City Council sets FY25 tax rate that will slightly increase taxes
AGAWAM — During the Dec. 2 City Council meeting, Mayor Christopher Johnson and Assessor Carolyn Reed gave a presentation on the tax classification for fiscal year 2025.
Springfield adopts trash rules changes, including mattress fee increase
SPRINGFIELD — The City Council officially approved changes to its trash fees and regulations ordinance during a Nov. 26 hearings meeting, more than two months after DPW Director Christopher Cignoli proposed the updates to the full body.
Springfield Museums welcome visitors to Gingerbread in Toyland
SPRINGFIELD — The Springfield Museums recently opened its 15th annual gingerbread holiday exhibit with a theme of Gingerbread in Toyland.
Westfield superintendent says special education reimbursement system is ‘broken’
WESTFIELD — During Finance Director Shannon Barry’s monthly report to the School Committee on Dec. 2, Barry said there is an unexpected deficit of over $1.5 million in special education and transportation in this year’s budget, largely due to several out-of-district placements that came in after the budget was approved in April.
Westfield High School Community Closet lists greatest needs
WESTFIELD — Jill Keenan, Westfield High School English teacher and WHS Community Closet coordinator, recently spoke to the Westfield Education to Business Alliance about the success and continued needs of the closet, which provides needed items to students, faculty and staff at the school at no charge.
Westfield School Committee honors retired coach
WESTFIELD — School Committee member Timothy O’Connor took time at the start of its Dec. 2 meeting to honor Westfield High School Hockey Coach C. B. “Moose” Matthews, who retired quietly a few years ago after a 30-year career.