PALMER — The Palmer Town Council met to discuss several key issues impacting the community on July 8. One of the primary topics was Resolution 2025-01, which proposed using American Rescue Plan Act funds to purchase a 2025 Western Star 10-wheeled dump/plow truck for the DPW for $349,289.
The new truck would replace an aging vehicle that has reached the end of its life expectancy. The DPW informed the council that continued repairs would cost more than buying a new one. However, Councilor Phillip J. Hebert questioned the need for a new truck, suggesting better preventive maintenance could save costs. He noted that the DPW currently lacks proper vehicle washing facilities, leading to accelerated wear and tear.
A representative from the DPW pointed out that DPW vehicles are first-response vehicles that undergo significant use and wear, making a new truck a more reliable and cost-effective option in the long term. Leasing vehicles was also considered but deemed financially unsustainable.
“There would be no way for me sitting here, and probably others at this table, to know that we didn’t have the ability to spray off our vehicles … I just think that it’s really important that we come up with the tools that are needed so that when we make an investment of over $300,000, we’re getting the longest lifespan that we possibly can,” said Barbara Barry, Town Council president.
In the end, the resolution did not pass, with all council members opposing it. Town Manager Brad Brothers said he would work with the DPW to gather more detailed cost information and present both repair and replacement options for further review.
In contrast, Resolution 2025-02, which proposed purchasing a 2024 Ford F350 for the DPW at a cost of $70,445, was approved with little discussion. The existing truck was off the road, and repairs would exceed its value.
During the meeting, Marlene Johnson from the Council on Aging presented a report on services provided in fiscal year 2024, highlighting that 1,788 seniors received direct and indirect services. Following this, Becky Basch from the Pioneer Valley Planning Commission and Johnson sought approval to submit the Community Assessment and Action Plan to AARP and the Massachusetts Council on Aging.
This action plan extends the town’s comprehensive plan and aims to address areas not previously addressed. It focuses on enhancing the social environment and supporting people with dementia and those aging in place. The town plans to submit this action plan to AARP to ensure continued support and resources for its aging population.
The council approved the plan and a supporting resolution for an Age and Dementia Friendly Pioneer Valley. This resolution aims to designate the entire region as age and dementia friendly. The goal is to raise awareness, especially around dementia, and to create safe and supportive communities for people of all ages. Both the action plan submission and the regional resolution received approval from the council.
To end the meeting, Brothers provided updates on ongoing and upcoming events, including the ongoing Thursday concert series at Hryniewicz Park, the Palmer Police Department’s annual National Night Out on Aug. 6, and the Rising Stars Basketball Clinic from Aug. 5-9. He also reminded residents that FY25 Quarter 1 real estate and personal property tax bills are due on Aug. 1.
