The Franklin County Fair, a longstanding local tradition, was a major topic of discussion. The council approved an entertainment license for the fair scheduled from September 10 to 13, 2026. Members discussed the importance of processing permits efficiently. The council also considered weather challenges from previous years, including tornado warnings, but maintained a light-hearted tone throughout the discussion. Additionally, Berkshire Brewing Company received approval for a beer and wine license for the fair.

The council also approved the Franklin County Fair Kickoff Parade, set for September 10, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., and the Emergency Services Parade on September 13, 2026.

Another approved event was the Jingle Fest, scheduled for December 5 and 6, 2025. Christy Moore from the recreation department outlined plans to expand the event, previously organized by the Greenfield Business Association, to include downtown holiday festivities. The council granted a permit for the event, which will feature activities such as a tree lighting ceremony at Vets Mall, hay rides down Main Street, and performances at Court Square. The council addressed an initial error in the event dates, amending them before passing the motion.

The council also approved the “Keep Christ in Christmas” committee’s request for activities on the common from December 6, 2025, to January 3, 2026, with a ceremony on December 7. The approval was met with light-hearted exchanges about the event’s anticipated attendance.

A vendor host license was granted to Emily Redmond for a makers market at Greenfield Center School on December 6, 2025. Heidi Jibo, representing Redmond, plans for the market, which will feature up to 20 vendors and a children’s entrepreneurial section. The council discussed health and safety permits for food and beverage vendors before unanimously approving the application.

The council addressed concerns regarding an application by Cassidy Shada of Southern Falls Coffee Roasters for outdoor seating on Federal Street. Previous complaints about sidewalk obstruction led to a proposal to table the discussion for further clarification. Ultimately, the council approved the use of larger tables with a stipulation that pedestrian traffic must not be impeded, allowing flexibility in setup based on public feedback.

In addition to these events, the council approved the Franklin County Food Festival, scheduled for October 17, 2026, as a fundraiser for a food insecurity support agency. Given the event’s nonprofit nature, the council waived the $50 entertainment license fee.

The meeting also included routine administrative approvals, such as ratifying previous event permits and confirming the traditional 2:00 a.m. closing time for on-premises liquor license establishments on New Year’s Eve. The council moved through these approvals.