0)
• Approved superintendent goals for 2021-2023 (6-0)
• Endorsed letter of support for Safe Routes to School grant for Park Street corridor (6-0)
• Approved donation from Karen Doyle to Maple Elementary School library (6-0)
• Approved school payroll dated 11/4/2021 in amount of $553,695.96 (6-0)
• Approved accounts payable authorization dated 11/4/2021 in amount of $741,819.38 (5-0)
• Approved minutes of October 26, 2021 meeting (6-0)

Community Relations Committee

The committee will hear remarks from Dr. Lomax Campbell regarding the Undoing Racism series. Members will also review strategic planning updates, including community outreach lists and city website tutorials. A report on committee funding access will be presented.

• Remarks from Dr. Lomax Campbell regarding the Undoing Racism series
• Review of community outreach lists
• Report on committee funding and access to funds
• Update on Forum Subcommittee planning status
• Discussion of city website tutorials and introductory videos

The Community Relations Committee heard a detailed presentation from Dr. Lomax Campbell on next steps following Undoing Racism workshops, including debriefs, caucusing, alumni networks, and community collaboration. The committee also discussed plans for neighborhood gatherings, a website tutorial project (stalled due to staff capacity), and a request for $10,000 in funding to be voted on by the City Council in December. No formal decisions were made; the meeting was primarily informational and planning-focused.

• Approved September 21, 2021 minutes (5-0)
• Set next meeting dates for November 30 and December 14, 2021
• Adjourned unanimously (6-0)

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors is meeting to review motor vehicle abatement applications and real estate exemptions. The board will also hold a discussion regarding the FY2022 tax rate hearing.

• Review and signing of motor vehicle abatement applications
• Review and signing of real estate exemptions
• Discussion of the FY2022 tax rate hearing

The Board of Assessors approved all motor vehicle abatements and real estate exemptions as listed in the bi-monthly reports. The board also reviewed and signed the reports and discussed the FY2022 tax rate hearing. The meeting was adjourned after the motions were passed.

• Approved minutes of October 26, 2021 meeting (2-0)
• Approved MV abatement of $453.27 (2-0)
• Approved real estate exemptions totaling $4,750 (2-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 5:20 pm (2-0)

Commission on Disability

The Commission on Disability will meet remotely to discuss the Event Accommodation Ordinance and receive an update from the survey subcommittee. The agenda also includes the introduction of Sarah Mochak from Special Education and the approval of September and October minutes.

• Approval of September/October minutes
• Introduction of Sarah Mochak (Special Education)
• Event Accommodation Ordinance discussion
• Survey subcommittee update
• Recruitment and City Councillor participation

The Commission on Disability met and heard a presentation from Sarah Mochak, Director of Special Education Services for Easthampton Public Schools, covering evaluations, TEP/504 plans, and an accessible door at the high school. The commission also discussed open positions and reviewed survey results. No formal votes or decisions were recorded.

• Heard presentation on special education services (no action taken)
• Discussed open commission positions (no action taken)
• Reviewed survey results (no action taken)

Conservation Commission

The Easthampton Conservation Commission will hold a public hearing for trail improvements at 100 Bassett Brook Drive. The commission will also consider certificates of compliance for supermarket redevelopment and a retaining wall on Loudville Road. Additionally, the meeting includes updates on various infrastructure projects and a draft tree removal policy.

• Public hearing: trail improvements at 100 Bassett Brook Drive
• Certificate of compliance: supermarket redevelopment at 228 Northampton Street
• Certificate of compliance: retaining wall at 298 and 300 Loudville Road
• Compliance update: school building construction at 200 Park Street
• Draft review: new Tree Removal Policy

The Commission issued complete Certificates of Compliance for the River Valley Cooperative Market at 228 Northampton Street and the Rust/Kaufmann property at 298 and 300 Loudville Road, both with ongoing conditions. A proposed change to the Beacon Solar project at 50 Florence Road was continued to the next meeting for further review. The Lathrop Community trail hearing was continued to November 22nd.

• Issued complete Certificate of Compliance for River Valley Cooperative Market with ongoing conditions 63-68 (unanimous)
• Issued complete Certificate of Compliance for Rust/Kaufmann property with ongoing conditions 59-64 and Attachment C (unanimous)
• Continued Lathrop Community trail hearing to November 22nd (unanimous)
• Continued Beacon Solar plan change review to November 22nd
• Continued review of October 25th meeting minutes to November 22nd
• Continued 2022 meeting schedule review to November 22nd

Licensing Board

The board will hold public hearings for various license applications, including Marigold Theater at 84 Cottage Street and an auto dealership. Members are also scheduled to finalize live entertainment policies. Additionally, the board will consider a one-day permit request for Abandoned Building Brewery.

• New license application for Marigold Theater @ 84 Cottage Street
• Final approval of live entertainment policies and procedures
• ESP Auto Class II Dealership License Application
• One-day permit for Abandoned Building Brewery on November 13
• River Valley Co-op annual entertainment license

The Licensing Board approved three license applications: River Valley Co-op's annual entertainment license, Marigold Theater's new license at 84 Cottage Street, and GROOM's new license with a condition limiting alcohol service to clientele. A change of premises for Daily Operation was discussed with a site visit scheduled for 12/06/2021. Live entertainment policies were continued to January 2022, and Chris Rogers received a 6-month renewal extension with a $1,313.00 payment.

• Approved River Valley Co-op annual entertainment license (all in favor)
• Approved Marigold Theater new license at 84 Cottage Street (all in favor)
• Approved GROOM new license with condition of alcohol for clientele only (all in favor)
• Continued live entertainment policies to January 2022
• Granted Chris Rogers 6-month extension with $1,313.00 renewal payment
• Set renewal deadline of 11/29/2021 at 8:00am; late renewals go to ABCC as new applications

Housing Authority

The Easthampton Housing Authority will review third-quarter financial reports and modernization costs. The board will also consider a $38,524.00 bid for exterior door replacements. Additionally, members will discuss recent press comments regarding property repairs.

• $38,524.00 bid for Phase III exterior door replacements
• No-cost change order to extend Sunrise Manor porch partition contract
• Review of 3rd Quarter Financials and Modernization Cost Report
• Discussion regarding property repair comments in the Hampshire Gazette
• Update on Dickinson Court weatherization project

The Easthampton Housing Authority approved the 3rd quarter financials and consolidated modernization cost report, accepted a low bid of $38,524 for exterior door replacements at Cliffview Manor, and approved a $49,058.48 warrant. A change order for Sunrise Manor porch partitions was not approved. The board also discussed a councilor's public comment about property conditions and noted the cancellation of a weatherization project due to poor workmanship.

• Approved October 25, 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved September 30, 2021 financial report (unanimous)
• Approved 3rd quarter financials and consolidated modernization cost report (unanimous)
• Change order for Sunrise Manor porch partitions not approved (unanimous)
• Accepted $38,524 low bid from General Contracting Solutions for Cliffview Manor exterior doors (unanimous)
• Approved November 8, 2021 warrant of $49,058.48 (unanimous)
• Approved Certificate of Substantial Completion for asbestos removal at Sunrise Manor (unanimous)

Manhan Rail Trail Committee

The Manhan Rail Trail Committee and Friends of the Manhan Rail Trail will hold an annual meeting. Agenda items include electing new officers and reviewing bike-related updates from the City Planner. The committee will also discuss street lights and a potential paved path near the hockey rink parking lot.

• Review/discussion of CPA funds for Payson Avenue crossing design
• Election of Friends of the Manhan Rail Trail officers
• Update on trail street lights heading towards Williston
• Discussion regarding a paved path from the bike path to the hockey rink parking lot
• Trail maintenance update

The Friends of the Manhan Rail Trail voted to support the reallocation of $25,000 in CPA funds for designing improvements to the Payson Avenue bike path crossing and Railroad Street crosswalk, and to send a letter of support. They also voted to support the Park Street trail connector route and write a letter of support. The committee approved minutes, reelected officers, and discussed trail maintenance and lighting projects.

• Supported reallocation of $25,000 CPA funds for Payson Ave crossing design (unanimous)
• Supported Park Street trail connector route and letter of support (unanimous)
• Approved last year's Friends minutes
• Reelected all officers unanimously
• Approved September committee minutes

Easthampton Community Garden

The Community Garden Committee will review minutes and treasurer's reports. The meeting includes updates on operations, outreach, and the donation garden.

• Treasurer’s report and endorsement of purchase orders
• Operations report
• Outreach report
• Donation Garden report

The Easthampton Community Garden Committee met remotely and approved the treasurer's report, endorsing payment for Broadbrook to blow out the irrigation system. They also set Nov. 15th for gardeners to harvest or donate, with an agreement to carry over to next year. No other substantive decisions were made; most items were operational updates.

• Approved treasurer's report and purchase order for Broadbrook irrigation blowout (unanimous)
• Set Nov. 15th for gardeners to harvest or donate, agreed to carry over to next year

City Council

The City Council will vote on the FY 2022 Tax Classification and several budget adjustments. Proposed items include transferring $6,000 to the Building Department and $97,000 to the City Planner’s budget. The council will also consider a $2 million appropriation from Free Cash.

• FY 2022 Tax Classification vote
• $6,000 transfer to Building Department
• $97,000 appropriation for City Planner
• Boundary line agreement for 99 Hendrick Street
• $2,000,000 appropriation from Free Cash

The Easthampton City Council unanimously approved a $97,000 supplemental appropriation from the Cannabis Stabilization Account to fund planning department salaries, consulting, and assessment fees. The council also approved a $6,000 transfer to supplement the Building Department budget, a conservation restriction for Lathrop Community, and easements for a sidewalk and utility lines. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved $97,000 from Cannabis Stabilization for planning dept (unanimous)
• Approved $6,000 transfer to Building Dept budget (unanimous)
• Approved Lathrop Community Conservation Restriction (unanimous)
• Authorized Mayor to negotiate sidewalk easement at 334 Main St (unanimous)
• Approved utility easements for Eversource at 32 Payson Ave (unanimous)
• Continued Tax Classification hearing to Nov 17 (unanimous)
• Referred $2M Free Cash to Stabilization Funds to Finance Committee (unanimous)
• Scheduled public hearing on Plastics Ordinance amendments (unanimous)

Development & Industrial Commission

The Easthampton Development & Industrial Commission is continuing a discussion regarding the language and process for a vacant storefront ordinance. This includes discussing communication with affected landlords.

• Discussion of vacant storefront ordinance language and process

The Economic Development & Industrial Commission continued its discussion on vacant storefronts, finalizing the wording of a letter to be sent to all business owners. The letter, which was previously agreed upon, will be distributed within the next few weeks. No formal votes or other substantive decisions were recorded.

• Finalized letter wording for vacant storefront communication
• Agreed to send letter to all business owners within next few weeks

Board of Public Works

The Board of Public Works will review the Director's report and approve minutes from September 15 and October 6, 2021. This agenda consists only of procedural items.

• Approval of September 15, 2021 meeting minutes
• Approval of October 6, 2021 meeting minutes
• Director's report

The Board of Public Works approved the minutes from its September 15 and October 6, 2021 meetings. The director reported on upcoming Main Street paving, a MassDOT crosswalk approval wait, Mountain Road closure for cleanup, and sewer/water projects awaiting funding. No public comment was given, and the mayor was absent.

• Approved September 15, 2021 meeting minutes (2-0, Lytwyn N/A)
• Approved October 6, 2021 meeting minutes (3-0)

Board of Health

The Board of Health will consider a request from Tavern on the Hill to continue using a 2-bay sink. The board will also determine whether to reopen a public hearing for Hampton East Condominium Trust. Additionally, the Health Director will provide updates on COVID-19 data and department staffing.

• Tavern on the Hill request to continue using a 2-bay sink
• Determination on reopening the Hampton East Condominium Trust public hearing
• COVID-19 data update from the Health Director
• Public Health Nurse position and pay re-classification
• Community Social Worker position update

The Board voted unanimously to reopen the public hearing for well variances by Hampton East Condominium Trust, scheduling it for December 7, 2021. The Board also decided to keep the mask mandate in place for now, with plans to discuss it further at the December meeting. Tavern on the Hill was asked to submit a plan for proper dishwashing before the next meeting.

• Reopened Hampton East Condominium Trust hearing for December 7, 2021 (3-0)
• Kept mask mandate in place, to be revisited in December
• Requested Tavern on the Hill submit a plan for 2-bay sink use by next meeting

City Council - Property Committee

The City Council Property Committee will discuss several property-related items. These include a sidewalk easement at 334 Main Street and a conservation restriction from the Lathrop Community. The committee will also address an easement request for utility conduits at 32 Payson Avenue.

• Conservation Restriction request from the Lathrop Community
• South Street sidewalk easement at 334 Main Street
• Easement request for utility conduits at 32 Payson Avenue

The Property Committee voted to recommend that the full City Council support a conservation restriction request from the Lathrop Community, citing public interest benefits. It also voted to recommend authorizing the mayor to negotiate a sidewalk easement with the property owner at 334 Main Street for the South Street sidewalk project. Both motions passed with votes of 2-0 and 3-0 respectively.

• Recommended support for Lathrop Community conservation restriction (2-0)
• Recommended authorizing mayor to negotiate sidewalk easement at 334 Main Street (3-0)

Easthampton City Arts Coordinating Committee

The committee will review programming updates regarding public art and the Artist Studio Residency Program. The meeting also includes a continued discussion about the Friends of ECA non-profit status.

• Approval of September and October meeting minutes
• Public Art programming updates
• Artist Studio Residency Program reports
• Art as a Gift - Elusie Gallery @ECA Gallery report
• Discussion on Friends of ECA non-profit status

The Easthampton City Arts Coordinating Committee met and discussed community arts collaboration, public art sculptures, and an open call for Map Space. The committee approved a $1,000 commitment to help fund the Friends of ECA project, which Pasqualina Azzarello will help launch. No other formal votes were recorded.

• Approved $1,000 commitment to fund Friends of ECA project expenses

School Committee - Finance Subcommittee

The Finance Subcommittee will review the annual budget and the quarterly report of expenditures versus budget for the first quarter of fiscal year 2022. The agenda also includes a period for public speech.

• Annual Budget Review
• Quarter 1 FY22 Expenditures vs Budget Report

Affordable & Fair Housing Partnership

The partnership will review September meeting minutes and discuss the CHAPA Municipal Engagement Initiative application. The agenda includes updates on a Valley CDC CPA request and the Housing Trust. Members will also discuss ARPA funds.

• CHAPA’s Municipal Engagement Initiative application
• Valley CDC CPA request update
• Housing Trust updates
• ARPA funds discussion
• Approval of September meeting minutes

Nashawannuck Pond Committee

The committee will discuss cyanobacteria and water quality monitoring. Members will also address 501C3 status and WinterFest. No new business is listed on the agenda.

• Cyanobacteria/water quality monitoring
• 501C3 status discussion
• WinterFest

The Nashawannuck Pond Committee met and approved the previous meeting's minutes. They noted that herbicide treatment for invasive plants was completed on 7/14/2021 by Solitude, with the invoice pending. The committee discussed a potential scientific study with GZA to investigate root causes of cyanobacteria blooms, and Paul is meeting with Veronica Rayn about barley straw. Winterfest planning progressed with confirmed events and a sponsorship mailing.

• Approved minutes from 9.29.2021 meeting (motion by Amy, seconded by Kisha)
• Noted herbicide treatment completed on 7/14/2021 by Solitude; invoice awaited
• Discussed engaging GZA for scientific analysis of cyanobacteria blooms; no formal action
• Confirmed Winterfest events including photo contest, trivia, ice harvest, and snow sculpture contest
• Decided to create posters for Winterfest this year

Zoning Board of Appeals

The meeting includes a discussion regarding public hearing procedures. The board will also review minutes from the August 25, 2021, meeting. No public hearings are scheduled for this session.

• Discussion of Public Hearing procedure
• Review of minutes from 08/25/2021

City Council - Finance Committee

The scheduled meeting for the Easthampton City Council Finance Committee was cancelled. The agenda included quarterly fiscal reports and upcoming public hearings regarding tax classification and budget supplements.

• FY ’22 Tax Classification Public Hearing
• $97,000 supplemental appropriation for City Planner’s budget
• $6,000 supplement for Building Department budget
• Quarterly fiscal reports from the City Auditor
• Quarterly reports on COVID-19 grant funding and spending

City Council - Ordinance Committee

The City Council Ordinance Committee will discuss several ordinance amendments. Topics include a vacant storefront ordinance with EDIC and updates to the city holiday ordinance for Juneteenth. The committee will also address single-use plastics and affordable housing zoning.

• Discussion with EDIC about vacant storefront ordinance
• Juneteenth resolution and related holiday ordinance amendments
• Amendments to city ordinances prohibiting single-use plastics
• Zoning amendment discussion for affordable housing in Smart Growth District and Planned Res. Developments

Contributory Retirement Board

The Easthampton Retirement Board will review September minutes and approve several new members to the retirement system. The meeting also includes discussions regarding the PERAC audit for 2015-2018 and FY 2023 appropriation pre-planning.

• Approval of new retirement system members including Jesse Shipman, Haley Deluca, and Brenda Church
• Approval of Barbara Boulay's deduction rollover to Melon bank
• Discussion regarding the PERAC audit for 2015-2018
• Review of Warrant #10

The Easthampton Retirement Board approved several routine items, including the September trial balance, Warrant #10 for $434,660.65, new member enrollments, and a rollover deduction. The board also voted to replace two vacation days with work days for the administrator. No major policy changes were made; the meeting concluded with an executive session.

• Approved September 28, 2021 regular and executive minutes (unanimous; Gallant abstained on executive minutes)
• Approved replacing 2 vacation days with 2 work days for Administrator Kymme Wood (unanimous)
• Approved rollover of deduction for Barbara Boulay to Mellon Bank (unanimous)
• Approved new members: Jesse Shipman, Haley Deluca, Brenda Church (rehire), Kristen Hall, Tyler Alberti (rehire), Salmah Habib (unanimous)
• Approved September Trial Balance (unanimous)
• Approved Warrant #10 for $434,660.65 (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting and entered executive session (unanimous)

School Committee

The School Committee will review policy updates regarding substitute teacher and nurse compensation. The agenda also includes a presentation on Safe Routes to School and updates on COVID-19 advisory and safety.

• Approval of school payroll dated 10/21/2021 for $553,319.72
• Approval of accounts payable authorization for 10/21/2021 for $108,507.12
• Second reading of substitute teacher compensation update
• Second reading of substitute nurse compensation update
• Presentation on Safe Routes to School

The Easthampton School Committee approved second readings of four policy updates (substitute teacher and nurse compensation, face coverings, and community use of facilities) and approved payroll and accounts payable totaling $661,826.94. The committee also heard updates on COVID-19 testing, school start time survey, and MCAS data. No items were denied or tabled.

• Approved second reading of GOBCH Substitute Teacher Compensation Update (5-0)
• Approved second reading of GOBC 2 Substitute Nurse Compensation Update (5-0)
• Approved second reading of ERCEA Face Coverings Update (5-0)
• Approved second reading of KG Community Use of Facilities Update (5-0)
• Approved minutes of October 12, 2021 meeting (5-0)
• Approved school payroll dated 10/21/2021 for $553,319.72 (5-0)
• Approved accounts payable authorization dated 10/21/2021 for $108,507.12 (5-0)

School Building Committee

The Maple Elementary School Building Committee will review reports from the OPM and Design Team. The committee will also consider approval for three potential change orders regarding additional sidewalks.

• Approval of September 28, 2021 minutes
• PCO 140A- Additional Sidewalk Running Track
• PCO 140B- Additional Sidewalk East Parking
• PCO 140C- Additional Sidewalk Athletic Field
• FF&E delivery update

The committee approved walkway C for $21,794 and discussed transferring all remaining bid savings to furniture, fixtures, and equipment (FF&E). They also discussed the gas moratorium and contingency plans, including box lunches for students in January if gas service is not approved.

• Approved walkway C for $21,794 (unanimous)
• Transferred all remaining bid savings to FF&E
• Discussed gas moratorium; contingency plan for box lunches in January

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will review motor vehicle abatement applications and real estate exemptions. The board is also scheduled to discuss the FY2022 tax rate hearing.

• Review of motor vehicle abatement applications
• Review of real estate exemptions
• Discussion regarding the FY2022 tax rate hearing

The Board of Assessors approved all motor vehicle abatements and real estate exemptions as listed, and discussed the FY2022 tax rate hearing. The board also approved the minutes from the October 12, 2021 meeting. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved minutes from October 12, 2021 meeting (3-0)
• Approved MV abatements totaling $2,037.89 (3-0)
• Approved real estate exemptions totaling $99,175.00 plus 7 full exemptions (3-0)
• Discussed FY2022 tax rate hearing

Conservation Commission

The Commission will hold public hearings regarding trail network improvements at 100 Bassett Brook Drive and vegetation management at 1 Ferry Street. The meeting also includes reviews of enforcement actions and updates on various active environmental permits.

• Public hearing for trail improvements at 100 Bassett Brook Drive
• Public hearing for vegetation management and slope regrading at 1 Ferry Street
• Enforcement actions for properties on O’Neil Street and South Street
• Review of the Tree Removal Policy Draft
• Discussion of the Reservation Rd LAND Grant Project Agreement

The Commission unanimously approved an Order of Conditions with special conditions for vegetation management and slope regrading at 1 Ferry Street, including requirements for an invasive species management plan and updated erosion control plans. It also determined that DPW's drainage pipe replacement at South Street falls under an existing permit, and continued a hearing for Lathrop Community's trail improvements to November 8th.

• Approved Order of Conditions for 1 Ferry Street slope work (unanimous)
• Continued Lathrop Community trail hearing to Nov 8 (unanimous)
• Determined DPW South Street pipe work under Work Category V, no new permit (unanimous)
• Approved Sept 27 minutes (unanimous)
• Signed LAND Grant Project Agreement for Reservation Rd acquisition (unanimous)
• Tabled tree removal policy discussion to Nov 8 (unanimous)

Energy Advisory Committee

The committee will discuss the process and next steps for municipal aggregation. Members will also receive updates regarding the Green Community Grant proposal and the Solar Ordinance Working Group. The agenda includes a discussion on the Honeywell RFP.

• Municipal Aggregation process and next steps
• Green Community Grant Proposal
• Solar Ordinance Working Group updates
• Honeywell RFP updates and discussion

The Energy Advisory Committee discussed next steps for municipal electricity aggregation, agreeing to pursue it separately from the municipal light plan, and reviewed progress on the solar ordinance working group. No formal votes were taken on these items; the committee approved prior meeting minutes and adjourned.

• Approved prior meeting minutes for 8/16 and 9/20 (unanimous)
• Agreed to pursue municipal aggregation separately from municipal light plan (discussion)
• Discussed solar ordinance working group progress (no action)
• Adjourned at 5:42pm (unanimous)

Housing Authority

The Easthampton Housing Authority will consider the 2022 Annual Plan and a $14,000.00 water line repair at Sunrise Manor. The board will also review maintenance needs at Cliffview Manor and quarterly vacancy reports.

• Approval of 2022 Annual Plan
• $14,000.00 main water line repair at Sunrise Manor
• Certificate of Substantial Completion for Sunrise Manor asbestos project
• Maintenance of trees, roots, and sidewalks at Cliffview Manor
• Write off of $274.00 rent owed by deceased tenant #667-1

The Easthampton Housing Authority unanimously approved the 2022 Annual Plan, a $274 rent write-off for a deceased tenant, a $14,072.50 payment for emergency water line repairs at Sunrise Manor, an increase in on-call cell phone payment to $75, and a $259,223.67 warrant. The board also discussed ongoing sidewalk issues at Cliffview Manor and received reports on vacancies and the CHAMP waitlist.

• Approved 2022 Annual Plan (unanimous)
• Approved $274 rent write-off for deceased tenant at Sunrise Manor (unanimous)
• Approved $14,072.50 payment to Always Reliable Excavating, Inc. for water line repairs from operating account (unanimous)
• Approved increase in on-call cell phone payment to $75 for FY 2022 (unanimous)
• Approved warrant of $259,223.67 (unanimous)

Community Preservation Act Committee

The Easthampton Community Preservation Act Committee met on October 21, 2021, and took no final votes on substantive items. The committee tabled approval of prior meeting minutes due to lack of quorum, and continued discussions on funding a historic preservation deed restriction for the Emily Williston Library and reprogramming rail trail funds for a Payson Avenue crossing improvement. Both items were continued to the November meeting for further action.

• Tabled approval of minutes from 4/15/2021, 6/17/2021, and 9/20/2021 due to insufficient members present
• Continued discussion on funding legal costs for Emily Williston Library historic preservation deed restriction to November
• Continued discussion on reprogramming ~$25,000 rail trail funds for Payson Ave crossing design to November

City Council

The Easthampton City Council unanimously approved a $298,872 supplemental appropriation from Cannabis Stabilization funds to replace a 2013 ambulance, with grant funding offsetting part of the cost. The council also unanimously approved adding an Information Technology Director position (Grade H, max $108,000) and a Community Social Worker position (Grade F, funded by ARPA), and upgraded the Public Health Nurse position from Grade E to F. Additionally, the council voted unanimously to send the Public Safety Committee's recommendations on the Mayor's Pledge to Reimagine Policing to the Mayor, and approved a resolution supporting adult access to plant medicines (7-0-2).

• Approved $298,872 ambulance purchase from Cannabis Stabilization (unanimous)
• Added Information Technology Director position at Grade H (unanimous)
• Added Community Social Worker position at Grade F (unanimous)
• Upgraded Public Health Nurse from Grade E to F (unanimous)
• Sent Public Safety Committee's policing recommendations to Mayor (unanimous)
• Approved resolution supporting adult access to plant medicines (7-0-2)
• Approved new precinct map based on 2020 census (8-0-1)
• Confirmed mayoral appointments to ZBA, Agricultural Commission, and other boards (unanimous)

Parks & Recreation Commission

The commission will discuss the FY2022 budget and 2021 park rentals. The agenda also includes planning for HarvestFest 2021 and a Woo Sox visit. Members will address park facilities, including wetlands, the bike path, and public art.

• FY2022 budget
• HarvestFest 2021
• Park facilities regarding wetlands, bike path, and public art
• Woo Sox visit programming
• 2021 park rentals

The commission approved the September 20 meeting minutes unanimously with one abstention, and discussed upcoming events and projects. No major decisions were made; the Harvest Fest is scheduled for October 23, and the commission plans to vote on a letter of support for a bike path extension at the next meeting.

• Approved September 20 meeting minutes (unanimous, one abstention)
• Scheduled Harvest Fest for October 23
• Discussed possible EH day at Woo Sox
• Planned to apply for CPA and historical funds for cemetery building project
• Discussed bike path extension; vote on letter of support deferred to next meeting

Easthampton City Arts Public Art Subcommittee

The subcommittee will review and decide on two revised sculpture proposals for the Ferry Street Gateway to the Mills project. The meeting also includes a discussion regarding a Tiger sculpture by Brace Thompson.

• Decision on two revised sculpture proposals for Ferry Street Gateway to the Mills
• Discussion of Tiger sculpture by Brace Thompson
• Approval of September 15th meeting minutes

The Public Art Subcommittee selected a winning proposal for the Ferry Street Gateway to the Mills sculpture, contingent on two revisions: clarifying the sculpture's orientation and resolving an unclear narrative. Pasqualina will relay these issues to the finalist. The committee also approved the September 15 meeting minutes, with JP and Jamie abstaining.

• Selected winning sculpture proposal for Ferry Street Gateway, conditional on two revisions (orientation clarity and narrative fix)
• Approved September 15 meeting minutes (Bob motioned, Tracey seconded; JP and Jamie abstained)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will consider a minor change request for INSA, Inc. at 122 Pleasant Street. Two public hearings are scheduled regarding permit requests from Eric Berzins for properties on Fort Hill Road. These include requests for parking, storage, and recreational uses, as well as an expansion of operations at Fort Hill Brewery.

• Minor change request for INSA, Inc. at 122 Pleasant Street
• Special permit request for parking, storage, and recreational uses on Fort Hill Road (Map 131, Lot 23)
• Amendment to expand operations at Fort Hill Brewery at 30 Fort Hill Road (Map 131, Lot 23.1)

The Easthampton Planning Board voted 5-0 to continue two special permit hearings for Fort Hill Brewery to December 7, 2021, after discussing noise, stormwater, and traffic concerns. The board also unanimously approved a minor change request from Insa, Inc. at 122 Pleasant Street, finding the interior alterations did not require reopening the public hearing.

• Approved Insa, Inc. minor change request at 122 Pleasant Street (5-0)
• Continued Fort Hill Brewery special permit hearings to December 7, 2021 (5-0)

Development & Industrial Commission

The commission will discuss social media presence and downtown transit options. Members will also continue discussions regarding the vacant storefront ordinance process. Planning Department updates on wayfinding and LRRP are also scheduled.

• Discussion of social media presence and downtown transit
• Discussion of vacant storefront ordinance language and process
• Planning Department updates on wayfinding and LRRP
• Approval of August 17 meeting minutes

The Easthampton Economic Development & Industrial Commission met via video conference and approved the minutes from the August 17 meeting. No public comment was heard. The commission received updates on wayfinding, the Local Rapid Recovery Plan (LRRP), and a recent Smart Growth Overlay district proposal, and discussed celebrating 2021 wins and ideas for 2022. No substantive decisions were made beyond approving the prior minutes.

• Approved August 17 minutes (unanimous)

City Council - Public Safety Committee

The committee will review a PVPC report regarding the safety of the sidewalk at the intersection of South Street and Main Street. The agenda also includes approval of minutes not previously approved.

• Review of PVPC report re: safety of sidewalk on South Street at Main Street intersection
• Approval of minutes not previously approved

The Public Safety Committee approved the September 14, 2021 minutes and discussed ongoing pedestrian safety improvements at the Main and South Street intersection. City planner Jeff Bagg reported that sidewalk work is expected to be completed by spring 2022. The committee decided to keep this item on the agenda until the work is finished.

• Approved September 14, 2021 minutes (2-0)
• Kept Main and South St. intersection on agenda until work completed

City Council - Property Committee

The City Council Property Committee will discuss an easement request for utility conduits to service a cellular and communications tower on city-owned property at 32 Payson Avenue. The committee will also approve minutes from the previous meeting.

• Easement request for utility conduits at 32 Payson Avenue
• Approval of minutes from the previous meeting

The Property Committee voted 3-0 to recommend approval of an easement request for utility conduits to service a cellular and communications tower on city-owned property at 32 Payson Avenue. The recommendation is pending any adverse input from the Chief of Police, Fire Chief, and City Engineer. The committee also approved the minutes from August 23, 2021, and adjourned.

• Recommended approval of utility easement for cell tower at 32 Payson Ave (3-0)
• Approved minutes from August 23, 2021 (3-0)

Ranked Choice Voting Ad Hoc Committee

The committee will discuss editing RCV flyers and educational materials. The meeting also includes discussions regarding the committee secretary position and rotation.

• Editing of RCV flyers and educational materials
• Committee secretary position or rotation
• Approval of minutes

The Ranked Choice Voting Ad-Hoc Committee met to address problems with the informational mailer, including wording that prompted calls to the Clerk's office and missing mailers at 15 Liberty St. They discussed a revised poster for polling places and decided current outreach was sufficient, with no additional Zoom seminar planned. The next meeting on November 9 is expected to be the final one.

• Discussed mailer wording issues causing ballot sign-up calls; Clerk's office already mailing ballots
• Coordinated delivery of missing mailers at 15 Liberty St; Dan to follow up with USPS
• Discussed revised informational poster for voting booths, with reminder that RCV is for mayoral race only
• Decided current outreach sufficient; no Zoom seminar scheduled
• Set next meeting for November 9, likely final

City Council - Rules & Government Relations Committee

The City Council Rules & Government Relations Committee will meet remotely to discuss precinct redistricting following the 2020 Federal Census. The agenda also includes reviewing unapproved minutes and addressing public speaking time.

• Precinct redistricting based on 2020 Federal Census numbers
• Approval of minutes not previously approved
• Public speak time

Nashawannuck Pond Committee

The Nashawannuck Pond Committee is scheduled to conduct a workshop regarding WinterFest. No other topics are listed on the agenda.

• WinterFest Workshop

The committee decided to replace the vendor fair with a Winterfest Gala, managed by Kisha with Keystone, and to continue online events as in the previous year. They also assigned tasks for sponsorship mailings, a newsletter, and an ice carver for an ice bar. No formal votes were recorded; all decisions were made by consensus.

• No vendor fair for Winterfest
• Hold a Winterfest Gala, managed by Kisha with Keystone
• Amy to look for bands for the gala
• Beth to arrange an ice carver for an ice bar
• Liz Provo to make a newsletter
• Continue online events as in the previous year
• Beth to email Bri about Covid concerns

City Council - Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will review quarterly fiscal reports and Covid-19 grant spending. The committee is also considering several supplemental appropriations and budget transfers.

• $298,872.00 appropriation from Cannabis Stabilization for a new ambulance
• $97,000.00 transfer from Cannabis Stabilization to City Planner’s budget
• $6,000.00 supplement to the Building Dept. budget
• Assessors' request regarding annual tax classification hearing

The Finance Committee approved a supplemental appropriation of $298,872 from Cannabis Stabilization funds for a new ambulance, part of a two-ambulance purchase to get a discount. They also approved $97,000 for the City Planner's budget and a $6,000 interdepartmental transfer to the Building Department. All motions passed 3-0.

• Approved $298,872 from Cannabis Stabilization for a new ambulance (3-0)
• Approved $97,000 from Cannabis Stabilization to City Planner's budget (3-0)
• Approved $6,000 transfer to Building Department budget (3-0)

Historical Commission

The Historical Commission will discuss revisions to the Demo Delay Bylaw and review several grant updates. The agenda also includes a review of Birch Family Farm on Fort Hill Road and Section 106 reviews for properties on Chapin, Phelps, and Torrey Streets.

• Review of Birch Family Farm – Fort Hill Road
• Revision of the Demo Delay Bylaw/Ordinance
• Massachusetts Historical Commission FY 2022 Survey and Planning Grant
• Section 106 Review: 21 Chapin St, 21 Phelps St, and 78 Torrey St
• New Haven - Northampton Canal DLTA Grant update

The Easthampton Historical Commission met remotely and unanimously approved the minutes from June 9 and August 11, 2021. They concurred with the Pioneer Valley Planning Commission that certain properties are not historically significant, reviewed updates on the Main Street Extension Area Inventory and the New Haven-Northampton Canal DLTA grant, and discussed ongoing revisions to the Demo Delay Bylaw. No final decisions were made on substantive items beyond the minutes approval.

• Approved minutes of 6/9/2021 and 8/11/2021 (unanimous roll call)
• Concurred with PVPC that properties are not historically significant and renovations do not jeopardize National Register sites

Elementary School Re-Use Committee

The committee will review reuse criteria based on the Downtown Plan, including weighting and priorities. Members will also discuss RFP creation and review the One Stop for Growth grant.

• Review of reuse criteria and priorities
• Discussion of RFP creation process
• Review of One Stop for Growth grant
• Review of Valley CDC technical assistance

The Easthampton Elementary School Re-Use Committee met to discuss and rank reuse criteria for the former Center, Pepin, and Maple schools, based on the Downtown Strategic Plan. No formal decisions were made; the group is still in the discussion phase and will continue refining priorities. They also noted they are awaiting responses on a One Stop for Growth grant and Valley CDC technical assistance.

• No formal votes or decisions taken; discussion only
• Agreed to continue meeting on second Wednesdays (tentative Nov 10, 2021)

Cultural District Subcommittee

The Cultural District Committee will discuss updates regarding the Cottage Street Cultural District. The meeting also includes approval of minutes and a period for public speech.

• Cultural District Updates regarding Cottage Street

The subcommittee discussed plans for the Cultural Chaos event, agreeing to plan for it to happen while making a final decision after the holidays. They also reviewed the Spot Lot series, noting lessons learned for future scheduling. No formal votes were taken.

• Agreed to plan for Cultural Chaos and decide after holidays
• Reviewed Spot Lot series, will reserve Saturdays in advance next year
• Discussed extending Spot Lot hours and adding concert for Cultural Chaos

School Committee

The committee will review updates regarding substitute teacher and nurse compensation, as well as face coverings. Members will also vote on several payrolls, accounts payable, and a budget transfer request. Additionally, the Superintendent will provide updates on the Mountain View Building and school start time surveys.

• Approval of school payroll and accounts payable totaling over $1.4 million
• Budget transfer request of $58,098 from Salaries-Maple to Medical Therapeutic-Maple
• First reading of updates on substitute teacher and nurse compensation
• Update on the Mountain View Building and school start time survey
• Legal invoices from Bacon Wilson, P.C. totaling $660.00

The Easthampton School Committee approved first readings of four policy updates, including substitute teacher and nurse compensation, face coverings, and community use of facilities. The committee also approved payroll and accounts payable totaling over $1.5 million, a budget transfer, and a grade 5 school choice opening. Superintendent evaluation and goals will now be submitted on an every-other-year cycle.

• Approved first reading of GCBC-1 Substitute Teacher Compensation Update (7-0)
• Approved first reading of GCBC-2 Substitute Nurse Compensation Update (7-0)
• Approved first reading of EBCFA Face Coverings Update (7-0)
• Approved first reading of KG-E Community Use of Facilities Update (7-0)
• Approved school payroll 9/23/2021 for $547,218.66 (7-0)
• Approved school payroll 10/7/2021 for $554,609.63 (7-0)
• Approved accounts payable 9/23/2021 for $252,817.76 and 10/7/2021 for $170,742.70 (7-0)
• Approved budget transfer of $58,098 from salaries to medical therapeutic (7-0)

City Council - Ordinance Committee

The City Council Ordinance Committee is meeting to discuss several ordinance amendments. Topics include a vacant storefront ordinance with EDIC and updates to the city holiday ordinance for Juneteenth.

• Discussion with EDIC about vacant storefront ordinance
• Juneteenth resolution & related amendments to city 'holiday' ordinance
• Amendments to city ordinances under 6-21 - Prohibition of single use plastics
• Zoning amendment discussion regarding affordable housing in Smart Growth District & Planned Res. Developments

The Ordinance Committee approved minutes from prior meetings and recommended single-use plastics language, including straw rules, variance language, and compliance time, in a 3-0 vote. Discussions on EDIC, 40R overlay, and a parcel rezoning request were ongoing, with no final decisions made on those items.

• Approved minutes from 6/29/2021 and 9/9/2021 (3-0)
• Recommended single-use plastics language, including straw rules, variance, and compliance time (3-0)

Community Relations Committee

The Community Relations Committee will review action points from recent strategic planning sessions. This includes reports on city website tutorials, an outreach list of organizations, and communications regarding committee funding.

• Report on the Undoing Racism series held October 1–3, 2021
• Discussion of city website tutorials and introductory videos for committee members
• Review of a compiled list of community groups and agencies for outreach
• Report regarding communication with the Mayor about access to committee funding
• Status update from the Forum Subcommittee on their planning

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will review and sign motor vehicle abatement applications and motor vehicle recommitments. The meeting also includes reviewing real estate exemptions denials and approving minutes.

• Motor Vehicle Abatement Applications
• Motor Vehicle Recommitments
• Real Estate Exemptions Denials

The Board of Assessors approved all motor vehicle abatements, motor vehicle recommitments, and real estate exemption denials as presented. The board also discussed the FY2022 tax rate hearing. The meeting was adjourned after the motions passed.

• Approved MV abatements totaling $1,072.12 (3-0)
• Approved MV recommitment of $37.50 (3-0)
• Approved 3 real estate exemption denials (3-0)
• Discussed FY2022 tax rate hearing

Easthampton Community Garden

The Community Garden Committee will review treasurer's reports and purchase orders. The agenda also includes updates on operations, outreach, and the Donation Garden.

• Treasurer’s report and endorsement of purchase order(s)
• Operations report
• Outreach report
• Donation Garden report
• Gardener feedback

The committee discussed raising the garden fee to $40 for the next season, but no decision was made. They also discussed creating a seed garden and soil testing, both as possible future projects. The minutes were adopted unanimously, and the treasurer's report was endorsed.

• Adopted the minutes of the previous meeting unanimously.
• Endorsed the treasurer's report and purchase orders.
• Discussed raising the garden fee to $40 for the next season (no decision).
• Discussed creating a seed garden, possibly with Williston library (no decision).
• Discussed possible soil testing through UMass lab (no decision).

City Council - Rules & Government Relations Committee

The committee will discuss precinct redistricting following the 2020 Federal Census. Agenda items also include a proposed amendment for remote participation and a resolution regarding therapeutic psychedelic plants.

• Precinct redistricting based on 2020 Federal Census numbers
• Proposed addition of Rule 20 - Remote Participation
• Resolution re: De-criminalization of therapeutic psychedelic plants

The Rules and Government Relations Committee reviewed proposed precinct boundary changes based on the 2020 Census, with City Clerk Barbara LaBombard presenting the state's initial map. The committee discussed adjustments, including using natural boundaries like the Manhan River and moving certain streets, but did not vote on a recommendation. They will hold another meeting to clarify with the state what changes are possible before making a recommendation to the full council.

• Approved minutes from September 20, 2021 (2-0, Rist abstained)
• Discussed precinct redistricting based on 2020 Census; no vote taken
• Tabled recommendation on redistricting pending state clarification

Licensing Board

The board will hold public hearings regarding new business licenses and manager changes. The meeting also includes discussions on 2023 fee increases and live entertainment policies.

• New license application for Marigold Theater at 84 Cottage Street
• Change of Manager application for Pulaski Club
• Proposed increase in LLA Fees for 2023
• New live entertainment policies and procedures
• Approval of August and September 2021 minutes

The Easthampton Licensing Board approved a change of manager for Pulaski Club, nominating Richard Johnson, and approved a new license for Marigold Theater at 84 Cottage Street, with Glenn Alper as manager. The board continued discussions on new live entertainment application policies and a proposed fee increase for 2023 to the November and March 2022 meetings, respectively. It also approved two hours of pay for after-hours inspections by the clerk.

• Approved change of manager for Pulaski Club, nominating Richard Johnson.
• Approved new license for Marigold Theater at 84 Cottage Street, with Glenn Alper as manager.
• Continued discussion on new live entertainment application policies to November meeting.
• Continued discussion on increasing LLA fees for 2023 to March 2022 meeting.
• Approved 2 hours pay for clerk after-hours inspections.

City Council

The City Council will review supplemental appropriations from Cannabis Stabilization funds for a new ambulance and fire department equipment. The agenda also includes a public hearing on the Mayor’s Pledge to Reimagine Policing and various ordinance amendments.

• $298,872 appropriation from Cannabis Stabilization for a new ambulance
• $4,900 for Fire Department hose and nozzle replacement
• $49,586.95 transfer to the PEG Access Receipts Reserved Account
• Public hearing on the Mayor’s Pledge to Reimagine Policing
• $97,000 appropriation from Cannabis Stabilization to the City Planner's budget

The Easthampton City Council unanimously approved two supplemental appropriations from the Cannabis Stabilization Fund: $4,900 for a required match for a $19,000 AFG grant to replace outdated fire hoses and nozzles, and $13,095.24 as the city's match for a $261,904 federal grant to purchase a new ambulance. The council also approved a $49,586.95 transfer to the PEG Access Account for cable-related purposes, and approved a change of scope for FY'17 CPA funds to redesign the Old Town Hall first floor. The public hearing on the Mayor's Pledge to Reimagine Policing report was continued to October 20th.

• Appropriated $4,900 from Cannabis Stabilization for AFG grant match for fire hose replacement (unanimous)
• Appropriated $13,095.24 from Cannabis Stabilization for FEMA AFG match for new ambulance (unanimous)
• Transferred $49,586.95 to PEG Access Account for cable-related purposes (unanimous)
• Approved modification of FY'17 CPA scope for Old Town Hall first floor redesign (unanimous)
• Continued public hearing on Mayor's Pledge report to October 20th (unanimous)
• Scheduled public hearings for Oct 20 and Nov 3 on ambulance purchase, planner budget, building dept budget (unanimous)
• Referred Ordinance Review Committee report to Ordinance and Public Safety Committees (unanimous)
• Approved warrant for November 2, 2021 Biennial City Election (unanimous)

Board of Public Works

The Board of Public Works will continue discussions regarding design options for the Parson and Ferry Street intersection. The agenda also includes a review of a letter regarding a lien at 7 Wendell Ave and approval of the September 15, 2021 meeting minutes.

• Parson/Ferry Street intersection design options discussion
• Letter regarding lien at 7 Wendell Ave
• Approval of September 15, 2021 meeting minutes

The Board of Public Works voted to recommend exploring option 1 for the Parsons/Ferry Street intersection redesign, which shifts the centerline 42 feet east and costs $465,000-$575,000. They also denied a lien abatement for 7 Wendell Ave, with one member recused. The September 15 meeting minutes were tabled until the next meeting.

• Recommended exploring option 1 for Parsons/Ferry intersection (3-0)
• Denied lien abatement for 7 Wendell Ave (2-0, one recused)
• Tabled approval of September 15, 2021 minutes

Board of Health

The Board of Health will consider requests to allow mask removal during yoga practice. The meeting also includes discussions on single-use plastic ordinance variances and health department staffing updates.

• Request to amend COVID-19 masking order for yoga practice
• Discussion of variance language for single-use plastic bag and container ordinance
• Request for 40 Church St. to use an R.V. as a temporary residence after a fire
• Requests from Easthampton Congregational Church and Tavern on the Hill to use 2-bay sinks
• Update on Public Health Nurse position pay re-classification

The Board of Health approved a request to occupy an RV as a temporary residence at 40 Church St while the home is rebuilt after a fire, pending approval from all necessary departments, for no longer than 9 months. They also approved the use of a two-bay sink at Easthampton Congregational Church with conditions, and approved variance language for the city's single-use plastic bag ordinance. A request to amend the mask mandate for yoga was discussed but not voted on, as the requester left before the item was considered.

• Approved RV temporary residence at 40 Church St for up to 9 months, pending department approvals (3-0)
• Approved two-bay sink use at Easthampton Congregational Church with dishwasher servicing and approved plan (3-0)
• Approved variance language for single-use plastic bag ordinance (3-0)
• Approved September 8, 2021 meeting minutes (3-0)

Commission on Disability

The Commission on Disability will receive an update from the survey subcommittee regarding results and action plans. The meeting also includes discussion of ideas for one, three, and five-year plans. Mayor LaChapelle is scheduled to be introduced.

• Survey subcommittee update
• Review of survey plan of actions with results
• Discussion of 1, 3, and 5 year plan ideas
• Introduction of Mayor LaChapelle

School Committee - Policy Subcommittee

The subcommittee is reviewing updates to several school policies. This includes adjusting compensation amounts for substitute teachers and nurses, as well as updating face covering protocols and facility use fees.

• Update to substitute teacher compensation amounts
• Update to substitute nurse (RN/LPN) compensation amounts
• Review of face covering policy per MASC guidance
• Update to community use of facilities custodial fees

Easthampton City Arts Coordinating Committee

The committee will review September meeting minutes and receive reports on various arts programs. Discussions include the Spot Lot Concert Series, Public Art, and the Artist Studio Residency Program. The committee will also continue discussions regarding the Friends of ECA non-profit.

• Approval of September meeting minutes
• Public Art programming updates
• Spot Lot Concert Series reports
• Artist Studio Residency Program updates
• Discussion regarding Friends of ECA non-profit

Ranked Choice Voting Ad Hoc Committee

The committee is meeting to discuss ranked choice voting (RCV) flyers and educational materials. The agenda also includes the final approval of an RCV mailer and a discussion on the review process for write-in candidates.

• Final approval of RCV mailer
• Discussion/editing of RCV flyers and educational materials
• Review process for write-in candidates
• Committee secretary position or rotation

The Ranked Choice Voting Ad Hoc Committee reviewed and finalized a draft mailer, deciding to remove one bullet, keep the flow chart as is, and add a Spanish translation to another bullet. The mailer will be sent to 9,600 households between Oct. 6 and 8, with printing and postage costs totaling approximately $3,418. The committee also discussed write-in vote counting procedures and noted upcoming RCV seminars hosted by the Council on Aging on Oct. 21 and 26.

• Removed second bullet on page 2 of draft mailer
• Kept flow chart in mailer as is
• Added Spanish translation to 4th bullet on page 2
• Scheduled mailer distribution between Oct. 6 and 8

Affordable & Fair Housing Partnership

The Easthampton Affordable & Fair Housing Partnership will hold a discussion regarding technical support for the Housing Trust initiative. The meeting also includes a presentation by Donna Cabana of Valley Community Development Corporation.

• Approval of July meeting minutes
• Presentation by Donna Cabana, Valley Community Development Corporation
• Discussion on technical support for the Housing Trust initiative
• Review of recruitment ideas from Mill Pond Live event
• Advocacy updates

The Easthampton Affordable & Fair Housing Partnership approved a letter of support for a tenant, homeowner, and homebuyer literacy program run by Valley Community Development, and voted to support an application for the 18-month CHAPA Municipal Engagement Initiative. Both motions passed unanimously. The meeting also included discussion of recruitment for other committees and set the next meeting for October 28, 2021.

• Approved July meeting notes unanimously
• Approved letter of support for CPA Committee for housing literacy program (unanimous)
• Approved support for CHAPA MEI program application (unanimous)

Ordinance Review Committee

The Ordinance Review Ad-Hoc Committee is meeting to conduct business regarding its final report. The agenda also includes the approval of minutes.

• Review of final report
• Approval of minutes

Nashawannuck Pond Committee

The Nashawannuck Pond Committee will discuss updates regarding the Gabion Weir and Siltation Basin. The meeting also includes discussions on cyanobacteria and water quality monitoring.

• Gabion Weir and Siltation Basin updates
• Cyanobacteria/water quality monitoring
• 501C3 status

The Nashawannuck Pond Committee approved the September 1 meeting minutes and discussed ongoing projects, including herbicide treatment, silt basin inspections, and cyanobacteria management. The committee also began planning Winterfest activities, including a possible film festival and ice harvest, and set a sub-committee to organize volunteers.

• Approved September 1 meeting minutes (motion by MaryLou, seconded by Elaine)
• Confirmed herbicide treatment completed on 7/14/2021 by Solitude; awaiting invoice
• Noted silt basin final inspections went well; contractor present for questions
• Agreed to set up a tent at Farmer's Market on 10/3/2021
• Decided to use Google Docs for Winterfest advertising, per Liz
• Agreed to pursue Ice Harvest with Picard (Beth to follow up)
• Decided not to adjust Face in the Hole or seek volunteers for it
• Planned to edit sponsorship list with Amy for early October send-out

City Council - Finance Committee

The committee will review interdepartmental transfers and supplemental appropriations using Cannabis Stabilization funds. The agenda also includes requests to amend the Classification & Pay Plan and a CPA project at the old Town Hall.

• $49,586.95 transfer to PEG Access Receipts Reserved Account
• $4,900.00 appropriation for Fire Dept. equipment grant match
• $13,095.24 appropriation for new ambulance purchase grant match
• Addition of Community Social Worker and IT Director positions to Chapter 7
• Pay grade change for Public Health Nurse from E to F

The Finance Committee approved several financial items, including transfers and supplemental appropriations for fire and ambulance equipment, a CPA project scope amendment, and new city positions. All votes were unanimous (2-0). The committee also approved minutes from previous meetings.

• Approved $49,586.95 transfer to PEG Access Receipts Reserved Account (2-0)
• Approved $4,900 from Cannabis Stabilization for fire hose/nozzle grant match (2-0)
• Approved $13,095.24 from Cannabis Stabilization for ambulance grant match (2-0)
• Approved amendment to CPA project scope at Old Town Hall (2-0)
• Approved adding Community Social Worker position at grade F (2-0)
• Approved adding Information Technology Director position at grade H (2-0)
• Approved changing Public Health Nurse pay grade from E to F (2-0)
• Approved minutes from 7/14/21, 8/17/21, and 9/14/21 (2-0)

Easthampton Cultural Council

The Easthampton Cultural Council will meet via Zoom to discuss general council business. The agenda includes topics such as grantee contact and council programming, but does not list specific projects or funding amounts.

• Review of grantee/liaison contact
• Discussion of council program
• Discussion regarding new members

The council discussed reallocating funds from a grantee who declined their activity to the 2022 cycle, with an expected budget increase from $13,000 to $16,000. They also reviewed the current grant cycle, which is open until October 15, and encouraged outreach to community partners. No formal votes were taken; the meeting was primarily informational and planning-focused.

• Reallocated funds from declined grantee (Helena) to 2022 cycle
• Noted expected 2022 budget of $16,000 from reallocated grants
• Set grant application deadline for October 15 (midnight)
• Discussed potential 2022 mural and concert programs with River Valley Coop

School Building Committee

The committee will approve the minutes from August 31, 2021. Members are scheduled to receive reports from the OPM and the Design Team. Discussion is also planned regarding sidewalks and brick delays related to COVID.

• Approval of August 31, 2021, minutes
• OPM Report
• Design Team Report
• Discussion on sidewalks
• Discussion on brick Covid delay

City Council - Ordinance Committee

The City Council Ordinance Committee is meeting to discuss several continuing items. This includes a discussion with EDIC regarding a vacant storefront ordinance and amendments to the single-use plastics prohibition. The committee will also review zoning amendments for affordable housing.

• Discussion with EDIC about vacant storefront ordinance
• Juneteenth resolution and holiday ordinance amendments
• Amendments to single-use plastics prohibition ordinance
• Zoning amendment discussion regarding affordable housing

The Ordinance Committee met remotely and discussed several items but took no formal votes. They discussed vacant storefront ordinance language from the EDIC, ongoing deliberations on single-use plastics, and a proposed 40R overlay district. The meeting adjourned with a unanimous motion.

• Minutes from 9/9 and 6/29 discussed but not voted on
• Vacant storefront ordinance kept on agenda for further discussion
• Single-use plastics deliberation continued without action
• 40R overlay district discussed; no vote taken
• Motion to adjourn approved (3-0)

Contributory Retirement Board

The Easthampton Retirement Board will meet to approve August minutes and new member enrollments. The agenda also includes reviewing retirement intents and discussing audit updates.

• Approval of retirements for Susan Ryan and Christine Laliberte
• Review of new member enrollments from School and Highway departments
• Discussion of PERAC (2015-2018) and Scanlon & Associates (2020) audits
• Approval of Warrant #9

The Easthampton Retirement Board unanimously approved Donald Emerson as acting chair following the passing of Jim Dunham, and approved an election notice with changed term dates. The board also approved registration for the MACRS virtual conference, new members, transfers, the August trial balance, and Warrant #9 for $474,068.88. The meeting adjourned into executive session to discuss personnel matters.

• Approved minutes from August 24, 2021 (unanimous)
• Approved Donald Emerson as acting chair (unanimous)
• Approved election notice and term change (unanimous)
• Approved MACRS virtual conference registration (unanimous)
• Approved transfers for Bolat White and Esmalee Donahue (unanimous)
• Approved 9 new members (unanimous)
• Approved August trial balance (unanimous)
• Approved Warrant #9 for $474,068.88 (unanimous)

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will meet via Zoom to review motor vehicle abatement applications and commitments. The board will also approve previous meeting minutes.

• Review and sign motor vehicle abatement applications
• Review and sign motor vehicle commitments
• Approval of minutes

The Board of Assessors met via Zoom and approved the minutes from the September 14, 2021 meeting. The board also reviewed and approved motor vehicle abatements totaling $2,235.99 and a motor vehicle commitment of $61,692.81 for 2021-4. The meeting adjourned at 5:07 pm.

• Approved minutes of 9.14.21 (2-0)
• Approved MV abatements 2021 $2,235.99 (2-0)
• Approved MV commitment 2021-4 $61,692.81 (2-0)

Conservation Commission

The Easthampton Conservation Commission will hold a public hearing regarding trail improvements at Lathrop Community, Inc. The meeting also includes a request for determination of applicability for two sheds at 127 Combs Road and reviews of various infrastructure compliance updates.

• Public hearing: Trail network improvements at 100 Bassett Brook Drive
• Public meeting: Installation of two sheds at 127 Combs Road
• Certificate of Compliance: Maintenance dredging for White Brook and Broad Brook
• Enforcement actions regarding CFN Properties LLC and Autumn Properties LLC
• Compliance updates for infrastructure improvements at Pleasant Street Mills

The Easthampton Conservation Commission voted to issue a 3-year extension to the Order of Conditions for the Easthampton Park Solar 1, LLC solar project at 232 Park Street, allowing time for the wetland replication area to meet reporting requirements. The Commission also issued a Negative Determination Type 3 for two sheds at Arcadia Wildlife Sanctuary, a Complete Certificate of Compliance for the White Brook and Broad Brook dredging project, and lifted an enforcement order for Autumn Properties LLC. Several other items were continued or reported with no action.

• Approved 3-year extension for Easthampton Park Solar 1, LLC (Commissioner Whittemore recused)
• Issued Negative Determination Type 3 for two sheds at Arcadia Wildlife Sanctuary (unanimous)
• Issued Complete Certificate of Compliance for White Brook and Broad Brook dredging (unanimous)
• Lifted Enforcement Order for Autumn Properties LLC at 161-165 Northampton Street (unanimous)
• Continued Lathrop Community hearing to October 25, 2021 (unanimous)
• Approved September 13, 2021 meeting minutes (Buttrick abstained)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals is meeting to review minutes from July 28, 2021. The board will also hold a discussion regarding the procedure for public hearings. No specific public hearings are listed on this agenda.

• Approval of July 28, 2021 minutes
• Discussion of Public Hearing procedure

The Zoning Board of Appeals appointed Lindsie Alterkun as vice-chair by a 5-0 vote after the resignation of Linda Bush. The board discussed proposed amendments to its Rules and Regulations, including peer review standards and meeting conduct, but took no formal action. The meeting adjourned at 7:11pm.

• Appointed Lindsie Alterkun as vice-chair (5-0)
• Discussed amended Rules and Regulations, no vote taken
• Adjourned meeting at 7:11pm (5-0)

City Council

The City Council will consider supplemental appropriations for the Main Street Paving & Drainage Project and the acquisition of 5.5 acres on Reservation Road. The agenda also includes discussions regarding city ordinance amendments for single-use plastics and affordable housing. Additionally, committee reports on public safety and finance are scheduled for review.

• $230,000 from Cannabis Stabilization for Main Street Paving & Drainage Project
• $245,412 and $121,588 appropriations for 5.5 acres on Reservation Road
• Ordinance amendments regarding single-use plastics and affordable housing
• $13,095.24 supplemental appropriation for an ambulance grant match
• Discussion of a vacant storefront ordinance

The City Council unanimously approved a series of motions to acquire five parcels (5.5 acres) along Reservation Road on Mt. Tom for open space protection, using a $245,412 state LAND grant and $121,588 in CPA funds. The council also approved a $230,000 supplemental appropriation for the Main Street paving project, a $1.00 library budget correction, and a Climate Emergency Resolution. All votes were unanimous except one abstention on a conflict of interest disclosure.

• Approved $245,412 appropriation from General Stabilization for Reservation Road land acquisition (unanimous)
• Approved $121,588 CPA appropriation for Reservation Road land acquisition (unanimous)
• Approved resolution to accept LAND grant and authorize Mayor to purchase Reservation Road property (unanimous)
• Authorized Mayor to enter option to purchase Reservation Road parcels (unanimous)
• Approved $230,000 supplemental appropriation for Main Street paving project from Cannabis Stabilization (unanimous)
• Approved $1.00 transfer to correct library budget rounding error (unanimous)
• Approved Climate Emergency Resolution (unanimous)
• Approved conflict of interest disclosure for CPA member Jessica Allan (8-0-1, Flood abstained)

Parks & Recreation Commission

The Easthampton Parks and Recreation Commission will meet to discuss 2021 park rentals, fall event programming, and the FY2022 budget. The agenda also includes a review of Millside Park capacity and various park facilities.

• FY2022 Budget
• Millside Park Capacity Review
• 2021 Park Rentals
• Park Facilities including Wetlands, Bike Path, and Public Art

The Easthampton Parks and Recreation Commission met via Zoom and discussed several topics but took no formal votes on substantive matters. They reviewed 2021 park rental cancellations due to COVID-19, noting a 100% refund policy and new mask orders. They also discussed Millside Park events, fall programming, FY2022 budget plans, and park facility improvements. The only formal action was approving the meeting adjournment.

• Approved meeting adjournment (unanimous)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will review minutes from meetings held on June 29, July 20, and July 27, 2021. While a public hearing is scheduled, the agenda does not list specific topics for discussion.

• Approval of meeting minutes from June 29, July 20, and July 27, 2021

The Easthampton Planning Board met on September 21, 2021, and approved minutes from three prior meetings. No public hearings or substantive decisions were held; the meeting was largely procedural.

• Approved June 29, 2021 minutes (5-0)
• Approved July 20, 2021 minutes (4-0, Hartman abstaining)
• Approved July 27, 2021 minutes (4-0, Belcher-Timme abstaining)

School Committee

The Easthampton School Committee will meet to approve school payrolls and accounts payable for late August and early September 2021. The agenda also includes updates on enrollment numbers, school start times, and COVID advisory information.

• Approval of school payroll for 8/26/2021 ($386,836.67) and 9/9/2021 ($555,007.02)
• Approval of accounts payable for 8/26/2021 ($184,936.40) and 9/9/2021 ($229,801.95)
• Budget transfer requests of $9,650.00
• Update on preliminary September enrollment numbers
• Update on school start times

The Easthampton School Committee met via Zoom on September 21, 2021, and approved several financial items, including two payroll warrants, two accounts payable authorizations, and two budget transfers. The committee also discussed COVID-19 safety protocols, reviewed the superintendent's evaluation, and received updates on enrollment and school projects. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved gifts from April Judd (ESP Auto) and Robin Bislecki (Easthampton Community Center) for school supplies and equipment.
• Approved School Payroll dated 8/26/2021 in the amount of $386,836.67.
• Approved School Payroll dated 9/9/2021 in the amount of $555,007.03.
• Approved accounts payable authorization for payment dated 8/26/2021 in the amount of $184,036.40.
• Approved accounts payable authorization for payment dated 9/9/2021 in the amount of $229,801.94.
• Approved budget transfer of $9,650.00 from Instructional Technology Supplies to Admin Tech Other.
• Approved budget transfer of $9,650.00 from Instructional Tech. Hardware - EOS to Admin Tech Other.
• Adjourned the meeting at 7:47 pm.

Development & Industrial Commission

The Easthampton Development & Industrial Commission will review Planning Department updates regarding wayfinding and LRRP. The meeting also includes discussions on social media presence, downtown transit options, and vacant storefront ordinance language.

• Planning Department updates on Wayfinding and LRRP
• Discussion of social media content ideas and downtown transit
• Review of vacant storefront ordinance language and process

Community Relations Committee

The committee will hold a strategic planning session with Darryck Dean from the Department of Justice. The meeting also includes an update on the 'Notify Me' city website and discussion regarding outreach and listening efforts.

• Strategic planning session with Darryck Dean (Dept. of Justice)
• Update on 'Notify Me' city website conversation with Lindsi Mailler
• Discussion on conducting outreach and listening during current planning

The Community Relations Committee approved minutes from two prior meetings and held a strategic planning session with a Department of Justice facilitator. The committee agreed on action steps including creating website tutorials and committee introduction videos, compiling a list of community organizations for outreach, and having a member ask the Mayor about the committee's budget. No formal policy decisions were made; the meeting focused on planning and internal operations.

• Approved August 3, 2021 minutes (6-0)
• Approved August 24, 2021 work session minutes (4-0, 2 abstaining)
• Agreed Myra and Emily will contact Lindsi Mailler about website tutorials and committee intro videos
• Agreed to compile a list of community organizations for outreach
• Agreed Patty will email the Mayor about the committee's budget and funding process
• Agreed the Forum Subcommittee will reconvene to identify facilitators
• Set next meeting for Tuesday, October 12 at 6:00 p.m.
• Adjourned (7-0)

Energy Advisory Committee

The Energy Advisory Committee will discuss updates regarding the Honeywell RFP and the Solar Ordinance Working Group. The committee will also review the process for municipal aggregation, including its impact on the Municipal Light Plant and an agreement with South Hadley. Additionally, a Green Community Grant proposal will be presented.

• Honeywell RFP updates and discussion
• Municipal Aggregation process and next steps
• Impact of Municipal Light Plant and agreement with South Hadley
• Green Community Grant Proposal
• Solar Ordinance Working Group updates

The Energy Advisory Committee elected Jamie Paquette as chair pro tem due to the chair's extended absence. The committee approved a letter of support for a Green Communities grant to purchase two Tesla police vehicles, with the balance funded by the Cannabis fund. The Honeywell energy project is awaiting updated documents, and the committee discussed municipal aggregation with Good Energy, with next steps including a possible presentation to the City Council.

• Elected Jamie Paquette as chair pro tem (unanimous)
• Approved letter of support for Green Communities grant for two Tesla police vehicles (unanimous)
• Discussed municipal aggregation with Good Energy; no formal action taken
• Noted Honeywell project awaiting updated document from company

Community Preservation Act Committee

The committee will review account balances and updates on open projects. Discussion items include the Emily Williston Library ventilation project final report and a historic preservation deed restriction. The committee will also address a financial interest disclosure for Jessica Allan.

• Emily Williston Library ventilation project final report
• Emily Williston Library historic preservation deed restriction
• Financial interest disclosure for Jessica Allan
• Approval of minutes from April, June, and August 2021

The Easthampton Community Preservation Act Committee approved minutes from 8/19/2021 and voted to support Jessica Allan's financial interest disclosure and exemption request, allowing her to continue serving while recusing from Valley CDC matters. The committee continued discussion on the Emily Williston Library historic preservation deed restriction, deferring action to the October meeting. No other substantive decisions were made; the Reservation Road appropriation was noted as pending City Council vote.

• Approved minutes of 8/19/2021 (5-0, 4 absent)
• Approved motion of support for Jessica Allan's financial interest disclosure and exemption request (4-0, 1 abstention, 4 absent)
• Continued Emily Williston Library historic preservation deed restriction discussion to 10/21 meeting

City Council - Rules & Government Relations Committee

The Rules & Government Relations Committee is meeting to discuss several policy items. Topics include a Climate Emergency Resolution and a resolution regarding the decriminalization of therapeutic psychedelic plants. The committee will also consider an amendment to add a rule for remote participation.

• Climate Emergency Resolution
• Resolution re: De-criminalization of therapeutic psychedelic plants
• Proposed amendment to council rules: Add Rule 20 - Remote Participation
• Approval of minutes not previously approved

The Rules and Government Relations Committee approved a resolution declaring a climate emergency in Easthampton, with a 2-0 vote. The committee also reviewed and approved wording changes to a resolution on decriminalizing therapeutic psychedelic plants, removing a paragraph about low-priority arrest for users, and will send it to the full council on October 6. A proposed amendment to council rules adding Rule 20 for remote participation was also approved 2-0.

• Approved climate emergency resolution (2-0)
• Approved revised psychedelic plants resolution with edits (2-0)
• Approved council rule amendment for remote participation (2-0)

Elementary School Re-Use Committee

The committee will hold an introductory presentation regarding existing plans and the process for creating a Request for Proposals (RFP). The meeting also includes a review of the One Stop for Growth grant and Valley CDC technical assistance.

• Review of existing plans and information
• Overview of RFP creation
• Review of One Stop for Growth grant
• Review of Valley CDC technical assistance

The Easthampton Elementary School Re-Use Committee held its first meeting, with members introducing themselves and receiving an overview of their role. The committee's goal is to develop a Request for Proposals (RFP) for the redevelopment of the three elementary schools, deciding whether it should cover all three or each individually. They reviewed a One Stop for Growth grant application for environmental and architectural assessments, and discussed technical assistance from Valley CDC. No formal decisions were made; the next meeting is scheduled for October 13, 2021.

• No formal decisions were made at this initial meeting.
• Committee members were assigned homework to review the Downtown Strategic Plan and a white paper on precedents for the next meeting.
• The committee will discuss initial criteria and weightings at the October 13 meeting.
• A One Stop for Growth grant application was reviewed to fund environmental and architectural assessments of the schools.
• Valley CDC will provide technical assistance to evaluate tax credits for potential developers.

Board of Public Works

The Board of Public Works will review design options for the Parson / Ferry Street intersection. The agenda also includes approval of August 4, 2021 meeting minutes and a Director's report.

• Parson / Ferry Street Intersection Design Options Presentation
• Approval of August 4, 2021 Meeting Minutes
• Director’s Report

The Board of Public Works heard three design options for the Parson/Ferry Street intersection, all including crosswalk updates, with costs ranging from $465,000 to $575,000. The board voted to table the decision on which concept to choose, pending further review. The project will be funded with cannabis money. The board also approved the August 4, 2021 meeting minutes.

• Approved August 4, 2021 meeting minutes (2-0)
• Tabled decision on Parson/Ferry Street intersection design options (2-0)

Easthampton City Arts Public Art Subcommittee

The subcommittee will review submitted proposals for the Ferry Street Gateway to the Mills sculpture RFP. The meeting also includes approval of August 11th meeting minutes and general updates.

• Review of Ferry Street Gateway to the Mills sculpture RFP proposals
• Approval of August 11th meeting minutes

The subcommittee evaluated twelve submissions for the Ferry Street Gateway to the Mills sculpture and selected one winning proposal and one runner-up. The two proposals will be vetted by the Planning Dept for safety and feasibility before the winner is announced. The subcommittee also approved the August 11th meeting minutes. A donated tiger sculpture by Brace Thompson will be placed outside the Council on Aging, pending further discussion on the October agenda.

• Selected one winning proposal and one runner-up from twelve Ferry Street Gateway sculpture submissions
• Sent the two chosen proposals to the Planning Dept for safety and feasibility review
• Approved the August 11th meeting minutes
• Noted the tiger sculpture donation to the City, with placement outside the Council on Aging pending October discussion

City Council - Finance Committee

The committee will review supplemental appropriations for Reservation Road and Main Street. It will also examine quarterly fiscal reports and COVID-19 grant spending.

• $245,412 state LAND Grant reimbursement for Reservation Road
• $121,588 from CPA for Reservation Road acquisition costs
• $230,000 from Cannabis Stabilization for Main St. re-paving/drainage
• Authorization for Mayor to enter Option to Purchase Agreement for Reservation Rd.
• $1.00 transfer to Library budget for a rounding error

The Finance Committee approved three supplemental appropriations totaling about $597,000, including $245,412 from Stabilization and $121,588 from CPA for the Reservation Road land purchase, and $230,000 from Cannabis Stabilization for Main Street re-paving and drainage repairs. It also authorized the Mayor to enter into an Option to Purchase Agreement for Reservation Road. All motions passed 2-0. The committee approved a $1.00 transfer to correct a Library budget rounding error.

• Approved $1.00 interdepartmental transfer to correct Library budget rounding error (2-0)
• Approved $245,412 from Stabilization for Reservation Road LAND grant match (2-0)
• Approved $121,588 from CPA for Reservation Road acquisition costs (2-0)
• Approved $230,000 from Cannabis Stabilization for Main Street re-paving/drainage (2-0)
• Authorized Mayor to enter Option to Purchase Agreement for Reservation Road (2-0)

City Council - Public Safety Committee

The Public Safety Committee will continue its review of the Mayor’s Pledge to Reimagining Policing, which includes a scheduled public hearing for October 6, 2021. The committee will also review a PVPC report regarding sidewalk safety at the intersection of South Street and Main Street.

• Review of Mayor’s Pledge to Reimagining Policing
• Review of PVPC report on South Street and Main Street sidewalk safety
• Approval of minutes

The Public Safety Committee unanimously approved its recommendations based on the Mayor's Reimagining Policing report, to be brought to the full council. It also agreed to keep the South Street at Main Street sidewalk safety issue on the agenda, with DPW and Planning to conduct a survey of the city's right of way in the coming weeks. No public comments were made during the meeting.

• Approved minutes of 7/6/21 unanimously
• Approved Public Safety Committee recommendations on Mayor's Reimagining Policing report, to bring to full council
• Kept South Street at Main Street sidewalk safety on agenda; requested survey from DPW and Planning

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will meet via Zoom to approve previous meeting minutes. The board is scheduled to review and sign motor vehicle abatement applications and motor vehicle recommitments.

• Review and signing of motor vehicle abatement applications
• Review and signing of motor vehicle recommitments
• Approval of minutes

The Board of Assessors approved motor vehicle abatements totaling $1,336.49 and recommitments for 2016 and 2017, as listed in the minutes. The motion passed 3-0. The board also approved the minutes from the August 24, 2021 meeting, which passed 2-0.

• Approved minutes of 8.24.21 (2-0)
• Approved MV abatements totaling $1,336.49 (3-0)
• Approved MV recommitments for 2016 and 2017 (3-0)

Conservation Commission

The Commission will hold a public hearing regarding proposed improvements to the existing trail network at 100 Bassett Brook Drive. The meeting also includes requests for certificates of compliance for dredging in White Brook and Broad Brook. Additionally, members will review updates on various active environmental permits and enforcement actions.

• Public hearing: trail network improvements at 100 Bassett Brook Drive
• Maintenance dredging for White Brook and Broad Brook
• Aquatic vegetation management at Nashawannuck Pond
• Ferry Street Mill Redevelopment Project updates
• Review of enforcement actions for several properties

The Commission unanimously voted to lift the 2018 Enforcement Order for the Cernak property at Westview Terrace after determining restoration requirements were satisfied. It also granted 3-year extensions for the Ferry Street Mill redevelopment project (both tracts) and suspended monitoring reporting for the River Valley Cooperative Market site. Several other items were continued to the next meeting, including the Lathrop Community trail hearing and the Certificate of Compliance for the White Brook/Broad Brook dredging.

• Lifted Enforcement Order for Cernak property (EO-2018-001) (unanimous)
• Continued Lathrop Community trail hearing to Sept 27, 2021 (unanimous)
• Continued Certificate of Compliance for White Brook/Broad Brook dredging to Sept 27, 2021 (unanimous)
• Issued 3-year extension for Ferry Street Mill Tract 1 (MassDEP #151-0298) (unanimous)
• Issued 3-year extension for Ferry Street Mill Tract 2 (MassDEP #151-0299) (unanimous)
• Suspended monitoring reporting for River Valley Cooperative Market (MassDEP #151-0301) (unanimous)
• Approved Aug 23, 2021 meeting minutes (Teffer abstained)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:21 PM (unanimous)

Housing Authority

The board will discuss emergency roof repairs at 179 Pleasant Street and a water main break at Sunrise Manor. Members will also review the completion of sidewalk and roof projects at Glad Acres. The meeting includes updates on financial reports and administrative notices.

• $9,600.00 emergency roof repair at 179 Pleasant Street
• Emergency water main break at Sunrise Manor
• Approval of completion for Sunrise Manor sidewalks
• Estimated $38,095.00 extra cost for Sunrise boilers
• Replacement of a 2010 Ford Ranger

The Easthampton Housing Authority approved the purchase of a 2022 Ford Ranger for $27,115.65 with an 18-week delivery date, replacing a previously approved quote with a longer wait. The board also approved a $9,600 emergency roof replacement at 179 Pleasant Street, a change order for the Glad Acres roof project, and accepted completion certificates for the Sunrise Manor and Glad Acres sidewalk projects. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved $27,115.65 bid for 2022 Ford Ranger with 18-week delivery (unanimous)
• Approved $9,600 emergency roof replacement at 179 Pleasant Street (unanimous)
• Approved change order #2 for Glad Acres Roofs project in amount of $1,420.29 (unanimous)
• Approved Sunrise Manor Sidewalks Substantial Completion and Final Completion Certification (unanimous)
• Approved Glad Acres Sidewalks Certificate of Substantial Completion and Final Completion (unanimous)
• Approved warrant in amount of $89,462.14 (unanimous)
• Accepted July 31, 2021 Financial Report (unanimous)
• Accepted August 9, 2021 meeting minutes as amended (unanimous)

Manhan Rail Trail Committee

The committee will review the August 2, 2021 minutes and discuss a senior tax work-off employee position. Updates are scheduled regarding tree removal at the Route 5 end of the trail and street lights heading towards Williston.

• Approval of August 2, 2021 minutes
• Discussion of senior tax work-off employee
• Eversource tree removal and landscaping at Rte. 5 end of trail
• Update on street lights along trail heading towards Williston
• Pioneer Valley bike week in September

The Manhan Rail Trail Committee approved the August minutes and introduced Terry Buckowski as a new part-time trail maintenance worker supervised by the Parks Department. The committee also noted Fort Hill Brewery's adoption of a trail section, with a new sign costing $205 due to metal price increases. Several maintenance issues were discussed, including a sinkhole near the mills and trail cracks, with plans to address them. No formal votes were taken on these latter items.

• Approved the August meeting minutes.
• Introduced Terry Buckowski as new senior tax worker for trail maintenance, supervised by Parks Department.
• Noted Fort Hill Brewery's adoption of trail section formerly maintained by Tom Kozial; approved new sign at $205.
• Agreed to make a new sign for Fort Hill Brewery's adopted section.
• Decided to contact Craig Della Penna about his trail adoption sign's future.
• Barb will order two new street signs for Lovefield Street crossing; Steve will install them.
• Identified a sinkhole near the mills that must be fixed during next pavement work.
• Barb will ask DPW to apply asphalt crack filler to trail cracks and seams.

School Committee

The Easthampton School Committee will meet to hold a discussion regarding lunch protocols. The agenda also includes time for public comment and announcements of upcoming meeting dates.

• Discussion of lunch protocols
• Announcements of future meeting dates (9/21, 10/12, 10/26, 11/9, and 12/14)

The Easthampton School Committee met via Zoom to discuss lunchtime COVID-19 protocols after receiving numerous emails from residents. Superintendent LeClair reported on measures including additional lunch monitors, extra lunch waves, outdoor eating, and air purifiers. No formal decisions or votes were taken on these topics; the meeting was informational. The committee adjourned with a unanimous 5-0 roll call vote.

• Adjourned the meeting by roll call vote 5-0
• Discussed lunchtime COVID protocols, including masking, distancing, and quarantine policies
• Reported use of COVID funding for additional lunch monitors and air purifiers
• Noted students are 100% compliant with mask wearing except one or two preschool students
• Announced volunteers for lunch monitoring must be CORI and fingerprint checked and provide proof of vaccination
• Reminded parents to use proper chain of command for concerns (teacher, principal, superintendent)
• Announced upcoming Bike, Walk, and Roll event on October 6 and Bike Rodeo on October 2

City Council - Ordinance Committee

The committee will discuss a vacant storefront ordinance with EDIC. Agenda items include the Juneteenth resolution and amendments to the city holiday ordinance. The meeting also covers single-use plastic prohibitions.

• Discussion regarding vacant storefront ordinance
• Juneteenth resolution and holiday ordinance amendments
• Zoning amendments for affordable housing in Smart Growth District
• Amendments to single-use plastics prohibition ordinance

The Ordinance Committee discussed but did not vote on amendments to prohibit single-use plastics, agreeing to wait another meeting for public discussion. They also reviewed proposed language for affordable housing in Smart Growth Districts and Planned Residential Developments, with no final action taken. Other items, including a vacant storefront ordinance and a Juneteenth resolution, were continued to the next meeting.

• Continued single-use plastics ordinance discussion to next meeting for public input
• Discussed affordable housing language for Smart Growth Districts and Planned Residential Developments (no vote)
• Continued vacant storefront ordinance and Juneteenth resolution to next meeting
• Adjourned meeting (3-0)

Ranked Choice Voting Ad Hoc Committee

The committee will review and edit RCV mailers and other voter education materials. Members will also discuss the committee secretary position and rotation.

• Review and editing of RCV mailer and voter education materials
• Committee secretary position/rotation
• Approval of minutes

Board of Health

The Board of Health will review a variance request for irrigation wells at 359 Main St. The meeting includes a discussion on mask mandates with a local business owner and a review of an ordinance regarding single-use plastics. The Health Director will also provide a COVID-19 data update.

• Variance request for two irrigation wells at 359 Main St.
• Discussion of mask mandate with Mission Taco owner Sam Kochan.
• Discussion of ordinance prohibiting single-use plastic bags, containers, and straws.
• COVID-19 data update from the Health Director.

The Easthampton Board of Health voted to deny a variance request for two irrigation wells at 359 Main St. (Hampton East Condominium Trust) and closed the hearing, with 2 in favor, 0 opposed, and 1 abstention. The board also discussed a proposed ordinance banning single-use plastic bags, containers, and straws, and heard updates on COVID-19 outreach and a mask mandate complaint from Mission Taco.

• Approved meeting minutes for June 23, 2021 and August 4, 2021 (2-0).
• Approved meeting minutes for August 31, 2021 (2-0).
• Continued the hearing for the 359 Main St. variance request (2-0).
• Denied the variance request for two irrigation wells at 359 Main St. and closed the hearing (2-0, 1 abstention).
• Discussed the proposed ordinance on single-use plastic bags, containers, and straws; no vote taken.
• Discussed an email from Mission Taco owner about the mask mandate; no action taken.
• Heard an update on COVID-19 data dashboards and vaccine outreach; no vote taken.

Licensing Board

The Licensing Board will meet remotely to consider several special one-day applications for upcoming events. The board will also receive an update regarding a change of manager for the Pulaski Club.

• Special one-day application for Millside Live series at Abandoned Building & New City Brewery
• Special one-day application for Easthampton Rod and Gun Club (9/17–9/19)
• Special one-day application for Arcadia Folk Festival at Abandoned Building
• Change of manager update for Pulaski Club

The Licensing Board approved three Special One Day Applications for upcoming events, including the Millside Live Series, Arcadia Folk Festival, and Easthampton Rod and Gun Club's Annual Fishing Derby. The board also discussed a change of manager for the Pulaski Club, with a cease and desist issued and then retracted, and plans for an October public hearing on fee increases and other matters.

• Approved Special One Day Application for Millside Live Series (9/10-9/12) (all in favor)
• Approved Special One Day Application for Arcadia Folk Festival (9/19) (2-0-1, SM abstained)
• Approved Special One Day Application for Easthampton Rod and Gun Club Annual Fishing Derby (9/17-9/19) (all in favor)
• Pushed approval of previous meeting minutes to October
• Discussed Pulaski Club manager change; cease and desist retracted, reissue possible if no manager obtained

Cultural District Subcommittee

The Cultural District Committee is meeting to discuss updates for the Cottage Street Cultural District. The agenda also includes approval of minutes and a period for public speech. This meeting will be held remotely via Zoom.

• Cultural District Updates

The subcommittee discussed updates on the Fall Spot Lot Series, which was pushed back one week to start September 19, with additional dates on September 26 and October 3, from 4-6pm, featuring two bands per day, masks mandated, and sponsorship from River Valley Market. No formal votes or decisions were taken; the meeting was informational, covering event logistics, ECA's postponement of indoor gatherings until at least February, exploration of a non-profit arm, and member recruitment efforts.

• Fall Spot Lot Series rescheduled to start Sept 19 (no vote recorded)
• Masks mandated at Fall Spot Lot Series (no vote recorded)
• ECA postponing indoor gatherings until at least February (reported, no vote)
• Exploring non-profit arm for ECA (discussed, no vote)

Ordinance Review Committee

The Ordinance Review Ad-Hoc Committee will meet to review a draft of its Final Report. The agenda also includes approval of minutes and an opportunity for public speaking.

• Review of draft of Final Report
• Approval of minutes

Easthampton City Arts Coordinating Committee

The committee will review updates on several arts programs, including the Spot Lot Concert Series and Artist Studio Residency Program. Members will also continue discussions regarding the Friends of ECA non-profit.

• Approval of August 2nd minutes
• Updates on Spot Lot Concert Series and Artist Studio Residency Program
• Updates on Public Art, Youth Arts Initiative, and Artswalk
• Continued discussion regarding Friends of ECA non-profit

Commission on Disability

The Commission on Disability will discuss improvements for Park Hill Orchard access. The meeting includes updates from the Veterans Department and regarding MVPAG and CDBG. Members will also review survey subcommittee progress and ideas for 1, 3, and 5-year plans.

• Park Hill Orchard Access Improvements
• Veterans Department update
• MVPAG and CDBG update
• Survey subcommittee updates
• Long-term planning (1, 3, & 5 year plan)

The Commission on Disability voted to submit a letter of support for the city's Municipal Aid Improvement Plan application, with the commission president authorized to sign. Members also discussed several accessibility initiatives, including a surplus donation for a disability-access cart at Park Hill Orchard, new sidewalks on Cherry St., and a survey portal to gather data for grant applications. No formal votes were taken on these latter items.

• Approved submitting letter of support for Municipal Aid Improvement Plan (unanimous)
• Discussed surplus donation for disability-access cart at Park Hill Orchard
• Discussed funding for new sidewalks on Cherry St.
• Discussed survey portal data use for grant applications

Easthampton Community Garden

The meeting consists of routine committee reports and procedural business. The committee will review updates regarding operations, outreach, and the donation garden.

• Treasurer's report and purchase order endorsements
• Operations report
• Outreach report
• Donation Garden report
• Gardener feedback

The Easthampton Community Garden Committee met via Zoom on September 2, 2021, and adopted the previous meeting's minutes unanimously. No public comment, treasurer's report, or purchase orders were presented. The committee discussed routine operational updates, including weed control, outreach postings, and reduced yields at the donation garden due to weather and lower gardener contributions. No formal decisions were made beyond the minutes acceptance.

• Adopted the previous meeting's minutes unanimously
• Discussed pulling thistle from plot D-1 and deferring flox planting until spring
• Noted reduced donation garden production and a possible need to expand it
• Reported new pollinator garden plantings (verbena in, goldenrod out) and a potential farmer donation
• Discussed arranging removal of wood piled behind the shed and following up on woodchips

Licensing Board

The Licensing Board is reviewing several special one-day applications for events, including the Millside Live series and Arcadia Folk Festival. The agenda also includes a manager update for the Pulaski Club. This meeting was rescheduled to September 8th at 11 a.m.

• Special one day application for Millside Live series
• Special one day application for Easthampton Rod and Gun Club (9/17–9/19)
• Special one day application for Arcadia Folk Festival on 9/19
• Change of Manager update for Pulaski Club

Nashawannuck Pond Committee

The committee will discuss updates regarding the Gabion Weir and Siltation Basin. The agenda also includes discussions on water quality monitoring, macrophytes, and water chestnuts.

• Gabion Weir and Siltation Basin updates
• Cyanobacteria/water quality monitoring
• 501C3 status discussion
• Macrophytes and water chestnuts

The Nashawannuck Pond Committee approved spending approximately $1,000 for barley straw, a proposed organic method to reduce cyanobacteria, with all members voting in favor. The committee also approved the previous meeting's minutes, noted completion of the siltation basin restoration and gabion weir, and discussed plans for Winterfest, deciding to cancel the vendor fair, chili contest, and music/ice bar due to COVID concerns.

• Approved approximately $1,000 for barley straw to be applied in April to address cyanobacteria.
• Approved the minutes from the July 28, 2021 meeting.
• Noted receipt of a $2,700 invoice from Gary Golas for an extension permit for the Order of Conditions, with a new expiration date of April 25, 2024.
• Confirmed herbicide treatment for invasive plants was completed on July 14, 2021 by Solitude.
• Scheduled a walkthrough for September 9 to verify the siltation basin restoration and gabion weir work.
• Decided not to hold the vendor fair, chili contest, or music and ice bar at Keystone for Winterfest due to COVID concerns.
• Discussed participating in the Farmer's Market, with Amy filling out a form, likely in September or October.
• Agreed to edit the sponsorship list with Amy, to be sent out in early October.

City Council

The City Council will consider a $6,475,239.00 bond for an Energy Saving Performance Contract to upgrade indoor air quality and solar capacity. The agenda also includes public hearings on utility pole relocations and supplemental appropriations for road projects and police equipment.

• $6,475,239.00 bond for Energy Saving Performance Contract upgrades
• $65,653.29 appropriation for a hybrid police cruiser and laptop
• $230,000 from Cannabis Stabilization for Main Street re-paving/drainage
• Public hearing on utility pole relocations along Torrey Street
• $122,588 from CPA for Reservation Road acquisition costs

The City Council unanimously approved a $6,475,239 bond to fund the 2021 Energy Savings Performance Contract with Honeywell, covering HVAC, solar, and indoor air quality upgrades at several city buildings. The council also approved two utility pole relocation requests from Eversource and Verizon, a $65,653.29 supplemental appropriation for a hybrid police cruiser, and confirmed several mayoral and council appointments. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved $6,475,239 bond for Honeywell Energy Savings Performance Contract, with an amendment allowing bond premium to reduce borrowing.
• Approved Eversource/Verizon request to install 3 new and relocate 4 utility poles on Torrey Street.
• Approved Eversource/Verizon request to move one utility pole on Colonial Avenue to accommodate a driveway.
• Appropriated $65,653.29 from Cannabis Stabilization Fund for a hybrid police cruiser and laptop.
• Confirmed mayoral appointments to ECA, Parks & Recreation, and Zoning Board of Appeals.
• Approved City Council appointments for City Auditor and Assistant City Auditor.
• Referred supplemental appropriations for Reservation Road and Main Street paving to Finance Committee.
• Scheduled public hearing on Mayor's Pledge to Reimagine Policing report for Oct. 6 meeting.

Board of Health

The Easthampton Board of Health will hold a discussion regarding the "COVID-19 Mandatory Policies And Procedures For Wearing Of Masks Or Other Face Coverings In Public Indoor Spaces In The City Of Easthampton Mask Order." The agenda also includes an opportunity for public speech.

• Discussion on COVID-19 mask mandate policies
• Public speech

The Board of Health voted 2-0 to approve, with edits, a COVID-19 mask mandate for public spaces in Easthampton. The mandate includes exemptions for eating/drinking while seated in food establishments and for active sports play, but requires masks on sidelines for high-risk sports. The board will review the mandate monthly rather than set an end date. The meeting was held via Zoom and adjourned at 5:44 PM.

• Approved the mask mandate titled 'COVID-19 Mandatory Policies And Procedures For Wearing Of Masks Or Other Face Coverings In Public Spaces In The City of Easthampton Mask Order' with edits (2-0).
• Added language to the mandate covering City vehicles, an exemption while sitting and eating in food establishments, and a requirement for masks at bars except when seated and drinking.
• Included a social distancing requirement of 6 feet in the mandate.
• Stated that plexiglass alone is not acceptable in lieu of masks.
• Decided the mask mandate will be reviewed at monthly BOH meetings rather than given an end date.
• Agreed to mandate masks on sidelines for high-risk sports, but not while actively playing.
• Health Director will work with contact tracers to flag positive COVID-19 cases resulting from sports play.

School Building Committee

The committee will review the July 27, 2021, minutes and hear reports from the OPM and Design Team. The agenda also includes a discussion regarding a Fontaine-Brick delay and a dedication plaque.

• Approval of July 27, 2021, minutes
• Fontaine-Brick delay conversation
• OPM Report
• Design Team Report
• Dedication Plaque

The Easthampton School Building Committee unanimously approved two proposed change orders (PCO-118 and PCO-133) for the school project, with costs not to exceed $56,747 and $51,037 respectively. The committee also accepted the minutes from June and July meetings, discussed brick delays and design errors, and decided to postpone a dedication plaque until the fall 2022 grand opening.

• Approved PCO-118 not to exceed $56,747 (unanimous)
• Approved PCO-133 not to exceed $51,037 (unanimous)
• Accepted minutes of 6/22/21 and 7/27/21 meetings (unanimous)
• Decided to wait until Fall 2022 Grand Opening to present dedication plaque
• Formed subcommittee for plaque design (Allison, Judy, Deb)

School Committee

The School Committee will meet in executive session to conduct negotiations with the Easthampton Education Association.

• Collective bargaining session with the Easthampton Education Association

Ranked Choice Voting Ad Hoc Committee

The Ranked Choice Voting Ad Hoc Committee is meeting to discuss voter education and publicity strategies. The agenda also includes addressing the committee secretary position or rotation and approving minutes.

• Voter education/publicity discussion
• Committee secretary position/rotation
• Approval of minutes

The Ranked Choice Voting Ad Hoc Committee met and approved the July minutes. They discussed and planned voter education efforts, including a citywide mailer to be sent by October 7, coordination with the Council on Aging for senior education, poll worker training, and a social media strategy. No formal decisions were made beyond approving the minutes.

• Approved the July meeting minutes unanimously.
• Planned a citywide mailer with RCV overview and voting guide, to be drafted by next meeting and sent by October 7.
• Coordinated with the Council on Aging for senior education sessions and newsletter content.
• Agreed to train poll workers on answering basic RCV questions and tabulation details.
• Decided to include a ballot-marking instruction handout as an enclosure with mail-in ballots.
• Outlined a social media strategy using mailer content, with members posting to local Facebook groups.
• Councilor Peake offered to contact Easthampton Media for a short educational video.
• Scheduled upcoming meetings: Sept. 8 and Sept. 30 for mailer review, Oct. 14 for public Q&A, and Nov. 9 for post-election debrief.

Zoning Board of Appeals

The board will continue a public hearing regarding a request to extend a single-family structure at 72 East Street. Additionally, the board will discuss Public Hearing procedures.

• Variance request for eastern side setback requirements at 72 East Street
• Discussion of Public Hearing procedure

The Zoning Board of Appeals approved a variance for Gerald and Janette Vautrain to extend their single-family home at 72 East Street, despite the eastern side setback requirement. The approval was conditioned on the applicant providing a means and methods report to minimize impacts on the abutting conservation-restricted parcel. The board also discussed but did not finalize proposed rules of order for public hearings.

• Approved variance for 72 East Street with conditions (5-0)
• Closed public hearing for 72 East Street (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0)

School Committee

The Easthampton School Committee will meet on August 24, 2021, to review several financial items and subcommittee updates. The agenda includes a request for a $58,098 budget transfer and the approval of school payroll and accounts payable. Members will also discuss the Superintendent Evaluation and COVID-19 advisory updates.

• Budget transfer request of $58,098 from Salaries to Medical/Therapeutic
• Approval of school payroll dated 8/12/2021 for $378,373.44
• Approval of accounts payable authorization for $71,518.79
• Discussion regarding Superintendent Evaluation and subcommittee updates
• Executive session to discuss collective bargaining strategy with the teacher and support unit

The Easthampton School Committee approved a $58,098 budget transfer from Salaries to Medical/Therapeutic, payroll of $378,373.44, and accounts payable of $71,518.79. They also approved minutes from prior meetings and moved into executive session to discuss collective bargaining. The committee received updates on COVID-19 guidelines, transportation, and the Say Something youth initiative.

• Approved budget transfer of $58,098 from Salaries to Medical/Therapeutic.
• Approved School Payroll dated 8/12/2021 in the amount of $378,373.44.
• Approved accounts payable authorization for payment dated 8/12/2021 in the amount of $71,518.79.
• Approved minutes of 8/10/2021 meeting, withholding executive session minutes until matters resolved.
• Approved minutes of 8/16/2021 executive session meeting, withholding until matters resolved.
• Moved into executive session to discuss collective bargaining strategy; no return to open session.

Community Relations Committee

The Community Relations Committee will hold a work session with Darryck Dean from the Department of Justice. The discussion will cover strategic planning, program priorities, and resource needs.

• Meeting with Darryck Dean (Department of Justice) regarding strategic planning and goals

The Community Relations Committee met remotely with Darryck Dean from the Department of Justice to discuss strategic planning. They reviewed their top priorities, including fostering community relations through education and improving city communications. The committee discussed potential programs like a forum, a Welcome Wagon, and a film series, and agreed to request a meeting with Lindsi Mailler about the city calendar. No formal votes were taken; the meeting ended early due to a technical issue.

• Requested a meeting with Lindsi Mailler to discuss the city calendar and website updates.
• Discussed potential programs: reinvigorating the forum committee, a Welcome Wagon, and a film series.
• Agreed to schedule an additional session with Darryck Dean, with Tuesday nights generally open.
• Planned to email members about possible next meeting dates: September 14, 21, or 28.

Contributory Retirement Board

The board will discuss the clerk position posting and review recent audits. They will also process new memberships, retirement intents, and deduction transfers.

• PERAC 2015-2018 audit review
• Jeff Gendron (Scanlon & Associates) 2020 audit review
• Clerk position posting discussion
• Approval of new members for school and fire departments
• Approval of warrant #8

The Easthampton Retirement Board met on August 24, 2021, and approved several routine items, including the minutes from the previous meeting, a refund, a transfer of deductions, new members, the July trial balance, and Warrant #8 for $456,129.88. The board also discussed the upcoming PERAC audit for 2015-2018 and the Scanlon & Associates audit for 2020, and was informed of two retiree deaths and one upcoming retirement. No substantive policy decisions were made.

• Approved minutes from July 27, 2021 (unanimous)
• Approved refund for Nicholas Whitney (unanimous)
• Approved transfer of deductions for Nicholas Esposito to Hampden County Retirement Board (unanimous)
• Approved five new members (unanimous)
• Approved July trial balance (unanimous)
• Approved Warrant #8 for $456,129.88 (unanimous)

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will meet to review and sign motor vehicle abatement applications and motor vehicle recommitments. The board will also approve previous meeting minutes.

• Approval of minutes
• Motor Vehicle Abatement Applications: Review, Sign
• Motor Vehicle Recommitments: Review, Sign

The Board of Assessors approved all motor vehicle abatements and recommitments as listed, and accepted the minutes from the July 27, 2021 meeting. The meeting was held remotely via Zoom and adjourned at 5:15 pm.

• Approved minutes of 7.27.21 (2-0)
• Approved MV abatements totaling $6,949.13 (2-0)
• Approved MV recommitments totaling $274.38 (2-0)

Conservation Commission

The Easthampton Conservation Commission will hold a public hearing regarding trail network improvements at 100 Bassett Brook Drive. The commission will also review enforcement actions and provide updates on various active environmental permits.

• Public hearing for trail improvements at 100 Bassett Brook Drive
• Enforcement actions for properties on O’Neil Street and Northampton Street
• Updates on the Ferry Street Mill Redevelopment Project
• Review of solar projects on Park Street and Florence Road
• Compliance updates for new school construction at 200 Park Street

The Easthampton Conservation Commission decided not to issue an Enforcement Order for the new school construction at 200 Park Street despite reported erosion and sedimentation issues, instead requiring immediate supplemental erosion controls and a report by Thursday. The Commission also granted Administrative Approval to Beacon Solar for guy wire installation within the buffer zone at 50 Florence Road, determining it a minor change. A public hearing for Lathrop Community's trail improvements was continued to September 13th, and a preliminary review for a potential skate park at 32/50 Payson Avenue found no Riverfront Area associated with Rubber Thread Pond.

• Enforcement Order for school site erosion not issued; supplemental controls and report required (unanimous)
• Beacon Solar guy wire installation approved as minor change (motion carried, August abstained)
• Lathrop Community trail hearing continued to September 13, 2021 (unanimous)
• July 26 and August 9 meeting minutes approved (Buttrick abstained on both)
• No further action on 1 Cottage Street vegetation trimming
• Discussed shifting invasive species management from in-perpetuity to 3-5 year plans

Energy Advisory Committee

The Energy Advisory Committee will discuss the Honeywell Energy Services Performance Contract. The meeting also includes a period for public speech and other new business.

• Honeywell Energy Services Performance Contract discussion

City Council - Property Committee

The Property Committee will review requests from Eversource Energy and Verizon New England regarding utility pole changes. One proposal involves moving a pole on Colonial Avenue to accommodate a driveway at 22-28 Colonial Avenue. The committee will also continue discussions about installing and relocating poles along Torrey Street.

• Request to move one jointly owned utility pole on Colonial Avenue
• Proposed electric service and driveway for 22-28 Colonial Avenue
• Proposal to install three mid-span poles and relocate four poles on Torrey Street

The Property Committee recommended approval of two Eversource and Verizon pole relocation requests: one on Colonial Avenue to accommodate a new driveway and electric service, and another along Torrey Street to improve reliability. Both motions passed 3-0, with the city reserving rights to add municipal equipment. Public hearings are scheduled for the Sept. 1 City Council meeting.

• Approved moving one jointly owned utility pole on Colonial Avenue (3-0)
• Approved installing three mid-span poles and relocating four poles on Torrey Street (3-0)
• Recommended adding 'discontinued' label to map for old Standish Street

School Committee

The School Committee will hold an executive session on August 23, 2021. The meeting is scheduled to conduct bargaining strategies with the Easthampton Education Teacher's Association.

• Bargaining strategies with the Easthampton Education Teacher's Association

School Committee

The School Committee will hold an executive session to conduct bargaining strategies with the Easthampton Education Teacher’s Association. This meeting is scheduled via Zoom.

• Bargaining strategies with the Easthampton Education Teacher’s Association

Community Preservation Act Committee

The CPA Committee will review administrative items and account balances. Discussion topics include a hearing for the Reservation Road open space acquisition and requests to reprogram funds for the Boruchowski Trail Project and Old Town Hall elevator design.

• Reservation Road open space acquisition hearing
• Request to reprogram Boruchowski Trail Project funds
• Request to reprogram Old Town Hall Elevator & 2nd floor design funds
• Old Town Hall Elevator & 2nd Floor capital campaign update
• Emily Williston Library historic preservation deed restriction

The Easthampton Community Preservation Act Committee approved $121,588 for the Reservation Road open space acquisition, contingent on state LAND grant approval. The committee also approved reallocating $10,000 for habitat mapping and permitting for the Boruchowski Trail project, and $13,219 from Old Town Hall 2nd floor funds to 1st floor code compliance and restoration. Minutes from April and June were tabled.

• Approved $121,588 for Reservation Road open space acquisition (7-0, 2 absent)
• Approved $10,000 reallocation for Boruchowski Trail habitat mapping and permitting (8-0, 1 absent)
• Approved $13,219 reallocation from Old Town Hall 2nd floor to 1st floor for code compliance and restoration (8-0, 1 absent)
• Tabled approval of minutes from 4/15/2021 and 6/17/2021

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold a public hearing regarding a request to amend a 2017 Special Permit for Fort Hill Brewery. The proposal seeks to expand operations at the property located at 30 Fort Hill Road.

• Public hearing for expansion of operations at Fort Hill Brewery (30 Fort Hill Road)
• Amendment to a 2017 Special Permit under Section 12.7 of the Zoning Ordinance

The Planning Board voted 3-0 to continue the public hearing for Eric Berzins' request to amend a 2017 special permit for Fort Hill Brewery at 30 Fort Hill Road. The continuance allows the applicant to complete required site plans and address board requests for additional stormwater, noise, and special event management information. The hearing will resume on October 19, 2021 at 6pm.

• Continued Fort Hill Brewery special permit amendment hearing to Oct. 19, 2021 (3-0)
• Directed Wally Rapalus to discuss right-of-way injury with city attorney or DPW
• Agreed to consider Birch Family Farm use during the public hearing

City Council - Finance Committee

The committee will review quarterly fiscal reports and COVID-19 grant spending. Agenda items also include a $65,653.29 appropriation for a police cruiser and laptop.

• $6,475,239.00 borrowing/bonding for 2021 Energy Saving Performance Contract
• $65,653.29 appropriation for a marked hybrid police cruiser and laptop
• Review of quarterly fiscal reports from the City Auditor
• Quarterly report on COVID-19 grant funding and spending

The Finance Committee voted 3-0 to recommend approval of $65,653.29 for a fully equipped hybrid police cruiser and one laptop. They also heard a presentation from Honeywell on an Energy Savings Performance Contract for municipal buildings, but took no action on it.

• Recommended approval of $65,653.29 for hybrid police cruiser and laptop (3-0)

School Committee - Finance Subcommittee

The Finance Subcommittee will review the Quarter 4 FY21 report of expenditures versus budget to-date. The meeting also includes an annual budget review.

• Review of Quarter 4 FY21 expenditures vs budget
• Annual Budget Review

Development & Industrial Commission

The Commission will receive Planning Department updates regarding Wayfinding and LRRP. Members will also continue discussions about social media presence, downtown transit liability, and vacant storefront ordinance language.

• Planning Department updates on Wayfinding and LRRP
• Discussion of social media content ideas and downtown transit options
• Discussion of vacant storefront ordinance language and process

Easthampton Cultural Council

The Easthampton Cultural Council will discuss grantee contact and a community input survey. The meeting also includes a vote on council priorities and discussion of a new online grants management system.

• Vote on council priorities
• New MCC online grants management system
• Community input survey
• Grantee/liaison contact

The Easthampton Cultural Council approved a request from John Root to relocate his program to Pepin Farm, approved an extension for Helena's project to October 1, and voted to approve revised council priorities. The council also reviewed community input survey results and discussed future programs including a mural and little free libraries.

• Approved John Root's program relocation to Pepin Farm (unanimous)
• Approved extension for Helena's project to October 1 (unanimous)
• Approved revised council priorities (motion by Casey, second by Peter, all in favor)
• Approved July minutes (motion by Casey, second by Peter, all in favor)

City Council - Public Safety Committee

The committee will review a PVPC report regarding the safety of the sidewalk at the intersection of South Street and Main Street. Members will also continue their review of the Mayor’s Pledge to Reimagining Policing.

• Review of PVPC report regarding sidewalk safety at South Street and Main Street
• Continuing review of the Mayor’s Pledge to Reimagining Policing
• Approval of minutes not previously approved

The Public Safety Committee discussed sidewalk safety on South Street at Main Street and continued its review of the Mayor's Pledge to Reimagine Policing. Councilor Rothschild will draft a report synthesizing committee members' letters on the pledge recommendations. No formal votes were taken; the meeting adjourned unanimously.

• Scheduled site visit with DPW Director Greg Nuttelman and Chief Alberti for South Street sidewalk safety
• Councilor Rothschild to draft Public Safety report synthesizing three letters on Mayor's Pledge recommendations
• Adjourned meeting unanimously

Energy Advisory Committee

The Energy Advisory Committee will discuss updates regarding the Honeywell RFP and the next steps for municipal aggregation. The committee will also review progress from the Solar Ordinance Working Group and explore Green Community Project opportunities.

• Honeywell RFP updates and discussion
• Municipal Aggregation process and next steps
• Solar Ordinance Working Group updates
• Green Community Project opportunities
• Eversource account monitoring

The Energy Advisory Committee discussed the city's proposed $6.4M bond for a Honeywell energy services contract, which includes solar and deferred maintenance projects. The City Council is scheduled to vote on the bond on August 17, 2021. The committee raised detailed technical questions about the project's savings, solar production, and air quality improvements, and also discussed pursuing municipal aggregation and a Green Communities grant for LED streetlights. No formal decisions were made by the committee at this meeting.

• Discussed $6.4M Honeywell bond; council vote scheduled for Aug. 17
• No formal committee votes taken
• Agreed to pursue municipal aggregation discussion with council
• Identified LED streetlight conversion as top Green Communities grant candidate

School Committee

The Easthampton School Committee is holding an executive session to conduct bargaining strategies with the Easthampton Education Teacher's Association regarding returning to school. The meeting will be held via Zoom.

• Bargaining strategies with the Easthampton Education Teacher's Association

Licensing Board

The Licensing Board will discuss formal processes for entertainment events and noise mitigation. The board is also reviewing several special one-day applications and discussing updates to fees and liquor licenses.

• Public hearing on entertainment and license event procedures including noise mitigation
• Special one-day application for Small Oven Bakery wine & dinner event
• Special one-day applications for Food Truck Friday at Abandoned Building
• Update on Mission Taco outdoor structure
• Discussion regarding fee updates and liquor license manager status

The Licensing Board approved two special one-day alcohol permits: one for Abandoned Building's Food Truck Fridays (dates in Aug-Oct) and one for The Beer Guy's private employee picnic. A third application from Small Oven Bakery was withdrawn by the applicant. The board also discussed noise complaint procedures for special events and directed follow-up actions on several license compliance matters.

• Approved SOD for Abandoned Building Food Truck Fridays (all in favor)
• Approved SOD for The Beer Guy employee picnic with wristband requirement (all in favor)
• Small Oven Bakery SOD application withdrawn by applicant
• Directed clerk to research other cities' noise regulations and invite ordinance committee to next hearing
• Directed clerk to send cease and desist to Pulaski Club for lack of contact
• Noted Mission Taco agreed not to use unlicensed outdoor bar; cease and desist if reported
• Scheduled public hearing on fee schedule for 2023 changes

Historical Commission

The Historical Commission is meeting to discuss revising the current Demo Delay Ordinance and its requirements. The commission will also receive updates on the Fiscal Year 2020 Survey and Planning Grant for the Main Street Extension Area Inventory and the New Haven - Northampton Canal DLTA Grant.

• Revision of Demo Delay Ordinance/Requirements
• Update on FY2020 Survey and Planning Grant (Main Street Extension Area Inventory)
• Update on New Haven - Northampton Canal DLTA Grant
• Approval of June 9, 2021 minutes

The Easthampton Historical Commission met remotely and tabled approval of the June 9, 2021 minutes. Members discussed progress on revising the Demo Delay Ordinance, reviewed inventory forms for the Main Street Extension Area, and noted that CPA funding for the New Haven-Northampton Canal DLTA grant was approved and signed by the mayor. The next meeting was scheduled for September 9, 2021.

• Tabled approval of 6/9/21 minutes
• Scheduled next meeting for September 9, 2021 at 6:30 pm

Cultural District Subcommittee

The Cultural District Committee will hold a remote meeting to discuss updates regarding the Cottage Street Cultural District. The agenda also includes approval of minutes and public speech time.

• Cultural District Updates
• Approval of Minutes

The subcommittee reported $69,000 secured for ECA, plus a $30,000 two-year youth art grant matched by the mayor with another $30,000. They planned the Spot Lot Fall Series for Sundays in September, confirmed River Valley Market sponsorship, and discussed Art Walk not resuming in September. Marcia resigned as co-chair, with Pat taking over.

• Approved $400 rate for 45-minute sets at Spot Lot Fall Series (ECA vote)
• Confirmed River Valley Market sponsorship for fall series
• Decided not to resume Art Walk in September; private businesses asked not to use the term
• Marcia resigned as co-chair; Pat to take over responsibilities
• Adjourned at 9:48am

Parks & Recreation Commission

The Easthampton Parks and Recreation Commission will discuss the FY2022 budget and park facilities at Gagner Field. The agenda also includes items regarding 2021 park rentals, Millside Park capacity, and Camp Nonotuck programming.

• 2021 Park Rentals
• Millside Park Capacity
• Programming/Camp Nonotuck
• Budget FY2022
• Park Facilities – Gagner Field

The Commission unanimously approved raising the capacity for Millside Park events from 1,200 to 1,500 for the 2021 season, following police and fire department review. Other updates included positive park rental performance, no COVID cases at Camp Nonotuck, and ongoing budget and facility work. No public comments were received.

• Approved increase of Millside Park event capacity to 1,500 (unanimous)
• Approved June 23rd meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Easthampton City Arts Public Art Subcommittee

The subcommittee will approve meeting minutes from June 23, June 30, and July 6. The agenda includes updates regarding a fence at the Ferry Street Gateway to the Mills Pop Up Park. Members will also review voting criteria and finalize the selection process and schedule.

• Approval of June 23, 6/30, and 7/6 meeting minutes
• Update on Fence at Ferry Street Gateway to the Mills Pop Up Park
• Review of voting criteria
• Finalization of selection process and schedule

The Public Art Subcommittee approved prior meeting minutes and finalized the selection process and schedule for the Ferry Street Gateway to the Mills sculpture proposals, with the deadline depending on submission count. A fence installed on the bike path will be partially removed to restore access to the pop-up park. The committee also reviewed draft voting criteria and discussed mural renovation funding.

• Approved June 23, 30 & 7/6 meeting minutes (all in favor)
• Finalized selection process and schedule for Ferry Street sculpture proposals
• Determined a section of the bike path fence will be removed to restore pop-up park access
• Reviewed draft voting criteria; Pasqualina to finalize and email for review

School Committee

The committee will discuss draft health and safety guidelines for the upcoming Fall 2021 school year. Members will also review the Superintendent's evaluation and discuss collective bargaining strategy with the teachers' association. The meeting includes approvals for several payroll and accounts payable items.

• Review of draft Health/Safety Guidelines for Fall 2021
• Approval of school payroll dated 6/17/2021 in the amount of $1,106,958.03
• Approval of accounts payable authorization dated 6/17/2021 in the amount of $424,504.53
• A $2,600 donation for ten annual scholarships
• Discussion of collective bargaining strategy with the Easthampton Education Association

The Easthampton School Committee voted 7-0 to approve the Health and Safety Guidelines for Fall 2021, which require masks for all students and staff indoors, offer pooled and rapid testing, and mandate in-person instruction. The committee also approved multiple payroll warrants, accounts payable authorizations, and prior meeting minutes, and voted to enter executive session for collective bargaining strategy.

• Approved Health and Safety Guidelines for Fall 2021 (7-0)
• Approved four payroll warrants totaling $2,290,568.16 (6-0 each)
• Approved four accounts payable authorizations totaling $1,121,131.69 (6-0 each)
• Approved negotiation session minutes with stipulation to withhold until matters resolved (6-0)
• Approved executive session minutes for June 8, 2021, May 25, 2021, and October 27, 2020 (6-0 each)
• Approved regular meeting minutes for June 8, 2021, May 25, 2021, October 27, 2020, and November 17, 2020 COVID Emergency Meeting (6-0 each)
• Approved gifts including $2,600 for scholarships and plant donation (6-0)
• Voted to enter executive session for collective bargaining strategy (6-0)

City Council - Public Safety Committee

The Public Safety Committee will review a PVPC report regarding the safety of the sidewalk at the intersection of South Street and Main Street. The committee will also continue its review of the Mayor’s Pledge to Reimagining Policing.

• Review of PVPC report on sidewalk safety at South Street and Main Street intersection
• Continuing review of the Mayor’s Pledge to Reimagining Policing
• Approval of minutes not previously approved

The committee unanimously approved the minutes from the June 1 meeting. A report on sidewalk safety at South and Main Streets was kept as new business for the next meeting, and members agreed to email thoughts on the Mayor's Pledge Report. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved minutes of 6/1/21 (unanimous)
• Deferred review of PVPC report on South Street sidewalk safety to next meeting
• Agreed to email thoughts on Mayor's Pledge Report for next meeting discussion

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will hold public hearings regarding trail network improvements at 100 Bassett Brook Drive and a new single-family home on Mountain Road. The meeting also includes updates on open space projects and reviews of active environmental permits.

• Public hearing for trail network improvements at 100 Bassett Brook Drive
• Public hearing for a new single-family home and driveway at 3 Mountain Road
• Updates on Echodale West Orchard Area Improvements
• Discussion regarding the Florence Road conservation restriction
• Review of active environmental compliance permits and projects

The Easthampton Conservation Commission voted unanimously to continue the public hearing for Lathrop Community's trail improvements at 100 Bassett Brook Drive to August 23, 2021. The Commission also accepted the withdrawal of a Notice of Intent for a new single-family home at 3 Mountain Road, determining it lacked jurisdiction over the site's wetlands. No other substantive decisions were made; most agenda items were updates or had no action.

• Continued Lathrop Community trail hearing to Aug 23, 2021 (unanimous)
• Accepted withdrawal of NOI for 3 Mountain Road single-family home
• Determined no further permitting needed for DPW vegetation trimming along Manhan Rail Trail (Category III)

School Committee

The School Committee will hold an executive session to conduct bargaining strategies with the Easthampton Education Teacher's Association. This meeting is scheduled via Zoom.

• Executive Session regarding bargaining strategies with the Easthampton Education Teacher's Association

Housing Authority

The Easthampton Housing Authority will consider replacing a 2010 Ford Ranger and approving rent write-offs for two units following tenant deaths. The agenda also includes updates on occupancy rates and COVID-19 vaccine clinic notices.

• Approval to write off $457.00 at #667-2 and $496.00 at #667-4
• Replacement of the 2010 Ford Ranger
• DHCD Annual Agreed Upon Procedures scheduled for August 19, 2021
• Occupancy rate report showing 98.7% for the second quarter
• Distribution of 188 notices regarding free vaccine clinics

The Easthampton Housing Authority unanimously approved the purchase of a 2022 Ford Ranger for $27,000 to replace a fully depreciated 2010 vehicle. They also wrote off $953 in unpaid rent from two deceased tenants' units and approved a proprietary request for doors and hardware at Cliffview Manor. The board accepted the minutes, financial report, and a warrant of $74,007.93.

• Approved purchase of 2022 Ford Ranger for $27,000 (unanimous)
• Wrote off $457 rent at 5 Tower Lane #667-2 (unanimous)
• Wrote off $496 rent at 15 Liberty #667-4 (unanimous)
• Approved proprietary request for doors and hardware at Cliffview Manor (unanimous)
• Approved warrant of $74,007.93 (unanimous)
• Accepted July 12, 2021 minutes as amended (unanimous)
• Accepted June 30, 2021 financial report (unanimous)

City Council - Rules & Government Relations Committee

The committee will review unapproved minutes and discuss public speak time. Continuing business includes a resolution regarding the decriminalization of therapeutic psychedelic plants and a proposed rule amendment for remote participation.

• Resolution re: De-criminalization of therapeutic psychedelic plants
• Proposed amendment to council rules (Rule 20 - Remote Participation)
• Approval of minutes not previously approved
• Discussion of Public Speak Time

The Rules and Government Relations Committee discussed a resolution to decriminalize psychedelic plants but did not vote, deferring action to the next meeting on August 24, 2021, with a goal of bringing it to the full council on September 1. The committee approved the minutes from July 8, 2021, 3-0. No other substantive decisions were made; a proposed rule on remote participation was not discussed.

• Approved minutes from 07/08/2021 (3-0)
• Deferred vote on psychedelic decriminalization resolution to next meeting

Easthampton Community Garden

The Easthampton Community Garden Committee meeting consists of procedural reports and administrative tasks. The agenda includes treasurer, operations, and outreach reports.

• Treasurer’s report and purchase order endorsements
• Operations report
• Outreach report
• Donation Garden report
• Gardener feedback

The Easthampton Community Garden Committee met remotely and adopted the previous meeting's minutes and the treasurer's report unanimously. No public comment or gardener feedback was received. The committee discussed operational updates, including a fixed water pump leak, completed weed inspections, and the retirement of two garden plots. No substantive policy decisions were made.

• Adopted minutes of previous meeting (unanimous)
• Adopted treasurer's report and endorsed purchase orders (unanimous)

Board of Health

The Board of Health will discuss an ordinance regarding the prohibition of single-use plastic bags, straws, and disposable food containers. The board will also consider a hearing request for two irrigation wells at 359 Main St.

• Hearing request for two irrigation wells at 359 Main St. (Hampton East Condominium Trust)
• Discussion of ordinance prohibiting single-use plastic bags, straws, and food containers
• Approval of meeting minutes from November 2019 through April 2021

The Easthampton Board of Health voted to suspend, not decide, the hearing for Hampton East Condominium Trust's request for two irrigation wells at 359 Main St., continuing it to September. The board also approved minutes from 11 prior meetings, discussed the single-use plastic bag ordinance, and set monthly meetings for the first Tuesday starting in October.

• Approved meeting minutes for 11 dates (2-0)
• Suspended hearing for two irrigation wells at 359 Main St. (2-0)
• Set monthly meetings for first Tuesday starting in October

City Council

The City Council will hold public hearings regarding utility pole relocations on Torrey Street and amendments to the single-use plastic ordinance. The agenda also includes supplemental CPA fund appropriations for affordable housing and canal preservation. Other items include a police cruiser purchase and various proposed resolutions.

• Utility pole relocation request by Eversource Energy & Verizon New England on Torrey Street
• $58,083.00 appropriation for affordable rental housing planning
• $15,000.00 appropriation for Hampshire & Hampden Canal historic documentation
• Amendments to the single-use plastic bag and container ordinance
• $65,653.29 purchase for a marked hybrid police cruiser and laptop

The Easthampton City Council voted unanimously to amend the city's plastics ordinance, removing the prohibition on plastic straws and instead encouraging compostable straws, while adding requirements for compostable newspaper packaging and allowing aluminum containers for catering. The effective date of the ordinance was changed from October 2021 to January 1, 2022. The council also approved two CPA fund appropriations for affordable housing pre-development and a historic canal survey, and passed a resolution supporting state legislation to regulate facial surveillance.

• Amended plastics ordinance to remove plastic straw ban and encourage compostable straws (unanimous)
• Changed plastics ordinance effective date to January 1, 2022 (unanimous)
• Approved $58,083 from CPA funds for Valley CDC housing pre-development assessments (unanimous)
• Approved $15,000 from CPA funds for Hampshire-Hampden Canal historic survey (unanimous)
• Approved resolution supporting state facial surveillance regulation H.135 and S.47 (unanimous)
• Continued joint pole location hearing on Torrey Street to Sept. 1 (unanimous)
• Referred $6,475,239 energy savings performance contract borrowing to Finance Committee (unanimous)
• Confirmed Kenneth Iavecchia to Planning Board (unanimous)

Board of Public Works

The Board of Public Works will meet to approve meeting minutes from June 2 and July 7, 2021. The board will also review FY21 water and sewage usage data and consider an abatement for a sewer backup cleanup charge at 11 Fairfield Avenue.

• Approval of June 2, 2021, and July 7, 2021, meeting minutes
• Sewer backup cleanup charge abatement for 11 Fairfield Avenue
• Review of FY21 water and sewage usage data and trends

The Board of Public Works approved a sewer backup cleanup charge abatement of $982.35 for 11 Fairfield Avenue. The board also approved the minutes from the June 2 and July 7, 2021 meetings. No other substantive decisions were made; the director's report noted storm cleanup, a water line repair, and a sewer line extension project.

• Approved $982.35 sewer abatement for 11 Fairfield Avenue (2-0)
• Approved June 2, 2021 and July 7, 2021 meeting minutes (2-0)

Community Relations Committee

The Committee will hold a strategic planning session with Darryck Dean to discuss survey results and presented materials. The agenda also includes an update on conversations with the Mayor regarding the future of the committee and a discussion of a letter from Jenny Papageorge.

• Strategic planning session with Darryck Dean
• Update on Mayor's plans for the CRC
• Discussion of letter regarding Pioneer Valley Healing Racism Institute
• Approval of July 13, 2021 minutes

The Community Relations Committee ratified the June 29, 2021 minutes after a previous vote failed to achieve a majority, and approved the July 13, 2021 minutes. The committee held a strategic planning session with Darryck Dean, discussing survey results and setting priorities, with plans to develop action plans at the next meeting. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Ratified June 29, 2021 minutes (5-1)
• Approved July 13, 2021 minutes (5-1)
• Set next meeting for August 24, 2021

Commission on Disability

The Commission on Disability will review survey results and action plans. The meeting includes updates on closed captioning, forms accessibility, and the Wayfinder meeting.

• Survey subcommittee update and plan of actions with results
• Closed captioning and forms accessibility update
• Discussion regarding base level funding
• Round up program bank account possibility
• Community Involvement subcommittee updates

The Easthampton Commission on Disability met on August 3, 2021, and discussed several accessibility initiatives, including a survey, a wayfinding sign system, website form accessibility, and the East Street park trail project. No formal decisions or votes were recorded; the meeting was primarily informational and planning-focused.

• Survey subcommittee decided not to add an 'other' section to the survey
• Discussed printing and placement of survey flyers
• Discussed creating a Facebook page for the calendar of events
• Discussed writing a letter to the mayor about sharing events on city website
• Discussed drafting a budget request for the Commission on Disability
• Discussed applying for a grant from the MA Office of Disability for website accessibility
• Discussed the East Street park trail project, out to bid with proposals due August 12

Ordinance Review Committee

The Ordinance Review Ad-Hoc Committee will discuss new findings arising from previous meetings. The committee is also working on preparing its final report and recommendations for the full City Council.

• Sharing of new findings based on questions from previous meetings
• Preparation of Final Report & Recommendations to the City Council

Easthampton City Arts Coordinating Committee

The committee will review updates for the Arts Walk, Artist Studio Residency Program, Public Art, and Youth Arts Initiative. Members will also discuss the ECA Sweet Sixteen event scheduled for December 16, 2021. Additionally, the agenda includes a discussion with the Mayor regarding Friends of ECA.

• Updates on Arts Walk, Artist Studio Residency Program, Public Art, and Youth Arts Initiative
• Planning for ECA Sweet Sixteen event at Old Town Hall on December 16, 2021
• Discussion with the Mayor regarding Friends of ECA
• Approval of June 7th minutes

The Easthampton City Arts Coordinating Committee voted to cancel the September Art Walk on the recommendation of the Easthampton Health Department due to a local increase in COVID cases, with a possible resumption in October. The committee also discussed programming updates, including a new venue at City Space, a fall series at Spot Lot, and a $500 public art sculpture at Gateway to the Mills Pocket Park, though DPW's fence installation has complicated the site. A $30K grant for Youth Arts from the Collaborative for Educational Services was announced, with an additional $30K pledged by Mayor LaChapelle. The committee unanimously agreed to explore forming a non-profit arm (Friends of ECA) to access more grants, with details to be discussed next month.

• Cancelled September Art Walk due to COVID (unanimous)
• Approved pursuing non-profit arm Friends of ECA (unanimous poll)
• Noted $30K Youth Arts grant from Collaborative for Educational Services
• Noted Mayor LaChapelle pledged additional $30K for Youth Arts
• Discussed $500 public art sculpture at Gateway to the Mills Pocket Park
• Scheduled Spot Lot fall series for September 12, 19, 26
• Tabled new meeting time decision pending member survey

Manhan Rail Trail Committee

The committee will discuss future trail maintenance and provide an update on Eversource tree removal at the Route 5 end of the trail. Members will also review proposed street signs at Lovefield/Ferry Street and progress on street lights heading towards Williston.

• Approval of June 21, 2021 minutes
• Discussion about future trail maintenance
• Proposed street signs at Lovefield/Ferry Street
• Eversource tree removal at Route 5 end of trail
• Update on street lights heading towards Williston

The Manhan Rail Trail Committee met and discussed future maintenance of the trail, agreeing that the city should take on more responsibility in phases due to resource constraints. No formal votes were taken; the committee approved the June minutes and deferred several action items to city staff and volunteers.

• Approved June minutes
• Agreed to document all committee/volunteer trail tasks for city budgeting
• Deferred port-a-potty placement along trail; requested more frequent park restroom openings
• Decided not to hold a Bike Month event in September due to low turnout

Affordable & Fair Housing Partnership

The Easthampton Affordable & Fair Housing Partnership will discuss real estate transfer fee legislation and technical support for the Housing Trust initiative. The meeting also includes a presentation by Donna Cabana from Valley Community Development Corporation.

• Approval of June meeting minutes
• Presentation by Donna Cabana, Valley Community Development Corporation
• Discussion of Real Estate Transfer Fee Legislation
• Discussion on technical support for Housing Trust initiative

Nashawannuck Pond Committee

The Nashawannuck Pond Committee is meeting to review updates on the Gabion Weir and Siltation Basin. The committee will also discuss cyanobacteria/water quality monitoring and 501C3 status. New business items include a resignation and water chestnuts.

• Gabion Weir and Siltation Basin updates
• Cyanobacteria/water quality monitoring
• 501C3 status discussion
• Water Chestnuts
• Committee resignation

The Nashawannuck Pond Committee reviewed legal guidance for forming a 501C3 nonprofit, with Amy Marsters as president and Beth Tiffany as liaison. Herbicide treatment for invasive plants was completed, and the committee decided to skip the vendor fair and chili contest at Winterfest due to COVID concerns. No formal votes were taken; actions were assigned for drafting letters and exploring event options.

• Approved May meeting minutes (motion by Amy, seconded by Elaine)
• Advanced 501C3 process with attorney Julie Kling and city attorney Mark Tanner
• Completed herbicide treatment for invasive plants on 7/14/2021
• Decided not to hold vendor fair or chili contest at Winterfest
• Accepted Liz Provo's resignation; Kisha Zullo to take over website and social media

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will continue a public hearing regarding a setback variance for an existing structure at 72 East Street. The board will also discuss public hearing procedures and approve minutes from previous meetings.

• Variance request for single-family structure extension at 72 East Street
• Discussion of Public Hearing procedure
• Approval of meeting minutes from 1/27/21, 4/28/21, and 6/23/21

The Zoning Board of Appeals continued the public hearing for Gerald and Janette Vautrain's variance request at 72 East Street to August 25, 2021. The applicant presented amended plans for a smaller garage, but board members raised concerns about insufficient evidence and potential disturbance of a neighboring conservation parcel. The board voted unanimously to continue the hearing to allow the applicant to further amend the plans.

• Approved minutes from 1/27/2021, 4/28/2021, and 6/23/2021 (5-0)
• Continued variance hearing for 72 East Street to 8/25/2021 (5-0)
• Continued discussion of public hearing procedure to 8/25/2021
• Adjourned meeting at 7:04pm (5-0)

City Council - Rules & Government Relations Committee

The scheduled meeting of the Easthampton City Council Rules & Government Relations Committee for July 28, 2021, was cancelled. Proposed agenda items included a resolution regarding psychedelic plants and an amendment to council rules for remote participation.

• Resolution re: De-criminalization of therapeutic psychedelic plants
• Proposed amendment to council rules: Add Rule 20 - Remote Participation
• Approval of minutes not previously approved

Planning Board

The Planning Board will continue a public hearing regarding Clovercraft LLC dba Budzee. The applicant is seeking a Special Permit to operate as a Marijuana Delivery Operator at 17 East Street.

• Special Permit for Clovercraft LLC dba Budzee to operate as a Marijuana Delivery Operator at 17 East Street

The Planning Board approved a special permit for Clovercraft LLC dba Budzee to operate as a Marijuana Delivery Operator at 17 East Street. The approval was granted by roll call vote with all present members in favor, after the applicant agreed to conditions including hours of operation from 8:00 am to 11:00 pm. Chair Belcher-Timme recused himself from the vote.

• Approved special permit for marijuana delivery operator at 17 East Street (all in favor, JBT recused)

City Council - Property Committee

The Property Committee is reviewing a request from Eversource Energy and Verizon New England to modify utility poles along Torrey Street. The proposal includes installing three midspan poles and relocating four existing joint poles to improve system reliability. A public hearing is scheduled for August 4, 2021.

• Request to install three jointly owned midspan utility poles on Torrey Street
• Request to relocate four existing joint poles on Torrey Street
• Public hearing scheduled for August 4, 2021

The Property Committee voted 2-0 to recommend approval of a request from Eversource Energy and Verizon New England to install three jointly owned midspan utility poles and relocate four existing joint poles along Torrey Street. The recommendation will be discussed at a public hearing on Aug. 4, 2021, at the City Council Remote Meeting. No public comments were made, and the minutes from May 3, 2021, were accepted.

• Approved minutes of May 3, 2021 (2-0)
• Recommended approval of Eversource/Verizon utility pole installation and relocation along Torrey Street (2-0)

School Building Committee

The committee will review the minutes from the June 22, 2021, meeting. The agenda includes reports from the OPM and the design team. Public comment is also scheduled.

• Approval of June 22, 2021, meeting minutes
• OPM Report
• Design Team Report

The committee received project updates showing the Maple Elementary-Middle School is about 75% complete. They discussed sidewalk pattern changes, sewer line damage discovered during construction, and the timeline for MSBA reimbursement. Fontaine Brothers will present their request for additional funds due to COVID delays at the next meeting. No formal votes were taken.

• Adjourned meeting unanimously at 6:13 pm
• Scheduled next meeting for August 31, 2021
• Noted Fontaine Brothers will present additional funds request at next meeting

Contributory Retirement Board

The Easthampton Retirement Board will discuss holiday health premiums and a clerk position posting. The meeting also includes approving new fund members and processing deduction transfers.

• Notice of intent to retire Fire Captain Wayne Hennemann
• Approval of new members including police officers and technicians
• Discussion regarding holiday health premiums
• Review of clerk position posting
• Approval of warrants #7 and #7A

The Easthampton Retirement Board approved several routine items, including the transfer of a police officer's deductions to Hampden County, a rollover for a custodian, and the enrollment of five new members. The board also approved the June trial balance and two warrants totaling over $3.9 million. No substantive policy decisions were made; discussions covered meeting format and clerk hiring.

• Approved minutes from June 22, 2021 (unanimous)
• Approved transfer of deductions for Tammy Weidhaas to Hampden County Retirement Board (unanimous)
• Approved rollover of deductions for Christopher Murdock to Edward Jones (unanimous)
• Approved new members: Sheila Gordon-Nieves, Brennan Struthers, Tracy Indyk, Nathan Clifford, Amy Cheverette (unanimous)
• Approved Trial Balance for June (unanimous)
• Approved Warrant #7 for $571,475.31 (unanimous)
• Approved Warrant #7A for $3,346,538.00 (unanimous)
• Adjourned at 2:15 pm (unanimous)

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will meet via Zoom to conduct routine administrative reviews. The meeting includes the review and signing of motor vehicle abatement applications, commitments, and recommitments.

• Review and signing of motor vehicle abatement applications
• Review and signing of motor vehicle commitments
• Review and signing of motor vehicle recommitments

The Board of Assessors approved all motor vehicle abatements, recommitments, and the 2021-3 MV Excise Commitment as presented. The board also accepted the minutes from the June 22, 2021 meeting. All votes were unanimous (3-0).

• Approved MV abatements totaling $4,820.55 (3-0)
• Approved MV recommitments totaling $105.00 (3-0)
• Approved 2021-3 MV Excise Commitment of $81,026.06 (3-0)
• Accepted minutes of 6.22.21 meeting (3-0)

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will hold a public hearing regarding proposed improvements to the existing trail network at 100 Bassett Brook Drive. The meeting also includes reviews of several enforcement actions and updates on various active environmental compliance projects.

• Public hearing for trail network improvements at 100 Bassett Brook Drive
• Review of enforcement actions for properties on O’Neil Street, Westview Terrace, Northampton Street, and South Street
• Updates on Echodale West Orchard Area Improvements
• Discussion regarding the Florence Road conservation restriction
• Compliance updates for projects including Nashawannuck Pond vegetation management and Ferry Street Mill redevelopment

The Easthampton Conservation Commission voted unanimously to continue the public hearing for Lathrop Community's trail improvements at 100 Bassett Brook Drive to August 9, 2021. The commission also approved the July 12 meeting minutes, renewed its MACC membership, and granted permission to remove specific erosion controls at the new school construction site. No other substantive decisions were made; most items were status updates with no changes.

• Continued Lathrop Community trail hearing to Aug 9, 2021 (unanimous)
• Approved July 12, 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved MACC membership renewal
• Granted removal of silt fencing and straw wattle at 200 Park Street school site
• Determined DPW flow device at White Brook culvert requires no further permitting under Category V

Planning Board

The Planning Board will conduct a public hearing regarding a special permit for Clovercraft LLC dba Budzee to operate as a marijuana delivery operator. The board will also consider a request from Lathrop Community Inc for approval of a conservation restriction.

• Special Permit application for marijuana delivery at 17 East Street
• Conservation Restriction approval request for Lathrop Community Inc

The Easthampton Planning Board continued the public hearing for Clovercraft LLC dba Budzee's special permit to operate a marijuana delivery business at 17 East Street to July 27, 2021, because Chair Jesse Belcher-Timme recused and Daniel Hartman was absent, leaving only three members, which was insufficient to vote. The board also approved a Conservation Restriction for Lathrop Community Inc, satisfying a condition of a 1998 special permit, with the restriction covering 66.5 acres to be managed by Kestrel Trust.

• Continued the public hearing for Budzee's special permit to July 27, 2021, due to lack of quorum for a vote.
• Approved the Conservation Restriction for Lathrop Community Inc, satisfying condition 5 of the amended special permit.
• Discussed and agreed on a 15-vehicle trigger for the applicant to provide proof of hybrid/electric/diesel vehicles.
• Noted the Police Department's satisfaction with the initial security plan for Budzee.
• Adjourned the meeting by roll call vote.

School Committee

The Easthampton School Committee will hold an executive session via Zoom. The purpose of the session is to conduct bargaining strategies with the Easthampton Education Teacher's Association.

• Executive session for bargaining strategies with the Easthampton Education Teacher's Association

Council on Aging

The Council on Aging will review financial reports and the Senior Tax Work-Off Program. The meeting includes discussion regarding the Senior Center reopening plan for August 2, 2021. The board will also address a potential 2016 Ford E-350 van donation from PVTA.

• Acceptance of ECOA Financial Report
• Review of Senior Center reopening survey and plan
• Discussion regarding a donated 2016 Ford E-350 wheelchair van
• Updates on the Senior Tax Work-Off Program

Development & Industrial Commission

The Easthampton Development & Industrial Commission will review Planning Department updates regarding school re-use RFPs, wayfinding, and LRRP. The meeting also includes discussions on social media management, downtown transit options, and vacant storefront ordinance language.

• Approval of June 15 and June 29 meeting minutes
• Planning Department updates on school re-use RFPs, wayfinding, and LRRP
• Discussion regarding social media presence and downtown transit options
• Discussion of vacant storefront ordinance language and process

The Economic Development & Industrial Commission approved the June 15 and 29 minutes. The Planning Department reported the school reuse RFP is delayed to May or June 2022, and the city applied for a state grant for building code analysis. The commission discussed wayfinding sign locations, a potential Friday transit shuttle, and social media options, but took no formal votes on these items.

• Approved the June 15 and 29, 2021 meeting minutes
• Noted the school reuse RFP will likely not be released until May or June 2022
• Reported the city applied for a state One Stop for Growth grant for building code analysis
• Discussed wayfinding phase one presentation and sign location planning
• Discussed a potential Friday transit shuttle with Keystone, proposal expected by August meeting
• Discussed social media presence options, with members asked to bring ideas to August meeting
• Reviewed edits to a vacant storefront strategy document based on Arlington's model

Easthampton Cultural Council

The Easthampton Cultural Council will discuss council program updates and a community input survey. The meeting agenda consists of procedural discussion items and updates.

• Council program updates and reception
• Community input survey
• Grantee/liaison contact

The council approved the June meeting minutes. Members reported on grantee communications, including updates on projects by Helena, Matt Medeiros, Dan Russell, Roger Tincknell, Wouter Schievink, Moira Cranshaw, and Audrey Hyvonen. They noted Mill Pond Live will hold two in-person concerts on September 10-11 at Millside Park, and Jen Onopa's project drew 600 attendees. The mural by Priya Nadkarni Green is complete, with a possible reception on August 8 or 15.

• Approved the June meeting minutes.
• Noted grantee/liaison contact updates, including Helena, Matt Medeiros, Dan Russell, Roger Tincknell, Wouter Schievink, Moira Cranshaw, and Audrey Hyvonen.
• Reported Mill Pond Live concerts on September 10-11 at Millside Park, by reservation with limited audience.
• Reported Jen Onopa's project had 600 attendees.
• Confirmed mural completion by Priya Nadkarni Green; discussed a plaque and possible reception on August 8 or 15.
• Reviewed and made small changes to community input survey questions.
• Adjourned the meeting.

Energy Advisory Committee

The committee will review updates from the Solar Ordinance Working Group and research regarding municipal aggregation. Discussion will also include Honeywell RFP, Eversource account monitoring, and Green Community project opportunities.

• Solar Ordinance Working Group update
• Honeywell RFP & Eversource Account Monitoring
• Municipal Aggregation research update
• Green Community project opportunities

Ranked Choice Voting Ad Hoc Committee

The Ranked Choice Voting Ad Hoc Committee is meeting to discuss voter education and publicity strategies. The agenda also includes addressing the committee secretary position and approving minutes.

• Voter education/publicity discussion
• Committee secretary position or rotation
• Approval of minutes

The Ranked Choice Voting Ad-Hoc Committee discussed voter education strategies, including a mailer to all postal addresses and posters for community display and at polls. They also planned outreach to community organizations and members to assist at polling places. No formal decisions were made on these items; the committee accepted the previous meeting's minutes and adjourned.

• Accepted minutes from the last meeting with 4 votes in favor and 2 abstentions.
• Discussed, but did not vote on, a mailer to all Easthampton postal addresses.
• Discussed, but did not vote on, a poster for display in the community and at polls.
• Discussed, but did not vote on, having community members answer questions at the polls.
• Discussed outreach to local reporters, community organizations, and city officials.
• Briefly discussed Dan Gilbert's first poster draft.
• Set the next meeting for August 12, 2021 at 6:00 PM.
• Adjourned at 6:58 PM unanimously.

City Council - Finance Committee

The Easthampton City Council Finance Committee met remotely to discuss two supplemental appropriations and review quarterly fiscal reports. The agenda includes moving $58,083 from Affordable Housing to Valley CDC Housing Predevelopment Assessments and $15,000 from Historic Preservation to the Hampshire-Hampden Canal Historic Survey. Public hearings for these items are scheduled for August 4, 2021.

• Supplemental appropriation: -$58,083 from Affordable Housing to Valley CDC Housing Predevelopment Assessments
• Supplemental appropriation: -$15,000 from Historic Preservation to Hampshire-Hampden Canal Historic Survey
• Review of quarterly fiscal reports from the City Auditor
• Review of quarterly report on Covid-19 grant funding and spending
• Public hearing scheduled for August 4, 2021, regarding the Energy Savings Performance Contract Project

The Finance Committee voted 3-0 to recommend two supplemental appropriations to the full council. The first, $58,083 from Affordable Housing funds, supports Valley CDC planning and predevelopment for 30-50 new affordable rental units. The second, $15,000 from Historic Preservation funds, covers consultants for a regional canal history survey. Both motions passed unanimously.

• Approved 3-0: $58,083 supplemental appropriation from Affordable Housing to Valley CDC for predevelopment assessments of affordable rental housing
• Approved 3-0: $15,000 supplemental appropriation from Historic Preservation for Hampshire-Hampden Canal history survey consultants
• Approved 3-0: Minutes from 05/13, 05/17, 05/20, 05/26, and 06/15 meetings

Licensing Board

The Easthampton Licensing Board will hold a remote meeting to discuss routine matters, including approving minutes from February and April 2021. They will consider a special one-day alcohol license application from The Beer Guy for the Thunder in the Valley event at Molitoris Orchards in August 2021. The board will also receive updates on Penguins Unlimited LLC, a change of manager for OCPS, and guidance on special one-day permits and extension of premises.

• Special one-day application: The Beer Guy for Thunder in the Valley, August 2021, at Molitoris Orchards
• Approval of minutes: February 2021 and April 2021
• Update: Chris Rogers, Penguins Unlimited LLC
• OCPS change of manager update from ABCC
• Discussion: meeting dates/times moving forward

The Licensing Board approved The Beer Guy's special one-day license for Thunder in the Valley in August, with conditions including TIPS-certified ID checks, police details, and parking plans. The board also noted that Old Colony's free public event in its parking lot does not require board approval. No public hearings were held, and the board tabled no items.

• Approved The Beer Guy's special one-day license for Thunder in the Valley (all in favor, with conditions)
• Determined Old Colony's free public event in parking lot is not a licensing matter and needs no board approval
• Approved February and April 2021 meeting minutes (all in favor)
• Set next meeting for August 16, 2021 at 5:00pm via Zoom

Community Relations Committee

The committee will conduct a strategic planning session with Darryck Dean to discuss survey results and presented materials. The meeting also includes follow-up on new members regarding communications from the Mayor dated April 15, 2021.

• Strategic planning session involving survey results
• Follow-up on new member communications from the Mayor
• Approval of minutes from June 29, 2021

The Community Relations Committee approved its June 29 minutes with three in favor and three abstaining. It agreed to keep a strategic planning survey open until July 25 and to post the Disability Experience Survey on its Facebook page. Members decided to include prior correspondence from Jenny Papageorge on the next agenda and to have Patti and Deb work on outreach to the Mayor, stating the committee expects to decide its own scope of work. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved June 29, 2021 minutes (3-0, 3 abstaining)
• Extended strategic planning survey to July 25, 2021
• Agreed to post Disability Experience Survey on Facebook
• Decided to include Jenny Papageorge correspondence on next agenda
• Patti and Deb to work on outreach to Mayor regarding committee role

Conservation Commission

The Commission will continue a public hearing regarding trail network improvements by Lathrop Community, Inc. The meeting also includes updates on environmental compliance projects and enforcement actions.

• Public hearing for trail improvements at 100 Bassett Brook Drive
• Enforcement actions for properties on O’Neil Street, Westview Terrace, Northampton Street, and South Street
• Compliance update for invasive plant management at 100 Bassett Brook Drive
• Updates on the Ferry Street Mill Redevelopment Project
• Review of large-scale solar project at 232 Park Street

The Easthampton Conservation Commission voted unanimously to continue the public hearing for Lathrop Community's Notice of Intent for trail improvements at 100 Bassett Brook Drive to July 26, 2021. The Commission also approved the June 28 meeting minutes and issued a letter of support for a LAND Grant application for land acquisition at Reservation Road. No enforcement actions were updated, and several active permits were reported with no changes.

• Approved June 28, 2021 meeting minutes as written.
• Continued the public hearing for Lathrop Community's trail improvements to July 26, 2021.
• Issued a letter of support for the Planning Department's LAND Grant application for land acquisition at Reservation Road.
• Denied a request to suspend reporting requirements for River Valley Cooperative Market due to an existing soil stockpile.
• Scheduled a site visit for July 19 to evaluate Echodale West Orchard Area conditions.
• Scheduled a site visit for July 15 to inspect erosion controls at the new school construction site.
• Noted no updates for four enforcement actions (CFN Properties, Cernak, Autumn Properties, B. Gawle).
• Discussed enforcement of 'in perpetuity' conditions, with further discussion deferred to next meeting.

Housing Authority

The board will review and approve the 2022 Capital Improvement Plan and discuss several housing maintenance projects. Updates include completed water tank replacements at Glad Acres and upcoming porch repairs at Sunrise Manor. The meeting also includes a report on recent DHCD inspections.

• Review and approval of the 2022 EHA Capital Improvement Plan
• Roof, gutter, and insulation replacements for six homes at Glad Acres
• Scheduled porch repairs at Sunrise Manor starting in August
• Completion of six gas hot water tank replacements at Glad Acres
• Financial report showing total funds of $670,284.07 as of May 31, 2021

The Easthampton Housing Authority approved its 2022 Capital Improvement Plan and the $51,836.93 warrant. The board also accepted the June minutes, May financial report, and 2nd quarter financial and MOD reports. The candle policy was left unchanged, and ongoing boiler issues at Sunrise Manor were discussed.

• Approved 2022 Capital Improvement Plan (unanimous)
• Approved warrant of $51,836.93 (unanimous)
• Accepted June 14, 2021 minutes as amended (unanimous)
• Accepted May 31, 2021 financial report (unanimous)
• Accepted 2nd quarter financial and MOD reports (unanimous)
• Left candle policy unchanged

City Council - Rules & Government Relations Committee

The City Council Rules & Government Relations Committee is meeting to discuss several resolutions and rule amendments. Topics include the decriminalization of therapeutic psychedelic plants and updates to council rules regarding remote participation.

• Resolution re: De-criminalization of therapeutic psychedelic plants
• Proposed amendment for Rule 20 - Remote Participation
• Resolution proposal for a Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILOT) program
• Council Rule requiring Anti-Bias Training
• Amendment to Council Rule 11H regarding the appointment process

The Rules and Government Relations Committee approved amendments to council rules, including adding Rule 20 for remote participation and updating Rule 11H for mayoral appointments to multi-member boards. A resolution on decriminalizing therapeutic psychedelic plants was deferred to the next meeting. Two items, the PILOT program and Anti-Bias Training, were removed without prejudice.

• Approved minutes from 03/11/2021 (2-0)
• Approved minutes from 04/01/2021 (3-0)
• Deferred resolution on decriminalization of therapeutic psychedelic plants
• Approved amendment to add Rule 20 on remote participation (3-0)
• Removed PILOT program without prejudice (3-0)
• Removed Anti-Bias Training without prejudice (3-0)
• Approved amendment to Rule 11H on appointment process (3-0)

City Council

The City Council will conduct public hearings regarding amendments to the stormwater management and illicit discharge ordinances. The council will also consider adding a new article for ranked choice voting. Other items include pole relocations on Torrey Street and several supplemental funding appropriations.

• Public hearing on Ranked Choice Voting ordinance amendment
• Public hearing on Stormwater Management and Illicit Discharge ordinances
• Pole relocation request for three new and four relocated poles on Torrey St.
• $58,083 appropriation to ValleyCDC Housing Predevelopment Assessments
• $15,000 appropriation for Hampshire-Hampden Canal Historic Survey

The Easthampton City Council unanimously voted to amend city ordinances to add a new Article VI establishing Ranked Choice Voting (RCV) for mayoral and precinct city councilor elections when there are two or more qualified candidates. The council also unanimously approved amendments to the Stormwater Management and Illicit Discharge ordinances to comply with EPA regulations. Additionally, the council approved a $17,567.95 transfer from the Reserve Fund to cover city and school Medicare tax bills, and referred two Community Preservation Act funding requests for affordable housing planning and canal preservation to the Finance Committee.

• Approved amendments to Chapter 12 (Stormwater Management and Illicit Discharge ordinances) to comply with EPA regulations
• Approved a new Chapter 2, Article VI establishing Ranked Choice Voting for mayoral and precinct city councilor elections
• Approved a $17,567.95 transfer from the Reserve Fund to cover city and school Medicare tax bills
• Referred two CPA Fund requests ($58,083 for affordable housing planning, $15,000 for canal preservation) to the Finance Committee and scheduled public hearings for Aug. 4
• Defeated the appointment of Brad Riley to the Housing Authority because he did not meet the union representative qualification
• Extended the review of the Mayor's Pledge to Reimagine Policing Report by 90 days
• Referred a request to review the safety of the South Street sidewalk at the Main Street intersection to the Public Safety Committee
• Scheduled a public hearing on plastics ordinance amendments for Aug. 4

Board of Public Works

The Board of Public Works will review and vote on an agricultural water meter application for 49 Hendrick Street. The agenda also includes the approval of June 2, 2021, meeting minutes and reports from the Mayor and Director.

• Review and vote on agricultural water meter application for Hendrick Harvest LLC at 49 Hendrick Street
• Approval of June 2, 2021, meeting minutes
• Director's report

The Board of Public Works voted to approve an agricultural meter for Hendrick Harvest LLC at 49 Hendrick Street. The June 2, 2021 meeting minutes were held for review and will be voted on at the next meeting. The Director reported on Main Street paving plans, Charles Street sewer work, and a school sewer connection issue.

• Approved agricultural meter for Hendrick Harvest LLC at 49 Hendrick Street
• Held approval of June 2, 2021 meeting minutes until next meeting

City Council - Public Safety Committee

The Public Safety Committee will continue its review of the Mayor’s Pledge to Reimagining Policing. The meeting also includes Fire Department updates and the approval of previous minutes.

• Review of the Mayor's Pledge to Reimagining Policing
• Fire Department updates
• Approval of minutes not previously approved

The Public Safety Committee continued its review of the Mayor's Pledge to Reimagine Policing, with Councilor Gomez tasked to develop recommendations for the Mayor based on the report and state updates. The committee also received a presentation from Fire Chief Chris Norris on department staffing, budget, and operations, including the hiring of new firefighters and paramedics to reach full staffing. No formal votes were taken on these items.

• Continued review of the Mayor's Pledge to Reimagine Policing, with Councilor Gomez tasked to develop recommendations for the Mayor.
• Received Fire Department update from Chief Chris Norris on staffing, budget, and operations.
• Noted that the fire department is now at full staffing with 31 personnel, compliant with SAFER grant.
• Heard public concerns about the CRC's capacity, emergency vehicle response times, and public records access.
• Adjourned the meeting unanimously.

Commission on Disability

The Commission on Disability is meeting to review progress on several initiatives. The agenda includes an update on the survey soft launch and discussions regarding base level funding and commission goals.

• Update on survey soft launch
• Discussion of base level funding
• Possible bank account for Round up program
• Easthampton TV closed captioning update
• Approval of Community Involvement subcommittee calendar

Easthampton City Arts Public Art Subcommittee

The Public Art Subcommittee is meeting to discuss a Request for Proposals (RFP) for a commissioned sculpture. The project is intended for the Ferry Street Gateway to the Mills.

• RFP for commissioned sculpture at Ferry Street Gateway to the Mills

The Public Art Subcommittee reviewed the draft Request for Proposals (RFP) for the Commissioned Sculpture at the Ferry Street Gateway to the Mills. Marcia moved to approve the RFP, Denise seconded, and the committee approved it unanimously.

• Approved the RFP for the Commissioned Sculpture at the Ferry Street Gateway to the Mills (unanimous).

Easthampton Community Garden

The Community Garden Committee meeting consists of procedural reports and committee updates. The agenda includes reviews of operations, outreach, and the Donation Garden.

• Treasurer’s report and endorsement of purchase orders
• Operations report
• Outreach report
• Donation Garden report
• Gardener feedback

The Easthampton Community Garden Committee met remotely on July 1, 2021. Members unanimously adopted the previous meeting's minutes. The treasurer's report was tabled, with no report presented. The committee discussed operations, outreach, and the donation garden, but made no other formal decisions.

• Adopted the previous meeting's minutes unanimously
• Tabled the treasurer's report and endorsement of purchase orders

Ordinance Review Committee

The Ordinance Review Ad-Hoc Committee will discuss Chapter 13 – Welcoming Community Trust Ordinance. The committee will also review the Housing Production Plan as it relates to zoning ordinances. Members will share new findings from previous meetings.

• Review of Chapter 13 – Welcoming Community Trust Ordinance
• Discussion of Housing Production Plan regarding zoning ordinances
• Sharing of new findings from previous meetings

Easthampton City Arts Public Art Subcommittee

The subcommittee is discussing a Request for Proposals (RFP) for a new sculpture. The project is located at the Ferry Street Gateway to the Mills.

• RFP for Commissioned Sculpture at the Ferry Street Gateway to the Mills

The subcommittee incorporated suggested edits into the RFP for the Ferry Street Gateway sculpture and, after lengthy discussion, changed the word 'promote' to 'supports' in the Artist Statement section to avoid implying preference. Not all questions were resolved, so an additional meeting was scheduled for July 6, 2021, at 4:00 pm.

• Changed 'promote' to 'supports' in the RFP's Statement of Identity section
• Scheduled an additional meeting for 7-6-21 at 4:00 pm to address remaining questions

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold a public hearing regarding a request to modify an existing special permit at 69 Ferry Street to include retail and service uses. The board will also discuss potential amendments to the Beacon Solar, LLC special permit at 50 Florence Road.

• Public hearing for use modifications at 69 Ferry Street
• Review of solar facility permit amendments for Beacon Solar, LLC at 50 Florence Road
• Approval of June 15, 2021, Planning Board minutes

The Planning Board approved a modification to a 2006 Special Permit for 69 Ferry Street, allowing new retail and service uses, with restaurant and bar uses struck from the permit. The board also determined that amendments to Beacon Solar's 2019 Special Permit were minor, requiring no new public hearing. Both decisions were unanimous.

• Approved modification of 2006 Special Permit for 69 Ferry Street to include retail and service uses, with restaurant and bar uses removed (unanimous)
• Determined amendments to Beacon Solar's 2019 Special Permit (50 Florence Road) as minor, no public hearing required (unanimous)
• Approved June 15, 2021 Planning Board minutes (JBT abstained, all others in favor)

Development & Industrial Commission

The Easthampton Development & Industrial Commission is continuing work on a draft strategy and ordinance language regarding vacant storefronts. The commission will also review a cover letter approach and discuss registry options.

• Drafting ordinance language for vacant storefronts
• Review of registry approach and cover letter strategy

The Easthampton Development & Industrial Commission held a special meeting to discuss a proposed vacant storefront ordinance, but took no formal votes. Members considered sending letters to property owners, potential fines, and alternatives like municipal liens, while also discussing how to handle condemned buildings. Action items were assigned to members for further research, including consulting on public art options and checking inspection costs. The next regular meeting is scheduled for July 20, 2021.

• Discussed sending letters to business owners about vacant storefronts, but no action taken
• Assigned GEM to talk to Burns Maxey at Old Town Hall about public art
• Assigned CK to check whether inspections are line items and cost-related
• Assigned GEM to write to Ordinance Committee to request agenda time
• Adjourned at 5 p.m.

City Council - Ordinance Committee

The City Council Ordinance Committee will discuss proposed changes to city ordinances. These include a prohibition on single-use plastics and updates to stormwater management and illicit discharge detection regulations.

• Proposed amendments to prohibit single-use plastics (Sec. 6-21)
• Proposal to amend the Stormwater Management Ordinance (Chapter 12, Art. VII)
• Proposal to amend the Illicit Discharge Detection & Elimination Ordinance (Chapter 12, Art. VIII)

The Ordinance Committee reviewed minor amendments to the single-use plastics ordinance and made no recommended changes. A motion to recommend the amendments passed unanimously (3-0). The meeting was procedural and adjourned at 18:11.

• Recommended single-use plastics ordinance amendments (3-0)
• No changes recommended to the amendments
• Adjourned meeting (3-0)

Community Relations Committee

The committee will hold a strategic planning session with Darryck Dean. Members will also discuss a proposal to establish a subcommittee for bylaws. Additionally, the committee plans to discuss a letter from the Mayor sent on April 15, 2021.

• Strategic planning session with Darryck Dean
• Proposal to establish a bylaws subcommittee
• Discussion of a letter from the Mayor dated April 15, 2021

The Community Relations Committee met remotely and approved minutes from four prior meetings. They held a strategic planning session with Darryck Dean, reviewing a PowerPoint on community relations and discussing next steps, including a Survey Monkey poll for members to prioritize committee goals. The deadline for the poll is July 9, 2021, and the next meeting is set for July 13, 2021.

• Approved minutes from March 2, 2021, unanimously.
• Approved minutes from March 16, 2021, work session, unanimously.
• Approved minutes from April 6, 2021, unanimously.
• Approved minutes from May 4, 2021, with one abstention.
• Set July 9, 2021, as the deadline for the Survey Monkey poll on CRC priorities.
• Scheduled next meeting for July 13, 2021, at 6:30 p.m.

Conservation Commission

The Commission will review a stormwater permit application for a new trail network at 96 East Street. The meeting also includes a hearing for trail improvements at 100 Bassett Brook Drive and updates on various environmental compliance projects.

• Stormwater Permit application for Mt. Tom North Trailhead Park
• Notice of Intent for trail improvements at 100 Bassett Brook Drive
• Enforcement actions regarding CFN Properties LLC and others
• Aquatic vegetation management at Nashawannuck Pond
• Compliance updates for active environmental projects

The Easthampton Conservation Commission issued a Stormwater Permit with conditions for the new trail network at Mt. Tom North Trailhead Park, 96 East Street, after confirming no changes since the prior meeting. The Commission also continued a public hearing for Lathrop Community's trail improvements at 100 Bassett Brook Drive to July 12, 2021, and unanimously recommended that the City Council sign a Conservation Restriction for a large portion of the Lathrop Community parcel on Florence Road. Additionally, the Commission approved several modifications to the Order of Conditions for a new single-family home at 108 Oliver Street, including striking certain conditions and adjusting reporting requirements.

• Approved Stormwater Permit for Mt. Tom North Trailhead Park trail network at 96 East Street with conditions, unanimous.
• Continued public hearing for Lathrop Community trail improvements at 100 Bassett Brook Drive to July 12, 2021, unanimous.
• Recommended to City Council that the Conservation Restriction for Lathrop Community on Florence Road be signed, unanimous.
• Approved modifications to Order of Conditions for 108 Oliver Street single-family home, including striking conditions 16(b), 16(c), 16(d), 16(g), 16(h), 23, 28, 37, 53-57, 60, and 65, with some adjustments.
• Approved meeting minutes for April 26, May 10, May 24, and June 14, 2021, with one abstention on May 24 minutes.
• Adopted meeting procedure changes: 15-minute applicant presentations, 5-minute public comments, and earlier document distribution.

Affordable & Fair Housing Partnership

The Easthampton Affordable & Fair Housing Partnership will review minutes from April and May meetings. The board will also discuss recent discussions with Mayor LaChapelle and Councilor Peake regarding Affordable Housing Trusts and other housing support ideas.

• Approval of April and May meeting minutes
• Updates from City Council and CPA meetings
• Discussion on Affordable Housing Trusts and initiatives to support affordable housing
• Advocacy updates

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will consider a variance regarding setback requirements for a property at 72 East Street. The board also plans to discuss public hearing procedures and approve minutes from January and April 2021.

• Variance request for setback requirements at 72 East Street
• Discussion of Public Hearing procedure
• Approval of minutes from 1/27/21 and 4/28/21

The Easthampton Zoning Board of Appeals voted 5-0 to continue the public hearing for a variance at 72 East Street to July 28, 2021, after the applicant agreed to provide more information about the property line. The board also discussed public hearing procedures and deferred approval of prior meeting minutes. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Continued variance hearing for 72 East Street to July 28, 2021 (5-0)
• Deferred approval of 1/27/2021 and 4/28/2021 meeting minutes to next meeting
• Adjourned meeting at 6:41pm (5-0)

Board of Health

The Board of Health will discuss ongoing inspection concerns regarding Captain Jack’s. The board will also consider HACCP variance requests for Pangea Sushi and River Valley Co-Op. Additionally, the board will review a draft email for daycares.

• Inspection concerns at Captain Jack’s
• HACCP Variance Request: Pangea Sushi
• HACCP Variance Request: River Valley Co-Op
• Review of draft email for daycares by PHN

The Board of Health approved HACCP variance requests for Pangea Sushi and River Valley Co-Op, effective June 24, 2021, pending final review by Aimee Petrosky. The board also discussed ongoing inspection concerns at Captain Jack's, with the health director recommending monthly inspections and a prepaid pest control contract. The meeting was ended early due to Zoom bombing.

• Approved HACCP variances for Pangea Sushi and River Valley Co-Op, pending final review by AP, effective June 24, 2021.
• Discussed Captain Jack's inspection concerns; no formal action taken, but health director recommended monthly inspections and prepaid pest control.
• Reviewed draft email for daycares regarding COVID regulation changes; no vote taken.

Parks & Recreation Commission

The Easthampton Parks and Recreation Commission will meet to discuss the FY2021/FY2022 budget. The agenda includes reviews of pavilion capacity for 2021 rentals, Millside Park events, and Camp Nonotuck programming. The commission will also address field fees, policies, lifeguard shortages, and COVID-19 restrictions.

• FY2021/FY2022 budget
• Pavilion capacity for 2021 rentals
• Millside Park events
• Park field fees and policies
• Lifeguard shortage and COVID-19 restrictions

The commission approved amendments to allow 100% capacity at rented pavilions and a 1,200-person capacity for Millside Park events, with ticketing for contact tracing. They also approved using the Perpetual Care Fund to buy a new $8,900 mower, increased field usage fees, and accepted Ron Hiltpold's resignation with recognition of his 35 years of service. The pool will not reopen due to a lifeguard shortage.

• Approved 100% capacity for rented pavilions (unanimous)
• Approved 1,200-person capacity for Millside Park events (unanimous, one abstention)
• Approved $8,900 zero-turn mower purchase from Perpetual Care Fund (unanimous)
• Approved increase in field usage fees (unanimous)
• Accepted Ron Hiltpold's resignation and recognized his 35 years of service (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of April 28 and May 19 as amended (unanimous, one abstention)

Easthampton City Arts Public Art Subcommittee

The subcommittee will discuss an RFP for a commissioned sculpture at the Ferry Street Gateway to the Mills. Members will also determine bike rack locations at Union & Main Street.

• RFP for Commissioned Sculpture at the Ferry Street Gateway to the Mills
• Determining bike rack location at Union & Main Street
• Juror Committee make-up
• Approval of May 19 minutes

The Easthampton City Arts Public Art Subcommittee approved the May 19 meeting minutes. The review of the draft RFP for the Commissioned Sculpture at the Ferry Street Gateway to the Mills was extended, and a special meeting was scheduled for June 30th at 4:00 to continue the review. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved the May 19 meeting minutes
• Extended review of the draft RFP for the Commissioned Sculpture at the Ferry Street Gateway to the Mills
• Scheduled a special meeting for June 30th at 4:00 to continue the RFP review

School Building Committee

The Maple Elementary School Building Committee will review project updates and reports. The agenda includes an OPM report and a Design Team report regarding FF&E discussion. The committee will also approve the minutes from May 25, 2021.

• Approval of May 25, 2021, minutes
• OPM Report
• Design Team Report regarding FF&E discussion

The School Building Committee met virtually and accepted the minutes from the May 25 meeting. The owner's project manager reported that exterior brick is complete except for one area, and the roundabout at Park Street is open to traffic with final paving scheduled for late August. The committee discussed possible tours for the School Committee and other city officials, and the next public video will focus on a finished classroom. The meeting adjourned at 5:41 pm.

• Accepted the minutes of the 5/25/21 meeting unanimously.
• Noted the roundabout at Park St. is constructed and open for thru traffic, with final paving set for later this summer.
• Discussed possible tours for School Committee (on 7/13 @ 4pm) and other city officials.
• Adjourned the meeting at 5:41 pm unanimously.

Contributory Retirement Board

The board will approve meeting minutes and Warrant #6. Discussions include the clerk position posting and holiday premiums. The board will also process new member enrollments and retirement service transfers.

• Approval of new members Richard Gallo, Cassie Tragert, and Kevin Truong
• Review of clerk position posting
• Retirement service buyback request for Melanie Kiniry
• Transfer of deductions for Michael Safron and Alan Schadel
• Approval of Warrant #6

The Easthampton Retirement Board approved the minutes from prior meetings, re-appointed Connie Sullivan as a board member, approved credible service for Melanie Kiniry, approved transfers for two members, approved three new members, and approved the May trial balance and Warrant #6 for $593,331.27. The board also voted to forward the Mayor's email about MEDEX Holiday Premium to the attorney for an opinion, with one abstention.

• Approved minutes from May 25 and June 2, 2021 meetings (unanimous).
• Re-appointed Connie Sullivan as 5th member for 2021-2024 (unanimous).
• Approved 5 years 8 months credible service for Melanie Kiniry upon payment (unanimous).
• Approved transfers for Michael Safron and Alan Schadel to other retirement boards (unanimous).
• Approved new members Richard Gallo, Cassie Tragert, and Kevin Truong (unanimous).
• Approved May Trial Balance (unanimous).
• Approved Warrant #6 for $593,331.27 (unanimous).
• Voted to forward Mayor's email to attorney (4-0-1, Gallant abstaining).

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will meet to review and sign several administrative items. This includes reviewing motor vehicle abatement applications and recommitments. The board will also review the FY2022 real estate, CPA, and personal property warrants.

• FY2022 real estate, CPA, and personal property warrants
• Motor vehicle abatement applications
• Motor vehicle recommitments

The Board of Assessors approved all motor vehicle abatements and recommitments, plus the FY2022 preliminary warrants for real estate, CPA, and personal property. The board also accepted the minutes from the May 25 meeting. All votes were 3-0.

• Approved minutes of 5.25.21 (3-0)
• Approved MV abatements totaling $4,652.97 (3-0)
• Approved MV recommitments totaling $121.26 (3-0)
• Approved FY2022 preliminary RE, CPA, and PP warrants totaling $15,421,797.52 (3-0)

Energy Advisory Committee

The Energy Advisory Committee will review minutes from the May 18, 2021 meeting. The agenda includes discussions regarding the Honeywell RFP, Eversource account monitoring, and updates on municipal aggregation research. A solar ordinance review is currently on hold pending a subcommittee meeting.

• Review/approval of May 18, 2021 meeting minutes
• Honeywell RFP and Eversource account monitoring discussion
• Update on municipal aggregation research
• Committee social media posts and shared document use

Manhan Rail Trail Committee

The committee will discuss a tree removal proposal from Eversource at the Route 5 end of the trail. Members will also receive updates on trail maintenance, including landscaping and graffiti removal. The meeting includes discussions regarding street lights near Williston.

• Eversource tree removal proposal at Rte. 5 end of the trail
• Update on hiring a landscaper for trail mowing
• Trail maintenance updates including root removal and paving
• Discussion on street lights along the trail toward Williston
• Pioneer Valley bike week in September

The committee approved the removal of four ash trees and a Norway Maple that may interfere with Eversource's wires and substation near Route 5, and requested that Eversource consider saving three cherry trees. They also approved a new mowing contract with the low bidder at $150 per mowing session, and discussed a proposal to transfer trail maintenance to the city's Parks Department or DPW.

• Approved removal of four ash trees and one Norway Maple due to potential interference with Eversource infrastructure and trail root damage.
• Requested Eversource to evaluate whether three cherry trees can be preserved.
• Approved new mowing contract with low bidder at $150 per mowing session for three sections.
• Noted Truehart will repave root damage areas at an estimated cost of $4,500-$5,000.
• Discussed initiating talks with city to transfer trail maintenance from Friends of the Manhan Rail Trail to Parks Department or DPW.

Ranked Choice Voting Ad Hoc Committee

The committee will discuss the Ranked Choice Voting ordinance ahead of a City Council public hearing on July 7, 2021. Members will also begin discussions regarding voter education and publicity efforts. The agenda includes administrative tasks such as approving minutes and addressing the committee secretary position.

• Discussion of Ranked Choice Voting ordinance
• City Council public hearing on RCV ordinance scheduled for July 7, 2021
• Voter education and publicity discussion
• Committee secretary position or rotation

The Ranked Choice Voting Implementation Ad Hoc Committee voted unanimously to accept the final ordinance and submit it, along with tabulation settings and a sample ballot, to the City Council for a public hearing. The committee also discussed voter education and publicity, including a possible double-sided mailer and inviting community stakeholders to future meetings.

• Accepted final RCV ordinance and submitted to City Council for public hearing (unanimous)
• Approved tabulation settings as revised (unanimous)
• Agreed to submit sample ballot with ordinance (unanimous)

Community Preservation Act Committee

The CPA Committee will consider applications for affordable housing site assessments and a historic survey of the Hampden-Hampshire Canal. The meeting also includes discussions regarding Reservation Road open space acquisition and a library deed restriction. Administrative business includes approving minutes from April 15, 2021.

• Valley CDC predevelopment assessments for affordable housing sites
• Hampden-Hampshire Canal historic survey
• Reservation Road open space acquisition
• Emily Williston Library historic preservation deed restriction

The Community Preservation Act Committee approved $58,083 for Valley CDC to conduct predevelopment assessments for affordable housing sites, with 7 in favor, 0 against, 1 abstention, and 1 absent. They also approved $15,000 for a regional canal historic survey (8-0, 1 absent) and a letter of support for a potential Reservation Road open space acquisition, matching state grant up to 32% (around $125,000). The minutes of the April 15 meeting were tabled, and a library deed restriction discussion was postponed to July.

• Approved $58,083 for Valley CDC predevelopment assessment for affordable housing (7-0, 1 abstention)
• Approved $15,000 for Hampden-Hampshire Canal historic survey (8-0, 1 absent)
• Approved letter of support for Reservation Road open space acquisition, matching state grant up to 32% (around $125,000) (8-0, 1 absent)
• Tabled approval of April 15, 2021 meeting minutes
• Tabled Emily Williston Library historic preservation deed restriction discussion to July meeting

City Council

The City Council will hold public hearings regarding the proposed FY 2022 municipal operating budget and several zoning ordinance amendments. The agenda also includes supplemental appropriations for staff workshops and well repairs.

• Public hearing on the FY 2022 municipal operating budget
• $27,000 appropriation for “Undoing Racism” workshops
• $60,000 appropriation for Nonotuck Well pump motor repairs
• Zoning amendments for marijuana delivery and courier categories
• Zoning changes to allow accessory apartments by right in all districts

The City Council unanimously approved the FY2022 municipal budget totaling $45,900,466.29, with no significant increases and no layoffs. The council also approved three zoning amendments: allowing cannabis delivery operators and couriers, permitting accessory dwelling units by right, and allowing multifamily housing with 15% affordable housing by plan approval. Additionally, the council approved a $48,205.35 transfer for cable-related expenses, a $27,000 appropriation for Undoing Racism workshops, and a $60,000 appropriation for Nonotuck Well pump repairs.

• Approved FY2022 municipal budget of $45,900,466.29, with no significant increases and no layoffs.
• Approved $48,205.35 transfer from PEG Access Account to allow spending for cable-related purposes.
• Appropriated $27,000 from Cannabis Stabilization Fund for mandatory Undoing Racism workshops for city staff.
• Appropriated $60,000 from Enterprise Retained Earnings for Nonotuck Well pump motor repairs.
• Amended zoning ordinance to allow cannabis delivery operators and couriers, with special permit and pre-certification requirements.
• Amended zoning ordinance to allow accessory dwelling units by right, with a 900-square-foot limit for new buildings.
• Amended zoning ordinance to allow multifamily housing with 15% affordable housing by plan approval in specified districts.
• Approved conflict of interest disclosure for Andrew Lawrence as Camp Nonotuck Camp Director.

Planning Board

The Planning Board and Tree Warden will hold a joint public hearing regarding an application by Walter Marek. The request seeks to amend a 2020 Special Permit for multi-family housing at the end of Colonial Ave and authorize the removal of an over-mature tree in the public right-of-way.

• Amendment to 2020 Special Permit for Multi-family Housing (Map 128, Parcel 121)
• Removal of an over-mature tree in the public right-of-way
• Approval of Planning Board minutes from May 11, May 18, and June 1, 2021

The Easthampton Planning Board approved an amendment to the 2020 Special Permit for Multifamily Housing at the end of Colonial Ave (Map 128, Parcel 121) to allow removal of an over-mature silver maple in the public right-of-way. The tree removal was deemed necessary for power line connection, and the board supported the action, with discussion about adding replacement trees. The board also approved minutes from three prior meetings.

• Approved amendment to Special Permit to remove over-mature tree (unanimous roll call)
• Approved minutes for May 11, 2021 (unanimous)
• Approved minutes for May 18, 2021 (unanimous)
• Approved minutes for June 1, 2021 (unanimous)

City Council - Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will discuss interdepartmental transfers and supplemental appropriations. This includes funding for city staff workshops and repairs to the Nonotuck Well pump motor. The committee will also review quarterly fiscal reports and the FY22 City Budget.

• $48,205.35 transfer from PEG Access Receipts Reserved Account
• $27,000 for 'Undoing Racism' workshops
• $60,000 for Nonotuck Well pump motor repairs
• Review of FY22 City Budget
• Quarterly report on Covid-19 grant funding and spending

The Finance Committee voted 3-0 to recommend the amended FY22 budget of $45,900,466 to the full council. It also recommended supplemental appropriations of $27,000 for staff Undoing Racism workshops and $60,000 for Nonotuck Well pump motor repairs, plus a $48,205.35 transfer from the PEG Access Receipts Reserved Account for cable-related purposes. All motions passed 3-0.

• Approved recommendation of $27,000 supplemental appropriation for Undoing Racism workshops (3-0)
• Approved recommendation of $60,000 supplemental appropriation for Nonotuck Well pump motor repairs (3-0)
• Approved recommendation of $48,205.35 transfer from PEG Access Receipts Reserved Account for cable purposes (3-0)
• Approved recommendation of amended FY22 budget of $45,900,466 to full council (3-0)

Development & Industrial Commission

The Easthampton Development & Industrial Commission is meeting to continue designing draft strategy and ordinance language regarding vacant storefronts. The agenda also includes updates from the Planning Department and approval of May 18, 2021, meeting minutes.

• Drafting strategy and ordinance language for vacant storefronts
• Progress on creating a draft list of vacant properties
• Review of Arlington bylaw language for revision
• Updates from the Planning Department

The Economic Development & Industrial Commission met June 15, 2021, and approved the May 18 and June 1 minutes. City Planner Jeff Bagg reported on the Local Recovery planning meeting, including a proposed $100K MassWorks Grant application for environmental, structural, and zoning studies, and noted the next City Council meeting will vote on multi-family and affordable zoning amendments. The commission discussed establishing a more concrete social media presence and strategies for vacant storefronts, including a letter draft, but took no formal votes on these items.

• Approved the May 18 and June 1, 2021 meeting minutes
• Discussed applying for a $100K MassWorks Grant for shovel-ready projects (no vote)
• Discussed social media presence strategy; Gwynne will write proposals (no vote)
• Discussed vacant storefront letter draft and spreadsheet (no vote)

Conservation Commission

The commission will hold public hearings regarding a large-scale solar project at 50 Florence Road and trail improvements at 100 Bassett Brook Drive. They will also review a stormwater application for a new trail network at Mt. Tom North Trailhead Park. The meeting includes updates on several active environmental permits and enforcement actions.

• Public hearing for large-scale solar project at 50 Florence Road
• Stormwater permit for new trail network at Mt. Tom North Trailhead Park
• Notice of Intent for trail improvements at 100 Bassett Brook Drive
• Review of enforcement actions and active environmental permits

The Commission issued an Order of Conditions with special conditions for a new 5 MW solar facility at 50 Florence Road, after a continued public hearing. The project will disturb 3.2 acres within the 100-foot Buffer Zone, with no impacts to the 200-foot Riverfront Area. Conditions include verification of the invasive management plan and use of a pollinator seed mix. The Commission also continued a stormwater permit hearing for the Mt. Tom North Trailhead Park to June 28th.

• Issued Order of Conditions for solar project at 50 Florence Road (MassDEP #151-0314) with special conditions, including invasive plant management verification and pollinator seed mix.
• Continued stormwater permit hearing for Mt. Tom North Trailhead Park at 96 East Street to June 28, 2021.
• Issued Certificate of Compliance for invalid Order of Conditions (MassDEP #151-0304) for 50 Florence Road, as no work was completed.
• Approved 3-year extension for Order of Conditions (MassDEP #151-0287) for Loven Properties at Off O'Neill Street.
• Ratified two Emergency Certifications: Glendale Street bridge repair and White Brook culvert blockage.
• Approved resolution to formalize boundary situation at 99 Hendrick Street.
• Continued discussion on striking conditions from Order of Conditions for 108 Oliver Street to June 28, 2021.
• Agreed to have Commissioners Whittemore and Busa join Solar Working Group.

Housing Authority

The Easthampton Housing Authority will review financial reports and revised income limits. The board also plans to elect a replacement for the Community Preservation Act Committee. Additionally, members will consider approving Juneteenth as an official holiday for employees.

• Electing a new member to the CPA Committee
• Reviewing revised income limits (PHN 2021-06)
• Approving Juneteenth as a paid holiday for employees
• Discussing public housing innovation funding availability (PHN 2021-08)
• Reviewing a letter regarding sex offenders in elderly communities