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Northampton City Council | Jun 18, 2026
Published: Jun 18, 2026
Council Reviews Ordinances on Elm Street Parking and Bus Stop Locations
The council considered three ordinances related to parking and bus stop locations on Elm Street and other areas. Ordinance 26.083 concerns general parking on Elm Street, 26.084 addresses no parking at certain times on Elm Street, and 26.085 deals with bus stop locations. Keith Vanoy from Transportation and Parking presented the ordinances, explaining that they involve physically changing parking to accommodate new bus stops, verifying existing bus stops, and cleaning up language for enforceability. The new bus stop on Elm Street will include a bus shelter. Concerns were raised about the safety of a new bus stop near Bridge Road and the Prospect Place intersection, and the lack of immediate safety upgrades for that location was noted.
Forbes Library Receives CPA Funds for Coolidge Museum Lighting Upgrade
The council approved CPA funds for the Forbes Library's Coolidge Museum lighting project. The project aims to preserve artifacts by improving lighting and storage conditions, making the museum more accessible to the public and enhancing its use as an event space. The decision was made after a lengthy discussion where Councilor Stratton questioned the civic priority of the expenditure compared to other city needs and suggested private philanthropy. Other councilors, including Councilor Perry, supported the project, highlighting its educational value, potential for tourism, and its role in showcasing local history. The council voted 7-1 to approve the $202,000 appropriation, with Councilor Stratton voting against.
City Council Considers CPA Funds for Nashawannuck Brook Restoration Project
The council is considering appropriating $330,111 in Community Preservation Act (CPA) funds for the Nashawannuck Brook Restoration Project. This project aims to restore a former golf course into a natural wetland area, improving stream habitat, reconnecting the stream with its floodplain, increasing flood storage, sequestering carbon, and providing passive recreation. The CPA funding is intended to serve as a required 10% match for a larger state Municipal Vulnerability Program (MVP) grant. The project involves dam removal, channel restoration, wetland enhancement, planting trees, increasing pollinator habitat, and creating an accessible trail network. Concerns were raised by Councilor Stratton regarding the project's scale, cost, and potential conflict of interest with the CPA commission chair, while other councilors emphasized the environmental benefits and the leveraging of state funds.
City Council Approves Transfer of Funds for Snow and Ice Removal Deficit
The Northampton City Council discussed and approved the transfer of funds to cover a deficit in the snow and ice removal account. The transfer of $698,000 from free cash was approved after a suspension of the rules to waive two readings. This was described as a standard annual occurrence due to significant snow and ice events, with the current winter being particularly costly. Council members debated whether the funds should come from free cash or the general stabilization fund, with the mayor's office explaining that free cash is typically used when available. Concerns were raised about the lack of foresight in budgeting for such recurring expenses and potential future state reimbursements.
Funding Approved for Design of Accessible Rail Trail Entrance
The council approved $202,000 in CPA funds for the design of an accessible rail trail entrance on Northern Avenue. This project aims to create a bridge over a steep ditch, connecting the street to the rail trail. Concerns were raised by Councilor Stratton about the cost of the design study versus the actual construction of a bridge and the potential benefit of the connection. Sarah LaValley from the Office of Planning and Sustainability explained that the design must meet DCR and ADA standards, and if a MassTrails grant is received, the CPA funding required would be reduced to $45,000. Councilor Loiselle supported the project, highlighting its importance for ADA accessibility for residents in her ward. The order passed 7-1, with Councilor Stratton voting against.
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The Northampton News archive
Northampton Finance Committee | Jun 24, 2026
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Northampton License Commission | June 17, 2026
Northampton School Committee | Jun 17, 2026
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Community Resources Committee | June 15, 2026
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