Westfield
Newcomer takes out papers for state rep. against Pease
WESTFIELD — Colby Hoffman, 38, of Westfield, is gathering signatures to run as a Democrat for state representative 4th Hampden District, a seat currently held by state Rep. Kelly Pease, a Republican who covers Southampton and most of Westfield.
Soggy weather doesn’t dampen spirits at Holyoke St. Patrick’s Parade
HOLYOKE — In spite of the rain — heavy at times — falling throughout the day, thousands of people came out to see marchers from throughout the area and beyond in the 73rd Holyoke St. Patrick’s Parade on Sunday, March 22.
Area chambers of commerce partner to Fill the Food Bank
For the past few years, six area chambers of commerce have banded together to address a need that affects the people they serve across Hampden County — food insecurity.
Westfield City Council passes first vote to change regular meeting time
WESTFIELD — After a lengthy discussion, the City Council took a first vote of 9-4 to change the time of regular City Council meetings from 7 p.m. to 6 p.m. at its March 5 meeting.
Westfield Planning Board backs new police headquarters project
WESTFIELD — A new police station is well on its way in Westfield after the city’s Planning Board unanimously approved the site plan, stormwater permit and special permit for the project.
Bishop named Westfield’s next fire chief
WESTFIELD — Marking a new chapter in leadership for the Westfield Fire Department, Eric Bishop was appointed two weeks ago by the Fire Commission as the department’s incoming fire chief. He will replace current Chief Patrick Egloff when he retires in April.
New state graduation framework raises resource questions in Westfield
WESTFIELD — With the state’s new high school graduation framework taking shape, funding for staffing and resources to complete the proposed requirements is top of mind for administrators at the local level.
Westfield City Council approves $2.3M in free cash appropriations
WESTFIELD — On Feb. 19, the City Council approved a series of free cash appropriations totalling $2.3 million that had been requested by Mayor Michael McCabe, following positive recommendations from the Finance Committee, chaired by City Councilor Daniel Knapik.
Settlement negotiations between Westfield, police officers stall
SPRINGFIELD — The city of Westfield and 17 current Westfield Police Department officers have been unable to reach a settlement after the officers filed a lawsuit against the city alleging they should have been paid “regular wages” when attending the police academy.
Senate adopts legislation for call duty firefighters
WESTFIELD — It’s been said that words matter, and in the case of creditable service legislation filed by state Sen. John Velis, changing “the” to “any” will affect call firefighters across the state if adopted by the House and signed by the governor.