Longmeadow Residents Voice Concerns Over Middle School Consolidation at School Committee Meeting

Overview: At the recent Longmeadow School Committee meeting, community concerns were raised regarding the proposed consolidation of the town’s middle schools into a new building. Residents, particularly Kurt Freiedman, expressed worries about the impact on local property values, the quality of education, and the safety of students, highlighting the broader implications of the plan for the community.

East Longmeadow Conservation Commission Reviews Compliance Requests and Discusses Hazard Tree Removals

Overview: The East Longmeadow Conservation Commission meeting on September 24, 2025, focused on compliance requests for various properties and included a discussion about hazard tree removals at a storage unit on 175 DLO. The commission also addressed an upcoming need to appoint a new representative to the Community Preservation Committee (CPC).

Southwick Planning Board Reviews Solar Panel Placement and Marijuana Retail Proposal

Overview: In a recent meeting of the Southwick Planning Board, members tackled various issues, including the review of a contentious ground-mounted solar panel installation, the approval of a signage permit for a Dunkin’ Donuts remodel, and the deliberation of a special permit for a proposed marijuana retail establishment on College Highway. The meeting, held on September 23, 2025, saw the board engaging in discussions that highlighted community concerns and regulatory compliance challenges.

East Longmeadow Town Council Approves Converting Wine and Malt Licenses to All-Alcohol Licenses

Overview: In a recent meeting, the East Longmeadow Town Council approved a licensing change that permits on-premises wine and malt beverage license holders to convert their licenses to non-transferable all-alcohol licenses. This move, under Massachusetts General Law Chapter 138, Section 12D, aims to offer greater flexibility to existing license holders while not affecting the overall quota of licenses in the town. The council’s discussion highlighted the potential benefits for future establishments, although there were concerns about the challenges new restaurants might face if all available licenses are filled.

Southwick Select Board Addresses Dog Hearing, Boating Compliance, and Erosion Crisis

Overview: In the latest meeting of the Southwick Select Board, attention was given to a range of pressing local issues, including a contentious dog hearing, challenges in managing boating permit compliance, and urgent erosion problems threatening residential areas.