South Hadley, Massachusetts Development News
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Selectboard: 07/14/2026
Published: Jul 14, 2026
Town Explores Committee Restructuring and Inter-Board Collaboration
The Select Board engaged in extensive discussions regarding committee structures, specifically comparing the existing Appropriations Committee with a potential Finance Committee. The town administrator and committee members presented research on various finance committee models, highlighting differences in scope, year-round involvement, budget control, and public engagement. Considerations included the potential benefits of a more robust finance committee in terms of public trust, accountability, and financial oversight, as well as the time commitment required. The need for a Finance Director was also discussed in conjunction with potential staffing reductions and retirements. The board also addressed MPIC (Massachusetts Planning Advisory Council) questions to improve cross-board communication and collaboration, agreeing to a Monday evening meeting preference. Additionally, the board discussed the DLS (Department of Local Services) review of town finances and staff operations, with one member volunteering to serve as a liaison.
Select Board Considers Lifting Marijuana Establishment Ban
The Select Board discussed the potential elimination of the town's ban on marijuana establishments. The process would involve amending the town's general and zoning bylaws, a typical procedure for zoning changes. While the ban was initially enacted by voter approval, the town counsel clarified that lifting it would be a zoning bylaw change, not requiring a direct vote of the people. The proposal would go through various town boards and committees, including public hearings, and involve input from public safety and health departments. Board members acknowledged that the town might be joining this initiative later than other municipalities.
John Broderick Reappointed Director of Public Works
The Select Board voted to reappoint John Broderick as Director of Public Works for a three-year term, ending May 28th, 2029. The board expressed strong support for his reappointment, with one member humorously suggesting a 30-year term if possible. The motion passed unanimously.
Dog Park Agreement Renewed Through 2028
The Select Board voted to renew the memorandum of agreement with the Friends of the South Hadley Dog Park for a three-year term. The renewal will extend the agreement until September 30th, 2028. The board acknowledged the success and positive usage of the dog park since its opening and noted recent improvements including lighting and a shed. The town administrator was authorized to sign the agreement on behalf of the board.
Town Discusses Year-End Transfers and $3.5 Million Override Ballot Question
The Select Board and Appropriations Committee held a joint meeting to discuss year-end transfers and the override ballot question. For year-end transfers, $40,520 was transferred within the police department's budget for a new contract uniform allowance and investigative software. Additionally, $107,020 was transferred from group health insurance to cover overages in the Select Board, IT, old firehouse, and unemployment claims accounts. The committees also discussed the override ballot question, with various projections and variables presented regarding potential impacts on the town's budget. Multiple votes were taken regarding the special town election for the override question, including setting the date, opening the warrant, and approving the question wording. The Select Board ultimately voted to seek voter approval for a $3.5 million override on September 1st, 2026. Discussions also touched upon potential cost savings and reorganizations within town departments.
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The South Hadley News archive
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Human Rights Commission: 07/22/2026
SHPL 2026: South Hadley's Role in the Revolutionary War with Leo Lebonte
Cultural Council: 07/21/2026
Board of Assessors: 07/20/2026
Redevelopment Authority: 07/16/2026
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