One of the most discussions of the meeting revolved around the city’s parking revenue, which has seen significant fluctuations in recent years. The conversation revealed that parking revenue for fiscal year 2024 amounted to $355,491, largely from parking meters, while fiscal year 2025 reported $320,226. These figures were brought into focus as the council examined the impact of eliminating Saturday parking enforcement, which was identified as a major contributor to the drop in revenue. With Saturday parking previously being a substantial source of income, the council deliberated on whether reinstating such measures would be beneficial. The mayor humorously remarked about the contentious nature of parking discussions.

The debate also touched on potential changes to parking management, such as switching Main Street parking from diagonal to parallel, in line with Massachusetts Department of Transportation guidelines aimed at promoting a pedestrian-friendly environment. However, this change would likely reduce the number of available parking spaces, a point that concerned community members. Additionally, issues with broken parking kiosks were noted, with plans to fund replacements through parking revenues. The council highlighted the importance of accommodating various payment methods for parking.

In tandem with parking concerns, the council explored the implications of a Request for Proposals (RFP) for the Hope Street lot. Discussions highlighted plans to combine commercial and residential development, with a focus on market-rate housing while leaving room for mixed-income units. The potential for revenue bonds to finance repairs if the parking lot were to reopen was also considered. The mayor expressed skepticism about the necessity of constructing a new parking lot in close proximity to an existing one, emphasizing the city’s pressing need for housing over additional parking spaces.

Housing was a recurring theme throughout the meeting. The council underscored the demand for more affordable housing solutions, referencing national concerns about families living in cars due to a lack of housing. A council member noted the necessity for mixed-use development in proposals for city land, a strategy intended to address both commercial and residential needs. Public comments echoed this sentiment, with residents advocating for development that prioritizes housing solutions over parking facilities.

In addition to parking and housing, the council addressed the ongoing search for a new superintendent. With the current superintendent absent, Vice President Sexton provided updates, stressing the importance of public engagement in shaping candidate profiles. The process, overseen by a steering committee including the Mayor, aims to fill the position by February, with community forums scheduled to facilitate public input. Questions were raised regarding the interim superintendent’s ineligibility for the permanent role due to retirement issues, and an ongoing study into special education transportation efficiency was discussed.

The meeting also covered operational issues at the city’s transfer station, where the Department of Environmental Protection has mandated changes to combat a rodent infestation. Efforts to maintain cleanliness and reduce the rat population were acknowledged, and future capital expenditures to improve facilities for employees were mentioned as a potential requirement.

Public comments provided additional perspectives on city governance and operational challenges. Max Webb announced his candidacy for a city council seat and highlighted his Greenfield Trash Pickup Club’s efforts in waste management. Concerns about the use of rodenticides and their environmental impact were also raised. Another commenter, Ryan Whitney, criticized the council’s focus on housing at the expense of broader governance issues and highlighted problems with microphone functionality during meetings, which affect accessibility. Stephanie Vasser advocated for zoning changes to facilitate the establishment of a small animal urgent care clinic, while Ramona Electronica voiced opposition to returning the Hope Street lot to parking use, emphasizing the need for housing development.

The meeting concluded with procedural motions and discussions on mayoral appointments, zoning ordinance amendments, and the rescindment of a conservation restriction order due to boundary discrepancies. The council also reviewed a proposed amendment to redefine “animal kennel or hospital” in zoning laws and addressed a recent community award aimed at revitalizing vacant downtown storefronts.