Local News Archive
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March 3, 2023
Holyoke's new ShotSpotter system marks first firearms arrest

March 4, 2023
Holyoke councilors briefed on management of the city's piggy bank

January 30, 2023
Holyoke Ward 5 City Councilor Linda Vacon readies for rematch with Guy O'Donnell [PDF]

January 19, 2023
Holyoke City Council proceeds with ballot proposal to lower Community Preservation Act surcharge

January 12, 2023
Holyoke City Council to revisit recall mechanism for elected officials

January 10, 2023
Proposed ballot question looks to lower Holyoke Community Preservation Act surcharge

December 22, 2022
Holyoke Police remember fallen Officer John DiNapoli

December 21, 2022
Holyoke City Council calls on Gov.-elect Healey to end public schools state receivership

December 13, 2022
Holyoke apartment dwellers take concerns about 'uninhabitable' conditions, high rents to City Council

December 12, 2022
Holyoke City Council lowers property tax rates; homeowners still face paying more for fiscal 2023

November 16, 2022
Mayor Presents Polish-American Leader Joseph M. Kos with Proclamation

November 17, 2022
Holyoke mayor Joshua Garcia vetoes ordinance requiring departments to report loss

November 3, 2022
Holyoke City Council orders updated signage on engine breaking

November 3, 2022
Holyoke City Council seeks stricter regulating of cannabis industry in light of worker's death

October 25, 2022
Holyoke city councilor pushing for more regulations after Trulieve employee death

October 5, 2022
Holyoke City Council approves $50k federal grant for gunfire detection technology

September 13, 2022
Holyoke police unions react to city councilor's 'gang' comment

September 13, 2022
Holyoke Gas & Electric proposes tank project to ease natural gas moratorium

September 7, 2022
Holyoke chief rebukes city councilor for comparing police to a 'gang' - PDF version

August 31, 2022
Holyoke seeks reuse of closed Kmart Plaza

August 30, 2022
Holyoke White Hut plans proceed; City Council favors special permit

August 25, 2022
Holyoke City Council gets recommendation to rezone church for museum, Indian motorcycle dealership

August 9, 2022
Ch. 40 Video:
Traffic lines to be repainted on Route 202 in Holyoke following fatal accident

August 8, 2022
New England Eco Wash keeping it clean and green

August 3, 2022
Car wash at Gary Rome Hyundai approved by Holyoke City Council [PDF]

August 3, 2022
Holyoke city councilor fighting for traffic improvements following fatal crash

July 1, 2022
Organizations Accepting Donations to Support Residents who Lost their Possessions in Friday's Fire

June 27, 2022
Leeds VA Medical Center to remain open following Senate opposition WesternMassNews

June 8, 2022
Holyoke City Council resolution supports 'millionaire's tax' [PDF]

May 16, 2022
Holyoke Mayor Joshua Garcia proposes nearly $154 million budget for FY 2023 [PDF]

May 4, 2022
Holyoke reports nearly $2.4M free cash surplus [PDF]

April 20, 2022
Holyoke City Councilors resolve pot ordinance typo [PDF]

April 20, 2022
Holyoke legal opinion nixes City Council's $150,000 grant to Girls Inc. of the Valley or [PDF]

April 19, 2022
Law Dept finds Girls Inc CPA funding unlawful [PDF]

March 23, 2022
Holyoke mayor, police chief stand with landlords to combat drug gangs [PDF]

March 16, 2022
Marcos Marrero appointed to Holyoke Gas & Electric Commission [PDF]

March 7, 2022
Holyoke mayor nixes charter change that would limit his appointment authority [PDF]

March 2, 2022
Holyoke City Council holds off Home Rule Petition vote on mayoral appointments

March 1, 2022
Holyoke drops COVID-19 indoor mask mandate

February 23, 2022
Marijuana odor complaint raises stink in Holyoke [PDF]

February 16, 2022
Holyoke CIty Council approves $475K bond request for middle school feasibility study [PDF]

February 13, 2022
Holyoke's Hazen Paper Co. shines at Super Bowl LVI, once again making paper for program cover

February 3, 2022
Legislators update Holyoke City Council on Middle school funding, Home rule petitions [PDF]

February 1, 2022
Holyoke councilors debate funds for middle school study [PDF]

January 24, 2022
Mayor Garcia Appoints Chairs of Mayoral Advisory Councils [PDF]

January 23, 2022
Holyoke Police arrest 3 after 2 drug investigations [PDF]

January 19, 2022
City Council approves permits for 3 marijuana companies despite ordinance typo [PDF]

January 3, 2022
New Holyoke councilor Israel Rivera ends contention by quitting school job

January 3, 2022
Todd McGee reelected Holyoke City Council president; attempt to unseat Councilor Israel Rivera falls flat [PDF]

January 3, 2022
Holyoke Mayor Joshua Garcia, other elected officials take oath of office [PDF]

December 22, 2021
Holyoke City Council again fails to strike ordinance banning city employees from serving [PDF]

December 16, 2021
Holyoke City Council sets new tax rates; expect to pay more

December 4, 2021
Holyoke ordinance preventing city workers from serving on City Council remains [PDF]

December 3, 2021
Holyoke Assessor notes higher property values; City Council readies to set tax rate [PDF]

November 22, 2021
COVID testing extended through March 31 at Holyoke Community College

November 19, 2021
Linda Vacon's election win confirmed in recount in Holyoke City Council race

November 19, 2021
Recount confirms Holyoke City Council election results; Ward 5 incumbent Linda Vacon bests Guy O'Donnell by 18 votes [PDF]

November 18, 2021
Police investigating recent robberies targeting women at local shopping centers

November 15, 2021
Joshua Garcia sworn-in as Holyoke's next mayor

November 11, 2021
Holyoke honors city's veterans at annual service [PDF]

November 8, 2021
Recount sought in council race [PDF]

November 2, 2021
Majority of Holyoke City Council seats turn over in Tuesday's election

October 28, 2021
Sullivan Scores Decisive Victory in Final Mayoral Debate

October 21, 2021
Holyoke City Council aims to change city charter, wants more say in mayoral appointments

October 14, 2021
Holyoke mayoral candidate calls for audit in wake of police overtime revelations

September 21, 2021
Michael Sullivan, Joshua Garcia, win Holyoke mayoral preliminary, will face off in November election

September 8, 2021
Holyoke City Council can't reach agreement on sewer use fee hike; fails to muster supermajority vote

August 18, 2021
Holyoke police investigating shooting of house, car with AK-47-style gun

August 18, 2021
Drive-by shootings in Holyoke reported by police

August 4, 2021
Despite deficit, Holyoke holds off hiking sewer fee

July 6, 2021
Closed since 2015, Holyoke's Pouliot Pool reopens in time for hot stretch; $2.2 million renovation completed

June 24, 2021
Volunteers sought for "Community Police Relations Board"

June 23, 2021
Holyoke City Council approves $144M budget for fiscal 2022; includes over $424K in cuts

June 2, 2021
Facing criticism, Holyoke's acting mayor says 'I did a poor job explaining' executive order on racism


City Hall to Reopen June 1, 2021

Click link above for details - [PDF]

May 25, 2021
Baker signs bond bill to reconstruct Soldiers' Home
PDF | Video

May 21, 2021
City Solicitor rules tabling cash transfers as 'out of order'

May 19, 2021
Holyoke City Council delays vote on charter change to recall elected officials

May 17, 2021
Mass. to lift mask order, remaining COVID-19 restrictions on May 29

May 12, 2021
Police OT under scrutiny in Holyoke
With 10 Year Data

May 13, 2021
Holyoke Acting Mayor Terence Murphy seeks $3M in cuts for fiscal 2022

May 5, 2021
Holyoke City Council delays vote on changes to marijuana ordinance; acting mayor offers updates

May 5, 2021
Officials warning of fake prize checks arriving in the mail

April 30, 2021
Legislative discord over Holyoke Soldiers' Home bond bill pits House leadership against Senate

April 23, 2021
$600M bond bill for new Holyoke Soldiers' Home, more services for veterans statewide passes Mass. Senate

April 16, 2021
U.S. Rep. Richard Neal announces nearly $32 million in American Rescue Plan money for Holyoke

April 15, 2021
Massachusetts House unanimously passes $400 million bond bill for new Holyoke Soldiers' Home
Also see [PDF]

April 13, 2021
Holyoke City Councilor Terence Murphy appointed acting mayor

April 8, 2021
$400 million bond bill for new Holyoke Soldiers' Home clears 2nd legislative committee [PDF]

March 30, 2021
Holyoke's bid to avoid special mayoral election sent back to Statehouse [PDF]

March 24, 2021
Holyoke committee wants to raise city workers' salaries: Propose raising mayor's salary to $125k; $90K for city clerk - or [PDF]

March 23, 2021
Bill Would Nix Special Election
[JPG] Back to return

March 15, 2021
Holyoke City Council President Todd McGee says he can't serve as acting mayor [PDF]

March 10, 2021
Trash collections returning to normal in Holyoke as residents complain of delays [PDF]

February 27, 2021
Holyoke councilors look to avoid 'wasteful' special election following Mayor Alex Morse's departure for Provincetown job

PDF Read the related "Home Rule Petition"

February 18, 2021
Holyoke City Council seeks to track grants

February 6, 2021
Are COVID-19 vaccine sites prepared to handle rare, life-threatening reactions to the shot?

February 4, 2021
The Rest of the Story
Comcast postpones data cap in northeast following backlash [PDF]
Link to WFSB story

February 2, 2021
Holyoke Board of Health seeks wider COVID-19 vaccine distribution

January 14, 2021
Holyoke City Council pushes for greater accountability related to grants

December 19, 2020
Holyoke City Council sets property tax rates; commercial rate exceeds $40 mark

November 23, 2020
Holyoke councilors want money owed for police details; consider blocking vendors with bills due

December 17, 2020
Holyoke City Council accepts Baystate Health's $250,000 offer for former Geriatric Authority property

November 22, 2020
Problem Properties: Holyoke grapples with dozens of run-down and dangerous sites [PDF]

November 18, 2020
Holyoke backyard chicken ordinance returned to committee; special permit costs a concern

November 6 2020
Springfield remains at 'high-risk' for spreading COVID-19 under new DPH criteria

October 8, 2020
Holyoke City Council passes Home Rule Petition to recall elected officials [PDF]

October 1, 2020
Massachusetts ballot question 2: Ranked-choice voting, explained

September 26, 2020
Massachusetts Question 1: Right to Repair ballot initiative will determine who can access car mechanical data

September 25, 2020
Holyoke City Council proceeds with Home Rule Petition that would let voters recall elected officials

September 1, 2020
City closer to sale of Holyoke Geriatric Authority property

August 27, 2020
Morse campaign treasurer hired to $62K temporary post overseeing Holyoke COVID-19 response


Other News about Alex Morse and UMass

January 24, 2021
Holyoke Mayor Alex Morse claim of exoneration after UMass investigation findings misses point (Editorial)

January 13, 2021
UMass weighs faculty-student relationships policy in wake of report on Holyoke Mayor Alex Morse's conduct

January 12, 2021
UMass report critical of Holyoke Mayor Alex Morse for pursuing student relationships

December 1, 2020
Alex Morse won't seek re-election as Holyoke's mayor

September 1, 2020
US Rep. Richard Neal defeats challenge by Holyoke Mayor Alex Morse

August 30, 2020
UMass College Democrats express regret that Alex Morse letter went public, don't back off contents

August 14, 2020
UMass hires attorney to review Alex Morse conduct; state College Democrats say concerns were raised by 'several' students

August 12, 2020
Abuse of power or homophobic spin? Opinions split on controversy over Alex Morse's relationships with college students

August 11, 2020
In wake of Alex Morse allegations, some Holyoke councilors want voters to change charter, allow recalls for elected officials

August 10, 2020
City councilors react to UMass investigation into Holyoke's mayor
- Video -
- PDF version -

August 10, 2020
Sunrise Western Mass Coalition retracts Alex Morse endorsement

August 10, 2020
LGBTQ Victory Fund sticks up for Holyoke Mayor Alex Morse in congressional race

August 10, 2020
U.S. Rep. Richard Neal's campaign denies involvement in Alex Morse allegations

August 10, 2020
Alex Morse to stay in race for Congress amid complaints about relationships with college student

August 10, 2020
Alex Morse Staying in Congressional Race Amid Allegations of Sexual Misconduct
NECN, w/Video

August 9, 2020
More City Councilors weigh in on Alex Morse's relationships with college students; one calls for resignation, one calls for unpaid leave

August 9, 2020
City Councilor calls for Mayor Alex Morse to resign

WWLP News Video

August 9, 2020
Two Holyoke councilors call for Mayor Alex Morse to resign amid UMass investigation into alleged 'inappropriate behavior'
Boston Herald

August 9, 2020
JTA.org - Jewish congressional candidate Alex Morse faces allegations of inappropriate relationships

August 9, 2020
No 'quid pro quo' with U.S. Rep. Richard Neal for letter about Alex Morse, College Democrats of Massachusetts say

August 8, 2020
One call for resignation, but other Holyoke city councilors wait to hear from Mayor Alex Morse on relationships with college students

August 8, 2020
UMass Amherst announces review of allegations against Holyoke Mayor Alex Morse, says it has no plans to hire him back as lecturer

August 7, 2020
UMass College Democrats allege Holyoke Mayor Alex Morse acted inappropriately toward college students

Above story from UMass - PDF




June 30, 2020
Holyoke City Council passes fiscal 2021 budget, cuts nearly $1 million from mayor's spending plan
May 6, 2020
Holyoke City Council nixes $275K energy grant

December 26, 2019
Holyoke seeking new proposals for former Geriatric Authority site; Baystate interested, but still seeking partner for behavioral health hospital

November 27, 2019
Holyoke councilors eye committee to study middle school options

November 6, 2019
Holyoke voters overwhelmingly reject tax hike to fund middle school projects

November 6, 2019
"Morse rebuked" - Holyoke voters tell mayor to find other answers for schools (Editorial)

October 18, 2019
Linda Vacon Letter to Editor
New Holyoke middle schools: Gift or burden?

October 15, 2019
Proposed Holyoke Mall movie theaters gets needed zone change

October 4, 2019
Pier 1, Kaoud Rugs closing at Holyoke shopping center

September 29, 2019
Multiple Holyoke hydrants have low flow: Officials working to fix problem after home destroyed by fire

September 20, 2019
At forum on Holyoke override, school officials say new middle schools needed; Holyoke Mall manager says tax hike would put shopping center in 'harm's way'

September 11, 2019
Developer proposes up to 96 condos on Lower Westfield Road in Holyoke

September 10, 2019
MassDOT unveils plans for Holyoke highway project, residents speak out - I attended this public meeting to learn more about this project as it will have a broad affect in our city if it moves forward. Linda

October 1, 2019
Holyoke City Council approves sale of Westfield Road parcel, condos planned

September 5, 2019
Amazon promises 235 jobs, $5.6M in construction for Holyoke distribution center

September 1, 2019
Holyoke searches for affordable path to newer, better schools (Editorial)

August 30, 2019
Holyoke City Council committee denies resident's nonbinding ballot question on proposed middle schools

August 20, 2019
Now you can use your smartphone to pay for parking in downtown Holyoke

August 7, 2019
Holyoke Mall sells land, building; plumbers union plans training facility, developer has plans for parking lot

July 24, 2019
Holyoke City Council committee mulls resolution to increase natural gas service capacity

July 15, 2019
Holyoke Planning Board OKs Lower Westfield Road distribution center, over traffic objections from neighbor

June 25, 2019
Holyoke Planning Board hears plans for distribution center at former Atlas Copco

June 13, 2019
Holyoke City Council approves Proposition 2 1/2 override ballot question; middle schools remain in play

May 31, 2019
Holyoke City Council begins FY 2020 budget process, mayor submits $134 million spending plan

May 23, 2019
Holyoke city councilor proposes building 1 middle school instead of 2

May 21, 2019
Rally urges vote on Holyoke school proposal, tax increase

April 26, 2019
Holyoke committee tables Proposition 2 � override question as Holyoke Mall cites potential hardship

April 14, 2019

Holyoke honors Sikh community with City Hall flag raising, call to prevent violence


February 20, 2019
Holyoke councilors to discuss proposed behavioral hospital at former Geriatric Authority site

January 21, 2019
Holyoke City Council OKs $8.9 million bond for Jackson Street sewer project

December 21, 2018
Holyoke City Council raises sewer rates as deficit in sewer fund grows

January 16, 2019
Holyoke City Council approves zone change to pave way for proposed 100-unit apartment complex
December 15, 2018
Holyoke City Council will mull sewer rate increase; deficits continue

December 6, 2018
Massachusetts Department of Revenue certifies Holyoke free cash; City Council must balance budget, set tax rate

November 28, 2018
Holyoke residents want action on speeders in Ward 5 neighborhood

November 21, 2018
Holyoke City Council puts moratorium on its own sign ordinance; Councilor David Bartley calls ACLU 'a bunch of phonies'

November 16, 2018:
ACLU files suit against City of Holyoke over restrictive sign ordinance

October 31, 2018:
Holyoke mayor Alex Morse wants action on salary study

September 9, 2018:
Holyoke meeting to address quality-of-life issues; blight, drugs and sex trafficking major concerns

September 6, 2018:
Holyoke City Council passes $2.6 million bond for 3 firetrucks

August 7, 2018:
Holyoke City Council approves special permits for medical and recreational marijuana facilities

June 19, 2018:
$142,000 denied to fund retroactive raises for Holyoke firefighters

April 9, 2018:
Military vets panhandling benefit more from referral than cash, says Holyoke veterans agent

April 4, 2018:
5 takeaways as Holyoke treasurer finally discusses scam with City Council

April 4, 2018:
1st extensive public comments about money scam provided by Holyoke City Treasurer Sandra Smith

April 3, 2018:
Mayor among officials told early about scam, says Holyoke city treasurer; Mayor Alex Morse: 'I don't have recollection of that'

April 3, 2018:
'My office was compromised,' says Holyoke city treasurer to council about $9,997 scam


February 16 -
March 22, 2018:
'Dismaying' that Holyoke not only spent $10,000 on Christmas tree but used debit card: officials

February 25, 2018
The Republican seeks records on money scam in Holyoke city treasurer's office

February 21, 2018
Holyoke Council votes to seek probe of city finances by Massachusetts inspector general


March 28, 2018:
Forum for Ward 5 residents in Holyoke set for April 4

April 2, 2018:
State investigation of finances sought in Holyoke
(Includes Video)

Closed-door meeting set for Holyoke Council for update on scam probe at city treasurer's office
From paper

Councilors to discuss financial problem racking Holyoke City Hall

Strange financial times at Holyoke City Hall: Here's what we know

City will seek help from state auditor

City treasurer's office in Holyoke victimized by cyber attack less than $10,000: Mayor Alex Morse
Holyoke Council votes to ask Massachusetts Auditor Suzanne Bump to examine city finances

City Treasurer Sandra Smith to face questions on scam from Holyoke Councilors

March 12, 2018:
$19 million budget reconciliation completed in Holyoke and issues remain but receivership not needed: officials
March 21, 2018:
5 takeaways highlight Holyoke officials' slog through setting of budget, tax rate

March 20, 2018:
Holyoke Council sets new tax rate with property owners to get larger, combined bills

March 18, 2018:
Holyoke Council scheduled to set new property tax rate

March 13, 2018:
'Molehill into mountain' consultant assures Holyoke officials as $19.1 million budget issue reconciled

March 13, 2018:
Blame becomes part of debate about Holyoke financial issues

Holyoke Councilors want to hear from ex-city auditor Joshua Pueschel as they react to resignation

Holyoke City Auditor Joshua Pueschel resigns citing City Hall 'nonsense'

'I simply cannot do this job. Nobody can': Read resignation letter of Holyoke City Auditor Joshua Pueschel

January 22, 2018:
$1.1 million budget hole on track to get plugged in Holyoke

January 11, 2018:
Warnings and water shut off looming for Holyoke sewer bill delinquents

December 20, 2017:
Holyoke facing borrowing to keep city running after Council, Mayor Alex Morse again unable to agree on budget

December 12, 2017:
'No' says Holyoke Council to Mayor Alex Morse budget-balancing proposals

December 12, 2017:
Short-term loan seen likely to balance Holyoke budget after Council rejects Mayor Alex Morse's proposals

December 8, 2017:
Campaign money, job promises among areas targeted by Holyoke ethics ordinance

December 7, 2017:
Q&A: exploring budget problems facing Holyoke officials

December 4, 2017:
Get elected in Holyoke get elected only in Holyoke: Council considers rule change

November 22, 2017:
Addressing panhandling the intent as Holyoke Council adopts state law on soliciting vehicles

November 21, 2017:
Holyoke and West Springfield residents bothered by street racing

November 21, 2017:
City leaders approve state law to end aggressive panhandling in Holyoke

November 20, 2017:
Panhandling curbs face Holyoke City Council debate

November 14, 2017:
Holyoke Councilors Linda Vacon, Rebecca Lisi clash over campaign money to Lisi from medical marijuana firm

September 19, 2017:
Big E celebrates Holyoke Day and the band in purple and Hibernians in green marched on

September 13, 2017:
Minimalist approach to address panhandling considered in Holyoke

August 24, 2017:
Speeding vehicles and cars cutting through Clayton Road and Ashley Reservoir area among Holyoke Ward 5 forum topics

July 20, 2017:
11-acre site in Holyoke getting groomed to attract developers

December 21, 2016:
State reduces Holyoke tax rate (by pennies, but still)

December 21, 2016:
5 takeaways after Holyoke City Council sets new property tax rate

December 21, 2016:
New tax rate in Holyoke increases average homeowner's bill $48, cuts business rate but not enough, chamber members say

December 7, 2016:
Anti-hate resolution in Holyoke debated but not voted despite listing of groups that merit protection

December 6, 2016:
New tax rate coming in Holyoke Dec. 20 as city records 2 percent increase in average property value

November 30, 2016:
Holyoke Councilor Linda Vacon says Mayor Alex Morse 'plays victim card'

November 7, 2016:
Holyoke Council opposes resolution regarding Election Day ballot Question 4 on marijuana legalization

November 4, 2016:
Ballot Question 5 up for a vote in 5 western Mass. communities

October 30, 2016:
Businesses urge Holyoke voters to reject Community Preservation Act

October 17, 2016:
Needle exchange reaffirmed in Holyoke with unanimous Board of Health vote

October 16, 2016:
'No on Question 5' forms in Holyoke to fight Community Preservation Act

October 11, 2016:
Regulating panhandlers, residency rules for Holyoke municipal employees set for Ordinance Committee debates

October 6, 2016:
300-plus attend Gary Rome Hyundai grand opening in Holyoke

October 3, 2016:
$112,000 OK recommended to buy 3 new Holyoke police cars

October 3, 2016:
$7.4 million worth of orders set for Holyoke Councilors' debate

September 29, 2016:
Vietnam veteran, who recently lost wife to cancer, gets Holyoke home renovated by busload of volunteers

September 11, 2016:
Public hearing set for Sept. 27 on medical pot pitch in Holyoke

September 9, 2016:
'Disgrace' that Holyoke councilors filed needle exchange lawsuit: health board's Robert Mausel

September 8, 2016:
Needle exchange coming to re-authorization vote of Holyoke Board of Health; 'game over,' says Council President Kevin Jourdain

September 7, 2016:
Drone regulations approved 13-0 by Holyoke Council with fines for violations

September 7, 2016:
$270,205 to compensate property owner for Holyoke Essex House collapse sent to committee

September 7, 2016:
No sewer rate increase in Holyoke as Council says, collect overdues from deadbeats first

August 2, 2016:
No sewer rate increase in Holyoke as Council says, collect overdues from deadbeats first

August 1, 2016:
Auditor tells Holyoke Councilors to raise sewer rate now because they'll be 'reluctant' in 2017 election year

July 20, 2016:
New law targeting Holyoke sewer-bill deadbeats counted on to balance budget

July 14, 2016:
Court fights likely to persist over Holyoke needle exchange

July 12, 2016:
Needle exchange as 'monster' or 'compassion' fuels Holyoke dispute between Council President Kevin Jourdain, Mayor Alex Morse

July 11, 2016:
Needle exchange's future in Holyoke after today disputed by officials

June 28, 2016:
Zero increase recommended in Holyoke sewer rate by Council committee

June 22, 2016:
Community Preservation Act question placed on Nov. 8 election ballot by Holyoke Council

June 14, 2016:
Holyoke Council committee tables recommendation vote on sewer-rate increase

June 1, 2016:
Fire Department 'brownouts' would continue, among discussion points in 1st Holyoke Council budget hearing

May 22, 2016:
Proposed 2016-2017 Budget

May 20, 2016:
Community Preservation Act among topics set for Holyoke Councilor Linda Vacon forum

May 19, 2016:
Needle exchange in Holyoke would continue but under different state law: Tapestry Health court motion

May 9, 2016:
Past controversies aired at Holyoke council meeting to select replacement for Jennifer Chateauneuf

May 3, 2016:
Diosdado Lopez chosen to fill Jennifer Chateauneuf vacancy on Holyoke Council

April 22, 2016:
Judge upholds order to close Holyoke needle exchange
- Read the Order -

April 18, 2016:
Holyoke officials balancing desire to pay workers fairly with taxpayers' limits

Holyoke Ward 5 Councilor Linda Vacon holding forum on solar, Community Preservation Act, zone change March 22, 2016:
Holyoke Ward 5 Councilor Linda Vacon holding forum on solar, Community Preservation Act, zone change

March 20, 2016:
Holyoke Council honors Rotary Club with proclamation on 100th anniversary

March 18, 2016:
5 takeaways that emerged from tech-filled Holyoke Council meeting on regulating, taxing solar plans

March 14, 2016:
Holyoke needle exchange program ordered to close in absence of affirmative City Council vote

March 14, 2016:
Judge's Ruling Against Needle Exchange Program in Holyoke

March 11, 2016:
Holyoke police to aim traffic enforcement at 10 intersections, councilors told

March 9, 2016:
Judge promises ruling in less than 2 weeks on Holyoke needle exchange program suit

March 9, 2016:
Holyoke Councilors drilling toward understanding whether proposed solar-tax deals benefit city, could be improved

March 8, 2016:
Holyoke Councilors trying to shed light on solar power-tax proposals

February 23, 2016:
Holyoke Council overrides Mayor Alex Morse vetoes on property use by license, accepting state statutes

February 18, 2016:
Holyoke Council committee reluctantly OK's $415,000 transfers to Fire Department

February 14, 2016:
Holyoke Councilors to other Councilors: 'Late' doesn't mean 'urgent'

February 11, 2016:
Holyoke Councilors work to restrict locations of solar 'eyesores'

January 29, 2016:
Holyoke Councilors ask if any other budget surprises looming amid dwindling cash

January 20, 2016:
Holyoke budget problems surge with Fire Department miscalculation

January 19, 2016:
Holyoke owed $44,000 by Gandara Center, which still gets free notice on city website

January 19, 2016:
Holyoke Council considers hiring freeze, $225,000 for police OT

January 15, 2016:
Holyoke Council Finance Committee recommends hiring freeze

January 12, 2016:
Holyoke councilors debate balanced-budget order

January 5, 2016:
Holyoke Council to discuss budget-balancing, hiring freeze

December 16, 2015:
Holyoke again considering storm water runoff fee

December 15, 2015:
Holyoke Council sets residential tax rate at $19.12, business rate at $39.86

December 15, 2015:
Holyoke officials urged to cut harmfully high business tax rate

December 6, 2015:
Holyoke Council to decide on cash, savings, cuts to plug $2.9 million deficit

December 2, 2015:
Holyoke Councilor Anthony Soto submits proposal to recall 4-year term officials

November 26, 2015:
Holyoke Council Finance Committee recommends rejection of Mayor Alex Morse plan to use $700,000 from reserves to balance budget

November 26, 2015:
Holyoke officials face $2.9 million deficit, only $2.2 million in free cash, Dec. 31 deadline

November 16, 2015:
Holyoke Councilors hear from residents opposed to 'racist,' 'inhumane' order about immigrants

November 16, 2015:
IIlegal immigrants order set for Holyoke Council committee discussion

November 5, 2015:
Holyoke voters increase mayor's term to 4 years, cut City Council to 13 members starting in 2017, Plus Election Results

October 21, 2015:
Holyoke Councilor Anthony Soto, former mayoral candidate, endorses Fran O'Connell for the seat

October 21, 2015:
Holyoke Council President Kevin Jourdain to contact Ethics Commission about Morse-Egan separation agreement

October 20, 2015:
Holyoke Council to discuss helping property owners not on municipal sewer

October 16, 2015:
Holyoke Councilors want Ethics Commission to evaluate Morse-Egan separation agreement

October 15, 2015:
Holyoke mayoral candidate Fran O'Connell says city employees at Mayor Alex Morse event 'inappropriate'

October 15, 2015:
Holyokers offer ideas on septic systems, permeable streets at hearing on storm water fee

October 14, 2015:
Holyoke sewer-issues meeting features 'myth vs. fact' presentation
Acting City Auditor Bellamy H. Schmidt was against the fee (click here) before he was for the fee (click link above)

October 14, 2015:
Holyoke residents oppose possible storm water fee, but also get creative

October 13, 2015:
Holyoke candidate Fran O'Connell calls on Mayor Alex Morse to sign sewer-bills order

October 7, 2015:
Holyoke doesn't have storm water runoff fee, none yet proposed, but still big issue

September 9, 2015:
Holyoke City Council approves amendments to ballot questions on term lengths

September 2, 2015:
Live reporting: Holyoke City Council wants ex-treasurer Jon Lumbra to repay

August 25, 2015:
Holyoke orders former Treasurer to repay part of his salary

August 6, 2015:
Holyoke, Gandara Center clash over $44,000 in lease payments

August 5, 2015:
Holyoke binding ballot questions to change government taking shape

July 20, 2015:
Holyoke Police seize 2 handguns, suspect arrested

June 30, 2015:
Holyoke Councilors like Fire Department grease-fire prevention plan, but not fee

June 25, 2015:
Holyoke Council grants permits for $10 million Gary Rome Hyundai project

June 25, 2015:
If you have no plans Saturday morning, Holyoke Council will do marathon budget review

June 23, 2015:
Gary Rome Hyundai seeks permits from Holyoke Council for $10 million project

June 18, 2015:
Holyoke residents' call for investigation of Morse-Egan separation agreement in committee

June 16, 2015:
Holyoke Council to get letters on YMCA, Morse-Egan separation agreement

June 12, 2015:
Friends of Mater Dolorosa Church to honor 7 Holyoke Councilors

June 11, 2015:
Holyoke Ward 5 Councilor Linda Vacon holding forum with residents

June 10, 2015:
Holyoke Councilors praise new Gold Star Mothers chapter bid to reach out

June 3, 2015:
Holyoke Mayor Alex Morse should face ethics complaint: councilors

June 2, 2015:
Preventing panhandling in Holyoke

June 2, 2015:
Holyoke Council topics include panhandling, Gary Rome Hyundai requests

May 27, 2015:
Holyoke residents with private systems should be excluded from water runoff fees: Reader viewpoint

May 26, 2015:
Attorney general declines investigation of Holyoke Mayor Alex Morse separation agreement with ex-solicitor

May 20, 2015:
Holyoke Council grants zone change for $10 million Gary Rome Hyundai project

May 15, 2015:
Holyoke Council agrees to tap reserves for $375,000 for snow-removal bills -
Linda Vacon is lone dissenting vote


May 12, 2015:
Holyoke Council OK sought for $10 million Gary Rome Hyundai dealership

May 11, 2015:
Holyoke Councilors to consider auto-dealer zone changes including Gary Rome Hyundai

May 7, 2015:
Holyoke Hotel site revamp begins as homeless families relocated

May 6, 2015:
Holyoke Council opts to let voters decide officials' terms

May 1, 2015:
Hotel/retail development will add jobs and property taxes

April 30, 2015:
Holyoke Council asks attorney general to investigate separation agreement

April 30, 2015:
Holyoke arrangement on county treatment center not subject to Council vote

April 28, 2015:
Process of relocating alcohol treatment center to Holyoke lacked transparency: Letter to the Editor

April 23, 2015:
Nearby tenants meet with Sheriff Ashe over future of Alcohol Correctional Center

April 22, 2015:
Holyoke neighborhood meeting set on plan for treatment center at Geriatric Authority

April 22, 2015:
Holyoke Hotel to become retail site with Applebee's, hotels, stores

April 16, 2015:
Holyoke leases ex-Geriatric site to county for treatment center

April 15, 2015:
Holyoke boards close public hearings on Gary Rome dealership, residential zone-change bids

April 9, 2015:
Holyoke Board of Health lists public water fluoridation as discussion topic

April 8, 2015:
Holyoke Council majority sides with Diocese arguments on Polish historic district issue

March 31, 2015:
Holyoke hearing on Gary Rome Hyundai plan questioned on city abutter notification

March 29, 2015:
Holyoke councilors to consider fluoridation, discarded needles, unstable buildings

March 26, 2015:
Holyoke sets hearing on Gary Rome Hyundai plan for Whiting Farms Road

March 3, 2015:
Holyoke Council to consider ballot questions to increase terms, change mayor to city manager

February 11, 2015:
Holyoke residents discuss city issues in citizens forum

January 26, 2015:
Holyoke City Treasurer Jon Lumbra submits resignation effective Feb. 13

January 21, 2015:
Holyoke City Treasurer Jon Lumbra says he will resign by Feb. 14

January 20, 2015:
Holyoke Council opts against immediate slashing of Treasurer Jon Lumbra's pay by $50,000 with committee referral

January 16, 2015:
Holyoke to begin seeking buyer for former Geriatric Authority

January 14, 2015:
Holyoke police called to deal with homeless-family issues at Holyoke Hotel slightly less in 2014 than 2013

January 12, 2015:
Holyoke Council wants Treasurer Jon Lumbra paid only for hours worked

January 7, 2015:
Holyoke voters to consider nonbinding ballot questions on City Council size, switch from mayor to city manager

December 23, 2014:
Holyoke Officer John DiNapoli would prefer the 300 people at candlelight vigil instead be celebrating, daughter JoBeth DiNapoli says

December 19, 2014:
Holyoke police supervisors president Fred Seklecki 2nd union head in week to criticize councilors Jossie Valentin, Rebecca Lisi for march

December 17, 2014:
Holyoke Council sets tax rate that favors home over business owners

December 17, 2014:
Holyoke City Council resolves 12-1 to call the Christmas tree at City Hall a 'Christmas tree'

December 16, 2014:
Holyoke patrol union president Ed Moskal criticizes councilors Rebecca Lisi, Jossie Valentin participation in march that included 'antipolice' chants

December 10, 2014:
Holyoke City Treasurer Jon Lumbra's work arrangement clashes with views of some Councilors

December 10, 2014:
Holyoke Council Ordinance Committee votes 3-2 to block Christmas tree discussion, but Councilor Dan Bresnahan vows to continue

December 9, 2014:
Holyoke Board of Assessors sets public hearing on tax classification

December 2, 2014:
Holyoke Council Finance Committee recommends rejection of Mayor Alex Morse plan to use $700,000 from reserves to balance budget

November 30, 2014:
Holyoke Council Finance Committee readies debate on $5.5 million in proposed transfers with new tax rate imminent

November 20, 2014:
Holyoke Councilors to debate $5.5 million in proposed transfers, from rainy day fund to court settlement to snow-removal costs

November 14, 2014:
Homeless Hotels Continue to See Problems

November 11, 2014:
Holyoke hotels and motels that house homeless families and show problems could be required to hire police as security

November 11, 2014:
Veterans Day 2014: Tom Paul, Holyoke veteran of the year

October 27, 2014:
Holyoke Councilors want documentation about library leak repairs after $14.5 million renovation

October 23, 2014:
Holyoke City Council overrides Mayor Alex Morse veto, and the debate about public art keeps going

October 22, 2014:
Holyoke City Council wants report showing if elected, appointed officials owe taxes, utility bills

October 2, 2014:
Holyoke has 191 homeless families living in hotels, but an official said state also tries to help people avoid that arrangement

September 19, 2014:
WWLP Ch. 22 Video - Holyoke residents voice concerns over homeless hotels

September 18, 2014:
Holyoke homeless-in-hotels burden unlikely to change soon, legislators tell councilors

September 16, 2014:
Holyoke Ward 5 Councilor Linda Vacon sets forum to discuss intersection project, Gary Rome proposal, homeless in hotels

September 15, 2014:
Holyoke Council committee to get update about issues like water-sewer merger, homeless in hotels, liquor licenses

September 5, 2014:
Ex-Holyoke solicitor Heather Egan could seek job with city but only after Mayor Alex Morse gone

September 3, 2014:
Holyoke code inspectors would visit hotel that houses homeless families; such hotels might be required to hire security: Councilors

September 2, 2014:
Holyoke Council wants state legislators to help with problems of homeless living in hotels

August 28, 2014:
Heather Egan agreement with Holyoke: State orders release of details to The Republican/MassLive

August 25, 2014:
Holyoke councilors lament number of police calls to hotels-motels housing homeless

August 5, 2014:
Holyoke would permit medical marijuana facility by City Council special permit under new vote

August 5, 2014:
Holyoke City Council, Mayor Alex Morse discuss Geriatric Authority in closed-door meeting; just an update, officials say

August 5, 2014:
Holyoke City Council votes merely to receive law firm's exit letter in relation to Heather Egan exit agreement

August 5, 2014:
Holyoke Council tees up agenda: 4 Heather Egan-related orders, 1 on medical marijuana, 1 for $1.45 million to raze building

August 1, 2014:
Holyoke License Commission restores Double Six bar's liquor license, but more scrutiny, possible sanctions to come

July 29, 2014:
Holyoke councilors clash about adding new post of licensing inspector

July 23, 2014:
Holyoke council committee to consider $1.45 million to raze the breaking-apart Essex House on High Street

July 22, 2014:
Holyoke survey shows open space preferred use for Whiting Farms Rd. site, followed by mixed retail

July 22, 2014:
Holyoke survey results to be aired for Whiting Farms Rd. site once desired by Walmart, Lowe's

July 17, 2014:
Holyoke Geriatric Authority board votes to seek buyers for closed nursing home, won't appeal bankruptcy dismissal

June 29, 2014:
Holyoke planners will take survey answers on Whiting Farms Road property until July 7

June 24, 2014:
Holyoke patrol union head Ed Moskal calls council President Kevin Jourdain 'windbag,' Jourdain vows won't be intimidated by 'union thug'

June 20, 2014:
Holyoke council-mayor clash over $45,000 Heather Egan agreement yielded revelations amid the frustration

June 18, 2014:
Holyoke City Council strikes $45,000 blow 'for taxpayers' in response to Heather Egan payment; cuts $457,000 from budget

June 17, 2014:
Holyoke City Council will decide how much to cut from Mayor Alex Morse's proposed $125.5 million budget

June 13, 2014:
Holyoke councilors ask Mayor Alex Morse to lift 'veil of secrecy,' but Morse says councilors trying to goad city into liability

June 12, 2014:
Holyoke taxpayers kept in dark by city as released records fail to show why former solicitor Heather Egan got $45,000

June 3, 2014:
Holyoke Mayor Alex Morse to address City Council on ex-solicitor Heather Egan's $45,000 exit agreement

May 28, 2014:
Holyoke councilors thwarted in questioning Springfield lawyer Meghan Sullivan about Heather Egan $45,000 buyout

April 24, 2014:
Holyoke Mayor Alex Morse, Councilor Linda Vacon clash on police 'Quinn Bill' funding, other budget issues

April 22, 2014:
Holyoke rules for use of municipal vehicles could be tightened by City Council after arrest, unauthorized use of mayor's car

April 14, 2014:
Holyoke Finance Committee to debate meals tax, charging municipal officials for taking home city vehicles

April 11, 2014:
Holyoke considers adopting meals tax, and restaurants and officials line up on both sides

March 24, 2014:
Ch. 40 - State's Dept. of Public Health to Help Geriatric Authority Until Facility Closes

March 18, 2014:
Patients from Holyoke Geriatric Authority heading to homes in Holyoke and Westfield

March 18, 2014:
Holyoke residents criticize City Council, Planning Board for denying zone change they wanted to reduce traffic

March 12, 2014:
WWLP - Holyoke City Councilors to discuss travel policy

March 12, 2014:
Holyoke Geriatric Authority board discusses seeking loan, becoming funded city dept.; mayor, City Council president: not going to happen

March 8, 2014:
Holyoke Geriatric Authority OK to close, state says, and informational meeting set for residents, families

March 3, 2014:
Holyoke Geriatric Authority board votes 3-2 to contact state and begin closing amid financial problems

March 3, 2014:
Holyoke Geriatric Authority board meets with bankruptcy lawyer, considers fund-raising, other options

February 28, 2014:
Holyoke Geriatric Authority board has discussed bankruptcy with lawyer and Mayor Alex Morse says sale, receivership, state takeover also possible

February 20, 2014:
Holyoke Geriatric Authority board plans special meeting with closed session to discuss 'future' of facility; Patti Devine resigns

February 5, 2014:
Holyoke City Council fails to establish regulations to govern medical marijuana facility, which is coming, regulations or not

January 31, 2014:
Massachusetts grants 20 medical marijuana licenses, but only 2 in Western Massachusetts

January 29, 2014:
Holyoke Morgan School placed under control of receiver, Project GRAD USA, because most students have trouble reading, writing, doing math

January 14, 2014:
Holyoke public hearings to continue on regulating medical marijuana shop, zone change on Whiting Farms Road

January 4, 2014:
Holyoke residents try to protect neighborhoods with upcoming hearings for zone changes, which property owners consider restrictive

December 17, 2013:
Holyoke City Council sets residential tax rate of $19.05, commercial rate of $39.75

December 14, 2013:
Holyoke City Council OKs taking $790,000 from emergency fund to balance budget; tax rate expected to be finalized Tuesday

December 10, 2013:
Holyoke sets public hearing on zone change for site formerly proposed for a Big Y

December 9, 2013:
Holyoke needle exchange program praised as effective, blamed as causing discarded syringes by speakers during hearing

December 8, 2013:
Holyoke sets public hearing on needle exchange program

December 4, 2013:
Holyoke City Council defeats proposal to increase sewer rate

November 26, 2013:
Holyoke public hearing set on proposal to change zone of Whiting Farms Road land once eyed by Walmart, Lowe's

November 26, 2013:
Holyoke tax and sewer rate decisions loom as property values and free cash diminish

November 21, 2013:
Holyoke City Council seeks legal advice on its role if Geriatric Authority is sold

November 20, 2013:
Needle Exchange Debate Reignites; Holyoke City Council Delays Vote

November 19, 2013:
Holyoke council committee to schedule public hearing on needle exchange

November 19, 2013:
Holyoke City Council Finance Committee reviews appropriation requests

November 17, 2013:
Holyoke City Council to consider needle exchange, sewer rate, how to sell Geriatric Authority

November 13, 2013:
Holyoke Ward 5 Councilor Linda Vacon sets thank-you reception, issues forum

November 1, 2013:
Holyoke Geriatric Authority discusses possible sale of 45 Lower Westfield Road campus with Tryko Partners of New Jersey

October 31, 2013:
Holyoke Ward 5 Councilor Linda Vacon vows to keep battling needle exchange

October 19, 2013:
Moose on the Loose in Holyoke

September 26, 2013:
State audit finds Holyoke Geriatric Authority mismanaged funds, missed revenue chances; new authority leadership commended

August 28, 2013:
Holyoke Sewer Rate Increase Proposal
Ch. 40 News


August 18, 2013:
Holyoke plan for 4 restaurants, 2 hotels replacing Holiday Inn and Friendly's continues before Planning Board

August 13, 2013:
Holyoke Geriatric Authority plan to lease space for detention facility for low-risk males unresolved after public hearing

August 4, 2013:
Holyoke Walmart controversy in line with retailer's record of pleasing and angering the masses

August 2, 2013:
Holyoke City Council OK's taking land to widen Homestead Avenue-Lower Westfield Road intersection

August 2, 2013:
Holyoke Geriatric Authority to offer open houses on plan for Gandara Center to lease space to house low-risk young males awaiting court

July 16, 2013:
Holyoke voters likely to face crowded 2013 preliminary election ballot with races for mayor, clerk, City Council, School Committee

July 12, 2013:
Redevelopment Committee mulls eminent domain

July 10, 2013:
Holyoke City Solicitor Heather Egan declines to issue a formal opinion about the residency of mayor candidates

July 1, 2013:
Holyoke City Solicitor Heather Egan to issue opinion about residency that could thwart candidates challenging Mayor Alex Morse

July 1, 2013:
Holyoke Solicitor Heather Egan, Mayor Alex Morse criticized for effect of residency rule interpretation on rivals

June 25, 2013:
Holyoke Councilor Gordon Alexander's share-pain bid to cut councilors' pay goes down

June 19, 2013:
Holyoke Council defeats bid to cut $200,000 from police Quinn Bill incentives

June 18, 2013:
Big Y Foods reevaluating Holyoke store in wake of Walmart supercenter announcemement

June 15, 2013:
Holyoke property taxes to be determined by City Council vote on mayor's $123.6 million budget proposal

June 11, 2013:
Holyoke taxpayers can expect pension costs for city retirees to keep rising

June 5, 2013:
Holyoke Geriatric Authority again frustrating councilors after city forced to pay $146,000 in health insurance

June 4, 2013:
Holyoke City Council President Kevin Jourdain tells police options painful: layoffs, using up emergency fund, more taxes

May 29, 2013:
Holyoke councilors question Mayor Alex Morse about police spending, which Morse defends as necessary

May 23, 2013:
Holyoke talking with developer about large retail store on Whiting Farms Road

May 16, 2013:
Holyoke $16 million retail project with Big Y still set for construction to begin in 2014

May 15, 2013:
Holyoke McDonald's would get extra drive-through lane under plan councilors support

May 14, 2013:
Holyoke City Council to question financial officials about money projected to come in, go out at hearing on $123.6 million budget

May 13, 2013:
Holyoke City Hall basement rest rooms will be available by requested key after complaints about drug use, sex, blood

April 30, 2013:
Holyoke Councilor Linda Vacon to hold forum on traffic, Big Y project, other issues

April 25, 2013:
Drug use, spilled blood, sex mean Holyoke City Hall bathrooms would be locked with keys

February 19, 2013:
Holyoke to pay $60,000 to settle suit filed by fired employee Donna Dowdall in split City Council vote

February 6, 2013:
Holyoke City Council hears foes and supporters of nonbinding casino question headed for Nov. 5 ballot

January 24, 2013:
Holyoke City Council Finance Committee recommends rejecting settlement of $60,000 to end suit from fired employee

January 17, 2013:
Holyoke to consider nonbinding question on needle exchange on Nov. 5 election ballot


October 11, 2012:
Alex Morse - NO DICE - A casino would hurt, not help, Holyoke's economic redevelopment efforts

November 24, 2012:
Holyoke Mayor Alex Morse to announce casino resort plan for Mountain Park with Eric Suher

December 13, 2012:
Holyoke Mayor Holyoke Mayor Alex Morse's flirtation with casino issue ends as he declares he is back to 'No' on gaming


January 16, 2013:
Holyoke City Council votes to put nonbinding casino gambling referendum before voters

January 9, 2013:
Holyoke Councilor Linda Vacon sets forum for residents to air views on proposed Big Y, traffic, other issues

January 8, 2013:
Holyoke School Committee shuns Cesar Lopez' attempt to change how school assemblies are held as Gay Straight Alliance event set

January 4, 2013:
Holyoke municipal workers would get criminal background checks under proposal from Councilor Linda Vacon

December 30, 2012:
Property tax abatement workship to be held at Holyoke Community College

December 12, 2012:
Holyoke councilors still deciding about discipline of assessors over Macy's tax dispute, one assessor's certification

December 5, 2012:
Holyoke's new tax rate is $18.35 for residential property, $39.97 for business property

December 5, 2012:
Holyoke councilors will consider whether to discipline assessors over tax dispute with Macy's that cost $956,420

November 29, 2012:
Holyoke needle exchange ruling has councilors saying their authority supported, mayor glad injunction denied

November 29, 2012:
Hampden Superior Court Justice Richard Carey denies preliminary injunction against Holyoke's needle exchange program

November 20, 2012:
Holyoke City Council to discuss budget transfers, possible cuts with setting of new tax rate soon to follow

November 17, 2012:
Holyoke councilors seek to define legal work of solicitor as President Kevin Jourdain, Mayor Alex Morse clash

November 7, 2012:
Holyoke officials debate using $500,000 from free cash to avoid $40 business tax rate

October 18, 2012:
Holyoke City Council committee to discuss banning elected officials from holding other elected offices

October 17, 2012:
Holyoke's needle exchange lives for at least another week as court hearing seeking halt postponed

October 15, 2012:
Holyoke City Council files lawsuit against Mayor Alex Morse over approval of needle exchange

October 27, 2012:
Holyokers consider state representative candidates Jerome Hobert, Linda Vacon and Aaron Vega

October 24, 2012:
5th Hampden District candidates Aaron Vega, Linda Vacon, Jerome Hobert debate ways to attract business to Holyoke, improve education

October 13, 2012:
Holyoke City Council will hold public hearing on sewer issues amid chance of rate increase

October 10, 2012:
Holyoke councilors debate solutions to rising costs including higher sewer fee, imposing stormwater tax

October 1, 2012:
Holyoke Finance Committee supports spending $323,532 for 8 new police cars, including 7 cruisers

September 30, 2012:
Viewpoint: Charter schools essential to Western Massachusetts' future

September 27, 2012:
Holyoke hearing on state review of proposal for traffic improvements draws 50 people

September 14, 2012:
Holyoke councilors, mayor debate raise for Treasurer Jon Lumbra

September 9, 2012:
Holyoke pays Macy's $960,000 after assessors overvalued store, resulting in 3 years overtaxation

September 6, 2012:
Holyoke state rep race will include Councilor Linda Vacon as Republican nominee as she secures write-in win

September 5, 2012:
Holyoke City Council OKs up to $1,000 in tax help for veterans (Valor Act, sponsored by Linda Vacon) & establishes process to auction properties

September 4, 2012:
Holyoke Big Y project still set for construction to begin in spring and take 7 months

August 15, 2012:
CBS3 Video: Board of Health votes to permit Holyoke needle exchange program

August 13, 2012:
Holyoke Board of Health to reconsider needle exchange with potential legal clash looming

August 8, 2012:
Holyoke needle exchange program an attempt to bypass proper authority, city councilors say

Read Injunction Here

August 7, 2012:
State auditors begin reviewing whether Holyoke Geriatric Authority uses proper controls over revenue and spending

August 6, 2012:
Holyoke City Council back in business with triple-digit agenda including needle exchange, veterans issues

August 3, 2012:
Holyoke Board of Health must hold another needle exchange meeting because 1st was improper, solicitor says

August 3, 2012:
Holyoke Council President Kevin Jourdain alleges Open Meeting Law violation on needle exchange vote

July 31, 2012:
Holyoke's top officials disagree whether City Council approval required for needle exchange program

July 31, 2012:
Holyoke Geriatric Authority OKs payment plan as Mayor Alex Morse says plan 'unsatisfactory' and facility faces hard decisions

July 18, 2012:
New needle exchange program in Holyoke invalid, City Council President Kevin Jourdain says

June 27, 2012:
Holyoke Council approves $43,000 salary for new position of creative economy coordinator

June 20, 2012:
Holyoke City Councilor Linda Vacon to run write-in bid as Republican for state representative

June 20, 2012:
Holyoke City Council hands victory to Mayor Alex Morse by voting 11-4 for arts director

June 20, 2012:
Holyoke City Council preserves police, fire budgets in approving Mayor Alex Morse's $124 million spending plan

June 14, 2012:
Holyoke Geriatric Authority pays $89,000 in move called good first step but much more debt remains

June 5, 2012:
Holyoke City Council seeks help for veterans by proposing partnership between Geriatric Authority, Soldiers' Home

May 31, 2012:
Holyoke councilors fault proposed $250,000 Lynch School lease as bad deal

May 30, 2012:
Holyoke's next budget of $124.4 million could force nearly 70 school layoffs; police Quinn Bill pay could be on line

May 26, 2012:
Holyoke Geriatric Authority to pay city $89,000, enter plan to repay $465,000 in worker-retirement costs

May 22, 2012:
Holyoke proposal for coordinator of arts, culture wins councilors' support but also raises questions

May 15, 2012:
Holyoke City Council has 45 days to consider, possibly cut Mayor Alex Morse's proposed $124.4 million budget

May 15, 2012:
Holyoke Mayor Alex Morse to present budget of $124.4 million, up from current $120 million

May 5, 2012:
Holyoke Geriatric Authority board, City Councilors agree to seek state audit of agency

April 25, 2012:
Former Holyoke councilor Patricia Devine voted new chairwoman of Geriatric Authority board after resignations of Steve Kravetz, John Counter

April 24, 2012:
Holyoke Geriatric Authority board could experience more than 1 change at next meeting

April 16, 2012:
Holyoke Geriatric board candidates pitch medical background, skills to help the nursing home

April 11, 2012:
Holyoke City Council to interview 5 candidates for Geriatric Authority board opening

April 5, 2012:
Girl Scouts break ground on service center

April 3, 2012:
Holyoke City Council delays early vote on proposal to increase mayor's term from 2 to 4 years

March 31, 2012:
Holyoke Geriatric Authority meeting abruptly canceled; city solicitor says Helen Arnold ineligible to participate in meetings

March 27, 2012:
Holyoke City Council punts on $344,000 transfer for schools, will try again next month

March 22, 2012:
Holyoke Planning Board approves $16 million retail project including a Big Y supermarket

March 20, 2012:
Holyoke Big Y site plan approved

March 18, 2012:
Holyoke officials disagree whether city should pay full Quinn Bill costs for police after court rules it unnecessary

March 12, 2012:
Holyoke Mayor Alex Morse close to appointing task force to address Geriatric Authority woes

March 7, 2012:
Holyoke Geriatric Authority lawyer to confer with state Ethics Commission on eligibility of former councilor Patricia Devine for board position

March 1, 2012:
Holyoke Geriatric Authority employees and care praised, its board and financial troubles criticized

March 1, 2012:
Holyoke Planning Board meeting on $16 million Big Y project postponed

March 1, 2012:
Holyoke senior citizens work for tax credit program expands

February 21, 2012:
Holyoke City Council approves Elizabeth Rodriguez-Ross as city solicitor; sends second mayoral request back to committee

February 20, 2012:
Holyoke Planning Board closes public hearing after 10 hours on $16 million project that will include Big Y

February 14, 2012:
Holyoke Geriatric Authority board finally meets, argues, holds closed-door meeting for more than an hour

February 12, 2012:
Holyoke councilors pepper acting personnel director Adam Pudelko and acting solicitor Elizabeth Rodriguez-Ross with questions

February 7, 2012:
Holyoke Mayor Alex Morse to appoint task force to deal with Geriatric Authority issues

February 7, 2012:
Massachusetts election office clears Holyoke Geriatric Authority officials in Elaine Pluta complaint

February 4, 2012:
Holyoke Geriatric Authority board, turns out, won't have Donald Welch as a member

February 2, 2012:
Holyoke wonders: When will the Geriatric Authority board next meet?

January 28, 2012:
Holyoke public hearing on $16 million Big Y mini-plaza will resume for a third night

January 24, 2012:
Traffic big concern at Holyoke hearing on proposed $16 million Big Y mini-plaza

January 21, 2012:
Holyoke awaits first meeting of Geriatric Authority board with new member Donald Welch

January 18, 2012:
Holyoke considers $16 million Big Y project: jobs and tax revenue vs. traffic and possible fast-food drive-up window

December 24, 2011:
Holyoke City Council fail to override mayor's veto on tax rate

December 21, 2011:
Holyoke Mayor Elaine Pluta vetoes City Council tax rate as unfair to homeowners; veto prompts tax-bill scheduling problems

December 21, 2011:
Holyoke solar power project, among largest in New England, starts up

December 20, 2011:
Holyoke homeowners' tax bills going up 11 percent on average; commercial rate lowered

December 12, 2011:
Holyoke officials urged to cut business taxes and pursue revenue from tax-exempt groups

December 7, 2011:
Holyoke City Council reluctantly OKs transfer to pay Geriatric Authority bills

December 6, 2011:
Holyoke city councilors' frustration growing over $465,000 in unpaid Geriatric Authority bills

November 22, 2011:
Holyoke city councilors want to consult attorney general, district attorney about Geriatric Authority

November 9, 2011:
Holyoke City Council to get six new members, but much turnover due to incumbents not seeking reelection

November 5, 2011:
Curbside debris collection starts Monday in Holyoke

November 5, 2011:
Holyoke voters face Election Day ballot question on whether to establish new city charter

November 5, 2011:
Holyoke voters have School Committee races, but most incumbents unopposed

October 12, 2011:
Greater Holyoke Chamber of Commerce endorses ballot question to establish new city charter

October 7, 2011:
Holyokers to get mailings about city charter ballot question, despite officials' squabbles

October 6, 2011:
Holyoke taxpayers face paying an additional $465,000 in costs because Geriatric Authority unable to make payments

October 5, 2011:
Holyoke City Council seeks property tax and other economic-impact details of proposed $500 million casino

September 6, 2011:
Holyoke City Council deals with casino-related items, including plans for a public hearing about Wyckoff Country Club

August 15, 2011:
Holyoke Treasurer Jon Lumbra commended by inspector general for improving management

August 9, 2011:
Holyoke Retirement Board could opt to put delinquent Geriatric Authority costs on taxpayers

July 26, 2011:
Holyoke filing deadline yields preliminary elections for mayor and Ward 7 Council

July 14, 2011:
Holyoke Mayor Elaine Pluta wants to sell Geriatriac Authority

July 14, 2011:
Holyoke adopts residency rule for Fire Department employees

June 21, 2011:
Holyoke School Committee approves spending plan of $88.2 million

June 16, 2011:
Holyoke redistricting plan would move 1,200 to different wards

June 7, 2011:
Holyoke City Council grants zone change for proposed $16 million Big Y project

May 28, 2011:
Holyoke sets public hearing on redistricting proposals

May 27, 2011:
Holyoke Ward 5 City Councilor Linda Vacon announces reelection campaign

May 26, 2011:
Holyoke gives a largely welcoming response to a plan for a Big Y store

May 21, 2011:
Holyoke City Council approves increase in senior citizens' tax break

May 19, 2011:
Holyoke Geriatric Authority at center of another dispute

May 17, 2011:
Debt in dispute

May 11, 2011:
Councilors to examine Pluta's city budget

May 8, 2011:
Holyoke Geriatric Authority battle has residents stuck in the middle

May 6, 2011:
Holyoke could be getting a Big Y supermarket near the Holyoke Mall at Ingleside

April 23, 2011:
Holyoke computing center partner Cisco Systems declares commitment regardless of problems

April 23, 2011:
Holyoke planners to begin reviewing 90,000-square-foot plan for the high performance computing center

April 20, 2011:
Charter commission fumes at being unable to do its desired ward plan

April 14, 2011:
Benefits touted of solar plan

March 30, 2011:
Holyoke commission urges passage of new charter to modernize government

March 15, 2011:
'Tax Squad' to find ways to lower taxes

March 15, 2011:
David Guzman named new Holyoke tax collector

March 14, 2011:
Holyoke city councilors left without answers regarding Geriatric Authority finances

March 13, 2011:
Holyoke Councilor Donald Welch moves to force Geriatric Authority to pay $2.84 million owed to city

March 15, 2011:
David Guzman named new Holyoke tax collector

March 14, 2011:
Holyoke city councilors left without answers regarding Geriatric Authority finances

March 13, 2011:
Holyoke Councilor Donald Welch moves to force Geriatric Authority to pay $2.84 million owed to city

March 12, 2011:
Holyoke could be seeing the first change in decades in the tax collector's office

March 8, 2011:
Holyoke city councilors zero in on a tax collector after interviewing 11 candidates

March 8, 2011:
Holyoke Mayor Elaine Pluta names task force to find ways to reduce property taxes

March 7, 2011:
A roast honoring retiring Holyoke Police Chief Anthony Scott will be held at the MassMutual Center

March 3, 2011:
City charter plans made for Holyoke

March 2, 2011:
Collector faces residency rule

March 2, 2011:
Geriatric Authority's outstanding bills trying the patience of Mayor Elaine Pluta and other officials

February 18, 2011:
April 1 deadline for outstanding tax liens no joke

February 12, 2011:
Duties that are the responsibility of the Holyoke treasurer are mistakenly listed under tax collector in ad error

February 2, 2011:
Holyoke Collector Robert Kane said city councilors have no reason to question his ability to do the job with integrity

February 1, 2011:
Holyoke City Council to advertise for tax collector; Robert Kane keeps position until new hire finalized

January 31, 2011:
Rules squabbles send Holyoke city councilors into circles on whether to reappoint Tax Collector

January 20, 2011:
Holyoke government could change in numerous ways under charter study proposals

January 13, 2011:
Hearing on plans to change Holyoke government draws 50 people

January 8, 2011:
Holyoke charter commission considers reducing size of City Council, increasing length of mayor's term

January 1, 2011:
Holyoke to teach property owners how to file for tax abatements

December 12, 2010:
Holyoke DPW gets national "Distinguished Infrastructure Award"

December 10, 2010:
City of Holyoke, tax collector Robert Kane and former Mayor Michael Sullivan sued by fired employee Jacquelynne Williams

December 9, 2010:
Holyoke raises property taxes as councilors Joe McGiverin and Kevin Jourdain spar and then apologize to each other

December 8, 2010:
Holyoke saves on bond costs

December 8, 2010:
Holyoke home and business owners all will get higher bills under the new tax rate

December 5, 2010:
Holyoke to set city's tax rates

November 12, 2010:
Sewer fee increase 'unacceptable'

November 10, 2010:
Holyoke sewer rate would jump 18.5 percent under plan that gets ridiculed

November 9, 2010:
Holyoke Charter Commission eyes plan to reduce size of city council from 15 to 11 members

October 29, 2010:
Holyoke Councilor Kevin Jourdain says a discussion about the sewer rate doesn't necessarily mean the rate will increase

October 15, 2010:
Filtration looms for water system Holyoke water facing filtration

October 8, 2010:
Holyoke councilors say no to responsible employer ordinance

August 17, 2010:
Holyoke officials seek ruling on whether text messaging during meetings violates Massachusetts' Open Meeting Law

August 10, 2010:
Holyoke officials, merchants discuss anticipated benefits of state's planned high performance computing center

August 9, 2010:
Mastex selected for computing center (Ch. 22)

August 4, 2010:
Holyoke City Council approves agreement for $14.5 million library project

August 4, 2010:
Council to weigh limits on texting

July 30, 2010:
Holyoke's $10.1 million 'rainy day fund' good news for taxpayers, Mayor Elaine Pluta says

July 29, 2010:
No decision yet on research site

July 21, 2010:
Holyoke City Council delays agreement to take library ownership

July 20, 2010:
Council faces packed agenda

July 18, 2010:
Massachusetts casinos contenders list now includes Wyckoff Country Club in Holyoke

July 10, 2010:
Charter study committee approved by state

July 8, 2010:
Council targets nursing home The bottom line is the taxpayers of Holyoke are subsidizing the Geriatric Authority

July 7, 2010:
Council president defends schedule

June 26, 2010:
Holyoke high performance computing center location decision might be delayed

June 23, 2010:
Holyoke slates library takeover

June 23, 2010:
Holyoke City Council approves Mayor Elaine Pluta's $117 million budget

June 22, 2010:
Holyoke OKs school budget

June 22, 2010:
Auditor wants accountability

June 20, 2010:
Holyoke chicken plan on back burner

June 15, 2010:
Schools struggle with cuts

June 15, 2010:
Holyoke City Council to vote on $117 million budget that's $1.7 million less than current budget

June 8, 2010:
Holyoke chicken issue lives on: City Council Ordinance Committee rejects proposal, but proponents vow new one

June 8, 2010:
HCC road plan moves ahead

June 7, 2010:
Controversial Holyoke chicken plan set for City Council debate

June 4, 2010 - Holyoke Sun:
City honors veterans with ceremony

June 2, 2010:
Problem-free budget hearing occurs between Holyoke Police Chief Anthony Scott and the City Council

June 2, 2010:
Council reviews police budget

June 1, 2010:
Holyoke feral cats ordinance proposal tabled at City Council meeting

June 1, 2010:
Computing center site in Holyoke will be decided in July, Boston University

June 1, 2010:
Holyoke feral cats plan up for vote by full City Council

May 26, 2010:
Holyoke celebrates Nightingale, nurses
See Springfield Republican photo

May 24, 2010:
Holyoke councilors begin hearings on Mayor Elaine Pluta's $117 million budget

May 24, 2010:
Holyoke councilors ready to regulate the feeding of feral cats

May 21, 2010
Holyoke Sun:
City councilors help with Scott Tower cleanup,
Library expansion plans


May 19, 2010:
Holyoke Geriatric Authority faces tough financial questions from City Council

May 18, 2010:
Holyoke debates morality, quality life issues in dealing with feral cats

May 12, 2010:
Holyoke Charter Commission hopes special legislation will allow it to hire consultant in study of city government

May 11, 2010:
Holyoke Police Chief Anthony Scott announces plan to retire

May 8, 2010:
Holyoke City Council completed marathon debate before approving borrowing for library renovation

Apr. 29, 2010:
Holyoke Mayor Elaine Pluta preparing $140 million budget

Apr. 27, 2010:
Deadlines loom for school plans

Apr. 27, 2010:
Chicken debate on back burner

Apr. 25, 2010:
Holyoke awaits audit decision

Apr. 25, 2010:
Council to vote on fate of library

Apr. 21, 2010:
Holyoke votes mean chickens and cats will remain debate topics

Apr. 20, 2010:
Controversy continues over proposed ordinance to allow keeping of backyard chickens in Holyoke

Apr. 19, 2010:
Deadline nears for vote on Holyoke charter review commission

Apr. 18, 2010:
Computer center tax payments unclear

Apr. 11, 2010:
Open Square and the former Mastex Industries Inc. facility named as 'finalist' sites for Holyoke's high performance computing center

Apr. 8, 2010:
Holyoke charter commission votes to seek legislation to give itself authority

Apr. 5, 2010:
Holyoke School Committee adopts additional sex ed program

Mar. 29, 2010:
High performance computing center to be located either at Open Square or former Mastex Corp.

Mar. 24, 2010:
Former worker must repay funds

Mar. 21, 2010:
Holyoke mayor encourages efforts of charter study panel

Mar. 20, 2010:
Holyoke defends its use of $3.87 million in community development money

Mar. 20, 2010:
Holyoke Chamber of Commerce to learn details of high-speed computing center on March 29

Mar. 18, 2010:
Holyoke community development officials say they abided by federal rules despite an audit's findings

Mar. 17, 2010:
Holyoke Councilor John J. O'Neill proposes a new City Council committee be established to handle charter review issues

Mar. 17, 2010:
Audit critical of use of Holyoke's use of $3.87 million in federal money to be reviewed by redevelopment committee

Mar. 16, 2010:
Charter panel awaits its fate

Mar. 11, 2010:
Holyoke charter board asks for legal advice

Mar. 10, 2010:
Much promise, but little news

Mar. 5, 2010:
Charter panel fears for its fate

Mar. 4, 2010:
Charter study commission considers options

Mar. 3, 2010:
Recycling bill splits council

Mar. 1, 2010:
Holyoke debt triggers caution

Feb. 28, 2010:
Holyoke administrator job studied

Feb. 25, 2010:
Holyoke targets deadbeat taxpayers

Feb. 18, 2010:
Site selected for high-performance computing center in Holyoke

Feb. 18, 2010:
Holyoke OKs funds for IRS

Feb. 17, 2010:
Holyoke OK's choice for solicitor

Feb. 14, 2010:
Holyoke council to vote on solicitor

Feb. 11, 2010:
Holyoke fined $48,000 by IRS for failing to file 2006 payroll records

Feb. 9, 2010:
Holyoke officials, Cisco Sytems plan teleconference on collaboration

Feb. 9, 2010:
Holyoke OKs education effort

Feb. 9, 2010:
Holyoke awaits news on center

Feb. 7, 2010:
Charter panel given pep talk

Feb. 4, 2010:
Holyoke library plan reviewed

Feb. 3, 2010:
Tax abatement requests received

Jan. 31, 2010:
Holyoke library plan seeks support

Jan. 26, 2010:
Council chief assigns duties

Jan. 25, 2010:
Parade committee to honor winners

Jan. 22, 2010:
Holyoke City Council considers use of city-sanctioned e-mail system

Jan. 15, 2010:
Treasurer correcting records

Jan. 13, 2010:
Council caught in maze of rules

Jan. 12, 2010:
Computer center force to meet

Jan. 1, 2010:
Mayor-elect makes picks

Dec. 16, 2009:
Holyoke raises rates for taxes
** How They Voted **

Dec. 8, 2009:
Assessors Set Valuations, Tax Burden

Dec. 5, 2009:
Lowes Project on Whiting Farms Road is Dropped

Jun. 11, 2009:
Holyoke to be site of high performance computer center

 
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