Southwick Economic Development Commission Plans New Business Review Process and Website Overhaul

Overview: The Southwick Economic Development Commission meeting on November 20 focused on developments, including the introduction of a new business review process aimed at evaluating community impacts, an overhaul of the commission’s website, and the potential creation of a town planner position to support economic growth initiatives.

East Longmeadow Library Board Celebrates Increased Patronage and Launches New Fundraising Efforts

Overview: The East Longmeadow Library Board meeting highlighted a notable rise in library patronage, driven by increased programming and strategic outreach efforts, as well as the launch of several innovative fundraising initiatives by the Friends of the Library. The meeting, attended by several board members and the Library Director, covered a range of topics, from programming success to upcoming community events.

Southwick Committee Deliberates Town Hall Restoration and Land Conservation Funding

Overview: The Southwick Community Preservation Committee meeting on November 20th centered on two major topics: the proposed restoration of the Town Hall facade and funding for a land conservation project. The committee discussed the need to preserve the historic Town Hall while also debating the financial logistics of acquiring conservation land to benefit the community.

Westfield Planning Board Deliberates on Zoning Changes and Airport Fuel Facility Amid Public Concerns

Overview: The Westfield Planning Board meeting on November 19, 2024, addressed several significant proposals, including a contentious zoning amendment and a new self-service fuel facility at Barnes Airport. These discussions, which included public input and board deliberation, highlighted the community’s concerns over environmental impacts and neighborhood character preservation.

Villaitana Seeks Outdoor Dining Amid Parking Concerns in East Longmeadow

Overview: The East Longmeadow Planning Board meeting addressed several issues, with attention given to a request from Villaitana restaurant to allow outdoor dining. Other notable discussions included a potential zoning amendment for assisted living facilities and updates on the accessory dwelling unit (ADU) bylaw, which could impact local housing density.