Springfield public meetings in 2023

License Commission - Regular

The Springfield License Commission will hold a virtual public hearing to consider new and continued license petitions, including a new all-alcohol restaurant license for Republica Hookah Lounge, manager changes for several establishments, and informational hearings on complaints. The board will also discuss common victualler tax failures and review incident reports.

• New Annual All Alcohol Restaurant License for Republica Hookah Lounge at 762 Boston Rd
• Change of manager for John Boyle O'Reilly Club at 33 Progress Ave
• Change of manager and ownership for Pride at 77 West St and 1225 Parker St
• Informational hearing for Hatwood Auto Sales at 50 Chapel St (complaint)
• Pre-hearing conference for Merrill's Superette at 62 High St (receiving stolen property)

Commission on Disability - Regular

The Springfield Commission on Disability met on December 26, 2023, at Mason Square Library. The agenda consisted primarily of procedural items, with the only specific topic listed under 'Other' being contact information on the state's website regarding housing issues. No specific decisions, votes, or dollar amounts were recorded in the provided text.

• Discussion of contact information at the State's Website for Cities and Towns on HP issues

Historical Commission - Regular

The Springfield Historical Commission will hold public hearings on 12 petitions for changes to historic properties, including replacement windows, solar panel installations, and porch renovations. The commission will also discuss preservation of significant buildings, preservation restrictions, and hold annual elections and a public speak-out session.

• Petition 7787: 83 Buckingham Street replacement windows
• Petition 7783: 80 Cornell Street solar panels
• Petition 7784: 251 Longhill Street solar panels
• Petition 7781: 421 Maple Street solar panels
• Petition 7816: 1 Allen Street telecommunication antenna modifications

Board of Public Works - Regular

The Board of Public Works is holding a regular meeting with a public hearing on Eversource's request to install underground vaults and aboveground cabinets for gas facilities at the intersection of Allen Street and Sumner Avenue. The agenda also includes call to order, minutes, and old/new business items.

• Public hearing: Eversource to install 3 underground vault structures and 2 aboveground cabinet gas facilities at Allen Street and Sumner Ave

Board of Police Commissioners - Regular

The Board of Police Commissioners is meeting to consider disciplinary action against a Springfield police officer whose certification was suspended by the Peace Officer Training and Standards (POST) Commission. The board will discuss and vote on the officer's discipline or dismissal, including pay status, in a closed executive session. The meeting will not reconvene in open session afterward.

• Executive session to discuss and vote on discipline or dismissal of a Springfield Police Officer
• POST Case #SU-2023-12-14-001 suspended officer's certification as of December 14, 2023
• Roll call vote required to enter executive session

City Planning Board - Regular Meeting

The Springfield Historical Commission will hold public hearings on 11 petitions for changes to historic properties, including replacement windows, solar panel installations, porch renovations, and a mural. The commission will also discuss preservation of historically significant buildings, preservation restrictions, and hold annual elections and a public speak-out session.

• Petition #7787: 83 Buckingham Street — replacement windows
• Petition #7783: 80 Cornell Street — solar panels
• Petition #7781: 421 Maple Street — solar panels
• Petition #7810: 91-97 Chestnut Street — murals
• Petition #7816: 1 Allen Street — telecommunication antenna modifications

Taxi and Livery Commission - Regular

The Springfield Taxi and Livery Commission will hold a virtual public hearing on December 19, 2023, at 4:15 PM via Zoom. The main item is a new business discussion in executive session to review the driver record of livery license applicant Joseph R. Daniels due to driving record concerns. The commission will also consider approval of minutes from prior meetings.

• Review of livery license application for Joseph R. Daniels (driving record concerns)
• Executive session to discuss individual's reputation, character, physical/mental health, or discipline
• Approval of minutes from previous meetings

Board of Public Works - Regular

The Board of Public Works is holding a hearing on a proposal by EVERSOURCE to install underground gas facilities at Hendee, Guion, and Page Blvd. to retire cast iron gas infrastructure. The agenda also includes routine items such as approval of previous minutes and communications.

• Public hearing on EVERSOURCE underground gas facilities at Hendee Street, Guion Street, and Page Blvd.
• Retirement of cast iron gas infrastructure
• Approval of minutes from previous meeting

City Council - Regular Meeting

The Springfield City Council will consider several grant authorizations, a $1.52 million transfer to the opioid settlement fund, an ordinance amendment, and the election of officers for 2024. Most items are routine approvals for accepting and spending grant funds.

• Transfer $1,521,535 from FY23 certified free cash to opioid settlement fund
• Authorize $164,978 Byrne JAG grant for police training and technology
• Authorize $74,934 FY24 Council on Aging grant increase for senior centers
• Authorize $20,000 Cultural Investment Portfolio grant for library programs
• Amend Community Preservation Committee ordinance to allow holdover terms

School Committee - High School Representatives

The Springfield School Committee will vote on several items, including a $23.67 million appropriation from surplus funds for investments, two state grants for family-school partnerships and special education, and a field trip. They will also vote to nullify the remote participation policy and approve meeting minutes. Informational items include a school update and recognition of a staff member.

• Approve $23,672,347 appropriation from carryover and surplus funds for investments
• Approve $30,000 expenditure for FY2024 Strengthening Family-School Partnership Grant
• Approve $245,875 expenditure for FY24 IEP Targeted Special Education Program Improvement Grant
• Vote to nullify Springfield School Committee Remote Participation Policy
• Approve Renaissance Field Trip to Red Gate Farm in Ashfield, MA

School Committee - Regular

The Springfield School Committee is meeting to vote on several expenditures and policy changes, including a $23.67 million appropriation from surplus funds, two state grants, and a field trip. They will also consider nullifying the Remote Participation Policy. The agenda includes routine items like approving minutes and committee reports.

• Approve $23,672,347 appropriation from carryover and surplus funds
• Approve $245,875 for FY24 IEP Targeted Special Education Program Improvement Grant
• Approve $30,000 for FY2024 Strengthening Family-School Partnership Grant
• Vote to nullify the Remote Participation Policy
• Approve Renaissance Field Trip to Red Gate Farm, Ashfield, MA (Dec 19-21, 2023)

Board of Assessor - Regular Meeting

The Springfield Board of Assessors met on December 13, 2023, to review monthly abatement totals and enter executive session for specific tax matters. The board voted to discuss litigation strategy for 11 cases scheduled at the Appellate Tax Board and reviewed 8 of 58 preliminary tax abatement applications. Additionally, the board addressed charitable exemption applications and one overvalue application.

• Review of 8 of 58 FY 2023 Preliminary Tax Abatement Applications, including SS Temple and Modento Group LLC
• Executive session discussion of 11 Appellate Tax Board cases, including Smith & Wesson, Baystate Place Limited Partnership, and F B Development
• Review of charitable exemption applications for Rise & Walk Ministry, Springfield Day Nursery, and Mercy Hospital Inc
• Review of one overvalue application for The Mercy Hospital Inc at 299 Carew Street
• Approval of monthly abatement totals: $1,852.37 (Real Estate), $15,707.55 (Motor Vehicle), and $764.40 (Personal Property) for October 2023

License Commission - Regular

The Springfield Board of License Commissioners will hold a virtual public hearing on December 13, 2023, to consider several liquor license petitions, including manager changes, a change of hours, and a change of ownership. The board will also conduct a final hearing on a smoking permit violation at Fuego Sports Bar and discuss a seasonal license extension request.

• Change of manager for Marriott Hotel at 2 Boland Way
• Change of hours for Mesa Buffet at 1301 Liberty St to 2:00 am closing
• Change of manager for Ciro's Restaurant at 904-912 Main St
• Final hearing for Fuego Sports Bar at 885 Carew St for smoking violation
• Approval of liquor license for Plan B Burger Bar at 1000 West Columbus Ave

Conservation Commission - Regular

The Springfield Conservation Commission is holding a public hearing on a Notice of Intent for the Venture Pond Improvement Project, which includes a kayak launch, fishing pier, and stormwater outfall headwall repair at SS Wilbraham Road. The commission will also discuss proposed open water habitat work at Watershops Pond.

• Public hearing on Notice of Intent for Venture Pond Improvement Project (ID #7778)
• Kayak launch, fishing pier, and stormwater outfall headwall repair at SS Wilbraham Road
• Applicant: Springfield Department of Parks, Buildings and Recreational Management; Representative: GZA GeoEnvironmental, Inc.
• Discussion of proposed open water habitat work at Watershops Pond

Park Commission - Regular

The Springfield Park Commission is meeting virtually to consider several park-related items, including applying for a federal grant for Magazine Park, a petition for pickleball courts in Van Horn Park, and easement approvals for Forest Park and Mary Shea Park. They will also approve minutes from prior meetings.

• Approval to apply for LWCF FY24 grant for Magazine Park
• Petition for pickleball courts in Van Horn Park
• Temporary easement for Forest Park
• Easement approval for Mary Shea Park - Longfellow Terrace
• Approval of 06/29/2023 and 10/26/2023 meeting minutes

City Council - Hearings Meeting

The Springfield City Council will hold a hearings meeting on December 11, 2023, to consider a fuel storage petition, several special permits, and a zoning change. The agenda includes a request for propane storage at 622 Cottage Street, special permits for signage, vehicle repair, fencing, and residential expansion, and a proposal to rezone property on William Street from Residence C to Business A for a day care operation.

• Petition for propane storage (60,000 gallons) at 622 Cottage Street
• Special permit for accessory wall signs at 55 Emery Street and 6 Liberty Street
• Special permit for motor vehicle repair at 62 Freemont Street
• Special permit for 10-foot fencing at 160 Joan Street (Springfield International Charter School)
• Zoning change from Residence C to Business A for NS William Street (Springfield Day Nursery Corporation)

School Committee - Regular

The Springfield School Committee's Budget & Finance Subcommittee met to review financial actions for the full committee. The agenda included votes to recommend approving two state grants and a large appropriation from surplus funds. The meeting was held at the Springfield Public Schools central office on December 11, 2023.

• Vote to recommend approval of $30,000 for the FY2024 Strengthening Family-School Partnership Grant
• Vote to recommend approval of $245,875 for the FY24 IEP Targeted Special Education Program Improvement Grant
• Vote to recommend an appropriation of $23,672,347 from carryover and other surplus funds

Residency Commission - Regular

The Springfield Residency Commission is meeting to approve minutes from October 5, 2023, and then move into executive session to discuss a complaint or charge brought against an individual under Section 21(a)(1) of the Open Meeting Law. The body will not return to open session after the executive session.

• Approval of minutes from October 5, 2023
• Executive session under Section 21(a)(1) to discuss complaints or charges against an individual

City Council - Working Group on Digital Equity & Internet Access

The Working Group on Digital Equity & Internet Access met on December 7, 2023, to review results from public comment meetings. The group also discussed the draft digital equity plan. No specific votes, contracts, or final decisions were recorded in the agenda text.

• Review of results of public comment meetings
• Discussion of draft digital equity plan

City Planning Board - Regular Meeting

The Springfield Planning Board is holding a public hearing to continue the petition for a new Beer & Wine Liquor License at 708 Main Street, which has been deferred since March 2023. The board will also hold a new public hearing on the Elaine Circle Extension subdivision plan on NS Allen Street. No other specific decisions or dollar amounts are listed in the agenda.

• Continuation of Petition ID # 7249 for a new Beer & Wine Liquor License at 708 Main Street for Blaze Restaurant, Inc. (d/b/a Island Blaze Restaurant).
• New public hearing for Petition ID # 7764 regarding the Elaine Circle Extension subdivision on NS Allen Street (00280-0057), owned by Graham Construction, Inc.

School Committee - Regular

The Springfield School Committee's Legislative & Contracts Subcommittee met on December 6, 2023, to discuss the district's remote learning policy. The subcommittee voted to recommend that the full School Committee make the remote policy null and void, opting instead to operate under the more accessible provisions of the Governor's policy.

• Vote to recommend nullifying the district's remote learning policy
• Recommendation to adopt the Governor's policy provisions for remote learning

Traffic Commission - Regular

The Springfield Traffic Commission met on December 6, 2023, to accept minutes from November 1 and review eight new items. These items include requests for stop signs, parking restrictions, and outdoor dining spaces at specific local addresses. The agenda lists these as new items for discussion, with no final decisions recorded in the provided text.

• Stop sign at the intersection of Catherine Street and McKnight Street (Item 23-34)
• Stop sign at the intersection of Hamburg Street and Farnsworth Street (Item 23-35)
• Pedestrian safety measures at Elias Brookings School, 433 Walnut Street (Item 23-36)
• Outdoor dining parking space at 309 Bridge Street, Granny’s Baking Tables (Item 23-32)
• No Parking Loading Zone on Bristol Street, 80 feet south of Wilbraham Road (Item 23-31)

School Committee - Special Meeting

The Springfield School Committee is holding a special working session to discuss and vote on the superintendent's summative evaluation for the 2022-2023 school year, as well as a salary review recommendation. The meeting includes informational discussion and formal votes on these items.

• Vote to adopt the School Committee Chair’s 2022-2023 Summative Evaluation Report of the Superintendent
• Discussion of the Superintendent’s Performance Evaluation salary review for 2022-2023
• Vote on the School Committee Chair’s recommendation regarding the Superintendent’s salary for 2022-2023

City Council - Special Meeting

The Springfield School Committee is holding a special meeting to vote on the Superintendent's recommendation to appoint Dr. Marisa McCarthy as Administrator of Special Education. The agenda also includes approval of minutes from two prior meetings, an update on Frederick Harris School, and reports from committees and the student representative.

• Vote on appointment of Dr. Marisa McCarthy as Chief of Special Education and Related Services
• Approval of minutes from November 15 and November 16, 2023 meetings
• Frederick Harris School update
• Reports from standing committees including Budget and Finance, School Safety, and Diversity/Equity/Inclusion

School Committee - Public Speak Out

The Springfield School Committee is holding a regular session that includes a vote on the Superintendent's recommendation to appoint Dr. Marisa McCarthy as Administrator of Special Education (Chief of Special Education and Related Services). The agenda also includes an update on the Frederick Harris School, approval of minutes from two prior meetings, and reports from standing committees and the student representative.

• Vote to appoint Dr. Marisa McCarthy as Administrator of Special Education
• Frederick Harris School update
• Approval of minutes from November 15 and November 16, 2023 meetings
• Reports from standing committees including Budget and Finance, School Safety, and Diversity/Equity/Inclusion
• Public speak out session with sign-up required 48 hours prior

School Committee - Regular

The Springfield School Committee will hold a regular meeting with a public speak out session. The main voting item is the approval of the Superintendent's recommendation to appoint Dr. Marisa McCarthy as Administrator of Special Education. The committee will also approve minutes from previous meetings and receive updates on the Frederick Harris School and reports from standing committees.

• Approve appointment of Dr. Marisa McCarthy as Chief of Special Education and Related Services
• Approve minutes of November 15 and November 16, 2023 meetings
• Frederick Harris School update
• Reports from standing committees including Budget, Buildings, and School Safety

City Council - Special Meeting

The Springfield City Council is holding a special meeting to consider two orders transferring a total of $2,000,000 from FY23 Certified Free Cash to FY24 estimated revenues, which would reduce the property tax levy. The agenda also includes a tax factor order to set the residential factor for FY24, though the specific factor value is not listed. These items were continued from the previous day's meeting.

• Transfer $1,000,000 from FY23 Certified Free Cash to FY24 revenues to reduce tax levy
• Transfer additional $1,000,000 from FY23 Certified Free Cash to FY24 revenues to reduce tax levy
• Total tax levy reduction commitment would reach $9,049,066 if both transfers approved
• Order to set residential tax factor for FY24

Conservation Commission - Regular

The Springfield Conservation Commission is holding a regular meeting with continued public hearings on three projects: a certificate of compliance for Elaine Circle Extension, and notices of intent for stormwater and residential construction on Allen Street and Tiffany/Brentwood Streets. They will also open a new public hearing for a certificate of compliance at 80 Elaine Circle. The agenda is primarily procedural, with votes on previously continued items.

• Continued certificate of compliance for Elaine Circle Extension (NS Boston Road and 35 Elaine Circle), applicant Graham Construction, Inc.
• Continued notice of intent by RJH Estates, LLC for stormwater basin and 3 single-family homes within 100' buffer zone on Allen Street
• Continued notice of intent by Anatoly Ovdiychuk for residential subdivision and paved roadway at 310 Tiffany Street and NS Brentwood Street
• New certificate of compliance hearing for 80 Elaine Circle, DEP File 294-0414, applicant Attorney James Carey

City Council - Special Meeting

The Springfield City Council is holding a special meeting with a public hearing to consider the Fiscal Year 2024 property tax rates. The Assessors will present information on available tax rates and how the tax levy is allocated among residential, commercial, industrial, and personal property. The council will decide on the rates after receiving this information.

• Public hearing on FY2024 property tax rates
• Assessors to present tax rate options and levy allocation
• Special meeting held in hybrid format at Council Chamber, 36 Court Street

Commission on Disability - Regular

The Springfield Commission on Disability is holding a regular meeting to discuss new business, primarily issues related to HP (handicapped parking) signs, including removal, approval of new applications, moving signs, and new information. The meeting also includes a discussion of state website contact information for HP issues. The agenda is otherwise procedural.

• Removal of HP parking signs
• Approval of new HP parking applications
• Moving of HP parking signs
• HP signage new information
• State website contact info for HP issues

City Council - Special Meeting

The Springfield City Council is meeting to approve financial orders that reduce the FY24 tax levy. The agenda includes transferring $2,049,066 from Stabilization Reserves and $1,000,000 from FY23 Certified Free Cash into FY24 revenues. These actions, combined with a prior $5,000,000 transfer, total $8,049,066 committed to lowering property taxes. The council will also set the residential tax factor for FY24.

• Transfer of $2,049,066 from Stabilization Fund to FY24 General Fund Revenues
• Transfer of $1,000,000 from FY23 Certified Free Cash to FY24 Estimated Revenues
• Total commitment of $8,049,066 to reduce the FY24 tax levy
• Adoption of the residential tax factor for Fiscal Year 2024

City Council - Finance Sub-Committee

The Finance Sub-Committee is holding a public hearing to discuss the real estate tax classification and real estate tax ratio for fiscal year 2024. This is a special meeting focused solely on this topic, with no other items on the agenda.

• Public hearing on real estate tax classification and real estate tax ratio for FY'24

City Council - Hearings Meeting

The Springfield City Council will hold hearings on six items: two zone changes (710 Liberty Street and 1267 Boston Road) and three special permits (mechanical car wash at 710 Liberty Street, auto glass repair at 1626 Bay Street, and a cell tower height increase at 1889 Wilbraham Road), plus a zone change for 93 Wilbraham Road. The Planning Board has recommended approval for the 710 Liberty Street and 1267 Boston Road zone changes.

• Zone change for 710 Liberty Street from Residence B/Commercial P to Business A (petitioner: Hutton ST 21, LLC)
• Special permit for mechanical public car wash at 710 Liberty Street
• Special permit for auto glass repair at 1626 Bay Street (petitioner: ANG Glass, LLC)
• Special permit to increase height of wireless facility at 1889 Wilbraham Road (petitioner: New Cingular Wireless PCS, LLC)
• Zone change for 1267 Boston Road from Residence A to Business A (petitioner: KA Realty Trust)

Board of Assessor - Regular Meeting

The Board of Assessors will review monthly abatement totals for real estate, motor vehicle excise, and personal property, then vote to enter executive session to discuss litigation strategy for Appellate Tax Board cases, personal exemptions, and preliminary FY2023 tax abatements. The board will not return to public session after the executive session.

• October 2023 real estate abatements total $1,852.37
• Motor vehicle excise abatements: July $23,353.37, August $28,287.87, October $15,707.55
• Personal property abatements total $764.40
• Executive session to discuss ATB docket including Smith & Wesson, Outdoor Media, Baystate Place, and others
• Review of 8 of 58 preliminary FY2023 tax abatement applications

Board of Assessor - Regular Meeting

The Springfield Board of Assessors will hold a regular meeting on November 17, 2023, at 9:00 AM in City Hall Room 9. The primary agenda item is the public portion, which involves considering a long list of personal property tax abatements deemed uncollectible, spanning many businesses and fiscal years. The board will decide whether to approve these abatements.

• Consideration of uncollectible personal property abatements for numerous businesses, including Windows of Mass Inc, Adibro Pizza Inc, and Adolfo's Restaurant Inc, with bills dating from 1991 to 2023.
• Abatements for properties on streets such as Belmont Ave, Worthington St, Main St, and Chestnut St.
• Multiple abatement requests for the same businesses across several fiscal years, e.g., Alli Educational Enterprises Inc (2010-2018) and Auto Kings LLC (2015-2022).

City Council - Finance Sub-Committee

The Finance Sub-Committee is holding a public hearing to discuss real estate tax classification and the real estate tax ratio for fiscal year 2024. This is a special meeting focused solely on this topic, with a public comment portion. No other business items are listed on the agenda.

• Public hearing on real estate tax classification and real estate tax ratio for FY'24

School Committee - Middle School Representatives

The Springfield School Committee will vote on approving two field trips for Putnam Academy students to attend Skills USA events in Marlborough, MA. The meeting also includes updates on the Glickman School, Renaissance School, and a mural project, along with reports from committees and the student representative.

• Approve Putnam Academy field trip to Skills USA Fall State Leadership Conference, Nov 19-20, 2023
• Approve Putnam Academy field trip to Skills USA State Competition, Apr 25-27, 2024
• Approve minutes of Nov 2, 2023 meeting
• Glickman School update
• Portrait of a Graduate Mural Project update

School Committee - Regular

The Springfield School Committee is holding a regular meeting with voting items including approval of two Putnam Academy field trips to Skills USA events and the minutes from the November 2, 2023 meeting. Discussion items include updates on Glickman School, Renaissance School Expeditionary Project, and the Portrait of a Graduate Mural Project. Reports from standing committees and the superintendent are also on the agenda.

• Approve Putnam Academy field trip to Skills USA Fall State Leadership Conference in Marlborough, MA, Nov 19-20, 2023
• Approve Putnam Academy field trip to Skills USA State Competition in Marlborough, MA, Apr 25-27, 2024
• Approve minutes of November 2, 2023 School Committee meeting
• Discussion: Glickman School Update
• Discussion: Portrait of a Graduate Mural Project Update

Public Health Council - Regular

The Springfield Public Health Council will hold a regular meeting to review city business, which is currently marked as TBD by the Commissioner. The agenda includes updates on C3, finance reports, and program data. A key discussion item is an assessment of the current program management structure, focusing on its advantages and disadvantages.

• Assessment of current program management structure advantages and disadvantages
• Review of Finance Reports
• Review of Program Data Report
• C3 Updates
• Co-Applicant Board Preliminary Roster Meeting

Board of Public Works - Regular

The Board of Public Works is holding a public hearing to consider installing two speed humps on Warwick Street in Springfield, MA. The meeting will take place in front of #35 Warwick Street. The agenda includes this hearing under new business, along with routine items like minutes and communications.

• Public hearing on installing 2 speed humps on Warwick Street

City Planning Board - Regular Meeting

The Springfield Planning Board is meeting to continue a public hearing on a new beer and wine liquor license for Island Blaze Restaurant at 708 Main Street, which has been continued ten times since March 2023. The board will also hold a new public hearing on a zoning change request for properties on William Street, and address other matters.

• Continued hearing: new beer & wine license for Blaze Restaurant, Inc. d/b/a Island Blaze Restaurant at 708 Main Street
• New hearing: zoning change for NS William Street (parcels 12300-0051 & 0052) from Residence C to Business A, petitioned by Springfield Day Nursery Corporation

License Commission - Entertainment Hearing

The Springfield License Commission will hold an entertainment hearing on November 13, 2023, to consider a request from Mesa Buffet at 1301 Liberty St for extended entertainment hours on November 17, 2023, from 12:00 am to 2:00 am closing, for an anniversary event. The hearing is conducted by Mayor Domenic J. Sarno as issuing authority.

• Mesa Buffet, 1301 Liberty St, requests extended entertainment hours for Nov 17, 2023, from 12:00 am to 2:00 am

City Council - Finance Sub-Committee

The Finance Sub-Committee will review and vote on multiple bond authorizations and grant acceptances, including $3.29 million for two fire apparatus, $2.83 million for school boiler projects, and $1.61 million for Neal Park improvements. They will also consider grants for parks, road safety, and other programs, plus an interest arbitration award for police supervisors.

• Bond authorization: $3,290,000 for two fire apparatus
• Bond authorization: $2,827,786 for boiler replacements at Milton Bradley and Rebecca Johnson Schools
• Bond authorization: $1,610,690 for Neal Indian Orchard Community Park (with $1,500,000 LWCF grant)
• Grant acceptance: $1,000,000 LWCF for Gurdon Bill Park bike/skate park (match required)
• Grant acceptance: $500,000 PARC grant for Harriet Tubman Park (match required)

City Council - Regular Meeting

The Springfield City Council will consider several bond authorizations and grant acceptances, including $3.29 million for two fire apparatus, $2.83 million for school boiler projects, and $1.61 million for Neal Park improvements. They will also review a zone change request for William Street and multiple Eversource gas main replacement petitions. The agenda includes routine items like revenue reports and prior-year bills.

• Bond authorization for two fire apparatus - $3,290,000
• Bond authorization for school boiler projects - $2,827,786
• Bond authorization for Neal Indian Orchard Community Park - $1,610,690
• Zone change for NS William Street from Residence C to Business A
• Eversource gas main replacement petitions on Ormond, Cliftwood, Trenton, and Standish streets

City Council - Committee of the Whole

The Springfield City Council Committee of the Whole met on November 9, 2023, at City Hall. The agenda contained only one public item: a discussion regarding the status of the Springfield Police Commission and the DOJ Consent Decree. No other business, votes, or decisions were listed on this specific agenda page.

• Discussion of status of the Springfield Police Commission and the DOJ Consent Decree

School Committee - Regular

The Springfield School Committee's Student & Parent Concerns and Legislative & Contracts subcommittees are holding a joint meeting. The only agenda item is an informational update on First Student, the school transportation provider. No votes or decisions are scheduled.

• Update on First Student (informational item)

License Commission - Regular

The Springfield Board of License Commissioners will hold a virtual public hearing to review new and continued petitions for alcohol licenses. The agenda includes final hearings on the license status of Aquarius and The Hookah Factory, as well as pre-hearing conferences regarding incidents at Fuego Sports Bar and Merrill’s Superette. The board will also approve minutes from the October 25, 2023 meeting.

• Final hearing on license status for Aquarius at 1217 State St
• Final hearing on license status for The Hookah Factory at 296 Cooley St
• Pre-hearing conference for Fuego Sports Bar at 885 Carew St regarding smoking permit violation
• Pre-hearing conference for Merrill’s Superette at 62 High St regarding receiving stolen property
• New petition for annual beer and wine package store license for Crossroads Convenience Store & Creamery at 567 Main St

Community Preservation Committee - Regular

The Springfield Community Preservation Committee is meeting remotely to review contract extension requests for several projects, discuss the annual Community Preservation Act (CPA) plan including a possible cap change, and update its application template and ordinance. The agenda also includes approval of previous minutes and administrator updates.

• Contract extension requests for Trinity House (51-53 Bay Street), Gemini Townhomes, and DPBRM projects at Angelina Park and Alden Street
• Discussion of raising or eliminating the CPA cap
• Review of annual CPA plan
• Review of application template and instructions
• Ordinance amendment update

School Committee - High School Representatives

The Springfield School Committee will approve naming the Administrative Office Suite at William N. DeBerry School in honor of Ms. Mattie M. Jenkins, Family Liaison. The body will also enter executive session to discuss collective bargaining strategies for Crossing Guards and Bus Monitors. Additionally, the committee will approve the minutes from the October 5, 2023 meeting and receive updates on Elias Brookings School and Parent Advisory Activities.

• Approval to name the Administrative Office Suite at William N. DeBerry School for Ms. Mattie M. Jenkins
• Executive session to discuss Crossing Guards (N.A.G.E.) collective bargaining strategy
• Executive session to discuss Bus Monitors (N.A.G.E.) collective bargaining strategy
• Approval of minutes from the October 5, 2023 School Committee Meeting

School Committee - Regular

The Springfield School Committee will vote on naming the Administrative Office Suite at William N. DeBerry School in honor of Ms. Mattie M. Jenkins, Family Liaison. They will also vote to enter executive session to discuss collective bargaining strategy with Crossing Guards and Bus Monitors (N.A.G.E.). The agenda includes approval of minutes, informational updates, and reports from standing committees.

• Naming of Administrative Office Suite at William N. DeBerry School in honor of Ms. Mattie M. Jenkins
• Executive session on Crossing Guards (N.A.G.E.) collective bargaining strategy
• Executive session on Bus Monitors (N.A.G.E.) collective bargaining strategy
• Approval of minutes from October 5, 2023 meeting
• Elias Brookings School Update and Parent Advisory Activities Update

License Commission - Entertainment Hearing

The Springfield Board of License Commissioners will hold a public hearing on November 2, 2023, at 1:00 PM in Room 222 of City Hall. The sole agenda item is the review of the entertainment license for McCarthy's Tavern, located at 807 Cottage St. Pratik Thakkar is listed as the Manager of Record for the establishment.

• Entertainment license hearing for McCarthy's Tavern at 807 Cottage St
• Meeting scheduled for November 2, 2023, at 1:00 PM in City Hall Room 222

Historical Commission - Regular

The Springfield Historical Commission met on November 2, 2023, to conduct public hearings on eleven new petitions regarding historic properties. The agenda included requests for exterior renovations, demolition of a garage, and the installation of solar panels at multiple addresses. The commission also held an informational session on the preservation of historically significant buildings and a public speak-out session.

• Petition #7706: Replace front doors at 173 Bay Street
• Petition #7707: Installation of solar panels at 180 Washington Blvd
• Petition #7710: Demolition of car garage at 42 Marengo Park
• Petition #7721: Solar panel installation at 91 Central Street
• Petition #7722: Solar panel installation at 141 Forest Park Avenue

Retirement Board - Regular

The Springfield Retirement Board will vote on several retirement-related items, including an involuntary disability application, superannuation applications, refund redeposits, warrants, and new members. The board will also set 2024 meeting dates and receive reports.

• Involuntary Accidental Disability application for Chad Furnelli (Fire Dept.)
• Superannuation applications for Steven Barker, Patricia Labroad, Robert Mariani Jr.
• Warrants totaling $7,954,386.89 (refunds, expenses, payroll) and $6,475,000 PRIT redemption
• 164 new members for membership
• Survivor benefits for beneficiary of William J. Poe (Fire Dept.)

Traffic Commission - Regular

The Springfield Traffic Commission met on November 1, 2023, to accept minutes from October 4 and review five new petitions. The items involve specific traffic control changes, including stop signs, no-parking zones, and handicap parking. The agenda also provided instructions for submitting written public comment within five days of the hearing.

• Handicap parking at 174 Main Street, Indian Orchard (Item 23-29)
• Honorary street sign for E. Henry Twiggs at Westminster Street (Item 23-30)
• No parking loading zone on Bristol Street, starting 80 feet south of Wilbraham Road (Item 23-31)
• Two stop signs at Bartels Street and Hill Top Street, facing East and West (Item 23-32)
• Parking space at 309 Bridge Street for outdoor dining at Granny’s Baking Tables (Item 23-33)

City Planning Board - Regular Meeting

The City of Springfield Board of License Commissioners is holding an entertainment license hearing on November 2, 2023. The agenda lists one specific application for review. No other substantive items are listed in the provided text.

• Entertainment license hearing for McCarthy's Tavern at 807 Cottage St
• Manager of Record: Pratik Thakkar

Board of Assessor - Regular Meeting

The Springfield Board of Assessors met on October 30, 2023, to review monthly abatement totals for real estate, motor vehicles, and personal property. The board entered executive session to discuss litigation strategy for eight Appellate Tax Board cases and to review charitable and personal exemption applications. Specific abatement amounts included $136,440.29 for real estate and $34,669.29 for personal property in September 2023.

• September 2023 Real Estate Abatement Total: $136,440.29
• September 2023 Personal Property Abatement Total: $34,669.29
• Review of 8 Appellate Tax Board (ATB) applications including Smith & Wesson and Baystate Place Limited Partnership
• Review of Charitable Exemption Applications for Rise & Walk Ministry and Springfield Aerie No 148 Fraternal Order of Eagles Inc
• Review of Executive Session Minutes from the October 11, 2023 meeting

City Council - Special Meeting

The City Council held a special meeting to approve the official warrant for the November 7, 2023, municipal election. This action requires constables to notify qualified voters in Wards 1-8 to vote for Mayor, City Council at Large, and Ward Councilors. The warrant also establishes polling locations and confirms early voting dates from October 25 to November 3, 2023.

• Approval of Election Warrant for Municipal Election on November 7, 2023
• Voting for Mayor, City Council At Large, and City Council Wards 1-8
• Early voting scheduled for October 25 - November 3, 2023
• Polling locations listed for Wards 1-8 (e.g., Mason Square Library, Central High School)

Park Commission - Regular

The Springfield Park Commission met virtually on October 26, 2023, to address requests and appeals for the removal of significant trees at six specific addresses. The body also discussed a request to paint murals at Myrtle Street Park and Hubbard Park and received an update on grants. No dollar amounts or specific contract details were listed in the agenda.

• Requests for significant tree removals at 62 Berkshire Street, 166 Saw Mill Road, and 220 Norfolk Street
• Appeals for significant tree removals at 35 Upton Street, 60 Newfield Road, 34 Ontario Street, and 83 Atwater Road
• Request to paint murals at Myrtle Street Park and Hubbard Park
• Update on grants

Animal Control - Regular

The Springfield Animal Control board is meeting virtually to hold two dog hearings. The board will hear a nuisance dog case for a brown Pit Bull named Bella at 27 Sylvester Street, and a dangerous dog case for two pitbulls, Venom and Sike, at 37 Fort Pleasant Street, First Floor. No other business is listed on the agenda.

• Hearing on nuisance dog Bella (brown Pit Bull) at 27 Sylvester Street
• Hearing on dangerous dogs Venom and Sike (pitbulls) at 37 Fort Pleasant Street, First Floor

License Commission - Regular

The Springfield License Commission will hold a virtual public hearing on October 25, 2023, to consider new liquor license petitions, a license transfer, and a change of ownership, as well as final hearings on alleged violations at two establishments. The board will also discuss a seasonal license extension request and review incident reports.

• New Farmery Winery License for Home Fruit Wine at 220 Trafton St
• New Annual All Alcohol G.O.P License for Loophole Brewing at 51-59 Taylor St
• Change of ownership interest for Springfield Wine Exchange at 1500 Main St, Suite 170
• Transfer of license for Tony's Pizza & Restaurant at 108 Boston Rd
• Final hearing for Le Souk Hookah at 1 Worthington St with 5 alleged violations

Zoning Board of Appeals - Regular

The Springfield Zoning Board of Appeals is holding a regular meeting on October 25, 2023, at City Hall. The board will consider one petition regarding a property on N S Fair Oak Drive, seeking permission to build a single-family dwelling on a lot with insufficient frontage. The agenda contains no other substantive items.

• Petition (ID # 7714) for a single-family dwelling on a lot with insufficient frontage at N S Fair Oak Drive

School Committee - Regular

The Springfield School Committee's Buildings & Maintenance Subcommittee is meeting to vote on a recommendation to the full committee. The item involves approving the naming of the Administrative Office Suite at William N. DeBerry School in honor of family liaison Ms. Mattie Jenkins. No other substantive items are listed on the agenda.

• Vote to recommend naming the Administrative Office Suite at William N. DeBerry School for Ms. Mattie Jenkins

Conservation Commission - Regular

The Conservation Commission is meeting to review two specific petitions. The first involves geotechnical borings for Eversource's replacement of underground transmission lines crossing the North Branch of the Mill River. The second involves amending conditions for the Elaine Circle Extension Subdivision. No final decisions or dollar amounts are listed in the agenda text.

• Petition #7673: Geotechnical borings for Eversource HPFF line replacement at Northbranch Parkway
• Petition #7690: Amendment of Order of Conditions for Elaine Circle Extension Subdivision on NS Boston Road

Board of Public Works - Regular

The Springfield Board of Public Works met on October 19, 2023, at the Richard Neal Municipal Operations Center. The primary item on the agenda was a public hearing regarding Everource's proposal to install underground gas facilities. The project aims to retire existing cast iron gas infrastructure at the intersection of Trenton Street and Commonwealth Avenue, as well as on Dickinson Street and Belmont Street.

• Public hearing on Everource proposal to install underground gas facilities
• Project scope includes Dickinson Street, Belmont Street, Trenton Street, and Commonwealth Avenue
• Goal is to retire cast iron gas infrastructure

Historical Commission - Regular

The Springfield School Committee is holding a regular session to approve the minutes from the October 5, 2023 meeting. The agenda includes updates on Milton Bradley School and the district's strategic plan. The body will also hear reports from standing committees covering budget, curriculum, and safety, though no specific new business items are detailed in the provided text.

• Approval of the Minutes of the October 5, 2023 School Committee Meeting
• Milton Bradley School Update
• Strategic Plan Update
• Reports from Budget and Finance Committee
• Reports from Curriculum and Programs Committee

School Committee - Middle School Representatives

The Springfield School Committee will hold a regular session to approve the minutes from the October 5, 2023 meeting. The agenda includes updates on the Milton Bradley School and the district's Strategic Plan. The meeting also features reports from eight standing committees, including Budget and Finance, Curriculum and Programs, and School Safety.

• Approval of the minutes from the October 5, 2023 School Committee meeting
• Milton Bradley School update
• Strategic Plan update
• Reports from standing committees including Budget and Finance, Curriculum and Programs, and School Safety

School Committee - Regular

The Springfield School Committee will hold a regular session to approve the minutes from the October 5, 2023 meeting. The agenda includes updates on Milton Bradley School and the district's strategic plan. The meeting also features reports from standing committees covering areas such as budget, curriculum, and school safety.

• Approval of the Minutes of the October 5, 2023 School Committee Meeting
• Milton Bradley School Update
• Strategic Plan Update
• Reports from standing committees including Budget and Finance, Curriculum and Programs, and School Safety

Public Health Council - Regular

The Springfield Public Health Council will hold a regular meeting to review city business, including a COVID update. The agenda focuses on Health Center operations, covering staffing, dental services, credentialing, and program management assessments. The council will also review financial reports, including QI UDS data and outreach enrollment metrics.

• Review of QI UDS Data and Outreach & Enrollment reports
• Discussion of Staffing and Provider Updates
• Review of Dental services and Credentialing for initial appointments
• Assessment of Program Management and Quality Improvement
• Review of Incident Reports and Grievances

License Commission - Entertainment Hearing

The Springfield Public Health Council is holding a regular meeting to approve minutes and review city business, including a COVID update. The agenda focuses on Health Center operations, covering staffing, dental services, credentialing, and financial reports. No specific dollar amounts, contracts, or ordinances are listed in the provided text.

• Review of C3 Update
• Staffing and Provider Updates
• Dental Services Discussion
• Credentialing for Initial Appointments
• Finance and Program Data Reports

City Council - Finance Sub-Committee

The Finance Sub-Committee reviewed ten orders primarily focused on budget adjustments and grant setups. The most significant items involve two supplemental budget orders totaling $3,437,385 to account for increases in state aid. Additionally, the committee addressed funding for the East Springfield Branch Library construction and various grant applications for the library and public works departments.

• Supplemental Budget - Increase in State Aid - $2,735,729.00
• Supplemental Budget - Increase in State Aid - $701,656.00
• Appropriation Order for East Springfield Branch Library Construction Project - $150,000.00
• FY24 Springfield Library Foundation Trusts & Endowments Grant - $180,000.00
• FY24 SHINE Grant - $80,733.00

City Council - Regular Meeting

The Springfield City Council will consider two zone changes, approve several grants and supplemental budgets, and discuss a historic district study. The meeting includes public hearings on rezoning 1267 Boston Road and 93 Wilbraham Road, and votes on grant expenditures for libraries, elder affairs, and recycling.

• Rezone 1267 Boston Road from Residence A to Business A (KA Realty Trust)
• Rezone 93 (a.k.a. 97) Wilbraham Road from Business A to Business B (Leonardo M Jimenez)
• Approve $180,000 Springfield Library Foundation grant for library materials
• Approve $80,733 SHINE grant for elder health insurance assistance
• Approve $2,735,729 and $701,656 supplemental budgets from state aid

License Commission - Entertainment Hearing

The Springfield Empowerment Zone Partnership Board of Directors will meet to approve minutes from June and hear informational updates on the 2022-23 Roadmap for Student Success and 2023-24 strategic initiatives. The meeting includes a public comment period.

• Approval of minutes from June 9, 2023 meeting
• Informational item: 2022-23 Roadmap for Student Success
• Informational item: 2023-24 Strategic SEZP Initiatives
• Public comment period (max 15 minutes)

Board of Assessor - Regular Meeting

The Springfield Board of Assessors met to review monthly abatement totals and statutory exemptions. The board entered executive session to discuss litigation strategy for the Appellate Tax Board and to review specific tax abatement and exemption applications. No new ordinances or public hearings were scheduled on the agenda.

• August 2023 Real Estate Abatement Total: $89,024.95
• August 2023 Motor Vehicle Excise Abatement Total: $28,287.87
• Statutory Exemptions Grand Total: $803,135.99 across 1,057 cases
• Executive session review of ATB litigation for Smith & Wesson and Baystate Place Limited Partnership
• Review of overvalue abatement for Columbus Hotel Management LLC (Starbucks) at 1414 Main St

Board of Public Works - Regular

The Springfield Board of Public Works met on October 11, 2023, at the Richard Neal Municipal Operations Center. The only substantive item on the agenda was a public hearing regarding a request by Eversource to install one owned pole and anchor on the north side of Standish Street. No other specific decisions, contracts, or ordinances were listed in the provided text.

• Public hearing: Eversource request to install one owned pole and anchor on the north side of Standish Street

Board of Police Commissioners - Regular

The Springfield Board of Police Commissioners met on October 11, 2023, at the Indian Orchard Citizen's Council. The agenda consisted entirely of procedural and informational items, including introductions, a review of board responsibilities, and a training update. No specific policy decisions, contracts, or ordinances were listed for vote or discussion.

• Introduction of Board of Police Commissioners
• Review of Board responsibilities
• Update on Board manual and training

Conservation Commission - Regular

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

• August 2023 real estate abatement total: $89,024.95
• August 2023 motor vehicle excise abatement total: $28,287.87
• Statutory exemptions grand total: $803,135.99 across 1,057 exemptions
• Executive session to discuss ATB docket review, personal exemptions, and FY2023 preliminary tax abatements
• Executive session items include Smith & Wesson, Outdoor Media, Baystate Place Limited Partnership, and others

Residency Commission - Regular

The Springfield Residency Commission is meeting to approve minutes from September 15, 2023, and then will move into executive session to discuss a complaint or charge against an individual under Section 21(a)(1) of the Open Meeting Law. The body will not return to open session.

• Approval of minutes from September 15, 2023
• Executive session under Section 21(a)(1) to discuss complaints or charges against an individual

School Committee - Public Speak Out

The Springfield School Committee will approve several field trips and select a delegate for the MASC/MASS conference. The primary voting items involve approving specific grant expenditures from Siemens and the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, totaling $387,267. The committee will also vote to appoint a member to the Chief Administrative and Financial Officer screening committee. The meeting includes informational updates on MCAS data and Sodexo, followed by reports from standing committees.

• Approve $210,000 expenditure for MassSTEP ABE and MassSTEP ESOL grant from MA DESE
• Approve $25,000 expenditure for Approaches to Address Student Cellphone Use Pilot Grant from MA DESE
• Approve $25,000 expenditure for Renaissance's Innovation Career Pathways Planning Grant from MA DESE
• Approve $20,000 expenditure for SIEMENS Empower Grant from SIEMENS Industry Inc.
• Vote on appointment of a person to the Chief Administrative and Financial Officer (CAFO) screening committee

Historical Commission - Regular

The Springfield Historical Commission met on October 5, 2023, to review new public hearing petitions and informational environmental reviews. The agenda included requests for exterior modifications such as solar panels, garage construction, and window replacements at several addresses. The commission also considered a petition for the demolition of a single-family home at 18 Highland Street and received a letter of support for the renovation of the Parsons Apartment House at 169 Maple Street.

• Petition ID # 7603: Installation of solar panels, two-car garage, and front porch repairs at 80 Cornell Street
• Petition ID # 7678: Demolition of single-family home at 18 Highland Street
• Petition ID # 7677: Remediation of unapproved plan changes at 39-41 Thompson Street
• Informational ID # 7663: Letter of support for Parsons Apartment House renovation at 169 Maple Street
• Petition ID # 7676: Installation of signage at 55 Emery Street

School Committee - Regular

The Springfield School Committee will approve several field trips and select a delegate for the MASC/MASS conference. The primary voting items involve approving specific grant expenditures totaling $387,267 from Siemens and the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education. The committee will also vote to appoint a member to the Chief Administrative and Financial Officer screening committee and enter executive session to discuss litigation matters.

• Approve $210,000 expenditure for Planning and Implementation MassSTEP ABE and MassSTEP ESOL grant
• Approve $25,000 expenditure for Approaches to Address Student Cellphone Use Pilot Grant
• Approve $25,000 expenditure for Renaissance's Innovation Career Pathways Planning Grant
• Approve $20,000 expenditure for SIEMENS Empower Grant
• Vote on appointment of a person to the Chief Administrative and Financial Officer (CAFO) screening committee

Retirement Board - Regular

The Springfield Retirement Board will vote on several disability benefit applications, superannuation (retirement) applications, warrants, and other administrative items. The board will also discuss and vote on the 2024 administrative budget. The agenda is largely routine, with no major policy changes.

• Votes on disability applications for Fire and Police Department members, including requests for PERAC medical panels.
• Approval of six superannuation (retirement) applications with service years ranging from 10 to 40 years.
• Reaffirmation of warrants totaling over $8 million, including retirement payroll of $7,616,249.85.
• Approval of 17 refund/transfer requests and 39 new memberships.
• Discussion and vote on the 2024 Administrative Budget.

City Planning Board - Regular Meeting

The Springfield City Planning Board is meeting to conduct public hearings on three petitions for new liquor licenses. Two petitions, which have been continued through multiple previous meetings, are scheduled for a final decision. A third petition for a new all-alcoholic license is being heard for the first time.

• Public hearing on Petition #7249 for a new Beer & Wine Liquor License at 708 Main Street (Island Blaze Restaurant)
• Public hearing on Petition #7491 for a new All Alcoholic Liquor License at 111 Chestnut Street (L'Amour)
• Public hearing on Petition #7667 for a new All Alcoholic Liquor License at 1365 Main Street (The Artist Cafe)

Community Preservation Committee - Regular

The Community Preservation Committee held a virtual meeting to conduct an annual public hearing on needs and opportunities. The body reviewed the annual Community Preservation Act (CPA) plan and received an update on an ordinance amendment. The agenda also included the approval of minutes from the previous meeting and updates from the administrator.

• Annual Public Hearing to Solicit Comments on Needs and Opportunities Which CPA Could Address
• Review Annual CPA Plan
• Ordinance Amendment Update
• Focus Springfield

School Committee - Regular

The Student & Parent Concerns and Legislative & Contracts subcommittees are meeting to vote on recommendations for the full School Committee regarding delegates to the MASC/MASS Joint Conference. The meeting also includes informational discussions on student walking routes to Swan/DeBerry School, bussing issues, and an update on the Firstview App.

• Vote to recommend approval of the Delegate to the MASC/MASS Joint Conference
• Vote to recommend approval of the Alternate Delegate to the MASC/MASS Joint Conference
• Vote to authorize delegates to vote on resolutions at the November 2023 conference
• Informational discussion on students walking to Swan/DeBerry School
• Informational discussion on bussing issues

City Council - ARPA Oversight Committee

The Springfield City Council ARPA Oversight Committee met virtually on September 27, 2023. The agenda consisted solely of a call to order and a public portion for ARPA status updates. No specific decisions, contracts, or ordinances were listed in the provided text.

• ARPA status updates

Zoning Board of Appeals - Regular

The Springfield Zoning Board of Appeals met on September 27, 2023, to review two specific zoning petitions. The agenda lists no other substantive decisions, contracts, or ordinances. The meeting focused solely on these two requests for variances or modifications to existing structures.

• Petition ID # 7610 at 94 Second Street: Request to add a front porch closer to the property line.
• Petition ID # 7611 at 143 Parker Street: Request to move a proposed building to the rear of the property.

Conservation Commission - Regular

The Conservation Commission will vote on two continued petitions from the previous meeting. The first involves geotechnical borings for Eversource's underground transmission line replacement in the Connecticut River. The second concerns an addition to the building and expanded parking at Christ Presbyterian Church on Allen Street.

• Petition #7588: Eversource Energy Services Company request for geotechnical borings for HPFF underground transmission lines in the Connecticut River
• Petition #7589: Christ Presbyterian Church request for building addition and expanded parking at 1597 Allen Street

City Council - Hearings Meeting

The Springfield City Council is holding a hearings meeting to consider two petitions and eight special permit requests, plus one zoning change. The special permits cover a medical office, a bed and breakfast, demolition/renovation, a trash hauling facility, motor vehicle sales, a wall sign, and an extension for used car sales. The zoning change would rezone 710 Liberty Street from Residence B/Commercial P to Business A.

• Special permit for medical office at 445 Sumner Avenue (Xpress Med Urgent Care)
• Special permit for bed & breakfast at 400 Maple Street
• Special permit for demolition/renovation at 486-494 Belmont Avenue
• Special permit for trash hauling facility at 1781 Page Boulevard (United Rentals)
• Zoning change for 710 Liberty Street from Residence B/Commercial P to Business A

Historical Commission - Regular

The Springfield Historical Commission is holding public hearings on 14 petitions for alterations to historic properties, ranging from window replacements to a carriage house demolition. The body also discusses the Community Preservation Committee's Historic Home Restoration Program and potential fees for creating local historic district reports. Additionally, the commission reviews informational items regarding a letter of support for the Parsons Apartment House renovation and a public speak-out session.

• Petition ID #7602: Demolition of carriage house at 75 Mulberry Street
• Petition ID #7603: Installation of solar panels, two-car garage, and front porch repairs at 80 Cornell Street
• Petition ID #7605: Remediations to unapproved design changes at 271 Pine Street
• Petition ID #7606: Remediations to unapproved design changes at 257 Central Street
• Discussion: Charging fees for creating local historic district and preservation agreement reports

School Committee - Middle School Representatives

The Springfield School Committee is meeting to vote on several field trip approvals, the Amaze Academy Charter School charter, the revised 2023-2024 school calendar, and naming the Administrative Office Suite at William N. DeBerry School. They will also receive updates from Sodexo and on mental health, and hear reports from standing committees.

• Approve field trips to Gillette Stadium (Conservatory of the Arts, Putnam Academy, Springfield Central High School) on Sept 30, 2023
• Approve Walsh School field trip to Red Gate Farm, Oct 4-6, 2023
• Approve High School of Science & Technology field trip to North Adams, Oct 16-18, 2023
• Approve charter for Amaze Academy Charter School
• Approve revised 2023-2024 School Calendar

Public Health Council - Regular

The Springfield Public Health Council is meeting virtually to discuss routine business, including approval of minutes, a COVID update, and various health center operational items such as staffing, dental services, policies, and finance. The agenda is largely procedural, with no major policy decisions or public hearings listed.

• COVID update
• Staffing/Provider update
• HRSA Operational Site Visit
• PCM Renewal
• Finance and QI-UDS Data

City Council - Finance Sub-Committee

The Finance Sub-Committee reviewed 29 orders, primarily establishing FY24 grant accounts for city departments. Key financial actions include a $500,000 Brownfields Assessment Grant and the sale of the former Gemini Building site to Home City Development, Inc. for $50,000. The committee also ratified a collective bargaining agreement with the Springfield Fire Chiefs Association and approved an intergovernmental agreement with the Springfield Business Improvement District.

• Brownfields Assessment Grant - No Match - $500,000
• Sale of former Gemini Building site (15 parcels at Morris & Central Streets) to Home City Development, Inc. for $50,000
• Ratification of Collective Bargaining Agreement - Springfield Fire Chiefs Association (SFCA)
• Approval of Intergovernmental Agreement with Springfield Business Improvement District
• FY24 Senior Community Service Employment Grant - In-Kind Match Required - $473,500.00

City Council - Regular Meeting

The Springfield City Council is voting on a $500,000 EPA Brownfields Assessment Grant and the sale of the former Gemini Building site to Home City Development, Inc. for $50,000. The agenda also includes ratification of a collective bargaining agreement with the Springfield Fire Chiefs Association and approval of a Verizon pole relocation petition on St. James Avenue. Additionally, the Council is reviewing multiple smaller grants for libraries, fire services, and animal care, totaling approximately $1.2 million.

• Approval of $500,000 Brownfields Assessment Grant from the EPA
• Sale of former Gemini Building site (15 parcels at Morris & Central Streets) to Home City Development, Inc. for $50,000
• Ratification of Collective Bargaining Agreement with Springfield Fire Chiefs Association
• Approval of Verizon petition to relocate a pole on St. James Avenue near Tapley Street
• Approval of Intergovernmental Agreement with Springfield Business Improvement District

Board of Public Works - Regular

The Board of Public Works met on September 18, 2023, at the Richard Neal Municipal Operations Center. The primary item on the agenda was a public hearing regarding a request by Crown Castle to install approximately 40 feet of 1-4 inch communication conduit on Carew Street. The proposed work involves connecting from an existing Eversource manhole to the property at 481 Carew Street.

• Hearing for Crown Castle to install 40 feet of 1-4 inch communication conduit on Carew Street
• Conduit installation connects existing Eversource manhole to property at 481 Carew Street

Residency Commission - Regular

The Springfield Residency Commission is holding a regular meeting to approve minutes from July 13, 2023, and discuss its meeting schedule. The main item is an executive session under Section 21(a)(1) of the Open Meeting Law to discuss a complaint or charge against an individual; the body will not return to open session.

• Approval of minutes from July 13, 2023
• Discussion of meeting schedule
• Executive session for case assignment (complaint against individual)

Conservation Commission - Regular

The Commission approved a 12-month extension for resiliency improvements at Watershops Pond Dam and authorized tree removal at 35 Pebble Mill Road. Two other petitions regarding geotechnical borings and building additions were continued to a future meeting.

• Approved 12-month extension for Watershops Pond Dam Project Order of Conditions (Unanimous)
• Approved tree removal at 35 Pebble Mill Road
• Continued vote on Petition #7588 for geotechnical borings in Connecticut River (6-0)
• Continued vote on Petition #7589 for building addition and parking at 1597 Allen Street (Unanimous)

Traffic Commission - Regular

The Springfield Traffic Commission met on September 6, 2023, to accept minutes from August 2 and review five new items. The agenda includes proposals for midblock crossings, honorary street signs, and adjustments to parking regulations in Indian Orchard and Tower Square.

• Proposed midblock crossings at 459 Main Street and 201 Parker Street
• Handicap parking changes at 162 and 174 Main Street, Indian Orchard
• Honorary street sign for George “Big Will” Williams
• Honorary street sign for Ms. Abbie Davies
• Two parking spaces (meter #M50) for take-out at Tower Square

Retirement Board - Regular

The Springfield Retirement Board will vote to approve monthly financial warrants, including a $7,639,338.29 retirement payroll and a $5,100,000.00 redemption from the PRIT fund. The agenda includes votes on disability and superannuation applications for police, fire, and school department employees. The board will also accept monthly financial reports for July and consider new member enrollments.

• Vote to approve Warrant #52 for retirement payroll in the amount of $7,639,338.29
• Vote to approve redemption from the PRIT fund in the amount of $5,100,000.00
• Vote to consider disability applications for Raul Gonzalez, Dean Fay, Thomas Zarelli, Douglas Converse, John Fortin, Aaron Rathburn, Anthony Lawrence, and Daniel Gramarossa
• Vote to accept five superannuation applications from School Department employees
• Vote to accept 12(2)(d) benefits for the beneficiary of deceased School Department employee Thu Huong Nguyen

School Committee - Regular

The Springfield School Committee's Budget & Finance Subcommittee met to review financial actions. The group voted to recommend a $30,000 transfer for outside legal services for FY23. They also voted to recommend the full committee approve the FY2024 Supplemental Budget.

• Vote to recommend $30,000 transfer to Legal Services for FY23 outside legal work
• Vote to recommend approval of the FY2024 Supplemental Budget

Board of Library Commissioners - Regular

The Springfield Library Commission will hold a regular meeting via Zoom on September 6, 2023. The agenda consists primarily of procedural items, including the approval of minutes from the June 7, 2023 meeting, and reports from the Chairman and Director. Two presentations are scheduled: one by Elizabeth McKinstry, Program and Training Librarian, and another by Matt Blumenfeld, Executive Director of the Springfield Library Foundation. No specific ordinances, contracts, or budget decisions are listed in the provided text.

• Approval of minutes from the June 7, 2023 Library Commission meeting
• Presentation by Elizabeth McKinstry, Program and Training Librarian
• Presentation by Matt Blumenfeld, Executive Director, Springfield Library Foundation
• Commission Committee Reports
• Chairman’s Report and Director’s Report

City Planning Board - Regular Meeting

The Springfield Planning Board will hold public hearings on four liquor license applications. Three are continuations from prior meetings: a beer and wine license for Island Blaze Restaurant at 708 Main Street, an all-alcohol license for L'Amour at 111 Chestnut Street, and a beer and wine package store license for Murphy's Pop Stop at 78 Island Pond Road. One new application is for an all-alcohol license for Urban Food Brood at 250 Albany Street. The board will also consider minutes and other matters.

• Continued hearing: Beer & wine license for Island Blaze Restaurant, 708 Main Street (Petition #7249)
• Continued hearing: All-alcohol license for L'Amour, 111 Chestnut Street (Petition #7491)
• Continued hearing: Beer & wine package store license for Murphy's Pop Stop, 78 Island Pond Road (Petition #7570)
• New hearing: All-alcohol license for Urban Food Brood, 250 Albany Street (Petition #7587)

The Planning Board approved one new liquor license and denied another. Two additional liquor license petitions were continued to a future meeting.

• Approved All Alcoholic Liquor License at 250 Albany Street (7-0)
• Denied Beer & Wine Liquor License (Package Store) at 78 Island Pond Road (7-0)
• Continued Beer & Wine Liquor License at 708 Main Street to 10/4/2023 (7-0)
• Continued All Alcoholic Liquor License at 111 Chestnut Street to 10/4/2023 (7-0)

Community Preservation Committee - Regular

The Springfield Community Preservation Committee met remotely on September 5, 2023, to discuss changes to the Magazine playground and D'Amour Museum contracts. The body also voted to cancel a commitment to the LaMarquise Apartment House and reviewed the annual CPA plan to determine the 2024 timeline. An annual public hearing is scheduled for October 3, 2023.

• Request to change scope of work for Magazine playground
• Request to extend contract and change scope of work for D'Amour Museum
• Cancel commitment to LaMarquise Apartment House, 2612 Main Street
• Ordinance amendment
• Review annual CPA plan; Determine 2024 Timeline

The Community Preservation Committee authorized design and engineering changes for the Magazine Playground and extended the D’Amour Museum contract. The committee also terminated a grant for the La Marquise Apartment House and proposed an ordinance amendment regarding member terms.

• Approved change of scope for Magazine Playground to design and engineering oversight (Unanimous)
• Approved contract extension to November 30, 2024, and removal of limestone cleaning for D’Amour Museum
• Terminated CPA grant commitment for La Marquise Apartment House at 2612-2616 Main St.
• Approved ordinance amendment to allow members to serve at-will until a successor is appointed
• Set 2024 application deadline for February 29
• Approved minutes from August 1

Board of Assessor - Regular Meeting

The Springfield Board of Assessors met to review monthly abatement totals, including $23,353.37 in motor vehicle excise abatements. The board also reviewed a list of uncollectible personal property taxes from various businesses. In executive session, the board discussed litigation strategy for nine Appellate Tax Board cases and reviewed exemption applications.

• Review of $803,135.99 in statutory exemptions across 1,057 applications
• Review of $23,353.37 in July 2023 Motor Vehicle Excise abatements
• Executive session discussion of litigation strategy for Smith & Wesson, Outdoor Media, and Baystate Place Limited Partnership
• Review of 8 of 58 personal exemption applications including SS Temple, Wienstein, and Roth & Gurevich
• Discussion of FY2024 Abatement Applications and Charitable Exemption Application

License Commission - Regular

The Springfield License Commission will hold a virtual public hearing to consider several liquor license petitions, including a request to extend closing hours for Mojitos Bar & Restaurant and a change of ownership for Center Stage. The board will also review one-day licenses for special events and administrative incident reports.

• Change of hours for Amapola Bakery and Bistro d/b/a Mojitos Bar & Restaurant at 497 Belmont Ave from 1:00 am to 2:00 am closing
• Change of ownership interest for Bino, Inc dba Center Stage at 265-271 Dwight Street
• One-day beer and wine licenses for Vermont Vermouth (Mattoon Street Art Festival), Los Muchachos Restaurant (private party), and South End Community Center (comedy fundraiser)
• Change of hours for Khi and Eli Food for the Soul at 882 Sumner Ave from 8:00 pm to 4:00 am closing on Fridays and Saturdays
• Administrative review of incident reports for The Zone (7-9-23) and Nathan Bills (8-3-23)

The Board of License Commissioners approved a change of ownership for Center Stage and granted several one-day beer and wine licenses. Requests for extended hours at Mojitos Bar & Restaurant and Khi and Eli Food for the Soul were partially approved or modified. A hearing regarding the involuntary dissolution of Indian Orchard Pizzeria was continued.

• Approved minutes from August 9, 2023 (Unanimous)
• Approved change of hours for Mojitos Bar & Restaurant to close at 2:00 am (3-1)
• Approved change of ownership interest for Center Stage (Unanimous)
• Approved one-day beer and wine license for Vermont Vermouth (Unanimous)
• Denied one-day beer and wine license for Los Muchachos Restaurant (3-1)
• Approved one-day beer and wine license for South End Community Center Inc (Unanimous)
• Approved 12:00 am closing on the last Friday of the month for Khi and Eli Food for the Soul (3-1)
• Continued Indian Orchard Pizzeria involuntary dissolution hearing to 10/25/2023 (Unanimous)

Mobile Home Rent Control Board - Public Hearing

The Springfield Mobile Home Rent Control Board is holding a public hearing to close the evidentiary portion of a case involving Eastwood Estates. Following the presentation of evidence, the board will deliberate and issue a decision on the matter. The meeting is scheduled for August 22, 2023, at City Hall and via Zoom.

• Closing of the evidentiary portion of the hearing for Eastwood Estates
• Deliberation and decision on the Eastwood Estates case

Mobile Home Rent Control Board - Public Hearing

The Mobile Home Rent Control Board held a public hearing on August 22, 2023, to conclude the evidentiary portion of a case involving the Springfield Mobile Home Park. Following the hearing, the board entered into deliberation to make a final decision on the matter. The agenda lists no specific dollar amounts or new ordinances, focusing solely on the procedural conclusion of this specific rent control case.

• Public hearing for Springfield Mobile Home Park
• Closing of evidentiary portion of hearing
• Board deliberation and decision on rent control

Conservation Commission - Regular

The Springfield Conservation Commission is meeting to continue its review of a request from Eversource Energy Services Company for a determination of applicability regarding exploratory borings for a horizontal directional drill to replace lines at Rear West Columbus Avenue (a.k.a. 135 Clinton Street). The item was previously continued from an August 8 vote. The agenda also includes a public portion and other matters before the commission.

• Request for Determination of Applicability for exploratory borings for horizontal directional drill at Rear West Columbus Avenue (a.k.a. 135 Clinton Street)
• Applicant: Eversource Energy Services Company, represented by Tighe & Bond, Inc.
• Item continued from August 8, 2023 vote

City Council - Hearings Meeting

The City Council is voting on three state grants totaling $710,600 for public health and safety initiatives. It is also approving a $450,000 appropriation to compensate owners for a partial eminent domain taking at 90-120 Tapley Street to expand Public Works operations. Additionally, the council is hearing requests for five special permits and one zoning change.

• Appropriation of $450,000 for eminent domain taking of portion of 90-120 Tapley Street
• Approval of $500,000 MassCall3 Grant for opioid overdose reduction
• Approval of $191,000 Safe Ride Home Project Grant from Mass Gaming Commission
• Approval of $19,600 Young Adults Gambling Project Grant from Mass Gaming Commission
• Zoning change request for 710 Liberty Street from Residence B/Commercial P to Business A

The City Council adopted three grants for public services and approved five special permits for business operations and signage. Two property taking orders and one zoning change request were continued to future meetings.

• Approved $500,000 MassCall3 Grant (12-0)
• Approved $191,000 Springfield Safe Ride Home Project grant (11-0)
• Approved $19,600 Springfield Young Adults Gambling Project grant (12-0)
• Approved special permit for motor vehicle sales at 466 Main Street (11-0)
• Approved special permit for owner change at 1130 Boston Road (12-0)
• Approved special permit for owner change at 1193 State Street (Unanimous)
• Approved special permit for motor vehicle sales and service at 16 Amity Court (Unanimous)
• Approved special permit for accessory wall sign at 1021 Boston Road (Unanimous)

Board of Public Works - Regular

The Springfield Planning Board is meeting to conduct public hearings on three liquor license petitions. Two petitions are continuations from previous months, while one is a new request for a package store. The agenda also includes standard procedural items like accepting minutes.

• Continued hearing for Beer & Wine Liquor License at 708 Main Street (Blaze Restaurant, Inc.)
• Continued hearing for All Alcoholic Liquor License at 111 Chestnut Street (Ace Will Do It, LLC)
• New hearing for Beer & Wine Liquor License (Package Store) at 78 Island Pond Road (Rajyogi Corporation)

The Springfield Planning Board voted to continue the review of three liquor license petitions. All three items were deferred to the next meeting on September 6, 2023.

• Continued vote for Beer & Wine Liquor License at 708 Main Street (6-0)
• Continued vote for All Alcoholic Liquor License at 111 Chestnut Street (6-0)
• Continued vote for Beer & Wine Liquor License (Package Store) at 78 Island Pond Road (6-0)

City Planning Board - Regular Meeting

The Springfield City Planning Board is meeting to conduct public hearings on three petitions for new liquor licenses. Two of these petitions have been continued through multiple previous meetings, while one is a new request. The agenda also includes standard procedural items like accepting minutes and reviewing non-subdivision plans.

• Public hearing on Petition #7249 for a new Beer & Wine Liquor License at 708 Main Street for Blaze Restaurant, Inc. (d/b/a Island Blaze Restaurant)
• Public hearing on Petition #7491 for a new All Alcoholic Liquor License at 111 Chestnut Street for Ace Will Do It, LLC (d/b/a L'Amour)
• Public hearing on Petition #7570 for a new Beer & Wine Liquor License (Package Store) at 78 Island Pond Road for Rajyogi Corporation (d/b/a Murphy’s Pop Stop)

The Planning Board voted to continue the review of three liquor license petitions. No final approvals or denials were issued during the meeting.

• Continued vote for Beer & Wine Liquor License at 708 Main Street (6-0)
• Continued vote for All Alcoholic Liquor License at 111 Chestnut Street (6-0)
• Continued vote for Beer & Wine Liquor License (Package Store) at 78 Island Pond Road (6-0)

Board of Public Works - Regular

The Springfield Board of Public Works met on August 15, 2023, to conduct a public hearing regarding Everource Gas. The agenda focused on a proposal to install underground gas facilities at Demond Avenue. The stated purpose is to retire existing low-pressure cast iron gas infrastructure.

• Public hearing on Everource Gas proposal
• Installation of underground gas facilities at Demond Avenue
• Retirement of low-pressure cast iron gas infrastructure

City Council - Working Group on Creative Economy

The City Council's Working Group on Creative Economy is meeting to continue its discussion of the creative economy and tourism. The meeting will take place at Nathan Bills Restaurant, 110 Island Pond Road, Springfield. The agenda contains only this single discussion item and no other business.

• Continued discussion of the Working Group Creative Economy and Tourism

Board of Police Commissioners - Regular

The Board of Police Commissioners is holding its regular meeting to elect a new chair and vice chair, approve prior meeting minutes, and update the board's manual. The board will also enter executive session to discuss a disciplinary matter involving officer misconduct under Special Order #23-0009.

• Election of new chair and vice chair
• Approval of minutes from May 16, May 17, and June 14, 2023
• BOPC Manual update
• Executive session on Special Order #23-0009 regarding officer misconduct and violation of SPD Rules and Regulations
• Public comment period (20 minutes, 2 minutes per person)

License Commission - Regular

The Board of License Commissioners denied a one-day beer and wine license for a private party at Los Muchachos Restaurant. A request to change operating hours for Khi and Eli Food for the Soul was continued to a later date. The board also approved the minutes from the July 26, 2023 meeting.

• Approved minutes from July 26, 2023 meeting (unanimous)
• Denied one-day Beer and Wine Liquor License for Los Muchachos Restaurant (4-1)
• Continued request for change of hours for Khi and Eli Food for the Soul to 8-23-2023 (unanimous)

Board of Public Works - Regular

The Springfield Board of Public Works met on August 9, 2023, to conduct a public hearing. The sole item on the agenda was a request from Verizon to relocate one utility pole on St James Avenue. This relocation is intended to accommodate a Municipal Improvement project by the Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MDOT).

• Public hearing on Verizon request to relocate one pole on St James Ave
• Relocation required to accommodate MDOT Municipal Improvement project

Conservation Commission - Regular

The Springfield Conservation Commission is meeting to review two certificate of compliance petitions and one request for determination of applicability from Eversource for exploratory borings. The commission will decide whether to approve these requests under wetland protection regulations.

• Certificate of Compliance for 139-141 Cardinal Street (File #ORD-07002, applicant James Pafumi)
• Partial Certificate of Compliance for 64 Oak Brook Drive, East Longmeadow (DEP File #150-131, applicant Nyles Courchesne)
• Request for Determination of Applicability for exploratory borings for horizontal directional drill at Rear West Columbus Avenue (a.k.a. 135 Clinton Street) by Eversource Energy Services Company

The Conservation Commission approved two certificates of compliance for properties on Cardinal Street and Oak Brook Drive. A request for determination regarding exploratory borings at Rear West Columbus Avenue was continued to a future meeting.

• Approved Certificate of Compliance for 139-141 Cardinal Street (5-0)
• Approved Partial Certificate of Compliance for 64 Oak Brook Drive, East Longmeadow (5-0)
• Continued vote on Request for Determination of Applicability for Rear West Columbus Avenue/135 Clinton Street to 8/22/2023 (5-0)

Historical Commission - Regular

The Springfield Historical Commission will hold public hearings on 12 petitions for exterior alterations to historic properties, including window replacements, solar panels, fencing, and renovations. The commission will also discuss the Community Preservation Committee's Historic Home Restoration Program and other informational items, including a demolition order and a duplex construction completion.

• Petition #7553: 42 Thompson Street – solar panels
• Petition #7554: 120 Buckingham Street – replacement windows
• Petition #7557: 70-76 Temple Street – front yard fencing
• Petition #7560: 75 Mulberry Street – remove roof and doors of carriage house
• Discussion: 63 Mulberry Street – carriage house demolition ordered by Building Commissioner

Board of Assessor - Regular Meeting

The Board of Assessors is meeting to review meeting minutes, monthly abatement totals, warrants to collectors, and contracts. They will also vote to enter executive session to discuss litigation strategy, personal exemptions, and preliminary tax abatements, and will not return to public session.

• June abatement totals: Real Estate $57,208.69; Motor Vehicle Excise $27,513.24
• Warrant to Collectors: Motor Vehicle & Trailer Excise YR 2023 3 Commitment $41,303,929; YR 2022 09 Commitment $114.70; YR 2021 12 Commitment $28.68
• Contracts: Davenport Advisors LLC (Housing Development); Snapland, LLC (Tax Increment Financing)
• Executive session to discuss ATB docket, personal exemptions, and preliminary tax abatements (8 of 58 applications)
• Charitable/religious exemptions for Rise & Walk Ministry at 379 Oak St

Animal Control - Regular

The Springfield Animal Control board met on August 2, 2023, in Hybrid Room 205 at City Hall. The agenda consisted solely of a procedural call to order and a single hearing regarding a dangerous dog complaint at 115 Bulat Drive. No other items, votes, or decisions were listed in the provided document.

• Hearing on dangerous dog at 115 Bulat Drive

Traffic Commission - Regular

The Springfield Traffic Commission is meeting to consider several traffic-related items, including handicap parking spaces, no parking zones, a school zone, and an honorary street sign. The commission will also accept minutes from its June 7, 2023 meeting. Public comment is invited in writing before or within five days after the hearing.

• Handicap parking at 162 and 174 Main Street, Indian Orchard
• No parking any time at 222-224 Orange Street
• No parking any time at 62 Fremont Street
• School zone on Surry Road at Mary A. Dryden Veterans Memorial School
• Honorary street sign for George 'Big Will' Williams

Retirement Board - Regular

The Springfield Retirement Board will vote to approve a $7,613,220.83 retirement payroll warrant and review disability benefit applications for fire and police department members. The board will also accept ten superannuation applications from school, health, and public works employees. Additionally, the board will consider refunds and transfers to other pension systems and accept June financial reports.

• Vote to approve Warrant #46 for retirement payroll in the amount of $7,613,220.83
• Vote to consider disability applications for Brent Brenes (Fire), Arjel Falcon (Police), and Raul Gonzalez (Fire)
• Vote to accept ten Superannuation Applications including Maria Siciliano (Police) and Deborah Allard (Schools)
• Vote to approve thirteen retirement allowance calculations
• MGL Chapter 32 Hearing regarding Heath Dion of the Building Department

Community Preservation Committee - Regular

The Community Preservation Committee recommended funding for several 2023 projects using approximately $1 million in available funds. The committee also approved contract extensions for various park and library projects and increased the Administrator's contract by 25%.

• Approved June 6, 2023 meeting minutes (Unanimous)
• Recommended funding for 2023 applications totaling approximately $1 million
• Corrected CMSS project allocation to $14,740.00
• Extended contracts for Forest Park Trolley Barn, Bike Park Study, and Hubbard Park Tennis Court to June 30, 2024
• Extended contracts for Blunt Park Tennis Court, Stone Soul Garden, Forest Park Picnic Pavilion, and Cottage Hill Park to December 31, 2023
• Extended East Springfield Library Reading Outdoor Room contract to November 30, 2024
• Extended Trinity House project contract to November 30, 2023
• Approved Administrator's contract extension and 25% increase ($5,850) for years two and three (5-0)

City Council - ARPA Oversight Committee

The Springfield City Council ARPA Oversight Committee met virtually on July 31, 2023. The agenda consisted solely of a general review of applications and the ARPA Advisory Committee process. No specific contracts, ordinances, or dollar amounts were listed for decision.

• General review of ARPA applications
• Review of ARPA Advisory Committee process

License Commission - Regular

The Springfield Board of License Commissioners will hold a virtual public hearing to approve minutes from July 12 and review petitions for alcohol licenses. The agenda includes requests for new annual all-alcohol licenses, a pledge of license, and a change of manager for a hookah lounge. Additionally, the board will hold an informational hearing for a one-day liquor license for the Harambee Festival and a Section 77 hearing regarding the status of a liquor license for Shaking Crab.

• Petition for Change of Manager for Le Souk Hookah Lounge LLC at 1 Worthington St from Virginia Leonor to Genesis Pujols
• Petition for Pledge of License to ANI, Inc. for Crazy Andy’s Liquors at 754-758 Main Street
• Petition for New Annual All Alcohol GOP License for Ivy’s Events LLC at 1295 Liberty St
• Informational Hearing for One Day All Alcohol Liquor License for Hickory Street Harambee Inc. for the Harambee Festival at Bolden Park on August 5-6, 2023
• Section 77 Hearing for Shaking Crab at 1373 Main St regarding Status of Liquor License

The Board approved several liquor license petitions, including a new annual license for Ivy’s Events and a one-day license for the Harambee Festival. The Board also voted unanimously to revoke the annual all-alcohol liquor license for Shaking Crab after the licensee failed to appear.

• Approved minutes from July 12, 2023 (unanimous)
• Approved change of manager for Le Souk Hookah Lounge LLC (unanimous)
• Approved pledge of license to ANI, Inc. for Crazy Andy’s Liquors (unanimous)
• Approved new annual all alcohol GOP license for Ivy’s Events LLC (unanimous)
• Approved one-day all alcohol liquor license for Hickory Street Harambee Inc. (unanimous)
• Revoked annual all-alcohol liquor license for Shaking Crab (unanimous)

Zoning Board of Appeals - Regular

The Springfield Zoning Board of Appeals met virtually on July 26, 2023, to review one petition. The agenda lists a request for a six-month extension at a property on WS Dickinson Street. No other substantive items, votes, or decisions are recorded in the provided text.

• Petition ID #7568: Request for a six-month extension at property 03910-0271 on WS Dickinson Street
• Petitioner: Ellen S. Boynton

Conservation Commission - Regular

The Conservation Commission is meeting to finalize a request to remove one tree and prune another at 12 Sabin Street, a petition that has been continued three times since May. The body will also review a new request from the Massachusetts Department of Fire Services to construct an external staircase at 100 Grochmal Avenue. No other substantive items are listed on the agenda.

• Request for Determination of Applicability (ID # 7416) for removal of one tree and pruning of a second tree at 12 Sabin Street
• Request for Determination of Applicability (ID # 7550) for construction of an external staircase to an existing structure at 100 Grochmal Avenue

The Conservation Commission approved two requests for determination of applicability. One request concerned tree maintenance at 12 Sabin Street, and the other concerned an external staircase at 100 Grochmal Avenue.

• Approved tree removal and pruning at 12 Sabin Street (5-0)
• Approved external staircase construction at 100 Grochmal Avenue as Not Applicable provided flood level storage is maintained (5-0)

Board of Assessor - Regular Meeting

The Springfield Board of Assessors met on July 24, 2023, to discuss the public portion of the agenda. The only substantive item listed was the review of FY2024 preliminary abatements for two specific property addresses. No other decisions, contracts, or ordinances were detailed in the provided text.

• FY2024 Preliminary Abatement for PID# 089100008 at 70 Nagle St
• FY2024 Preliminary Abatement for PID# 028450019 at 171 Clearbrook

Historical Commission - Regular

The Springfield Board of Assessors is scheduled to hold a regular meeting on July 24, 2023, at City Hall. The agenda lists a public portion where the board will consider FY2024 preliminary abatements for two specific properties. No other substantive items, contracts, or ordinances are listed in the provided text.

• FY2024 Preliminary Abatement for PID# 089100008 at 70 Nagle St
• FY2024 Preliminary Abatement for PID# 028450019 at 171 Clearbrook

City Planning Board - Regular Meeting

The Springfield City Planning Board is holding a public hearing to decide on three petitions for new alcoholic beverage licenses. These items have been continued through multiple previous meetings. The agenda also includes standard procedural items like accepting minutes and reviewing non-subdivision plans.

• Petition #7249: New Beer & Wine Liquor License for Blaze Restaurant, Inc. (d/b/a Island Blaze Restaurant) at 708 Main Street
• Petition #7387: New Beer & Wine Liquor License (Package Store) for Lotus Street 13, Inc. (d/b/a Shamrock Market) at 1116 St James Avenue
• Petition #7491: New All Alcoholic Liquor License for Ace Will Do It, LLC (d/b/a L'Amour) at 111 Chestnut Street

The Planning Board approved one new liquor license application and continued the vote on two others. The approved license for 1116 St James Avenue includes specific conditions regarding operating hours, maintenance, and signage.

• Approved new Beer & Wine Liquor License (Package Store) at 1116 St James Avenue (6-0)
• Continued vote on new Beer & Wine Liquor License at 708 Main Street to 8/16/2023 (6-0)
• Continued vote on new All Alcoholic Liquor License at 111 Chestnut Street to 8/16/2023 (6-0)

Public Health Council - Regular

The Springfield Public Health Council held a virtual meeting to approve minutes and review health center operations. Key business included the initial appointment of Ligia Francisco Gil as a Medical Assistant and a review of June financial data, including QI-UDS and outreach reports. The agenda also covered updates on C3, dental services, and quality assurance.

• Initial appointment of Ligia Francisco Gil, Medical Assistant
• Review of June Finance data including QI-UDS and Outreach & Enrollment
• C3 Update
• Dental services update
• Quality Improvement and Quality Assurance review

City Council - Regular Meeting

The Springfield City Council is scheduled to vote on a $10,000,000 bond authorization for various municipal purposes and a $6,000,000 bond for Court Square improvements. The agenda includes a referral vote to rezone 710 Liberty Street from Residence B/Commercial P to Business A for a car wash, as well as the approval of several state grants totaling over $2.2 million. Additionally, the Council will consider orders for utility conduit installations on Spring, Belmont, Sumner, Maple, Pine, Vinton, Norfolk, and Heywood streets.

• Bond Authorization for Various Municipal Purposes: $10,000,000.00
• Bond Authorization for Court Square Improvements: $6,000,000.00
• Zone Change at 710 Liberty Street: Residence B/Commercial P to Business A (Petitioner: Hutton ST 21, LLC)
• State 911 Support & Incentive Grant: $992,816.00
• Department of Mental Health Jail/Arrest Diversion Program Grant: $367,474.00

Board of Assessor - Regular Meeting

The Springfield Board of Assessors met to review June abatement totals and write off uncollectible personal property taxes. The board entered executive session to discuss litigation strategy for Appellate Tax Board cases involving properties like Smith & Wesson and Springfield Riverfront Development Corp. Additionally, the board reviewed 8 of 58 preliminary FY 2023 tax abatement applications and charitable exemption requests.

• Review of 8 of 58 FY 2023 Preliminary Tax Abatement Applications, including Iqbal and Yolie Boutique & Beauty Supply
• Executive session discussion of Appellate Tax Board litigation for Smith & Wesson and Springfield Riverfront Development Corp (1000 West Columbus Ave)
• Review of charitable exemption applications for Rise & Walk Ministry at 379 Oak St
• Write-off of uncollectible personal property taxes for entities including 1171 Main Street LLC ($495.32) and 31 Alpha LLC ($1,411.57)

Residency Commission - Regular

The Residency Commission met on July 13, 2023, to approve minutes from May 11, 2023. The body then moved into executive session under Section 21(a)(1) of the Open Meeting Law to discuss complaints or charges against an individual. The agenda notes that the body will not return to open session.

• Approval of minutes from May 11, 2023
• Executive session convened to discuss complaints or charges against an individual

The Commission approved the minutes from the May 11, 2023, meeting. The body then entered an executive session to discuss employment matters and did not return to open session.

• Approved May 11, 2023 meeting minutes
• Entered executive session to discuss employment matters

Retirement Board - Regular

The Springfield Retirement Board will vote on routine financial warrants, including a $7.5 million retirement payroll and a $6.8 million redemption from the PRIT fund. The agenda includes individual retirement applications, refund redeposits, and the acceptance of 41 new members. The board will also review monthly financial reports and PERAC memos.

• Approval of Warrant #40 for retirement payroll in the amount of $7,548,535.24
• Redemption from the PRIT fund in the amount of $6,825,000.00
• Acceptance of Superannuation Applications for Paul Blake and Mel Kwatowski
• Consideration of 50 requests for refunds and transfers to other systems
• Consideration of 41 New Members for membership in the Springfield Retirement System

License Commission - Regular

The Board of License Commissioners issued a 15-day suspension to Khan’s Food and Drink following noise ordinance and licensing violations. The board also approved a premises alteration for Texas Road House. Several other license petitions and hearings were continued to future dates.

• Approved minutes from June 28, 2023 (unanimous)
• Continued Le Souk Hookah Lounge manager change petition to 7/26/2023 (unanimous)
• Approved alteration of premises for Texas Road House Holding, LLC (unanimous)
• Approved 15-day suspension for Khan’s Food and Drink for noise and entertainment violations (unanimous)
• Continued Section 77 Hearing for Rose to 9/13/2023 (unanimous)
• Continued Section 77 Hearing for Shaking Crab to 7/26/2023 (unanimous)

City Council - Special Meeting

The Springfield Election Commission held a virtual special meeting on July 6, 2023. The agenda included the approval of the 2023 Annual Street Listing and the 2023 Municipal Election. No specific dollar amounts, ordinances, or detailed proposals were listed in the provided text.

• Approval of the 2023 Annual Street Listing
• Discussion of the 2023 Municipal Election

City Council - Special Meeting

The City Council is acting on four zoning items filed with the City Clerk. The agenda includes a special permit for a drive-up window, two specific property rezonings, and a city-wide amendment to the zoning ordinance regarding adult use retail hours. The Planning Board recommended approval for the property rezonings but voted not to approve the marijuana hours amendment, though the Council initiated the petition.

• Special permit for a drive-up service window at ES East Columbus Avenue, SS Wilcox Street, and NS William Street for 180 Redevelopment, LLC
• Rezone 1781 Page Boulevard from Business B to Industrial A for United Rentals, Inc. (Planning Board approved 6-0)
• Rezone NS Rutledge Avenue from Residence C to Business B for 457 Main Street, LLC (Planning Board approved 6-0)
• Amend Article 4, Section 4.7.114(B)(5) to extend marijuana retail operating hours from 9:00 PM to 11:00 PM city-wide

The City Council approved a special permit for a drive-up service window and two property zoning changes. Additionally, the Council passed the first step of an amendment to extend operating hours for marijuana retailers.

• Approved special permit for drive-up service window at E Columbus Ave, S Wilcox St, and N William St (12-0)
• Approved zoning change from Business B to Industrial A for 1781 Page Boulevard (12-0)
• Approved zoning change from Residence C to Business B for N Rutledge Avenue (12-0)
• Approved first step of amendment to extend marijuana retailer hours from 9 PM to 11 PM

Board of Public Works - Regular

The Springfield Board of Public Works met on July 3, 2023, at the Richard Neal Municipal Operations Center. The agenda included standard procedural items such as the call to order and review of previous minutes. The only specific new business item was a public hearing regarding a utility pole relocation.

• Hearing to relocate electric pole 14 feet south on Norfolk Street for Eversource

Board of Assessor - Regular Meeting

The Board of Assessors will review May motor vehicle excise abatement totals of $59,466.81 and discuss policies regarding uncollectible taxes due to death. The Board will also enter executive session to discuss personal exemption applications and litigation strategies for several properties at the Appellate Tax Board.

• May Motor Vehicle Excise Abatement Total: $59,466.81
• Review of 8 of 58 personal exemption applications including Springfield Redevelopment Authority (Union Station)
• Executive session review of ATB Docket items including Smith & Wesson and Walgreens locations
• Discussion of charitable/religious exemptions for Rise & Walk Ministry on Oak St
• Review of overvalue abatement for Springfield Riverfront Development Corp at 1000 West Columbus Ave

Park Commission - Regular

The Springfield Park Commission is meeting virtually to handle routine business: approving prior minutes, a memorial plaque, significant tree removals at two addresses, one-day liquor licenses, fee waiver requests, and a grant update. Several items were tabled from the previous meeting.

• Approval of 5/18/23 meeting minutes
• Memorial plaque request on park bench
• Significant tree removals at 62 Newfield Road and 12 Sabin Street
• One-day liquor licenses for Common Wealth Murals and Caribbean Carnival (tabled)
• Fee waiver requests from Indian Orchard Citizen Council (3) and Dominican Society (tabled)

Board of Public Works - Regular

The Board of Public Works is holding a regular meeting on June 28, 2023, at the Richard Neal Municipal Operations Center. The main item is a hearing on Eversource's request to install an electric hexhole and conduit trench near Sumner and Firglade Avenues. The rest of the agenda is procedural, covering call to order, minutes, and old/new business.

• Public hearing: Eversource to install 1 electric hexhole and trench with conduit from existing manhole 1501/8 to proposed hexhole in treebelt at corner of Firglade Avenue and Sumner Avenue
• Meeting location: Richard Neal Municipal Operations Center, 70 Tapley Street, Springfield, MA
• Meeting held at corner of Belmont Avenue and Wooside Terrace

License Commission - Regular

The Springfield License Commission will hold a virtual public hearing to consider new petitions, informational hearings, and enforcement actions. Key items include a final hearing for Khan's Food and Drink for noise and unlicensed outdoor entertainment, a pre-hearing for Los Muchachos for license condition violation, and administrative reviews of incidents at two bars.

• Final hearing: Delicias Restaurant and Catering Corp. d/b/a Khan's Food and Drink, 1333 Boston Rd, for noise ordinance violation and unlicensed outdoor entertainment (incident 5-14-23)
• Pre-hearing: Los Muchachos Bar and Restaurant, 436 Boston Rd Suite B, for failure to comply with license conditions (incident 4-23-23)
• Informational hearing: Loophole Brewing Company, 51-59 Taylor St, social networking event every Thursday 7/13-9/14/2023, 4-7 pm
• Informational hearing: Westfield Starfires, 181 Notre Dame St, Springfield Summer Classic on 7/30/2023, 1:30-7 pm
• Administrative review of incident reports: O'Brien's Corner (5-13-23) and Paddy's Irish Pub (6-2-23)

The Board of License Commissioners approved two event permits for upcoming dates in 2023. Two other licensing issues regarding incident reports were continued to future dates.

• Approved event permit for Loophole Brewing Company at 51-59 Taylor Street (unanimous)
• Approved event permit for Westfield Starfires at 181 Notre Dame Street (unanimous)
• Approved motion to continue the issue for Los Muchachos Bar and Restaurant (unanimous)
• Approved motion to continue the issue for Khan’s Food and Drink to 7/12/2023 (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from June 14, 2023 meeting (unanimous)

Zoning Board of Appeals - Regular

The Springfield Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a regular meeting on June 28, 2023, at City Hall. The main item is a petition from Christ Presbyterian Church to allow exceeding the 25% front yard landscaping requirement at 1597 Allen Street. The board will also open a public portion for comments.

• Petition to exceed 25% front yard landscaping requirement at 1597 Allen Street
• Public hearing for community input

School Committee - Regular

The Springfield School Committee's Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Subcommittee is meeting to receive an informational update on DIRE and DEI. No votes or decisions are scheduled; the agenda lists only this single discussion item.

• Informational update on DIRE and DEI programs
• Subcommittee members: Denise Hurst (Chair), Joesiah Gonzalez, Barbara Gresham
• Meeting at Springfield Public Schools Central Office, 1550 Main Street

Board of Public Works - Regular

The Board of Public Works will hold a hearing regarding an Eversource proposal to install an electric hexhole and trench with conduit. The work involves connecting an existing manhole to a new hexhole in the sidewalk at the corner of Belmont Avenue and Wooside Terrace.

• Public hearing: Eversource installation of electric hexhole and conduit at Belmont Avenue and Wooside Terrace

Board of Public Works - Regular

The Board of Public Works is holding its regular meeting on June 27, 2023, at the Richard Neal Municipal Operations Center, with the meeting physically held in front of 270 Maple Street. The main item is a public hearing on Eversource's request to install an electric handhole and conduit trench from an existing manhole to a new handhole in the tree belt at that address.

• Public hearing: Eversource to install 1 electric hexhole and trench with conduit from existing manhole 988/7 to proposed hexhole in tree belt at 270 Maple St.
• Meeting location: in front of 270 Maple Street, Springfield, MA
• Meeting held at Richard Neal Municipal Operations Center, 70 Tapley Street

REO Monitoring Committee - Regular Meeting

The REO Monitoring Committee is holding a regular meeting on June 27, 2023. The agenda contains only procedural information regarding the meeting time and location.

Board of Public Works - Regular

This is a regular meeting of the Springfield Board of Public Works. The agenda contains only procedural items: the meeting location and the call to order. No substantive decisions or discussions are listed.

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

Conservation Commission - Regular

The Conservation Commission will vote on the Order of Conditions for the Eastfield Mall redevelopment after closing the public hearing, and will continue reviewing a tree removal request at 12 Sabin Street. Both items were previously continued from May and June meetings.

• Vote on Order of Conditions for Eastfield Mall redevelopment at 1685, 1719, and 1655 Boston Road
• Request for Determination of Applicability for removal of one tree and pruning of a second at 12 Sabin Street
• Applicant for mall project: Onyx Springfield Crossing, LLC; representative: Lucas Environmental, LLC
• Tree work applicant: Linda & Robert Suzor

The Conservation Commission approved a Notice of Intent for the redevelopment of the Eastfield Mall. A request regarding tree removal at 12 Sabin Street was continued to a future meeting.

• Approved Notice of Intent for Eastfield Mall redevelopment at 1685, 1719, and 1655 Boston Road (4-0)
• Continued vote for tree removal and pruning at 12 Sabin Street to 7/25/2023 (4-0)

City Council - Special Meeting

The Springfield School Committee's Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Subcommittee is holding a special meeting to receive an informational update on DIRE and DEI efforts. No votes or decisions are scheduled; the agenda lists only a discussion item.

• Informational update on DIRE and DEI
• Meeting at Springfield Public Schools, 1550 Main Street
• Subcommittee members: Denise Hurst (Chair), Joesiah Gonzalez, Barbara Gresham

Board of Public Works - Regular

The Board of Public Works will hold a hearing regarding a proposal by Eversource. The project involves installing two electric hexholes and a trench with conduit from an existing manhole to a new sidewalk location.

• Hearing for Eversource to install 2 electric hexholes and trench at Vinton Street and Liberty Street

City Council - Finance Sub-Committee

The Finance Sub-Committee is discussing two transfer orders: $3,000,000 from FY22 certified free cash to the Neighborhood Enhancement Fund, and $270,000 from reserves to Fire Department salaries. The $3M transfer was previously debated at full council, with several councilors opposing it due to lack of a spending plan, and was referred to the Comptroller under Rule 20.

• Transfer of $3,000,000 from FY22 Certified Free Cash to Neighborhood Enhancement Fund
• Transfer of $270,000 from Reserve for Contingencies to Fire Salaries & Wages
• Discussion of Rule 20 Analysis
• CAFO certification for both transfers
• Fire salary transfer covers projected deficits from retroactive pay after IAFF ratification

City Council - Hearings Meeting

The City Council is reviewing several financial transfers and zoning changes. Key items include moving $3,000,000 to the Neighborhood Enhancement Fund and $270,000 to Fire Department salaries and wages.

• $3,000,000 transfer from FY22 Free Cash to Neighborhood Enhancement Fund
• $270,000 transfer from Reserve for Contingencies to Fire Salaries & Wages
• Special permit for a digital billboard on SS Clinton Street
• Zoning change for 1781 Page Boulevard from Business B to Industrial A
• New stop sign installation on Sedgelia Street at Thornfell Street

The City Council approved a $3 million transfer of FY22 certified free cash to the Neighborhood Enhancement Fund. Members also approved several traffic petitions and special permits for signage and business operations. One special permit for motor vehicle sales was continued to a later date.

• Approved $3M transfer from FY22 Certified Free Cash to Neighborhood Enhancement Fund (11-1)
• Approved $270,000 transfer from Reserve for Contingencies to Fire Salaries & Wages (Unanimous)
• Approved installation of stop sign at Sedgelia St. (Unanimous)
• Approved 3-month trial of 'no parking' on Berkshire Ave. (Unanimous)
• Approved crosswalks at City Hall Place, Walnut Street, and Bay Street (Unanimous)
• Approved special permit to convert static billboard to digital at SS Clinton Street (Unanimous)
• Approved special permits for wall signs at 1055-1063/1049 Main Street and 759 Chestnut Street (Unanimous)
• Continued special permit for motor vehicle sales at 466 Main Street to 8/21/2023 (Unanimous)

Animal Control - Regular

The Animal Control board is holding a single hearing to determine the fate of a dog deemed dangerous at 24 Thorton St. The meeting is scheduled for June 22, 2023, at 10:00 AM via Zoom. No other business is listed.

• Dangerous dog hearing for 24 Thorton St

School Committee - Regular

The Springfield School Committee is voting on several policy changes, including the implementation of the Yondr Cell Phone Program at three high schools and the adoption of a new middle school curriculum. The body is also approving multiple state and local grants totaling over $555,000 for various educational and infrastructure projects. Additionally, the committee is finalizing a Memorandum of Understanding with the Springfield Police Department regarding School Resource Officers.

• Approve implementation of Yondr Cell Phone Program at Conservatory of the Arts, High School of Science and Technology, and Renaissance
• Approve $210,000 expenditure from Massachusetts Clean Water Trust for School Water Improvement Grant
• Approve $100,000 expenditure from Student Opportunity Act-Evidence-Based Practice Grant
• Approve School Resource Officer Memorandum of Understanding with Springfield Police Department
• Approve $40,000 expenditure from Middle School Career Connected Learning Partnership Grant

Public Health Council - Regular

The Public Health Council will hold a virtual meeting to discuss city business, including updates on the opioid crisis and inequities in fatal overdoses. The agenda also covers health center operations, such as staffing, women's health screenings, and financial reports. No specific ordinances, contracts, or fee changes are listed for decision.

• Discussion of inequities in fatal overdose among Springfield residents
• Review of Health Center staffing and provider updates
• Update on Women's Health Prevention Screening
• Review of Finance, QI-UDS Data, and Program Data Reports

City Planning Board - Regular Meeting

The Springfield City Planning Board is holding public hearings on five items, including four liquor license petitions and one zoning change. The board will decide on continued petitions for a restaurant at 708 Main Street and a package store at 1116 St James Avenue. New hearings cover a license for a business at 111 Chestnut Street, an alteration for Texas Road House at 12 Mall Street, and a rezoning of 710 Liberty Street from Residence B/Commercial P to Business A.

• Liquor License Petition #7249: New Beer & Wine License for Island Blaze Restaurant at 708 Main Street
• Liquor License Petition #7387: New Package Store License for Shamrock Market at 1116 St James Avenue
• Liquor License Petition #7491: New All Alcoholic License for L'Amour at 111 Chestnut Street
• Liquor License Petition #7516: Alteration of All Alcoholic License for Texas Road House at 12 Mall Street
• Zoning Change #7424: Rezone 710 Liberty Street from Residence B/Commercial P to Business A

The Planning Board approved a zoning change for a portion of 710 Liberty Street and an alteration to a liquor license. Three other liquor license petitions were continued to the July 19, 2023 meeting.

• Approved zoning change for portion of 710 Liberty Street from Residence B and Commercial P to Business A (3-2)
• Approved alteration of existing All Alcoholic Liquor License at 12 Mall Street / 380 Cooley Street (5-0)
• Continued vote for new Beer & Wine Liquor License at 708 Main Street to 7/19/2023 (5-0)
• Continued vote for new Beer & Wine Liquor License (Package Store) at 1116 St James Avenue to 7/19/2023 (5-0)
• Continued vote for new All Alcoholic Liquor License at 111 Chestnut Street to 7/19/2023 (5-0)

City Council - Special Meeting

The Springfield City Council scheduled a special virtual meeting for June 22, 2023, to conduct a single hearing. The agenda contains only this procedural item, with no other business listed. The hearing addresses a specific animal control case identified as ID # 7392.

• Dangerous Dog Hearing for property at 24 Thorton St (ID # 7392)

Mobile Home Rent Control Board - Public Hearing

The Mobile Home Rent Control Board is holding a public hearing to consider matters related to the Springfield Mobile Home Park and Eastwood Estates. The hearing includes presentations from proponents and opponents, followed by deliberation. The agenda is procedural, outlining the structure for the evidentiary portions of the hearing.

• Public hearing for Springfield Mobile Home Park
• Public hearing for Eastwood Estates
• Proponent and opponent presentations with rebuttal time limits
• Deliberation scheduled after each park's hearing

School Committee - Regular

The Legislative & Contracts Subcommittee is meeting to vote on recommending approval of a School Resource Officer Memorandum of Understanding between the School Committee, Springfield Public Schools, and the Police Department, and to vote on broadcasting subcommittee and full committee meetings on social media. They will also discuss Chapter 71, Section 38M regarding Student Advisory Committees.

• Vote to recommend approval of School Resource Officer MOU
• Vote to recommend broadcasting meetings on social media
• Discussion of Chapter 71, Section 38M Student Advisory Committees

School Committee - Regular

The Legislative & Contracts Subcommittee is meeting to vote on recommending approval of a School Resource Officer Memorandum of Understanding with the police department and on broadcasting subcommittee and full committee meetings to social media. They will also discuss Chapter 71, Section 38M regarding Student Advisory Committees.

• Vote to recommend approval of School Resource Officer MOU between School Committee, Springfield Public Schools, and Springfield Police Department
• Vote to recommend approval of broadcasting subcommittee and full committee meetings on social media platforms
• Discussion of Chapter 71, Section 38M on Student Advisory Committees

Commission on Disability - Regular

The Springfield Commission on Disability is holding a regular meeting with a standard agenda that includes only call to order, sign-in, new business, old business, other, and adjournment. No specific discussion topics, votes, or action items are listed in the agenda.

• No specific items listed under New Business or Old Business

City Council - Special Meeting

The City Council approved multiple financial orders to allocate FY22 certified free cash to the stabilization reserve, estimated revenues, and roadway improvements. One request for a neighborhood enhancement fund was referred to the comptroller. The council also held a discussion on the FY24 General Fund budget.

• Approved $17,591,479.91 transfer of FY22 Certified Free Cash to Stabilization Reserve Fund (10-3)
• Approved $5,000,000.00 transfer of FY22 Certified Free Cash to FY24 Estimated Revenues (Unanimous)
• Referred $3,000,000 transfer for Neighborhood Enhancement Fund to the comptroller
• Approved $2,500,000 transfer of FY22 Certified Free Cash to Roadway Improvements (Unanimous)
• Approved $1,482,207.12 budget transfer from Finance to Multi-Year Pay-Go Fund (Unanimous)
• Approved $11,385.00 for Law Department bills of prior year (Unanimous)
• Approved $2,628.82 for Police bills of prior year (Unanimous)

Board of Assessor - Regular Meeting

The Board of Assessors is holding a regular meeting to review meeting minutes, monthly abatement totals, and warrants to collectors for various taxes. They will also vote to enter executive session to discuss litigation strategy, exemption applications, and preliminary tax abatements.

• Warrant to Collectors: Omitted Property/Personal Property FY2023 $11,964.68
• Warrant to Collectors: Omitted Property/Real Estate FY2023 $61,217.22
• Warrant to Collectors: Real Estate Tax FY2023 $186,565.06
• Warrant to Collectors: Real Estate Tax FY2023 $46,766.45
• Executive session to discuss ATB docket, personal exemptions, and FY2023 preliminary tax abatements

Historical Commission - Regular

The Springfield Historical Commission will hold public hearings on 11 petitions for changes to historic properties, including roof replacement, solar panel installation, and exterior repairs. The commission will also discuss the Community Preservation Committee's Historic Home Restoration Program and new construction guidelines.

• 49 Chestnut Street: Request for removal of district exemption
• 63 Chestnut Street: Paint exterior stucco
• 92 Cornell Street: Replacement of roof (slate to asphalt)
• 144 Buckingham Street: Installation of solar panels
• 115 Garfield Street: Temporary removal of original door for restoration (in response to Stop Work Order)

Retirement Board - Regular

The Springfield Retirement Board will vote on several disability and superannuation (retirement) applications, including multiple accidental disability cases from police and fire departments. The board will also consider approving warrants totaling over $15 million, including a $6.7 million PRIT fund redemption, and other routine administrative items.

• Vote on involuntary accidental disability application for Scott Campion (Fire Department)
• Vote on accidental disability applications for Thomas Zarelli, Raul Gonzalez, Kenneth Arzon (Police), Douglas Converse (Water & Sewer), John Fortin (School)
• Approval of 12 superannuation applications with years of service listed
• Approval of warrants totaling $15,057,000 including $6,700,000 PRIT redemption
• Vote to declare Thomas M. Scanlon as elected member

License Commission - Regular

The Board of License Commissioners approved four license transfers or changes and one new annual all alcohol license. The board also issued a warning letter to one establishment and continued two pre-hearing conferences to a later date.

• Approved change of manager for Malecon Restaurant at 137 Chestnut St (unanimous)
• Approved license transfer to Kruprat LLC d/b/a McCarthy Tavern at 807 Cottage Street (unanimous)
• Approved license transfer to Pho ST Inc. at 113 Vermont St (unanimous)
• Approved new annual all alcohol license for Sushi LLC d/b/a Haya Sushi at 1203 Parker St (unanimous)
• Approved change of officers/directors for 99 Restaurant at 1371 Liberty Street (unanimous)
• Continued pre-hearing for Los Muchachos Bar and Restaurant to 6/28/2023 (unanimous)
• Issued one-year letter of warning to Del Rey Taqueria & Bar for failure to call police (unanimous)
• Continued pre-hearing for Khan’s Food and Drink to 6/28/2023 (unanimous)

Board of Assessor - Regular Meeting

The Springfield Board of Assessors met to review meeting minutes and one reassessment for a parcel on Newland Street. The majority of the meeting was held in executive session to discuss litigation strategy for the Appellate Tax Board and to review eight tax abatement applications. Specific cases discussed include properties owned by the Springfield Redevelopment Authority, Walgreens, and Walmart.

• Reassessment of Parcel # 090100007 on Newland Street for FY2023
• Review of 8 tax abatement applications, including Springfield Redevelopment Authority (PID# 101700005, NS Richelieu Pl)
• Litigation strategy review for Center for Ecological Technology Inc (83-95 Warwick St)
• Litigation strategy review for Walgreens at 707 State Street and 625 Carew Street
• Litigation strategy review for Walmart at 1105 Boston Road

Conservation Commission - Regular

The Conservation Commission is meeting to continue votes on two petitions that were previously deferred. The agenda includes a request to remove one tree and prune another at 12 Sabin Street, as well as a notice of intent for the proposed redevelopment of the Eastfield Mall at 1685, 1719, and 1655 Boston Road. A new certificate of compliance petition for 56 Vann Street is also scheduled for review.

• Petition ID #7416: Request for Determination of Applicability for removal of one tree and pruning of a second tree at 12 Sabin Street (Applicants: Linda & Robert Suzor).
• Petition ID #7415: Notice of Intent for proposed redevelopment of the Eastfield Mall at 1685, 1719, and 1655 Boston Road (Applicant: Onyx Springfield Crossing, LLC).
• Petition ID #7493: Certificate of Compliance for 56 Vann Street (Applicant: Estate of Kenny Barlow).

The Commission approved a Certificate of Compliance for 56 Vann Street. Two other petitions regarding tree work and mall redevelopment were continued to the June 27 meeting.

• Approved Certificate of Compliance for 56 Vann Street (4-0)
• Continued vote for tree removal and pruning at 12 Sabin Street to 6/27/2023 (4-0)
• Approved Notice of Intent for Eastfield Mall redevelopment at 1685, 1719, and 1655 Boston Road; continued vote on Order of Conditions to 6/27/2023 (4-0)

City Council - Regular Meeting

The City Council approved several Eversource gas and electric infrastructure installations and a multi-year temporary street closure on Fort Street. A petition to discontinue a roadway on Wilbraham Avenue was referred to the Maintenance and Development Committee for further review.

• Approved multi-year temporary street closure on Fort Street (9-3)
• Approved Eversource installation of 982 feet of gas service on Mattoon Street (11-0)
• Referred Wilbraham Ave roadway discontinuance petition to Maintenance and Development Committee
• Approved Eversource installation of 1,400 feet of gas lines at Mooreland St, Carew St, and Chapin Terrace (12-0)
• Approved Eversource installation of 35 feet of conduit and one handhole on Maple Street (12-0)
• Approved Eversource installation of 14 feet of conduit and one handhole on Pine Street CT (12-0)
• Approved Eversource installation of 58 feet of conduit and one handhole at 619 Sumner Ave (12-0)
• Approved committee reports from Finance, Audit, Maintenance and Development, and ARPA Oversight

Board of Assessor - Regular Meeting

The Springfield Board of Assessors will hold a regular meeting to review meeting minutes and a reassessment for a parcel on Newland Street. The board will then vote to enter executive session to discuss litigation strategy, exemption applications, and preliminary tax abatements, and will not return to public session.

• Review of public meeting minutes from 5/12/2023 and 5/18/2023
• Reassessment of Parcel #090100007 on NS Newland St for FY2023
• Executive session to discuss ATB docket review, personal exemptions, and FY2023 preliminary tax abatements
• Abatement applications including Iqbal, SS Temple, Wienstein, Roth & Gurevich, and Springfield Redevelopment Authority (Union Station)
• ATB docket review includes cases for CET, Outdoor Media, Davenport Square, Eastgate Preservation, Walgreens (707 State St, 625 Carew St), and Walmart (1105 Boston Road)

Mobile Home Rent Control Board - Regular

The Springfield Library Commission is meeting to review the annual budget report, approve prior meeting minutes, and discuss a revision to the Child Safety Policy. The agenda also includes committee reports, chairman's and director's reports, and other business.

• Annual Budget report presented by Matt Blumenfeld, Executive Director, Springfield Library Foundation
• Approval of Minutes from May 3, 2023 meeting
• Child Safety Policy Revision
• Executive Session

City Planning Board - Regular Meeting

The board approved new liquor licenses for properties on Liberty Street and Parker Street. Two zoning changes were approved for Page Boulevard and Rutledge Avenue, and a site plan amendment for Martone Place and St James Avenue was granted.

• Approved All Alcoholic Liquor License at 1295 Liberty Street (6-0)
• Approved All Alcoholic Liquor License at 1203 Parker Street (6-0)
• Approved zoning change from Business B to Industrial A at 1781 Page Boulevard (6-0)
• Approved zoning change from Residence C to Business B at NS Rutledge Avenue (6-0)
• Approved site plan amendment for west elevation at Martone Place and St James Avenue (6-0)
• Continued Beer & Wine Liquor License petition for 708 Main Street (6-0)
• Continued Beer & Wine Liquor License petition for 1116 St James Avenue (6-0)

Historical Commission - Regular

The Springfield Historical Commission is meeting to discuss and potentially update the Design Guidelines for the Residential Architecture of Springfield, focusing on local historic districts and relevant historic architecture. The commission will also review subcommittee notes and input from the law and building departments, and consider the creation of an application review process. A public speak-out session is scheduled.

• Discussion of Design Guidelines for the Residential Architecture of Springfield
• Refocusing guidelines from neighborhoods to local historic districts
• Reviewing input from law and building departments
• Public speak-out session

Board of Public Works - Regular

The Springfield Board of Public Works met on June 6, 2023, at the Richard Neal Municipal Operations Center. The agenda included a public hearing regarding a request by EVERSOURCE to install one electric hexhole and trench with conduit from existing manhole 1501/34 to a proposed hexhole on Sumner Avenue. The meeting location was noted as the corner of Daytona Street and Sumner Avenue.

• Hearing for EVERSOURCE to install 1 electric hexhole and trench with conduit from existing manhole 1501/34 to proposed hexhole on Sumner Avenue

Community Preservation Committee - Regular

The committee approved the FY 2024 budget and adopted general funding conditions for recommended projects. A contract extension for the East Springfield Library was tabled, and the committee requested technical assistance from PVPC.

• Approved FY 2024 budget of $2,440,000 (Unanimous)
• Approved May 16, 2023 minutes (Unanimous)
• Tabled East Springfield Library Reading Outdoor Room contract extension
• Adopted General Conditions for Recommended Projects with amendment to completion timeline
• Approved request for 15 hours of Local Technical Assistance from PVPC (Unanimous)

Board of Public Works - Regular

The Springfield Board of Public Works held two public hearings to approve Eversource electric infrastructure projects. The board voted to allow the installation of electric hexholes and trenching with conduit on Pine Street and Maple Street. No other business was decided at this meeting.

• Hearing approved Eversource installation of 1 electric hexhole and trench with conduit from manhole 1252/7 on Pine Street.
• Hearing approved Eversource installation of 1 electric hexhole and trench with conduit from manhole 988/2 on Maple Street.

City Council - Regular Meeting

The City Council unanimously adopted several grant awards for health and animal services and approved utility work petitions for Eversource and Comcast. The council also authorized the sale of two city lots via quitclaim deeds and referred a petition regarding Fort Street street closures to committee.

• Adopted April Revenue Vs. Expenditure Report (Unanimous)
• Referred Fort Street temporary street closure petition to Maintenance & Development Committee (7-6)
• Approved utility petitions for Lyman St, Haskin St, Brown St, Canterbury Rd, and Jefferson Ave (Unanimous)
• Adopted Mass in Motion Grant for Health Department ($279,610.00) (Unanimous)
• Adopted Tobacco Control Grant ($243,364.00) (Unanimous)
• Adopted three Foundation for TJO Animals grants totaling $97,385.23 (Unanimous)
• Authorized sale of South Side Quincy Street lot to Raymond C. Banks (Unanimous)
• Authorized sale of South Side Pine Street Court lot to James B. Morrissey, Jr. (Unanimous)

School Committee - Regular

The School Safety Subcommittee will meet to vote on recommendations for the full School Committee. The meeting focuses on approving two specific safety-related policies.

• Recommendation of Two-Way Communication Device Policy
• Recommendation of Critical Incident Drill Policy

Residency Commission - Regular

The Residency Commission will hold a virtual meeting to discuss two specific development applications. The discussion includes an HDIP application for 169 Maple Street and a TIF application for 51-59 Taylor Street.

• Discussion of 169 Maple Street (Davenport Companies) HDIP Application
• Discussion of 51-59 Taylor Street (Snapchef/Loophole Brewing) TIF Application

City Council - Economic Development

The Economic Development Committee is meeting to discuss two tax incentive applications: a HDIP application for 169 Maple Street by Davenport Companies and a TIF application for 51-59 Taylor Street by Snapchef/Loophole Brewing. No votes are scheduled; the items are for discussion only.

• Discussion of 169 Maple Street (Davenport Companies) HDIP Application
• Discussion of 51-59 Taylor Street (Snapchef/Loophole Brewing) TIF Application

Board of Public Works - Regular

This is the agenda for the regular meeting of the Springfield Board of Public Works. The agenda contains only the meeting location, call to order, and adjournment, with no listed discussion items or votes.

City Council - Committee of the Whole

The City Council Committee of the Whole is meeting to discuss the FY24 budget with 15 city departments, including Fire, Police, Centralized Dispatch, Elder Affairs, and Library. This is a discussion item, not a final vote, and the agenda contains no other business.

• Discussion of FY24 budget with Fire department
• Discussion of FY24 budget with Police department
• Discussion of FY24 budget with Centralized Dispatch
• Discussion of FY24 budget with Elder Affairs
• Discussion of FY24 budget with Library

School Building Commission - Regular

The Springfield School Building Commission is meeting to approve minutes from January 24, 2023, and to vote on two Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA) items. They will consider Amendment #7 CO#4 from Fontaine Bros. for the DeBerry/Homer Elementary School project, and approve a corrected total project budget of $3,536,642 for Glickman Elementary School's window and door replacement.

• Approval of meeting minutes from January 24, 2023
• Vote on Fontaine Bros. Amendment #7 CO#4 for DeBerry/Homer Elementary School project
• Approval of corrected $3,536,642 total project budget for Glickman Elementary School window and door replacement
• Correction of dollar amount in January 23, 2023 minutes

The School Building Commission approved a contract amendment for the DeBerry/Homer Elementary School project and accepted a project budget for window and door replacements at three other schools. Both measures passed unanimously.

• Approved September 19, 2022 meeting minutes (Unanimous)
• Approved Fontaine Bros. CM @ Risk Contract Amendment #6 for DeBerry/Homer Elementary School, increasing contract sum by $165,083 to a new total of $77,403,267 (Unanimous)
• Accepted MSBA Total Project Budget of $3,505,072 for window and door replacements at Glickman Elementary, Thomas Balliet Elementary, and Central High School (Unanimous)

Board of Public Works - Regular

This is a regular meeting of the Springfield Board of Public Works. The agenda contains only procedural items: a call to order and a location notice. No substantive decisions or discussions are listed.

• Meeting location: Richard Neal Municipal Operations Center, 70 Tapley Street, Springfield, MA
• Meeting held at corner of Lyman Street and Kaynor Street

City Council - Committee of the Whole

The Springfield City Council met on May 30, 2023, to discuss the Fiscal Year 2024 budget. The agenda lists discussions with the School Department, Mayor, City Clerk, Board of Elections, and various administrative and operational departments. No specific dollar amounts or final decisions are recorded in the provided text.

• Discussion of FY24 Budget with School Department
• Discussion of FY24 Budget with Mayor and City Council
• Discussion of FY24 Budget with OMB (Finance) and 311
• Discussion of FY24 Budget with Capital Asset Construction
• Discussion of FY24 Budget with HR, Law, Procurement, Parks, Facilities, and DPW

Board of Public Works - Regular

The Springfield Board of Public Works is meeting on May 25, 2023, at the Richard Neal Municipal Operations Center. The agenda includes a public hearing on Eversource's request to install 45 feet of 8-4 inch PVC conduits from an existing manhole at Lyman and Kaynor streets to re-feed pad-mounted equipment at 436 Dwight St. The rest of the agenda is procedural, covering call to order, minutes, and old/new business.

• Public hearing: Eversource to install 45 feet of 8-4” PVC conduits from a manhole at Lyman Street and Kaynor Street, running 32 feet northeasterly along Kaynor Street, to re-feed existing pad-mounted equipment at 436 Dwight St.
• Meeting location: Richard Neal Municipal Operations Center, 70 Tapley Street, Springfield, MA, at 3:30 PM.

School Committee - Regular

The School Committee will consider approval for two upcoming school field trips. The meeting also includes a ceremony to recognize retirees.

• Field trip request: German Gerena Community School to Red Gate Farm (June 5-9, 2023)
• Field trip request: Springfield Renaissance School to Camp Weber (June 15-16, 2023)
• Retirees recognition ceremony

Board of Public Works - Regular

The Springfield Board of Public Works is holding a regular meeting on May 24, 2023, at the Richard Neal Municipal Operations Center. The main item is a public hearing on Eversource Gas's proposal to install underground gas facilities on Haskin, Peer, Gladstone, and Hood Streets to retire low-pressure cast iron gas infrastructure. The meeting will begin at the corner of Haskin and Peer Streets.

• Public hearing: Eversource Gas proposal to install underground gas facilities on Haskin, Peer, Gladstone, and Hood Streets to retire low-pressure cast iron gas infrastructure.
• Meeting location: Richard Neal Municipal Operations Center, 70 Tapley Street, Springfield, MA.
• Meeting start: 3:30 PM, with the hearing site at the corner of Haskin and Peer Streets.

School Committee - Regular

The Student and Parent Concerns Subcommittee of the Springfield School Committee will meet on May 24, 2023, to vote on recommending that the full School Committee approve the Yondr Cell Phone Program at three schools: Conservatory of the Arts School, High School of Science and Technology, and Renaissance. The meeting is scheduled for 4:00 PM at Springfield Public Schools, 1550 Main Street.

• Vote to recommend approval of the Yondr Cell Phone Program at Conservatory of the Arts School, High School of Science and Technology, and Renaissance

School Committee - Regular

The Budget & Finance and School Safety subcommittees are meeting jointly to recommend approval of several grant expenditures and a fund transfer for a radio project, plus discuss informational items. The votes are recommendations to the full School Committee.

• Approve $100,000 from Student Opportunity Act grant for Springfield Empowerment Zone Partnership
• Approve $40,000 from Middle School Career Connected Learning Partnership Grant
• Approve $210,000 from School Water Improvement Grant (SWIG)
• Transfer $300,000 from carryover funds to Safety and Security for Phase 1 of radio project
• Discuss Two-Way Communication Device Policy and Critical Incident Drill Policy

License Commission - Regular

The Springfield Board of License Commissioners will meet virtually on May 24, 2023, at 5:30 pm to consider license changes, transfers, and disciplinary matters. The agenda includes manager changes for two restaurants, a license pledge to a bank, a license transfer, and pre-hearing conferences for two establishments facing alleged violations. The board will also review seven incident reports and discuss B.Y.O.B. policy.

• Change of Manager for Bino Inc. d/b/a Center Stage, 265 Dwight St, from Joanne Askins to Samuel Velazquez
• Change of Manager for Zamiah Restaurant Inc. d/b/a Malecon Restaurant, 137 Chestnut St, from Genesis Pujols to Dominga Pujols
• Pledge of License to Bay State Savings Bank for 447 Summner Inc. d/b/a Chestnut Street Package Store
• Transfer of License from Gogri Family Inc. to Pit Stop Food N Fuel Inc., 736-740 Boston Rd
• Pre-hearing conference for Pot Belly’s Pub, 153 Main St, over four alleged violations including failure to allow police entry and exceeding capacity

The Board of License Commissioners approved several manager changes, a license transfer, and a license pledge. Pot Belly’s Pub received a 10-day suspension following a pre-hearing conference regarding multiple violations. Other matters, including B.Y.O.B. issuance and certain petitions, were continued to June 14, 2023.

• Approved minutes from May 10 and May 15, 2023 (unanimous)
• Approved manager change for Bino Inc. d/b/a Center Stage to Samuel Velazquez (unanimous)
• Continued manager change for Zamiah Restaurant Inc. d/b/a Malecon Restaurant to 6/14/2023 (unanimous)
• Approved license pledge to Bay State Savings Bank for 447 Summner Inc. d/b/a Chestnut Street Package Store (unanimous)
• Approved license transfer from Gogri Family Inc. to Pit Stop Food N Fuel Inc. (unanimous)
• Approved 10-day suspension for My Joe Joe Inc. d/b/a Pot Belly’s Pub (unanimous)
• Continued Los Muchachos Bar and Restaurant LLC hearing to 6/14/2023 (unanimous)
• Continued discussion on B.Y.O.B. issuance to 6/14/2023 (unanimous)

Conservation Commission - Regular

The Conservation Commission is reviewing a Notice of Intent for the redevelopment of the Eastfield Mall located on Boston Road. The meeting also includes a request to determine the applicability of tree removal and pruning at 12 Sabin Street.

• Notice of Intent for Eastfield Mall redevelopment (1685, 1719, and 1655 Boston Road)
• Request for Determination of Applicability for tree removal and pruning at 12 Sabin Street

The Conservation Commission voted to continue the review of two petitions. No final determinations or approvals were made during the meeting.

• Continued vote on Request for Determination of Applicability for tree removal and pruning at 12 Sabin Street (6-0)
• Continued vote on Notice of Intent for redevelopment of Eastfield Mall at 1685, 1719, and 1655 Boston Road (6-0)

Board of Public Works - Regular

The Springfield Board of Public Works is holding a regular meeting on May 23, 2023, at the Richard Neal Municipal Operations Center. The agenda is mostly procedural, with the only substantive item being a hearing on an Eversource request to relocate street light pole #836/1 on Jefferson Avenue approximately 30 feet southwesterly, closer to Main Street.

• Hearing on Eversource request to move street light pole #836/1 on Jefferson Avenue approximately 30 feet southwesterly toward Main Street

Board of Public Works - Regular

The Springfield Board of Public Works is holding a regular meeting on May 22, 2023, at the Richard Neal Municipal Operations Center. The only substantive item on the agenda is a hearing on a request from Eversource to install a 36-inch silo in the sidewalk and connect 55 feet of conduits to an existing manhole at the intersection of Heywood and Warwick Streets. The rest of the agenda is procedural boilerplate (call to order, minutes, communications, old/new business).

• Public hearing: Eversource request to install a 36-inch silo in the sidewalk and connect 55 feet of conduits to the existing manhole at the intersection of Heywood Street and Warwick Street.

City Council - Hearings Meeting

The City Council will hold hearings on several utility installation petitions from Comcast and Eversource. The agenda also includes requests for special permits regarding motor vehicle sales, signage, and indoor amusement, as well as proposed zoning amendments.

• Comcast petition to install underground conduit from Page Blvd. to Shaws Lane
• Comcast petition to install underground conduit from Page Blvd. to Hendee Street
• Eversource utility petitions for Walnut Street and Dwight Street
• Special Permit for motor vehicle sales at 797 Berkshire Avenue
• Special Permit for an accessory wall sign at 1021 Boston Road

The City Council approved several utility petitions and special permits for a motor vehicle dealership and an indoor amusement business. A request for an accessory wall sign on Boston Road was defeated.

• Approved Comcast conduit installation at 179 Page Blvd (9-0)
• Approved Comcast conduit installation at 271 Page Blvd (9-0)
• Approved Eversource conduit installation on Walnut Street (11-0)
• Approved Eversource gas hydrant replacement downtown (11-0)
• Approved special permit for motor vehicle sales at 797 Berkshire Avenue (11-0)
• Denied special permit for accessory wall sign at 1021 Boston Road (8-3)
• Approved special permit for indoor place of amusement at 1331 Main Street (11-0)

School Committee - Regular

The Curriculum & Programs Subcommittee will meet to consider a recommendation for the full School Committee. The meeting focuses on the adoption of StudySync by McGraw Hill for middle schools.

• Vote to recommend approval of StudySync by McGraw Hill middle school curriculum

Park Commission - Regular

The Springfield Park Commission is meeting virtually to discuss and decide on several requests, including a petting zoo at the McKnight Block Party, fee waivers for the Indian Orchard Community Council and the Dominican Society, one-day liquor licenses for several events, and a memorial bench at Franconia. The meeting will also include public comment and approval of the previous meeting's minutes.

• Petting zoo at McKnight Block Party
• Fee waiver requests: Indian Orchard Community Council, The Dominican Society (tabled)
• One-day liquor licenses: Westfield Starfires, Caribbean Carnival, Springfield BID, Mark Devlin, Latino Festival (also wants to charge admission)
• Request for memorial bench at Franconia

School Committee - Regular

The Buildings & Maintenance Subcommittee will hold an informational meeting regarding school boundary changes. These changes are scheduled to take effect for the 2023-2024 school year.

• Informational item on school boundary changes for the 2023-2024 school year

Historical Commission - Regular

The Commission will hold public hearings for several property petitions regarding construction and window replacements. Members will also discuss updates on Stop Work Orders and the Historic Home Restoration Program.

• Public Hearing: Construction of rear landing and stairs at 57 Pineywoods Avenue
• Public Hearing: Amendment to solar plans at 113 Harvard Street
• Public Hearing: Construction of a storage shed at 29 Ingersoll Grove
• Public Hearing: Replacement of all sash windows at 32 Spruceland Avenue
• Discussion of Stop Work Orders for properties including 3 Sumner Avenue and 65 Dartmouth Street

The Commission approved a hardship application for vinyl window replacements at 32 Spruceland Avenue and a project for rear stairs at 57 Pineywoods Avenue. A Certificate of Non-Applicability was granted for porch repairs at 27 Clarendon Street. One petition for solar plan amendments was continued to June 1st.

• Approved rear landing and stairs at 57 Pineywoods Avenue (6-0)
• Approved Certificate of Hardship for 46 replacement windows at 32 Spruceland Avenue (6-0)
• Approved Certificate of Non-Applicability for porch repairs at 27 Clarendon Street (Voice Vote)
• Continued solar plan amendment for 113 Harvard Street to June 1st (6-0)
• Withdrawn petition for storage shed at 29 Ingersoll Grove (Changed to Non-applicability)
• Approved minutes from May 4, 2023 meeting (Voice Vote)

Board of Assessor - Regular Meeting

The Board of Assessors will review monthly abatement totals for real estate, motor vehicle excise, and personal property. The meeting includes discussions on personal exemption applications and reviewing uncollectible excise taxes.

• April real estate abatement total of $152,972.82
• April motor vehicle excise abatement total of $19,144.77
• Review of 8 personal exemption applications including Iqbal and SS Temple
• Discussion of uncollectible excise taxes for 2022 and 2023
• Review of charitable/religious exemptions for Rise & Walk Ministry on Oak St

Board of Public Works - Regular

The Board of Public Works is holding a hearing regarding a Comcast proposal to install and maintain conduit and cables. The project involves connecting Yale Street to a new sidewalk vault on Brown Street.

• Hearing for Comcast to install 340’ of 3” PVC conduit
• Installation of Fiber Optic & Coax Cable line on Yale St
• New vault installation in sidewalk on Brown St near 40-42 Brown St

Board of Public Works - Regular

The Board of Public Works is holding a public hearing on Eversource's proposal to install underground medium-pressure gas facilities and retire low-pressure cast iron infrastructure on Canterbury Road and Gifford Street. The meeting also includes routine items like call to order, minutes, and communications.

• Public hearing: Eversource to install underground gas facilities on Canterbury Road and Gifford Street
• Retirement of low-pressure cast iron gas infrastructure
• Meeting held at Richard Neal Municipal Operations Center, 70 Tapley Street

Public Health Council - Regular

The Public Health Council is meeting virtually to discuss city health business, including a COVID-19 update, the opioid crisis, and health center operations. The agenda includes staffing, dental services, policy changes, and financial reports, but no specific decisions or dollar amounts are listed.

• COVID-19 business update
• Opioid crisis discussion
• SFDS sliding fee schedule policy
• Staffing/provider update
• Federal legislative mandates review

Board of Police Commissioners - Regular

The Board of Police Commissioners will meet to approve minutes and then enter executive sessions to discuss discipline or dismissal of police employees in three matters: Special Orders #23-028 and #23-009, and a continued POST case. The board will not return to open session after the executive sessions.

• Approval of minutes from May 16, 2023
• Executive session on Special Order #23-028 regarding potential hearing on employee discipline or dismissal
• Executive session on Special Order #23-009 for a hearing on employee discipline or dismissal
• Continued executive session on POST Case #SU-2023-05-03-002 regarding a police officer's certification suspension

City Planning Board - Regular Meeting

The Board of Assessors will review monthly abatement totals for real estate, motor vehicle excise, and personal property. The meeting includes discussions on unpaid motor vehicle excise bills and the review of various personal, charitable, and religious exemption applications.

• April real estate abatement total of $152,972.82
• April motor vehicle excise abatement total of $19,144.77
• Review of 8 personal exemption applications including Iqbal and Springfield Redevelopment Authority
• Discussion of ATB Docket Review regarding litigation strategy for several properties
• Review of charitable/religious exemptions for Rise & Walk Ministry on Oak St

City Council - Committee of the Whole

The Springfield City Council Committee of the Whole is meeting to hold an initial discussion on the FY24 budget process. The agenda contains only this single discussion item, with no other business listed.

• Initial discussion on the FY24 budget process

Community Preservation Committee - Regular

The Community Preservation Committee is meeting remotely to approve prior minutes, discuss the FY2024 budget, and review 2023 applications for community preservation funding. The agenda is largely procedural, with no specific projects or dollar amounts listed.

• Approval of May 2, 2023 meeting minutes
• FY2024 budget discussion
• 2023 applications discussion
• Administrator's updates

The committee began ranking 2023 project applications to determine funding recommendations for the next meeting. Total funding requests reached $5,183,844, while available CPA funds are approximately $2 million. The committee also approved the minutes from the May 2 meeting.

• Approved May 2 minutes (Voice vote)

Commission on Disability - Regular

The Springfield Commission on Disability is scheduled to hold a regular meeting on May 16, 2023, at Mason Square Library. The provided agenda contains only standard procedural sections (Call to Order, New Business, Old Business, Other, Adjournment) and does not list any specific decisions, proposals, or concrete items for discussion.

Board of Public Works - Regular

The Springfield Board of Public Works met on May 15, 2023, at the Richard Neal Municipal Operations Center. The primary item on the agenda was a public hearing regarding a request by Student Prince to permanently close Fort Street. The closure is intended to extend the restaurant's liquor license to include Fort Street and allow for outdoor dining.

• Public hearing on permanent closure of Fort Street
• Request to extend Student Prince liquor license to Fort Street
• Proposal to provide outdoor dining on Fort Street

License Commission - Regular

The Springfield License Commission will hold a virtual public hearing to consider a petition to transfer a liquor license and pledge it to Rockland Trust Company. The transfer is from TNM Enterprises, Inc. to Niv Corporation, doing business as Winn Liquors at 1038 Wilbraham Rd, with Smair Patel as Manager of Record.

• Transfer of license and pledge of license and inventory to Rockland Trust Company
• License transfer from TNM Enterprises, Inc. to Niv Corporation
• Business: Winn Liquors at 1038 Wilbraham Rd
• Manager of Record: Smair Patel

The Board of License Commissioners approved a petition to transfer a license and pledge of license and inventory to Rockland Trust Company. The transfer moves the license from TNM Enterprises, Inc. to Niv Corporation d/b/a Winn Liquors.

• Approved transfer of license and pledge of license and inventory from TNM Enterprises, Inc. to Niv Corporation d/b/a Winn Liquors (unanimous)

City Council - Regular Meeting

The City Council approved two fiber optic conduit petitions for Crown Castle and a Memorandum of Understanding with FOCUS Springfield Corporation. Several budget transfers and a fire fighters' collective bargaining agreement were also adopted. An ordinance regarding the Isolation Hospital Local Historic District was referred to committee.

• Approved fiber optic conduit installation at 1277 Main Street (11-0)
• Approved fiber optic conduit installation at 119 State Street (11-0)
• Adopted FY23 SSYI Grant increase of $149,199 (11-0)
• Adopted IAFF Local 648 Collective Bargaining Agreement ratification (11-0)
• Adopted $700,912.03 transfer from FY22 Certified Free Cash to Finance Professional Services (11-0)
• Adopted MOU agreement with FOCUS Springfield Corporation (11-0)
• Adopted $33,724.85 transfer from Reserve for Contingencies to TJO Salaries & Wages (11-0)
• Referred Isolation Hospital Local Historic District ordinance to committee

Board of Assessor - Regular Meeting

The Board of Assessors is meeting to review meeting minutes, monthly motor vehicle excise abatement totals, and discuss MGL Chapter 59, Section 2D. The board will then enter executive session to discuss litigation strategy for Appellate Tax Board cases, personal exemption applications, and FY 2023 preliminary tax abatements, including specific applications and statutory exemptions.

• Motor vehicle excise abatement totals: February $32,416.46, March $45,494.58
• Executive session to discuss ATB docket, personal exemptions, and FY2023 preliminary tax abatements
• Review of 8 of 58 abatement applications, including Iqbal, SS Temple, Wienstein, Roth & Gurevich, Olivera Landscape, Springfield Redevelopment Authority, Speedway, Community Legal Aid Inc
• ATB docket review includes cases for Center for Ecological Technology Inc, Smith & Wesson, Outdoor Media, Boston Road Property LLC, Davenport Square, Eastgate Preservation
• Statutory exemption applications for 173 Alden Street and 240 Cadwell Drive

City Council - Public Safety

The Residency Commission will meet to approve minutes from the April 6, 2023, meeting. The Commission also plans to enter an executive session to discuss complaints or charges against an individual.

• Approval of April 6, 2023, minutes
• Executive session regarding complaints or charges against an individual

The Residency Commission approved the meeting minutes from April 6, 2023. The commission then entered an executive session to discuss employment matters and did not return to open session.

• Approved April 6, 2023 meeting minutes
• Entered executive session to discuss employment matters

Residency Commission - Regular

The Residency Commission will meet to approve minutes from the April 6, 2023, meeting. The body also plans to enter an executive session to discuss complaints or charges against an individual.

• Approval of April 6, 2023, minutes
• Executive session regarding complaints or charges against an individual

The commission approved the minutes from the April 6, 2023 meeting. The body then entered an executive session to discuss employment matters and did not return to open session.

• Approved April 6, 2023 meeting minutes
• Voted to enter executive session to discuss employment matters

City Council - Working Group on Creative Economy

The City Council Working Group on Creative Economy met virtually on May 11, 2023, to introduce the group and its members. The session focused on outlining the agenda for upcoming activities related to creative economy and tourism. No specific decisions, contracts, or ordinances were recorded in the provided text.

• Introductory meeting of the Working Group on Creative Economy and Tourism
• Discussion of the agenda for upcoming year regarding future activities

Board of Public Works - Regular

The Board of Public Works is holding a hearing regarding a proposal by Eversource. The project involves installing 558 feet of 12-5” PVC conduits encased along the north side of Walnut Street.

• Hearing regarding installation of 558 feet of 12-5” PVC conduits on Walnut Street

Board of Public Works - Regular

The Springfield Board of Public Works met on May 10, 2023, at the Richard Neal Municipal Operations Center. The agenda included a public hearing regarding a request by Comcast to install 1-4 inch PVC conduit. The proposed installation would run from an existing Verizon pole on Page Blvd to a pole on Hendee Street.

• Hearing on Comcast request to install 1-4 inch PVC conduit from Verizon Pole #36 on Page Blvd to Pole #767/1/2 on Hendee Street

License Commission - Regular

The Board of License Commissioners will consider several new petitions for manager changes, license transfers, and new licenses. The meeting also includes pre-hearing conferences regarding alcohol sales violations and administrative reviews of recent incident reports.

• Petition to change manager for Malecon Restaurant at 137 Chestnut St
• License transfer for Winn Liquors at 1038 Wilbraham Rd
• New license petition for MexiRico Restaurant at 1021 Main St
• Pre-hearing conference regarding alcohol sale to a minor at Summit Package Store
• Vote on 2023 Seasonal Population Increase Estimate

The Board of License Commissioners approved a new license for MexiRico Restaurant and a 2023 seasonal population increase estimate. A 5-day suspension was issued to Summit Package Store for selling alcohol to a minor. Several other petitions and hearings were continued to future dates.

• Approved new license for MexiRico Restaurant at 1021 Main St (unanimous)
• Approved 2023 Seasonal Population Increase Estimate (3-1)
• Issued 5-day suspension to Summit Package Store for selling alcohol to a minor (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from April 26, 2023 (unanimous)
• Continued change of manager for Malecon Restaurant to 5/24/2023 (unanimous)
• Continued license transfer for Winn Liquors to 5/15/2023 (unanimous)
• Continued hearing for Los Muchachos Bar and Restaurant to 5/24/2023 (unanimous)
• Continued hearing for Pot Belly’s Pub to 5/24/2023 (unanimous)

Board of Public Works - Regular

The Board of Public Works is reviewing a request from Comcast regarding infrastructure work. The proposal involves installing 4-inch PVC conduit from a sidewalk vault to a specific pole.

• Hearing regarding Comcast installation of 4-inch PVC conduit from 209 Page Blvd. to Shaws Lane pole #1720/10/1

Board of Police Commissioners - Regular

The Board will review the re-appointment of Commissioner Madeline Fernandez for a term ending in April 2026. The Board also intends to discuss potential disciplinary hearings for an SPD employee under Special Order #23-059.

• Re-appointment of Commissioner Madeline Fernandez through April 2026
• Notice of POST Commission suspension of an SPD officer charged with a felony
• Executive session to discuss discipline or dismissal regarding Special Order #23-059

Conservation Commission - Regular

The Commission is reviewing several Notices of Intent regarding aquatic management and park redevelopment. The meeting also includes discussions on single-family home construction projects.

• Bass Pond Aquatic Management at 1478 Parker Street
• Forest Park Ponds Aquatic Vegetation Management at 299 Sumner Avenue
• Greenleaf Park Redevelopment Project at 1187 Parker Street
• Single-family home construction at Lot A Leitch Street
• Single-family home construction at Lot B Leitch Street

The Conservation Commission approved five separate Notices of Intent for properties on Parker Street, Sumner Avenue, and Boston Road. All petitions were passed with 5-0 votes.

• Approved Notice of Intent for 1478 Parker Street (5-0)
• Approved Notice of Intent for 299 Sumner Avenue (5-0)
• Approved Notice of Intent for Greenleaf Park Redevelopment Project at 1187 Parker Street (5-0)
• Approved Notice of Intent for NS Boston Road Lot a Leitch Street (5-0)
• Approved Notice of Intent for NS Boston Road Lot B Leitch Street (5-0)

Board of Public Works - Regular

The Board of Public Works has a regular meeting scheduled for May 8, 2023. The agenda contains only the call to order and communications regarding the meeting itself.

City Council - Working Group on Digital Equity & Internet Access

The working group will review priorities from Frank and Timothy and select smaller working groups. The meeting also includes a discussion of next steps.

• Review of priorities from Frank and Timothy
• Selection of smaller working groups

Board of Assessor - Regular Meeting

The Springfield Board of Assessors will review monthly motor vehicle excise abatements totaling over $77,000 and discuss returned tax bills. The agenda includes executive session reviews of eight preliminary tax abatement applications and litigation strategies for properties before the Appellate Tax Board. The board will also address charitable exemption applications for Rise & Walk Ministry and a statutory exemption for 173 Alden Street.

• Review of February ($32,416.46) and March ($45,494.58) Motor Vehicle Excise abatement totals
• Executive session review of 8 FY 2023 preliminary tax abatement applications, including Springfield Redevelopment Authority and Speedway
• Litigation strategy discussion for Appellate Tax Board cases involving Smith & Wesson, Boston Road Property LLC, and Davenport Square
• Charitable/Religious exemption applications for Rise & Walk Ministry at 379 Oak St
• Statutory exemption application for 173 Alden Street

School Committee - Regular

The Budget & Finance Subcommittee will meet to vote on a recommendation for the full School Committee regarding the Superintendent's FY2024 Recommended Budget. The meeting is scheduled for May 4, 2023.

• Vote to recommend approval of the FY2024 Recommended Budget

School Committee - Special Meeting

The Springfield School Committee is holding a special meeting to consider the fiscal year 2024 budget as recommended by the Superintendent. The meeting includes a formal roll call and standard opening procedures.

• Approval of the Superintendent's FY24 Recommended Budget

Historical Commission - Regular

The Commission will hold public hearings on several petitions regarding solar panel installations, window restorations, and structural changes. The meeting also includes informational updates on preservation restrictions and stop work orders.

• Public hearing for stained-glass window restoration at 35-37 Chestnut Street
• Solar plan amendments for 137 Forest Park Avenue and 278 Pine Street
• Solar panel installation petition for 190 Longhill Street
• Structural changes including porch demolition and garage removal at 57 Pineywoods Ave
• Review of stop work orders for unauthorized work at multiple locations

The Springfield Historical Commission approved eight Certificates of Appropriateness for various projects, including porch railings, stained-glass window restoration, solar panel installations, and window replacements. They also confirmed the historical significance of Hotel Stonehaven and found no adverse impact from a road reconstruction project. All decisions were unanimous with 4-0 votes.

• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for porch railings at 325 Longhill Street (4-0)
• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for stained-glass window restoration at 35-37 Chestnut Street (4-0)
• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for solar plan amendment at 137 Forest Park Avenue (4-0)
• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for solar plan amendment at 278 Pine Street (4-0)
• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for solar panels at 190 Longhill Street (4-0)
• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for window replacement and porch demolition at 57 Pineywoods Ave (4-0); continued rear landing/stairs to May 18 meeting
• Approved new storefront at 1394 Main Street (voice vote)
• Confirmed Hotel Stonehaven historically significant for National Register eligibility (voice vote)

Retirement Board - Regular

The Springfield Retirement Board will vote to approve the minutes from April 5, 2023, and consider two involuntary accidental disability applications from police officers. The board will also accept nine superannuation applications from city employees and approve eleven retirement allowance calculations. Additionally, the board will reaffirm warrants totaling over $9.2 million, including a $7.4 million retirement payroll payment.

• Vote to approve Warrant #24 for retirement payroll in the amount of $7,428,029.37
• Vote to accept nine Superannuation Applications, including William Cochrane (Police) and Alexander Tollis (Fire)
• Vote to consider Involuntary Accidental Disability applications for Timothy Shink and Misael Rodriguez
• Vote to approve eleven retirement allowance calculations as presented
• Vote to consider 27 requests for refunds and transfers to other systems

Board of Library Commissioners - Regular

The Board of Library Commissioners will meet via Zoom to review committee and director reports. The agenda includes a presentation by the Executive Director of the Springfield Library Foundation.

• Presentation by Matt Blumenfeld, Executive Director of Springfield Library Foundation
• Approval of minutes from March 1, 2023, and notes from April 5, 2023

City Planning Board - Regular Meeting

The Board will continue a public hearing regarding a new beer and wine liquor license for 708 Main Street. Additionally, the Board will consider a city-wide zoning amendment proposed by the Springfield City Council.

• Liquor License Petition #7249 for Island Blaze Restaurant at 708 Main Street
• City-wide zoning change amendment to Article 4, Section 4.7.114(B)(5) regarding Adult Use
• Birnie-Taylor-Lay Blocks Preliminary Report

The Planning Board unanimously approved a zoning change to Article 4, Section 4.7.114(B)(5) regarding adult-use establishments. A new beer and wine liquor license petition for 708 Main Street was continued to May 17, 2023, also by unanimous vote. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved zoning amendment to Article 4, Section 4.7.114(B)(5) (Adult Use) (8-0)
• Continued liquor license petition for 708 Main Street to May 17, 2023 (8-0)

Community Preservation Committee - Regular

The Community Preservation Committee will hear five-minute presentations from several 2023 applicants regarding restoration and development projects. The committee will also discuss the FY 2024 budget and the application review timetable.

• 5-minute presentations for 2023 applicants including D'Amour Museum of Fine Arts, Kilroy House, Gemini Townhomes, Old Hill In-Fill Development, Kavanagh Project (443 State Street), 7-9 Stockbridge Street Rehabilitation, Gunn Block (473-477 State Street), Trinity Church (361 Sumner Avenue), and Old Faith Church (42 Sumner Avenue)
• FY 2024 Budget discussion
• Approval of April 18, 2023 meeting minutes
• Review of 2023 application review timetable

The committee held presentations from nine applicants seeking grants for historic restoration and affordable housing. No funding decisions were made; members will select their top eight projects for future deliberation. The committee approved the April 18 meeting minutes.

• Approved April 18 minutes (Voice vote, Willie abstained)

Board of Public Works - Regular

The Board of Public Works is holding a hearing regarding a proposal by Crown Castle. The project involves installing approximately 137 feet of communication conduit on State Street.

• Hearing for Crown Castle to install 137 feet of 1-4 inch communication conduit on State Street

City Council - Regular Meeting

The City Council will meet to review several utility petitions from Eversource, including a new pole for street lighting on Wilcox Street. The agenda also includes the ratification of a collective bargaining agreement for IAFF Local 648 and an agreement with MassDOT for speed feedback signs at Duggan Academy.

• Ratification of IAFF Local 648 Collective Bargaining Agreement
• $2,901,410.06 free cash allocation for Fire Department union contract settlement
• Agreement with MassDOT for solar-powered speed feedback signs at Duggan Academy
• Eversource petition to install a new pole at 49 Wilcox Street for additional street lighting
• $117,120.00 MassHeal Grant increase

Traffic Commission - Regular

The Springfield Traffic Commission met on May 1, 2023, at the Richard Neal Municipal Operations Center. The agenda consists solely of procedural steps: calling to order, reviewing communications, and a public portion. No specific decisions, contracts, or ordinances are listed in the provided text.

• Meeting held at Richard Neal Municipal Operations Center, 70 Tapley Street
• Public portion scheduled for May 1, 2023

Board of Public Works - Regular

The Board of Public Works is holding a hearing regarding a proposal by Crown Castle. The project involves installing approximately 435 feet of 1-4 inch communication conduit on Main Street.