The most contentious topic was the ongoing debate over the proposed removal of a cap on apartment units in the city’s CC and SR zones. Residents expressed a range of opinions during the public comment period. Some, like Erica McGee, were vocally opposed, citing concerns about increased housing density and its potential impact on neighborhood character. She questioned the motivations of those advocating for zoning changes, implying that wealthier individuals with financial means might disproportionately benefit from such developments.

Conversely, Susan from Housing Greenfield argued that the city’s low vacancy rate necessitated urgent action to increase affordable housing options. She emphasized that without removing the existing 24-unit cap, Greenfield could face economic decline due to rising taxes and a lack of housing availability. Echoing these sentiments, Carl Woodruff, a local builder, highlighted the need for larger multifamily developments to address the housing crisis.

The council’s discussions were marked by a motion to reconsider a previously decided zoning regulation, which had implications for new multifamily units. Council members debated whether the motion had been deliberated in the past meeting, with some expressing concern over the clarity of the discussions. Despite revisiting the issue, the council voted against taking the motion from the table, keeping the prior decision intact. The decision had mandated a special permit for developments exceeding 24 units, a compromise aimed at balancing development needs with community concerns.

In related discussions, the council addressed the city’s infrastructure challenges, including the need for vehicle replacements in the Department of Public Works. The DPW representative highlighted the department’s struggle with an aging fleet, particularly trucks used for solid waste management and other municipal services. Many vehicles, some over two decades old, are frequently out of service, impacting the city’s operational efficiency. This urgency was underscored by the increasing difficulty in maintaining older vehicles due to new commercial driver’s license regulations, which limit the number of employees qualified to drive them.

Several truck replacements were discussed, including outdated models used for crucial tasks like snow plowing and trash collection. The DPW representative noted that acquiring new vehicles with automatic transmissions could alleviate staffing challenges and improve reliability during adverse weather conditions. The council also explored the potential for incorporating electric vehicles into the fleet, though it was acknowledged that models suitable for heavy-duty tasks are not yet available.

Financial considerations were a recurring theme throughout the meeting, particularly in relation to the city’s budget and capital projects. Concerns were raised about borrowing practices and the impact of outstanding liabilities on Greenfield’s bond rating. One participant expressed apprehension over a potential downgrade.

The council also deliberated on infrastructure projects, including necessary repairs to the Co Rain Street Bridge and upgrades to the city’s water and sewer systems. Budget allocations were discussed for various projects, with a focus on maintaining fiscal responsibility while addressing infrastructure needs. The council approved several financial transfers from free cash to various stabilization funds, emphasizing the importance of prudent financial management.

The council acknowledged the complexities of zoning regulations and the need for comprehensive studies to assess the impact of new developments on local infrastructure and services.