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