News

Aggressive schedule to fully fund Retirement is driving high taxes

Posted on April 7, 2025

“Why are my taxes so high?” Fair question! There are about three budget busters driving your high taxes but there is one in particular I want to highlight. When it comes to your property tax there’s a little-known but very substantial contributing factor: the public employee pension appropriation. Unlike public safety, schools, or roads, the...

Holyoke’s Municipal Finance Modernization Act presented to City Council

Posted on April 7, 2025

At an April City Council meeting an order was taken up and forwarded to appropriate committees (Charter and Rules Committee and Ordinance Committee) along with a 20 page document introducing a suite of changes to the city ordinances and city charter. These changes specifically aim to modernize and achieve efficiencies in how financial resources are managed. The...

Adopt-an-Island Program – City of Holyoke

Posted on March 31, 2025

The Adopt-an-Island program in the City of Holyoke is a program the Mayor's office has been organizing for decades and has been a source of pride in our community. The program welcomes residents and local businesses to voluntarily take over empty lots or "islands" in high traffic areas of the city and beautify them by...

Central Pioneer Valley Health District Meeting Meeting Postings

Posted on March 28, 2025

Central Pioneer Valley Health District Meeting Posting

Friendly reminder to community of responsibility to keep city clean

Posted on March 28, 2025

With warmer days ahead, I want to remind the community (residents and businesses alike) of our shared responsibility to keep our city clean. This is extremely important, not only because it’s required by our city laws but because it’s the right thing to do for each other and for our environment. This means making sure...

Standard & Poor (S&P) affirms Holyoke’s A+ rating

Posted on March 25, 2025

HOLYOKE — In an announcement welcomed by City officials, the Standard & Poor (S&P) rating agency has affirmed Holyoke’s A+ bond rating and given Holyoke high marks for its financial management policies. Click to review report. S&P also assigned the City its “SP-1+” short-term rating for $32.2 million in bond anticipation notes (BANs). SP-1+ is...

Holyoke to Observe Vietnam War Veterans Day

Posted on March 24, 2025

HOLYOKE — The City’s Veterans Service Department will hold a flag-raising ceremony at City Hall on Friday, March 28, at 10 a.m., in observance of the Vietnam War 50th Year Commemoration. In 2012, President Obama signed a presidential proclamation, designating March 29 as the annual observance of Vietnam War Veterans Day. The signing of the...

Mayor Garcia to roll out Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILOT) policy for Tax Exempt property owners, beginning July 1

Posted on March 20, 2025

A policy designed to gain revenue from tax-exempt property owners was presented to a City Council subcommittee Tuesday. Known as a PILOT — Payment in Lieu of Taxes — the purpose of the policy is to bring in a portion of the money a tax-exempt property (for example, properties owned by non-profit organizations and quasi-public institutions) would...

Road Closure Information for Parade Weekend 2025

Posted on March 17, 2025

With the annual Holyoke St. Patrick's Day Road Race and Parade taking place this weekend, certain roads will be closed along race and parade routes. Drivers traveling around Holyoke should take note of the following information: Road Race Friday, March 21st Beginning at 3pm, Maple Street will be closed from Hampden Street to Lyman...

Hazard Mitigation and Climate Adaptation Plan for City of Holyoke Draft Available for Public Comments

Posted on March 10, 2025

March 10, 2025 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: The City of Holyoke has experienced multiple natural hazard events over the last few years, from heavy rain and flooding to extreme heat events, and from windstorms to winter storms that may lead to power outages. These events serve as continuous reminders of the risks posed by natural...

Holyoke is Updating Our Open Space and Recreation Plan!

Posted on March 5, 2025

Holyoke is currently in the process of updating our Open Space and Recreation Plan. Make your voice heard and take this survey! English- https://forms.gle/UFUJ9H88ikKteXhx8 Holyoke esta actualizando nuestro plan de espacios abiertos y recreación. ¡Haga valer tu voz y toma la encuesta! Español- https://forms.gle/nCwcntbGzWxcarhQA ...

Main Street Public Information Meeting

Posted on February 26, 2025

Main St Improvement Project The City of Holyoke will be conducting a Public Information Meeting to discuss proposed improvements on Main Street, between Canal Street and Mosher Street, on Wednesday, March 12, 2025 from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM at the Nueva Esperanza Mercado, 409 Main St, Holyoke, MA 01040. Light refreshments will be...

Girl Day 2025 at Holyoke City Hall

Posted on February 11, 2025

HOLYOKE — Girls Inc. of the Valley will host Girl Day 2025 at City Hall on February 20 as part of Engineer Week. The focus of the day is to inspire and empower girls to explore STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields through hands-on activities, mentorship, and educational experiences. Girl Day aligns with DiscoverE’s...

2025 St. Patrick Parade and Road Race Application

Posted on February 11, 2025

2025 Parade & Road race Memo & Application

Parking Ban Lifted

Posted on February 10, 2025

Hello residents of Holyoke. The Department of Public Works is pleased to inform you that the parking ban will be lifted Monday February 10, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. You will be free to park on the streets without any restrictions by then. Thank you for your cooperation. ___________________________________________________________________________________ Hola residentes de Holyoke. El Departamento de...

Prohibicion de Estacionamiento Invernal Sabado 8 de Febrero de 2025

Posted on February 7, 2025

PROHIBICION DE ESTACIONAMIENTO INVERNAL La Ciudad de Holyoke, Departamento de Obras Públicas, ha emitido una prohibición regular de estacionamiento en invierno, que estará en vigor desde: SABADO 8 DE FEBRERO A LAS 6:00 P.M. HASTA NUEVO AVISO NO HABRÁ ESTACIONAMIENTO EN EL LADO IMPAR DE LA CALLE A MENOS QUE SE INDIQUE LO CONTRARIO Y...

Winter Parking Ban Saturday February 8, 2025

Posted on February 7, 2025

URGENT TRANSMITTAL Winter Parking Ban The City of Holyoke, Department of Public Works, has issued a regular Winter Parking Ban to be in effect from: SATURDAY FEBRUARY 8 AT 6:00 P.M. UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE THERE WILL BE NO PARKING ON THE ODD SIDE OF THE STREET UNLESS OTHERWISE POSTED AND NO PARKING ON CUL-DE-SACS

Bulk Waste Facilities Closed on Thursday, February 6, 2025

Posted on February 5, 2025

Due to the inclement weather our Bulk Waste Facilities will be closed on Thursday, February 6, 2025. We apologize for the inconvenience. DPW

City of Holyoke to Host First Public Meeting as Part of a Wayfinding Signage Plan for Downtown

Posted on February 3, 2025

HOLYOKE, MA – The City of Holyoke, under the direction of the City’s Office of Planning and Economic Development, has recently begun working with consulting firm Stantec to develop a wayfinding plan for the downtown area. The goal of the plan is to establish an approach for a new wayfinding signage system that could replace...

Holyoke to Observe Black History Month With Flag-Raising at City Hall and Storytelling Program at Library

Posted on February 3, 2025

HOLYOKE — Black History Month, which is observed every February, will be marked in Holyoke with a flag-raising ceremony at City Hall on Wednesday, February 12, at 4:30 p.m. followed by a storytelling program at the Holyoke Public Library at 6 p.m. The public is invited to both events, Speakers at the flag-raising will include...

FY26 Budget Planning Process begins

Posted on January 27, 2025

The new budget preparation season is here! A memo to all departments with instructions for the FY26 budget planning process was distributed today. To review memo click here. While departments work on their first draft budget requests, just like in previous years, the Mayor will be connecting with City Councilors one-on-one to go over their objectives...

Affirming the rights of immigrants: A joint statement from Mayor Garcia and Superintendent Soto

Posted on January 24, 2025

January 24, 2025 Dear Holyoke community members and staff, As your mayor and as your superintendent of schools, we are affirming our commitment to ensure and protect the rights of all Holyoke residents and employees, and especially our newcomer and immigrant families whose safety and well-being are now imperiled by recent announcements at the federal...

City of Holyoke Establishes Emergency Shelter for Unhoused Amid Winter Weather

Posted on January 17, 2025

HOLYOKE — In response to the impending winter snowstorm and low temperatures, the City of Holyoke announces the opening of an emergency shelter dedicated to providing refuge for the unhoused population. The location is 51 Hamilton Street. Access is through Kate's Kitchen door in the back parking lot. The shelter will open at 5 p.m....

Enhance Our Community: Report Issues with SeeClickFix

Posted on January 10, 2025

We have a shared responsibility to keep our city clean and safe, not only because it’s required by our city laws but because it’s the right thing to do for each other and for our environment. There are several ways the community can communicate quality-of-life concerns to the city (potholes, streetlight outages, graffiti, park maintenance,...

FAQ: Special Election on January 28, 2025

Posted on January 9, 2025

FAQ: Special Election on January 28, 2025 On January 28, 2025, Holyoke voters will participate in a special election to decide whether the City Treasurer should continue to be an elected position or become a position appointed by the City Council. This document provides answers to common questions and explains the context and rationale behind...

An Open Letter from the City Council Regarding the January 28th Appointed Treasurer Special Election

Posted on January 9, 2025

An Open Letter to the Public The Members of the Holyoke City Council write to you today to ask for your support in the upcoming Special Election on January 28th. We are asking you, along with the support of the Mayor and the current Treasurer, to change the position of Treasurer from elected to appointed....

Holyoke to Vote January 28 on Changing Treasurer’s Post from Elected to Appointed

Posted on January 3, 2025

HOLYOKE — At a Special Election Tuesday, January 28, City voters will be asked if they want to continue the practice of electing the City Treasurer or approve a City Charter change to make the position appointed, rather than elected. Polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. In-person and absentee voting options...

Oath of Office Ceremony, swearing-in of new Police Chief

Posted on December 23, 2024

HOLYOKE — The public is invited to the Oath of Office ceremony for Brian Keenan, Holyoke’s incoming Police Chief. The ceremony will take place in the ballroom at Holyoke City Hall, 536 Dwight Street, on Tuesday, January 7, at 11 a.m. Father Mark Stelzer will offer an opening prayer. The speakers will be Holyoke Mayor...

Shift factor determined, tax rate set

Posted on December 18, 2024

On Tuesday, December 17, the City Council voted on the shift factor that set the tax rate for residential and commercial properties. For the first time in years, favorable shifts were presented and concluded a significant reduction of tax rates for both residential and commercial properties. However, the average single-family home tax bill will still...

Holyoke to Host Annual Kwanzaa Celebration

Posted on December 16, 2024

HOLYOKE — The City of Holyoke will host an observance of Kwanzaa on Saturday, December 28, at 10 a.m. at City Hall. Kwanzaa, which is observed annually the last week of December, celebrates African heritage and Kwanzaa’s seven principles: Umoja (Unity) To strive for unity in the family, community, nation, and race; Kujichagulia (Self-Determination) To define ourselves,...

MEMO From Mayor: City Council to vote on shift factor for tax rate

Posted on December 16, 2024

It’s that time of the year! The City Council will convene at a Special Meeting scheduled for Monday, December 16 at 7:00 pm to vote on a shift factor that will determine the tax rate for residential and commercial properties. Before deliberating on how to balance the tax burden between these categories, I am introducing to the...

Holyoke City Hall to Host Hanukkah Observance

Posted on December 12, 2024

Holyoke City Hall to Host Hanukkah Observance December 26 at 5:30 p.m. HOLYOKE — A Hanukkah observance organized by Congregation Sons of Zion in collaboration with Congregation Rodphey Sholom will be held at Holyoke City Hall, 536 Dwight Street, on Thursday, December 26, at 5:30 p.m. The public is invited. This ninth annual celebration at City...

Holyoke’s Annual Tree Lighting, Parade of Lights Set for December 7th, 2024

Posted on December 2, 2024

HOLYOKE — The City’s traditional celebration of the holiday season will kick off Saturday, December 7. From 3 until 5 p.m., the Holyoke Merry Go Round at Heritage Park will offer free rides. Children and families will have the opportunity to pose for photos with holiday characters. Also, at the Holyoke Children’s Museum, young people...

Finalist for Holyoke Police Chief To Be Interviewed in Public Session

Posted on November 27, 2024

Holyoke — The finalist for the position of Police Chief will be interviewed by Mayor Joshua A. Garcia in a public session on Thursday, December 5, at 4 p.m. The interview will be conducted in City Council Chambers at Holyoke City Hall, 536 Dwight Street. The interview will conclude a competitive selection process facilitated by...

Holyoke Lands $247,850 in Grants to Fund Development of a Speed-management Plan – looking for citizens to serve on task force

Posted on November 14, 2024

HOLYOKE — The City of Holyoke has been awarded state and federal grants totaling $247,850 to fund the preparation of a comprehensive speed-management plan to bring about safer streets. “This is extremely good news and great timing,” said Holyoke Mayor Joshua A. Garcia. “With these combined funding, we can work up a comprehensive, strategic approach...

Acting Commissioner Johnston announces provisional exit from receivership for HPS

Posted on October 29, 2024

Dear HPS Students, Families, Staff, and Community Members, On behalf of the School Committee and Holyoke Public Schools team, we are energized that Acting Commissioner Johnston announced earlier today his provisional decision to remove Holyoke Public Schools’ chronically underperforming designation at the end of the school year, anticipated for July 1, 2025. This announcement reflects...

Holyoke Police Chief Search Extended and October 30 Final Interview Session Postponed

Posted on October 26, 2024

HOLYOKE - The search for a new Police Chief has been extended by two weeks after one of the two finalists for the position withdrew his candidacy, according to Holyoke Mayor Joshua A. Garcia. The Mayor's scheduled final interview of the finalist/s for the position of Police Chief has been postponed. That interview session had...

Holyoke unveils “Graffiti Eater” to combat Graffiti in the City

Posted on October 17, 2024

Property owners in Holyoke can now tackle graffiti defacement with the support of theCity. The Holyoke Board of Health has introduced a new initiative to assist property owners in removing unwanted graffiti, utilizing the newly acquired" Graffiti Eater." The Graffiti Eater is a state-of-the-art trailer equipped with a power washing machine and eco-friendly materials designed...

Holyoke reminds liquor license holders to file for renewal

Posted on October 17, 2024

The City’s License Board reminds all Holyoke liquor license holders that it is the time for renewing alcohol licenses for the year 2025. Every year the renewal process begins with notices being sent by the Building Department to schedule site inspections. The first round of notices to license holders was sent August 20. A second...

Candidates for Holyoke Police Chief to be interviewed in public – POSTPONED

Posted on October 17, 2024

Update: Interviews have been postponed. Please check back for a new date to be rescheduled soon. The two finalists for the position of Police Chief will be interviewed by Mayor Joshua A. Garcia in a public session on Wednesday, October 30, at 5 p.m. The interviews will be conducted at Holyoke City Hall, 536 Dwight...

City FY25 Paving Program Update

Posted on October 9, 2024

The City has recently contracted with Warners Brothers Construction for the FY25 Paving Program. Work to be completed this Fall is anticipated to start on October 18th as follows: South Street (from Northampton St to High Street) Milling – Oct. 18th and Oct. 21st Adjustment of structures – Oct. 22nd to Oct. 23rd Paving –...

PROJECT UPDATE: High St. and Maple St. Reconstruction Project

Posted on October 4, 2024

Project Update – 10/3/24 High St and Maple St Reconstruction MassDOT Project No. 613320 Since the public engagement meetings in late February/early March 2024, the following work has been done by the consultants together with MassDOT in advancing the project: NOTE: Checkout presentation of preliminary public meetings - https://www.mass.gov/.../massdot-meeting.../download Completed Intersection Control Evaluation (ICE) Stage...

PROJECT UPDATE – Resurfacing and Related Work on Cabot Street and Race Street (Center City Connector)

Posted on October 4, 2024

Project Update – 10/3/24 Resurfacing And Related Work on Cabot Street And Race Street (Center City Connector) MassDOT Project No. 609065 Project Status The project is on the 2025 State Transportation Improvement Program (STIP) which means that construction will be fully funded with federal funding managed by the Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT). Under this...

Flag-Raising in Holyoke Friday will Mark Polish American Heritage Month

Posted on October 2, 2024

HOLYOKE — The Polish American flag will be raised over City Hall on Friday, October 4, at 11:30 a.m. as part of a ceremony celebrating Polish history, culture, and pride. Members of the Polish community will gather outside City Hall for the observance. Holyoke Mayor Joshua A. Garcia will read a proclamation designating October as...

Hazard Mitigation Plan Public Workshop

Posted on September 20, 2024

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: The City of Holyoke has experienced multiple natural hazard events over the last few years, from heavy rain and flooding to extreme heat events, and from wind storms to winter storms that may lead to power outages. These events serve as continuous reminders of the risks posed by natural disasters. The City...

PUBLIC NOTICE: Holyoke Water Works

Posted on September 20, 2024

PUBLIC NOTICE: The Holyoke Water Works is providing notice to its customers of water service interruption that will include loss of water pressure and possible discoloration due to work performed on the public water system for the new Holyoke Soldiers Home located off Cherry Street. The areas impacted from the work have been identified as...

Invitación a formar parte del Comité Asesor de la Comunidad de Holyoke para la Transición al Control Local de las Escuelas Públicas de Holyoke:

Posted on September 18, 2024

En colaboración con el Departamento de Educación Primaria y Secundaria de Massachusetts (DESE), el Comité Escolar de HPS está desarrollando un plan para la transición de la administración estatal de nuevo al control local. El Comité Escolar planea construir sobre los logros del distrito y escuchar a las partes interesadas acerca de sus esperanzas y...

Invitation to join the Community Advisory Committee for Transition to Local Control

Posted on September 17, 2024

In partnership with the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE), the HPS School Committee is developing a plan to transition from state receivership back to local control. The School Committee plans to build on the district’s accomplishments and listen to stakeholders about their hopes and expectations for the future of HPS and what...

Milling operations on Easthampton Rd (Route 141) are still scheduled to begin on Monday, September 23rd.

Posted on September 13, 2024

Milling operations on Easthampton Rd (Route 141) are still scheduled to begin on Monday, September 23rd. As such, the following detours are planned: Monday, Sept. 23rd Westbound traffic (from Easthampton to Holyoke) will be detoured to Clark St to East St and will follow the detour used for closing Mountain Rd during inclement weather from...

La ciudad de Holyoke organizará sesiones de escucha sobre el Plan Integral este otoño

Posted on September 13, 2024

La ciudad de Holyoke está trazando el camino para el próximo capítulo de su historia. Por primera vez desde 1999, está actualizando su Plan Integral, un documento exigido por la Commonwealth bajo MGL Ch 41 Sec. 81D que requiere que las ciudades y pueblos de Massachusetts mantengan un plan para su desarrollo físico a largo...

Holyoke to Host Comprehensive Plan Listening Sessions this Fall

Posted on September 12, 2024

HOLYOKE — The City of Holyoke is charting a path for the next chapter in its history. For the first time since 1999, Holyoke is updating its Comprehensive Plan, a Commonwealth-mandated document under that requires Massachusetts cities and towns to maintain a plan for their long-term physical development. Through comprehensive plans, cities and towns envision aspirational...

Holyoke Moves Forward to Eliminate Wastewater Discharges into Connecticut River

Posted on September 9, 2024

HOLYOKE — The City of Holyoke continues to eliminate combined sewer overflows (CSO) that cause discharges into the Connecticut River. The Holyoke wastewater system now prevents around 70 percent of solid waste from bypassing the treatment plant during heavy rains. According to Mary L. Monahan, chair of the City’s Board of Public Works, Holyoke was...

Holyoke Mayor Garcia Seeks Resolution of $20.7 million Building Code Fines

Posted on September 9, 2024

HOLYOKE — Mayor Joshua A. Garcia has advice for property owners with outstanding fines for building code violation's: Clear up or pay up. “Landlords, property managers, and homeowners of units of three families and higher should know that the City of Holyoke is preparing to turn over to the Tax Collector those property owners who...

Holyoke invites applications for Ward 1 and 4 School Committee interim appointments

Posted on August 29, 2024

HOLYOKE — The City of Holyoke invites interested residents of Ward 1 and Ward 4 to apply for interim appointment to the Ward 1 and Ward 4 School Committee seats. The two elected School Committee representatives for those wards have resigned from the board. Gustavo Romero of Ward 1, noted in his resignation letter to...

School Committee Approves Capacity Building Plan as Next Step Toward Return to Local Control

Posted on August 21, 2024

After five months of discussions, research, and planning, members of the Holyoke School Committee on Monday, August 19, voted unanimously to adopt a Capacity Building Plan as the next step towards ending receivership in the district. The Capacity Building Plan spells out concrete steps and timelines to ensure the district’s elected board is well prepared...

Holyoke’s Local Control Subcommittee To Present School Committee Capacity Building Plan at August 19 Meeting

Posted on August 14, 2024

HOLYOKE — On Monday, August 19, Holyoke’s Local Control Subcommittee will present to the full School Committee and the public its plan that consists of trainings and professional development requirements in order to regain local control of Holyoke’s Public Schools. Implementation of the capacity building plan will begin during the 2024-25 school year. The presentation...

Holyoke to Develop Policy Asking Tax-exempt Property Owners to Make Payments in Lieu of Taxes

Posted on August 7, 2024

HOLYOKE — Mayor Joshua A. Garcia is contracting with a public policy consultant to help Holyoke initiate a formal Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILOT) policy. “Because we are a compassionate City, we are home to an exceptionally large number of tax-exempt nonprofits that offer a range of services to vulnerable populations,” Garcia said. “Along...

Holyoke’s Police Chief Search Committee to hold public listening session on August 27

Posted on August 7, 2024

HOLYOKE - The Search Committee tasked with evaluating candidates for the position of police chief and then forwarding their recommendations to the Mayor will hold a public listening session at Holyoke Media on Tuesday, August 27, from 5 to 7 p.m. Police Chief David Pratt announced his retirement on May 3. After 31 years of...

Holyoke DPW Commission votes to put wastewater treatment services out to bid

Posted on August 7, 2024

HOLYOKE - The City’s Board of Public Works on Monday, July 29, voted 2-1 to ask Mayor Joshua A. Garcia to invite proposals from companies interested in taking charge of Holyoke’s wastewater treatment services. The existing 20-year contract expires September 29, 2025. The City has never switched contractors since its initial contract with Aquarion Water...

West Nile Virus Positive Mosquito

Posted on August 5, 2024

A West Nile Virus positive mosquito sample was detected in the city of Holyoke as part of ongoing mosquito monitoring in the region. Additional monitoring will be conducted in Holyoke. More information can be found here: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/massachusetts-arbovirus-update West Nile Virus is most commonly spread to people through the bite of an infected mosquito. More information about different...

La ciudad solicita la opinión de la comunidad sobre la búsqueda de un Jefe de Policía

Posted on July 29, 2024

La ciudad de Holyoke llevará a cabo una búsqueda para el próximo Jefe de Policía de Holyoke. Nos gustaría escuchar a la comunidad de Holyoke sobre lo que ellos piensan que es importante que el próximo Jefe de Policía se enfoque y las cualidades que el próximo Jefe de Policía debe poseer. Por favor, complete...

City Seeking Community Input on Police Chief Search

Posted on July 29, 2024

The City of Holyoke will be conducting a search for Holyoke's next Chief of Police. We would like to hear from the Holyoke community on what they think is important for the next Chief of Police to focus on and the qualities the next Chief of Police should possess. Please complete this survey by Friday, August...

City Council approves FY25 Budget

Posted on June 25, 2024

On Tuesday, June 11, the City Council convened to review and vote on the Mayor’s proposed FY25 budget (click to review budget). Watch the full City Council meeting here. In this phase of the budget process, the City Council can cut but can not add to the budget. The council made $62,290 worth of cuts which includes:...

City of Holyoke Fireworks Set for June 28th

Posted on May 28, 2024

HOLYOKE, MA- Holyoke’s July 4th Fireworks Celebration will take place on Friday, June 28th with the rain date of Sunday, June 30th on the beautiful grounds of Holyoke Community College, located on Homestead Avenue. “First, I’d like to thank Holyoke Gas & Electric, Holyoke Community College, and the city’s departments for continuing this tradition,” says...

Seeking candidates to fill vacant At-Large School Committee seat

Posted on May 21, 2024

HOLYOKE — Stating “this year has been particularly challenging for my family,” Erin Brunelle, vice chair of the Holyoke School Committee, submitted her resignation on May 15 to the Holyoke School Committee. Her resignation was effective immediately. Mayor Garcia expressed his gratitude and appreciation for Brunelle’s 10 years of service on the School Committee. “I...

Building Department COI Tutorial

Posted on May 21, 2024

HOLYOKE — The City’s Building Department on Thursday, May 23, at 6 p.m. will give a presentation on the steps required to obtain a Certificate of Inspection. The presentation — a short tutorial followed by Q&A — will be held at Holyoke Media on Suffolk Street. Though open to the public, the one-hour session is...

Mayor’s State of the City Address

Posted on May 10, 2024

Mayor Joshua A. Garcia presented the proposed FY25 City Budget to the City Council and delivered a State of the City Address at a Special Meeting of the City Council on May 9, 2024. Click to watch video of the speech on Holyoke Media. “Thank you, Holyoke city councilors, for the opportunity to address you tonight....

Mayor’s Proposed FY25 City Budget

Posted on May 9, 2024

The following is a snapshot overview of the FY25 proposed budget in detail (note: these are subject to change between now and June 30, 2024): Consolidated Workbook of Proposed FY25 Budget FY25 Working Budget Detailed The proposed FY25 budget presented to the City Council is based on what we understand to be our revenue and expense...

Downtown Facilities Parking Improvement

Posted on April 30, 2024

At the City of Holyoke in our downtown we have three parking garage facilities that require attention. These include: 1) Ernest Proulx Municipal Parking Facility located on Dwight Street; 2) Suffolk Street Municipal Parking located off of Suffolk Street, and 3) we have the parking deck directly behind City Hall. Price quotes to address the...

Mayor’s Op-ed: Holyoke, we punch above our weight

Posted on April 26, 2024

I would like to offer both detail and context to the depiction of Holyoke in Boston Globe reporter Katie Johnston’s April 18 news profile (“In Holyoke, a home of her own: One woman’s struggle to build a life in the state’s poorest place”). The Globe report suggests that Holyoke is a low-opportunity city. Not so....

Applications for Senior Tax Work-Off Program Available at Senior Center

Posted on April 10, 2024

Holyoke Mayor’s Statement re. Receivership After Meeting with Education Commissioner

Posted on March 26, 2024

From Mayor Joshua A. Garcia regarding a recent meeting with Acting Education Commissioner to discuss School Receivership: I’m very pleased and encouraged to report that Holyoke is now on a path designed to lead us out of receivership and back to local control. We received this assurance Monday evening in a meeting with the state’s...

Road Closure Information for Parade Weekend 2024

Posted on March 11, 2024

With the annual Holyoke St. Patrick's Day Road Race and Parade taking place this weekend, certain roads will be closed along race and parade routes. Drivers traveling around Holyoke should take note of the following information: Saturday, March 16th Road Race Downtown will be closed at the following locations 7am High Street from Lyman...

Holyoke Downtown Parking Study Public Meeting / Estudio de estacionamiento en el centro de Holyoke Reunión Pública

Posted on February 27, 2024

Holyoke Downtown Parking Study Public Meeting Thursday, March 7, 2024 5:30 PM Holyoke Chamber of Commerce, 177 High Street Zoom.us Meeting ID: 879 2668 3213 Estudio de estacionamiento en el centro de Holyoke Reunión Pública Jueves, 7 de marzo de 2024 5:30 PM Cámara de Comerci de Holyoke, 177 High Street Zoom.us ID de reunión:...

Flag Raising by Hibernians Hampden/Hampshire Counties in Honor of Irish American Heritage Month

Posted on February 9, 2024

HOLYOKE - The Ancient Order of Hibernians James A. Curran Division One and the Ladies Ancient Order of Hibernians Division Two of Hampden/Hampshire Counties will celebrate Irish American Heritage Month of March with an Irish flag raising ceremony at Holyoke City Hall on Friday March 1, 2024, at 10:00 AM. The public is invited to...

MassDOT to hold Presentation and Meeting on High and Maple Streets Corridor Improvements

Posted on February 8, 2024

February 28, 2024 5:30 PM Holyoke Public Library 250 Chestnut Street, Holyoke Virtual: March 6,2024 5:30 PM https://www.mass.gov/orgs/highway-division/events Survey 28 de Febrero de 2024 17:30 h Biblioteca Pública Holyoke 250 Calle Chestnut, Holyoke Virtual: 6 de Marzo de 2024 17:30 h https://www.mass.gov/orgs/highway-division/events Encuesta

Holyoke Announces Plans for New Sports Complex and International Volleyball Hall of Fame

Posted on February 6, 2024

Holyoke, MA - The city of Holyoke is thrilled to announce a groundbreaking initiative to construct a state-of-the-art sports complex, set to become the new home for the prestigious International Volleyball Hall of Fame. Spearheaded by Mayor Joshua A. Garcia and local entrepreneur Cesar Ruiz, leader of the USA International Sport Complex Group, this venture...

Upcoming Anticipated Paving Schedule for 2024

Posted on January 30, 2024

Chapter 90 funds from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts is the source of funding Cities and Towns use to improve and maintain publicly accepted roads. The order of roads to be improved have been identified through our City's pavement management system that rates the conditions of roads, usage, and determines the order of priority for repair....

Garcia Administration taking steps to hold Building Code Violators accountable

Posted on January 30, 2024

Landlords, property managers, and homeowners take note - The City of Holyoke is about to turn up the heat on property owners who have been fined for non-compliance of the state building code and non-payment of the accrued fines. Those fines on both landlords and private individuals reached $4,519,500 as of January 29. Fines are...

FY25 Budget Planning Process Has Begun

Posted on January 30, 2024

The new budget preparation season is here! A memo to all departments with instructions for the FY25 budget planning process were distributed. While departments work on their first draft budget requests, I have been meeting one-on-one with City Councilors to go over their objectives and priorities. Their input helps me identify what some of the shared...

Community Preservation Committee Seeking Public Input

Posted on January 24, 2024

The Holyoke Community Act Preservation Committee is requesting the public's input on new project proposals. The form for the FY24 Holyoke Community Preservation Act Survey includes a viewable Google sheet with a link to all project information, including applications, requests, and presentation slides. In addition, there are videos available showing public presentations provided by the...

Current Status of Liquor License Renewals

Posted on January 22, 2024

The following list reflects the current status of all liquor licenses as of May 10, 2024. ANNUAL LICENSES Inspections completed (passed): 200 Whiting Farms (JPs) 151-155 Chestnut St (Ivory Billiards) 50 Holyoke St (99 Restaurants) 50 Holyoke St (Round One) 488-496 Pleasant St (Mel's) 92 Race St (Gateway City Arts) 1 Country Club (D. Hotel)...

Holyoke’s 150th Commemorative Book Available for Preorder

Posted on January 18, 2024

Holyoke's Sesquicentennial celebrations lasted all 2023 and ended with an amazing 150th Masquerade Gala, the closing of the Holyoke Time Capsule, the return of the Rotary Club's Eat, Drink & Be Holyoke event, as well as the annual Christmas Tree lighting and first night Jr celebrations at Heritage State Park. Relive the events of 2023,...

Public Announcement: Coyote Mating Season Safety Tips

Posted on January 16, 2024

As we enter the coyote mating season, spanning from January to March, it's crucial to be vigilant and take proactive measures to ensure the safety of our beloved pets. Coyotes are more active during this period, and it's important to be aware of potential risks when allowing your pets outdoors. Here are some essential tips...

2024 City of Holyoke Annual Plan and CDBG Applications

Posted on January 11, 2024

The following links are the FY2024 Annual Plan and CDBG Proposal Guidelines, and also contains the Annual Plan calendar, sample application and budget forms, and the CDBG Proposal Guidelines. 2024 Holyoke Annual Plan and CDBG Application CDBG Budget A - Public Services and Non Construction CDBG Budget B - Housing Rehab, Construction, Demolition The Annual...

City of Holyoke Establishes Emergency Shelter For Homeless in Advance of Winter Storm

Posted on January 5, 2024

HOLYOKE — In anticipation of the impending winter snowstorm, the City of Holyoke announces the opening of an emergency shelter to provide refuge for the homeless population. The location is 51 Hamilton Street and can be accessed through the Kate’s Kitchen door in the back parking lot starting at 5 p.m. Saturday, January 6th, and...

Pop-up Warming Shelter Activated for Homeless Amid Winter Storm

Posted on January 5, 2024

In response to the impending winter snowstorm, the City of Holyoke announces the opening of an emergency shelter dedicated to providing refuge for the homeless population. Location: Hamilton Street (Access through Kate's Kitchen door in the back parking lot) Opening Time: 5:00 PM, Saturday Closing Time: 7:00 AM (Must exit by 8:00 AM) This emergency...

CSO Notification 12-28-2023

Posted on December 28, 2023

Dear Health Official: Please be advised that precipitation, as recorded at the Holyoke Water Pollution Control Facility, within the previous 8 hours resulted in combined sewer overflow discharges from the City of Holyoke’s sewage collection system to the Connecticut River. These discharges may have negative water quality impacts downstream including the Connecticut River adjacent to...

Holyoke Schools Superintendent Makes Case to End Receivership

Posted on December 27, 2023

Citing an effective turnaround strategy, Holyoke Receiver/Superintendent Anthony Soto recommended in a December 21 letter to the state Education Commissioner “that the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education begin the transition to exit receivership in a careful and highly planned manner.” In his letter to Commissioner Jeffrey C. Riley, Soto outlines the turnaround plan drawn...

Holyoke City Hall to Host 8th Annual Hanukkah Observance

Posted on November 29, 2023

HOLYOKE — A Hanukkah observance organized by Congregation Sons of Zion will be held at Holyoke City Hall, 536 Dwight Street, on Thursday, December 7, at 5:30 p.m. The public is invited. This eighth annual celebration at City Hall will include the lighting of the Menorah, speakers, songs, and refreshments. There will be dreidels and...

City Council Seeking Candidates for At-Large Appointment to CPC

Posted on November 17, 2023

The Holyoke City Council is seeking candidates interested in serving on the Community Preservation Committee, the committee that oversees grant funding through the Community Preservation Act. Information on the responsibilities of the CPC and instructions on applying can be found through the link below. Submissions should be sent to Personnel by November 30th. Candidates will...

Phase I Anniversary Hill Park Improvements Set to Begin in Holyoke

Posted on November 14, 2023

HOLYOKE— The long-awaited first phase of improvements at Holyoke’s historic Anniversary Hill Park is scheduled to begin on Wednesday, November 15. This stage of work includes the creation of a new accessible trail corridor and burial of overhead utilities. Also, among the first phase of improvements, are creation of a new utility corridor and...

Assessing the Field of Capital for Businesses in the Paper City

Posted on November 6, 2023

HOLYOKE – As the City of Holyoke’s Office of Planning and Economic Development (OPED) continues to find ways to support small businesses and local entrepreneurs, the need for creative capital solutions was imperative. Through the state’s Urban Agenda Grant, OPED staff was able to work with Third Eye Network, who had also been the consultant...

New middle school qualifies for supplemental grant funding

Posted on November 3, 2023

The Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA) recently notified Holyoke officials that they will provide additional reimbursement for the new middle school construction project. The Owner’s Project Manager (Anser Advisory) has estimated the additional funding will be approximately $11.7 million, which would bring the MSBA’s total contribution to an estimated $57.6 million. This would reduce the...

Mayor’s Proposed FY24 Supplemental Budget

Posted on November 3, 2023

The following is a proposed supplemental budget for FY24 on its way to the City Council for approval (note: these figures are subject to change until final vote of the City Council). Proposed FY24 Supplemental Budget Consolidated Budget Workbook The updated figures are based on current revenue and expense projections to-date including revenue figures from...

Mayor’s proposed Ezekiel’s Plan / Operation Safe Streets

Posted on November 3, 2023

HOLYOKE — Mayor Joshua A. Garcia has released his public safety plan — “Ezekiel’s Plan / Operation Safe Streets” — named after the unborn child who died October 7 in a shooting incident on Maple and Sergeant Streets. “Holyoke is a compassionate city,” Garcia stated in the plan’s Executive Summary, “but that commitment to compassion...

Holyoke announces availability of funds, Small Business Code Compliance Program

Posted on October 17, 2023

HOLYOKE — The City of Holyoke ARPA Small Business Code Compliance Program is opened and accepting applications. This program offers financial assistance to those businesses in need of code compliance updates to resume or continue operations. The City of Holyoke has allocated $800,000.00 in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds to support small businesses with...

Statement from Holyoke Mayor Joshua A. Garcia regarding CSO consent decree

Posted on October 3, 2023

Statement from Holyoke Mayor Joshua A. Garcia regarding Combined Sewer Overflow (CSO) consent decree: A new federal court judgment reduces the Holyoke sewer construction costs from over $170 million in the original partial consent decree to $35 million through 2035. This was a true team effort that allowed the city to effectively make its case...

Insecto Invasor Linterna manchada Infestación encontrada en Holyoke

Posted on September 11, 2023

HOLYOKE - El Departamento de Recursos Agrícolas de Massachusetts ha emitido la siguiente alerta con respecto a una infestación de un insecto molestoso: El Departamento de Recursos Agrícolas confirmó recientemente una infestación del insecto invasor conocido como mosca linterna manchada (Lycorna delicatula o “SLF”) en la ciudad de Holyoke. No está claro cómo llegó...

Invasive Spotted Lanternfly Infestation Found in Holyoke

Posted on September 7, 2023

HOLYOKE — The Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources has issued the following alert regarding an infestation of a nuisance insect: The Department of Agricultural Resources recently confirmed an infestation of the invasive insect known as spotted lanternfly (Lycorma delicatula or “SLF”) in the City of Holyoke. It is not clear how this pest got to...