Local News Archive (note: some of the older links below might not work) Back to Main Page 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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