The most development was the unanimous approval of the $660,000 appropriation from the General Stabilization Fund to the Park Site Improvement budget. John Mason, likely the Parks and Recreation Director, provided a detailed explanation of how the funds would be utilized. A portion of the appropriation, $30,000, is earmarked for a study to assess the needs and longevity of future buildings, as well as the usage requirements for park maintenance. This study includes evaluating a structure referred to as the Tobacco Barn, which, while still structurally sound, is currently only used for storage due to inadequate working conditions. Additionally, the appropriation will fund the removal of an existing maintenance building, including all necessary permitting and services. One container will remain with the Parks and Recreation Department, while the other will support the Department of Public Works. The council’s decision came after Mason’s presentation and a public hearing, during which no public comments were made against the appropriation.

In another move, the council considered a proposal to increase the senior tax work-off program abatement from $1,500 to $2,000 per year. This initiative, requested by council members Gomez and Denham, aims to enable the mayor’s office to offer more work hours for seniors participating in the program, acknowledging their contributions to the community. Although the vote to approve this increase was not binding and depends on the fiscal outlook for the upcoming budget year, it received unanimous support from the council. During discussions, several council members expressed their appreciation for the program, noting its decade-long history and unchanged abatement level. The increase is seen as a way to affirm the value of seniors’ work and contributions, addressing concerns from the Council on Aging about feelings of underappreciation.

The meeting also featured a review of salaries for elected officials, as mandated by the city charter. A council member urged community members to participate in this review process by sharing their opinions via email. The public safety committee announced its next meeting on November 12th, where they will discuss topics including a proposal to reverse traffic direction on Daily Field Road and potential changes to traffic rules.

Additionally, the council addressed several zoning amendments. A temporary moratorium was discussed with the Agricultural Commission, with another meeting scheduled for December. Councilor Denham reported on the approval and forwarding of a new section for the Easthampton zoning ordinance to the city solicitor. Amendments to the Council on Aging representation were acknowledged, with gratitude expressed for Councilor Smith’s advocacy for the senior community. A public hearing for November 6th was set to discuss these matters further.

The council also focused on election-related issues, approving an extension for a temporary election signage amendment. The rules committee sought a 60-day extension for amending Council Rule 5c, a motion that was approved.

In new business, a proposal for a $346,500 appropriation to replace a Highway Division truck was introduced. Citing mechanical and safety concerns as reasons for the vehicle’s removal from service, the council voted to refer the item to the finance committee and scheduled a public hearing on November 6th.