News

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...

“Meet the Mayor” Series Launched in Holyoke

Posted on August 28, 2023

Mayor Joshua A. Garcia has initiated a series of out-of-the-office, “Meet the Mayor” gatherings in different parts of the city. The first will be held at the Holyoke Senior Center at 291 Pine Street at 2 p.m. on Friday, September 8. Subsequent “Meet the Mayor” dates and locations are Friday, September 15, at 3 p.m....

Holyoke residents to receive new trash carts

Posted on August 25, 2023

HOLYOKE — Starting September 18, the Department of Public Works will distribute new, 96-gallon trash carts to city residents. Effective the week of September 25, bags of garbage left in front of homes will no longer be picked up. Garbage placed in cans, containers, or carts other than the city-issued models also will not be...

Holyoke to Hold Hearing on Comcast License Renewal

Posted on August 21, 2023

Mayor Joshua A. Garcia, as cable television licensing authority, will hold a public cable license renewal hearing at 6 p.m. on Thursday, September 14, 2023, at Holyoke Media, 1 Court Plaza, Holyoke, as part of the City’s license renewal proceedings pertaining to Comcast. Holyoke’s Comcast cable license expires on March 11, 2024. To review existing...

FY24 CPA Grant Cycle Begins

Posted on August 10, 2023

The new FY24 Holyoke Community Preservation Act Grant Cycle has begun! The first step in the process is to complete and submit this brief Eligibility Determination Form The deadline for electronic submission is: Sept. 15, 2023. This form is open to project proposals in any of the 3 categories: Historic Preservation, Open/Recreational Space and Housing. For...

West Nile Virus Positive Mosquito

Posted on August 10, 2023

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...

Holyoke Economic Development and Industrial Corporation (HEDIC) MakerLoan Program

Posted on August 7, 2023

Holyoke, MA- The Holyoke Economic Development and Industrial Corporation (HEDIC) will be hosting a virtual information session for small businesses interested in learning more about the MakerLoan Program on September 13th at 12pm. To register for the session please visit: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSe6K6y3KL3qEu275YUNmwUA_gWzBEXdphH-aZs-BH8GLxOjzw/viewform?usp=sf_link What is the MakerLoan?: No interest loan for Makers that is intended for...

WWII Monument Cleaned at Veterans Park

Posted on August 4, 2023

On Friday , July 28, 2023, TaMara of Historic Gravestone Services of New Salem, MA, beautifully cleaned the WW II Monument at Veterans Park. This cleaning process removed the vegetation - moss, dirt and weather damage to the monument. The monument now looks like it did when it was first completed. The monument itself, first...

Holyoke’s Fiscal Health Narrative – Mayor

Posted on August 4, 2023

It’s been about 1 year and 8 months since I took office as Holyoke’s mayor. When I sought office, I had a dollars-and-cents ambition: to strengthen internal controls and better manage our municipal finances. I strongly believed— and still do — that if we cultivate a culture of responsible management, face-to-face communication, and a commitment...

Take the Community Health Equity Survey

Posted on August 3, 2023

The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) is committed to better serving communities that experience barriers to health. The Community Health Equity Survey was developed in collaboration with community members and partners across the state and reflects the priorities and experiences of Massachusetts residents. The information you share will help DPH and community partners determine how...

Mayor, City Councilor to Submit Proposed Financial Policy Manual to Holyoke Council

Posted on August 2, 2023

HOLYOKE — In an effort to get the City’s financial departments on the same page — literally — Mayor Joshua A. Garcia recently commissioned a Financial Policy Manual to address planning and day-to-day operations. The manual initiative aligns with frequently articulated Council wishes. The 99-page guidebook (click to review copy) created by the state’s Division...

PACT Act News

Posted on August 1, 2023

***To all of my Veteran Friends and their Families*** For those of you that qualify for benefits under the newly passed "PACT Act"; You only have until Aug 9th to file your claim, or intent to file a claim, in order to take advantage of retro payments under this law! If you don't know if...

Heat Advisory 7/26/23&7/27/23

Posted on July 26, 2023

The National Weather Service has issued a Heat Advisory beginning Thursday morning and lasting until Friday afternoon. Heat index values from 95 to 104 degrees are expected Thursday and Friday, with the worst conditions from noon to 6pm. Hot temperatures and high humidity may cause heat illnesses to occur. https://forecast.weather.gov/wwamap/wwatxtget.php?cwa=BOX&wwa=heat%20advisory Remember to drink plenty of...

Bear sightings – what to know

Posted on July 21, 2023

There have been multiple reports of increased Bear sightings in the city. I want to offer some important information for the public to know. From the Holyoke Board of Health Black bears in Massachusetts can pose certain risks to public safety, particularly when they come into close proximity to human-populated areas. While black bears are...

Holyoke Mayor Joshua Garcia named “Padrino” Of Boston’s Annual Puerto Rican Festival Parade

Posted on July 21, 2023

HOLYOKE — Mayor Joshua A. Garcia has been named “Padrino” (“Godfather”) of Boston’s annual Puerto Rican Festival Parade. The Puerto Rican Festival of Massachusetts, now in its 57th year, starts on Saturday, July 29, at Boston City Hall plaza. The parade steps off Sunday, July 30, at noon. As Padrino, Garcia will preside over the...

Mayor Garcia’s Statement on Accepting Migrants into Holyoke

Posted on July 21, 2023

HOLYOKE — As the state continues to channel refugees to Massachusetts municipalities in its capacity as a “Right to Shelter” state, Holyoke Mayor Joshua A. Garcia said the city will do its part if any of migrants settle in Holyoke. But he said the state will have to up its game in its support for...

West Nile Virus Positive Sample

Posted on July 20, 2023

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

Mayor Garcia Addresses Care Center Graduates

Posted on July 6, 2023

HOLYOKE — Mayor Joshua A. Garcia on June 30 told the Holyoke Care Center’s graduating class that he was proud of them because “You haven’t allowed circumstances to hold you back. It took persistence and courage to get here.” The Care Center helps young mothers and low-income women go to college. The young mothers who participate...

PRESS RELEASE: B-17 Memorial Event 2023

Posted on June 30, 2023

CONTACT INFORMATION: Mt. Tom B-17 Memorial Committee Rick Lee, press contact (413) 535-6718 raalee@outlook.com RELEASE DATE: Immediate Remembrance of Servicemen lost in 1946 B-17 Crash Open to the public tribute Holyoke, Massachusetts, June 30, 2023 — The annual remembrance of the June 9, 1946, B-17 crash which took the lives of twenty-five young men returning...

Boston Fed President Visits Western Mass. for First-hand Look at Economic Challenges, Opportunities

Posted on June 30, 2023

Cross-sector teams discuss efforts to support families, small businesses Local leaders in Holyoke, Mass., joined Federal Reserve Bank of Boston President Susan M. Collins Thursday for a walking tour of the city’s downtown and a first-hand look at the region’s problems and potential. Click the link for full story: Boston Fed President Visits Western Mass....

Air Quality Advisory

Posted on June 30, 2023

There is an air quality advisory issued for fine particles for Western and Central Massachusetts. For more information, please visit DEP's MassAir Online at: https://eeaonline.eea.state.ma.us/dep/massair/web/#/pollution/map/forecast

PRESS RELEASE: ARPA Announcements

Posted on June 14, 2023

Holyoke ARPA funding recipients To be announced Friday at 1 p.m. HOLYOKE — Mayor Joshua A. Garcia and other city officials will hold a press conference Friday, June 16, at 1 p.m. at Holyoke Media to announce the recipients of the current round of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding distributions. The funding recipients and...

Holyoke Water Works to Begin Roadwork Restoration Work

Posted on June 12, 2023

"HWW Phase-2B Road Paving begins 06/19/23 Roadway resurfacing (milling) & Paving work (along with miscellaneous restoration like sidewalk & lawn repairs) is scheduled for Portland Street, Magnolia Avenue, Hampden Street (from Northampton Street to Nonotuck Street), and Nonotuck Street (from Hampden Street to Beacon Avenue). The work is planned to begin Monday, June 19th and...

Continuing Air Quality Concerns

Posted on June 8, 2023

Poor air quality continues to affect the area due to ongoing wildfires in Canada. Until the air quality improves, here are some suggestions to reduce the impact: limit outdoor time, avoid high-intensity outdoor activities, use fans and AC to stay cool, keep windows and doors closed to limit outdoor air coming inside and, if available,...

Holyoke Local Cultural Council Community Input Survey 2023 / Holyoke Local Cultural Council Encuesta Comunitaria 2023

Posted on June 6, 2023

It's that time of year again -- we need your input as we set our funding priorities for the upcoming 2024 grant cycle! Please take a few minutes and let us know your thoughts! https://forms.gle/9wyKWa2s12bRSAL67 Ha llegado la época del año en la que necesitamos su opinión para establecer nuestras prioridades de financiación para...

Mayor’s State of the City Speech

Posted on May 17, 2023

On May 16, 2023, Mayor Garcia delivered to the City Council a State of the City presentation along with the proposed FY24 City Budget. The technical summary and the workbook documents of the City Budget can be found here: https://www.holyoke.org/mayors-proposed-fy24-city-budget/ The following is the full text of the Mayor's State of the City speech -...

Mayor’s Proposed FY24 City Budget

Posted on May 16, 2023

The following is a snapshot overview of the FY24 proposed budget in detail (note: these are subject to change between now and June 30, 2023): FY24 Holyoke Consolidated Budget Workbook FY24 Proposed Working Budget Detailed This budget is based on what we understand to be our revenue and expense projections and a fairly balanced understanding...

Veterans’ Services – Office Closure

Posted on May 8, 2023

Dear Veterans and families, Please be informed the Veterans’ Services Department has made changes to their schedule. We will be closed Monday, June 5th through Friday June 9th, for training. Normal hours will resume on Monday, June 12th, 2023. For any questions or concerns, please contact us at the information provided below. Thank you. Luz...

Submitted ARPA Applications for Review

Posted on May 5, 2023

We are pleased to present the 2023 American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) application materials. The City received over 80 applications requesting over $60 million in ARPA funds. At this time, the City estimates that $19 million will be made available in this round, so as you can tell, this will be an extremely competitive process....

Accessing new toxic exposure health care and benefits

Posted on May 4, 2023

Provided by the US Department of Veteran Affairs. You may have heard about the new PACT Act that impacts millions of Veterans. This law allows VA to provide more services to more Veterans and survivors who were exposed to environmental toxins such as Agent Orange in Vietnam, burn pits in Iraq and Afghanistan, or other...

Water Quality Notification from Holyoke Water Works

Posted on April 28, 2023

***Water quality notification*** Residents may notice a slight change in the taste, temperature, and odor of their drinking water over the next week due to a scheduled change in source water. The Holyoke Water Works is currently using its McLean Reservoir for its primary drinking water to do scheduled maintenance on the transmission main from...

ARPA Update – next steps

Posted on April 27, 2023

The City of Holyoke recently closed its latest round of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) grant applications. The American Rescue Plan Act provided funding to municipalities to support their response to and recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic public health emergency. More than 80 applications were submitted to the City of Holyoke for ARPA funding in...

City Council Seeking Applicants for Appointee to Holyoke Media Board of Directors

Posted on April 21, 2023

The Holyoke City Council is seeking community members interested in being appointed to Holyoke Media's Board of Directors for a three (3) year term. The Holyoke Media Board will meet in the evening on the third Thursday of each month. It is an unpaid position. Holyoke Media is an independent, non-profit, multimedia organization funded through...

Holyoke Mayor Joshua A. Garcia took part in a ribbon-cutting ceremony April 12 at Blaze Xpress

Posted on April 13, 2023

PHOTO CREDIT: HOLYOKE MAYOR'S OFFICE PHOTO CAPTION: Holyoke Mayor Joshua A. Garcia took part in a ribbon-cutting ceremony April 12 at Blaze Xpress HOLYOKE — City Hall was well represented Wednesday, April 12, at a ribbon-cutting ceremony for Blaze Xpress, a marijuana home delivery business that opened recently at 85 Sergeant Street. On hand...

HG&E Recieves $10 Million Grant Award to Improve Aging Infrastructure

Posted on April 11, 2023

On April 10, U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg and the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) announced $22 million in grant awards for three communities in Massachusetts, through a new grant program aimed at mitigating safety risk and methane emissions from aging natural gas distribution pipes. The Natural Gas Distribution Infrastructure Safety and Modernization...

Standard and Poor’s (S&P) Affirms A+ Bond Rating for Holyoke, credits Holyoke’s strong budgetary performance

Posted on April 11, 2023

Citing Holyoke’s strong budgetary performance, liquidity and institutional framework as positive credit factors, Standard & Poor’s (S&P) Ratings Services, a municipal credit rating agency, has affirmed its A+ underlying rating on the City’s long-term debt. “This is a significant financial achievement for the City of Holyoke,” Mayor Joshua A. Garcia said. “Not only because of...

ASK: learn from Director of Sustainability & Conservation about the work the department does

Posted on April 3, 2023

In this inaugural episode of Ask, resident Linda Pratt asks Yoni Glogower, director of the city’s Conservation & Sustainability Department, about the work the department does. To see video, visit https://holyokemedia.org/ask-a-new-series-that-asks-municipal-workers-what-they-do/?fbclid=IwAR3W6dxExLWViOhWkEajf9Rxdo_VXmYED4ROOZF-V_j9eKQtAkvnjSXCvjI. If you would like to ask any municipal employee about the work they do, contact Holyoke Media. They can go with you, and/or provide...

Mayor reminds community of responsibility to keep city clean

Posted on March 27, 2023

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...

Whiting Street Reservoir Limited Access Public Notice

Posted on March 27, 2023

Click image to enlarge The Holyoke Water Works (HWW) will be contracting the reconstruction of the Whiting Street Reservoir Spillway and Discharge Channel beginning April 3rd continuing until the end of the 2023 season. The construction will require a section of the access road along the dam to be closed to the general public due...

Holyoke Water Works (HWW) contratará mejoras en el sistema de agua en Dwight Street a partir del 3 de Abril y durante todo el año.

Posted on March 23, 2023

Holyoke Water Works (HWW) contratará mejoras en el sistema de agua en Dwight Street a partir del 3 de Abril y durante todo el año. El proyecto abarcará la longitud de Dwight Street desde Northampton Street hasta School Street. Dwight Street y las calles laterales adyacentes se verán afectadas por problemas relacionados con el flujo...

The Holyoke Water Works (HWW) will be contracting water system improvements in Dwight Street beginning April 3rd and continuing throughout the year.

Posted on March 23, 2023

The Holyoke Water Works (HWW) will be contracting water system improvements in Dwight Street beginning April 3rd and continuing throughout the year. The project will span the length of Dwight Street from Northampton Street to School Street. Dwight Street and adjoining side streets will be impacted by traffic flow and water related issues including interruption...

Holyoke, EPA enter into agreement to reduce sewage discharges into Connecticut River

Posted on March 23, 2023

FOR IMMEDIATE PRESS RELEASE Office of the Mayor, City of Holyoke HOLYOKE - Mayor Joshua A. Garcia and the federal Environmental Protection Agency have announced that they, along with the U.S. Justice Department and the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, have entered into a consent decree to resolve violations of the Clean Water Act and state law....

Road Closure Information for Parade Weekend 2023

Posted on March 16, 2023

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 18th Road Race Downtown will be closed at the following locations 7am High Street from Lyman...

Recycling News Update from Board of Public Works

Posted on March 10, 2023

Great news! The City’s two new recycling trucks have arrived. The Department of Public Works is developing public outreach and education campaign regarding our new and improved recycling and municipal solid waste program. In the meantime, please continue cleaning and separating your recyclables. The City is in the process of rejoining the...

VA’s Caregiver Support Program

Posted on March 9, 2023

Irish Flag Raising Held At Holyoke City Hall

Posted on March 8, 2023

PHOTO CREDIT: Dennis Hohenberger/The Republican PHOTO CAPTION: Joe O’Connor, President of the Ancient Order of Hibernians James A. Curran Division One, served as Master of Ceremonies at the March 1 ceremony outside Holyoke City Hall. Sheila Moreau (right) sang the American and Irish National Anthems. HOLYOKE — The Ancient Order of Hibernians observed...

2023 ARPA Application Packet

Posted on March 4, 2023

The 2023 City of Holyoke ARPA Application portal is now open. The link below is where you can find the packet. Note that the actual application must be completed on GoogleForms and that applicants must submit hard copies of materials to the Office for Community Development. The links to all application materials are contained within...

2023 ARPA Application Packet

Posted on March 4, 2023

Proposed FY23 CDBG Projects – not final

Posted on March 2, 2023

We are pleased to present the FY2023 CDBG Proposal Book. In the link below, you will find the FY2023 Spreadsheet highlighting the proposals. NOTE: These are only submitted proposals and are not the final allocations. The Community Advisory Committee will review and make recommendations. The Mayor will then make his first preliminary recommendations. Then the...

Winter Parking Ban – UPDATE

Posted on February 28, 2023

February/Febrero 28, 2023 Parking Ban lifted at 8:00pm. Prohibición de estacionamiento levantada a las 8:00pm. March/Marzo 1, 2023 Reverse regular Winter Parking Ban to be in effect at 8:00am, until further notice. There is no parking on the EVEN side of the street unless otherwise posted and no parking on cul de sacs. Invertir la...

WINTER PARKING BAN

Posted on February 27, 2023

PARKING BAN / PROHIBICIÓN DE APARCAR ENGLISH: The City of Holyoke, Department of Public Works, has issued a regular Winter Parking Ban to be in effect from 5:00pm Monday, February 27, 2023, until further notice. There is no parking on the ODD side of the street unless otherwise posted and no parking on cul de...

HPD Audit

Posted on February 21, 2023

The Holyoke Police Department audit, prepared by Municipal Resources, Inc., is an overview of the department with an eye towards identifying strengths and weaknesses. The audit concludes with a series of recommendations to help us improve our operational position at the department and offer services our community expects and desires. Of these recommendations, one I...

Mayor visits Mater Dolorosa School

Posted on February 6, 2023

PHOTO CREDIT: HOLYOKE MAYOR’S OFFICE PHOTO CAPTION: Holyoke Mayor Joshua A. Garcia takes questions from Mater Dolorosa School children during his Catholic Schools Week visit to the school. HOLYOKE — “What do you like the most about your job?” a little girl asked Mayor Joshua A. Garcia during a February 1 school visit. The...

Holyoke Pop Up Warming Shelter

Posted on February 2, 2023

Due to the cold-snap forecast for this upcoming weekend, the Holyoke Pop Up Warming Shelter will open Friday, February 3rd, 2023 to Sunday, February 5th beginning at 5:00 pm at Providence Ministries, 51 Hamilton Street. There will be warm beds, meals, snacks, showers, dry clothes and other assistance. Hamilton Street is off of Main Street...

FY24 Budget Planning process has begun

Posted on January 26, 2023

The new budget preparation season is here! Department Heads were sent instructions for preparing their anticipated budget needs for the next fiscal year. Their completed budget will be a primary source for the preparation of our entire City budget. The Auditor is working with the City Treasurer to update revenue receipts so we can forecast...

How To Connect With The VA

Posted on January 26, 2023

Thank you for your service. We're here for you if you need us!

FY 2023 CDBG Application

Posted on January 23, 2023

The FY2023 CDBG Application is released! The FY2023 Program Guidelines and Instructions contain all of the required links, forms, and directions for a streamlined application. For program guidelines, click: https://drive.google.com/file/d/13PJW-ZEm5NOPqV25GgoQWc_PblcT1qjB/view?fbclid=IwAR2Xim7dgHfJlE7QQ0HfrgTmjtvdXQHkqrTIscfROg9WynnIVzhrmanqtOs

FY23 CDBG Notice of Availability

Posted on January 18, 2023

City of Holyoke Office for Community Development Notice of Availability FFY2023 Community Development Block Grant Proposal Applications Date of Notice: January 17, 2023 On January 20, 2023, the City of Holyoke Office for Community Development will release the FY2023 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Proposal Applications for funding of activities in the City of Holyoke...

REPORT – Reclaiming Vacant Properties Conference

Posted on January 5, 2023

On September 8, 2022, 9 City of Holyoke staff members from 5 different departments attended the 2022 Reclaiming Vacant Properties Conference in Chicago. These employees include: Aaron Vega - Director, Office of Planning and Economic Development Jennifer Keitt - Development Specialist, Office of Planning and Economic Development Jack Carolan - Planner II, Office of Planning...

Mayor Proclaims “Kwanzaa Week” in Holyoke

Posted on December 28, 2022

PHOTO CREDIT: HOLYOKE MAYOR’S OFFICE PHOTO CAPTION: Holyoke Mayor Joshua A. Garcia reads a proclamation acknowledging the contributions the African-American community during a Kwanzaa observance in his office December 28. Looking on (from left) are Theresa Cooper-Gordon, Ayanna Crawford and State Representative Pat Duffy. HOLYOKE — During a ceremony held in his office...

Holyoke Police Mark Anniversary of Officer John DiNapoli’s Death

Posted on December 28, 2022

Photo credit: HOLYOKE MAYOR’S OFFICE Photo caption: Andrew DiNapoli (center) stands behind the monument to his father as he thanks those who gathered for the December 22 wreath-laying ceremony. HOLYOKE — City police were joined by Holyoke firefighters, City Council members, Mayor Joshua A. Garcia, municipal employees, and members of the community for a...

COVID-19 Vaccination Clinic at the Holyoke Public Library 12/12/22

Posted on December 8, 2022

Holyoke COVID-19 Data Dashboard Ending 12/2/2022

Posted on November 30, 2022

Effective Friday December 2, 2022 the Holyoke Board of Health will be removing the City of Holyoke's COVID-19 Data Dashboard from our City website. This move is a reflection not of the pandemic being over, but rather a reflection of the every changing needs of our community. At this point in the pandemic, our capacity...

Mayor Garcia At Habitat For Humanity Event 2022 11 18

Mayor Speaks at Habitat for Humanity Celebration of New, Unusual House

Posted on November 18, 2022

Mayor Speaks at Habitat for Humanity Celebration of New, Unusual House HOLYOKE — Mayor Joshua A. Garcia spoke on Friday to a gathering of builders, vocational education students and Habitat for Humanity volunteers and staff at a ceremony marking progress on a unique new house. The house at 360 Chestnut Street is being constructed using...

Holyoke Holiday Food Drive To Benefit Kate’s Kitchen

Posted on November 18, 2022

Photo credit: Holyoke Mayor’s Office Photo caption: This food drive collection box outside the Holyoke Mayor’s Office is one of four set up in City buildings. HOLYOKE — The city of Holyoke is holding a food drive to benefit Kate’s Kitchen, one of the charitable services of Providence Ministries at 51 Hamilton Street. Collection...

Full Homemade Thanksgiving Dinner Turkey Stuffing Veggies Potatoes 61727019

Thanksgiving Food Safety Tips

Posted on November 16, 2022

Thanksgiving Food Safety Tips With the Thanksgiving holiday fast approaching, the Board of Health would like to share some food safety tips to keep your family and friends safe from food borne illnesses. Store Turkey Properly Frozen raw turkey should be stored in the freezer until you are ready to thaw it. Make sure...

Thanksgiving Food Safety Tips for a Healthy Celebration at Home

Posted on November 16, 2022

Store Turkey Properly Frozen raw turkey should be stored in the freezer until you are ready to thaw it. Make sure your freezer is at 0˚F or below. Don’t store a turkey in a place where you can’t closely monitor the temperature, such as in a car trunk, a basement, the back porch, or in snow. Fresh raw turkey...

COVID-19 VACCINATION CLINICS AT THE HOLYOKE MALL 11/19 & 12/3

Posted on November 16, 2022

Mayor Presents Polish-American Leader Joseph M. Kos with Proclamation

Posted on November 16, 2022

PHOTO CREDIT: HOLYOKE MAYOR’S OFFICE CAPTION: Mayor Joshua A. Garcia presents Joseph M. Kos with a Mayoral Proclamation saluting his leadership of the Western Mass Polish-American community. HOLYOKE — Joseph M. Kos of Holyoke, now in his 21st year as President of the Polish-American Congress of Western Massachusetts, was presented with a Mayoral Proclamation...

Veterans Day Ceremony to be held Friday at War Memorial Building

Posted on November 10, 2022

Photo credit: Holyoke veterans services Photo caption: Dress uniforms of veterans who served in three branches of the U.S. Armed Forces from the twentieth and twenty-first centuries will be on display at the War Memorial Building during the Veterans Day event from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. HOLYOKE — United Veterans of Holyoke and...

Collaborative Workspace Program Funds Project on Holyoke’s Race Street

Posted on November 9, 2022

Collaborative Workspace Program Funds Project on Holyoke's Race Street (Photo credit: Mayor's Office) State Rep. Pat Duffy (far left) and Holyoke Mayor Joshua A Garcia (right of center) pose for a group photo with individuals who received state Workspace Program grants. HOLYOKE — Mayor Joshua Garcia, State Rep. Pat Duffy, Planning Director Aaron...

New Guidance from DPH regarding Respiratory Illness in Children for Parents

Posted on November 3, 2022

Please see the following message from the Massachusetts Department of Public Health & the American Academy of Pediatrics regarding Respiratory Illnesses in Children: November 1, 2022 Dear Families, The Commonwealth, the Northeast and much of the US are seeing increases in respiratory illness in infants and children. Some of these infants and children are...

Proposed FY23 Supplemental of the Supplemental Budget

Posted on October 31, 2022

This communication is a snapshot overview of the submitted supplemental of the supplemental budget for FY23 proposed to the City Council for review and approval which results in adjustments in areas to get us closer to our target objectives. The city budget concludes with an additional $124,911 to the overall budget from what was last...

Statement of Interest – ARPA Funds

Posted on October 23, 2022

The City of Holyoke received nearly $40 million in American Rescue Plan Act -Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds. The Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds (SLFRF), a part of the American Rescue Plan, delivered $350 billion to state, local, and Tribal governments across the country to support their response to and recovery...

Veterans’ Services Closed October 24 – October 27

Posted on October 18, 2022

Please be informed due to mandated annual training, the Holyoke Veterans’ Services Department will be closed from Monday, October 24th through Thursday, October 27th , 2022. Our office will resume normal business hours on Friday, October 28th , 2022. For any questions or concerns, please contact us at the information provided below. Thank you. Luz...

OPED Seeking Volunteers for Cannabis Citizens Review Committee

Posted on September 22, 2022

Cannabis Citizens Review Committee The Office of Planning & Economic Development (OPED) is looking for resident volunteers from Wards one and two to serve on a Cannabis Citizens Review Committee (CCRC). The CCRC will review proposals for spending the city's Cannabis Impact Innovation and Impact fund. The Impact Fund is created by an Impact fee...

PRESS RELEASE: City Projects briefing and Enforcement Plans

Posted on September 19, 2022

Holyoke Mayor Joshua A. Garcia, along with Planning & Economic Development Director Aaron Vega, will provide an update on projects and plans for the City of Holyoke on Wednesday September 21, at 1 p.m. in the Mayor’s Office at Holyoke City Hall. "The Office of Planning & Economic Development (OPED) has been busy," Director Vega said....

NOTICE: High Street Repaving Schedule

Posted on September 19, 2022

The City of Holyoke will be repaving High Street starting Thursday morning, Sept. 22. Mayor Joshua A. Garcia asks members of the public to plan accordingly. “We will need the cooperation of the public in the process,” Garcia said. “Please take notice of the following and plan ahead.” Milling of High Street is to be...

PRESS RELEASE: Holyoke CERT launches relief support for residents of Puerto Rico

Posted on September 19, 2022

HOLYOKE — The City of Holyoke's Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) has been activated to help with relief efforts in Puerto Rico, which has sustained catastrophic damage by Hurricane Fiona. The response team is made up of community organizations, city officials, and volunteers dedicated to helping their community during emergencies. Currently, a local business owner who is on...

Holyoke takes up challenge of Kmart Plaza possibilities

Posted on August 31, 2022

HOLYOKE — City officials, including Councilors Linda Vacon and David Bartley, and members of the City's Office of Planning and Economic Development (OPED), met Monday at Kmart Plaza to discuss opportunities to boost business at the shopping center. Located on Route 5 at the corner of Northampton Street and Whiting Farms Road, the Kmart...

Municipal Resources, Inc. contracted with for Police Department Audit

Posted on August 23, 2022

A notice of award was given to Municipal Resource, Inc. for the police department audit project. A sub-group from the Police Relations Advisory Committee reviewed the proposals and selected Municipal Resources as the most advantageous. The audit looks forward to analyze the organizational structure/governance; the communications, cross functionality, and horizontal integration of the departments’ internal...

Back to School Information

Posted on August 22, 2022

If you are a family that is still thinking about where to enroll your child, consider the Holyoke Public Schools! Students in grades 1 through 12 begin on Monday, August 29. Students in preschool and kindergarten begin a week later on Tuesday, September 6. To enroll, please visit www.enrollholyoke.com and complete the enrollment process as soon...

MASSACHUSETTS LEGISLATURE PASSES BILL SUPPORTING VETERANS AND MILITARY FAMILIES

Posted on August 17, 2022

The following was retrieved from https://senatorjohnvelis.com/massachusetts-legislature-passes-bill-supporting-veterans-and-military-families/ (BOSTON–07/29/2022) The Massachusetts Legislature today passed comprehensive legislation, An Act relative to military spouse-licensure portability, education and enrollment of dependents, addressing the Commonwealth’s most immediate needs in the veteran community and making necessary updates to service member quality-of-life issues and acknowledgements of our military branches and individual service, including supporting...

Office of Outdoor Advertising to Hold Public Hearing for 3 Country Club Rd

Posted on August 16, 2022

Please be advised that on Thursday, September 8, 2022 the Office of Outdoor Advertising will hold a public meeting at 11 AM. Please note that this hearing will be conducted as a virtual online event – a registration link will be provided. The agenda includes application by Lamar Central Outdoor, LLC to replace an existing,...

CDC Updates COVID-19 Isolation and Quarantine Guidance for General Public and Early Childhood & K12

Posted on August 16, 2022

With many tools now available for reducing COVID-19 severity, such as availability of vaccine, boosters, and treatment, there is significantly less risk of severe illness, hospitalization and death compared to earlier in the pandemic. CDC has updated its guidance for people who know they have been exposed to COVID-19. If you were exposed to COVID-19, regardless...

Sully’s Baby Pantry

Posted on August 11, 2022

State Grant Funds Improvements to Holyoke’s Anniversary Hill Park

Posted on August 10, 2022

Yoni Glogower, Director of the Holyoke Office of Conservation and Sustainability, has landed a $100,000 Mass Trails grant for improvements at Anniversary Hill Park. The funding for a new ADA accessible trail, informational kiosk, and other trail upgrades is part of a larger vision to revitalize Holyoke's largest park. MassTrails is an inter-agency initiative of...

PACT Act and your VA Benefits

Posted on August 5, 2022

The PACT Act is a new law that expands VA health care and benefits for Veterans exposed to burn pits and other toxic substances. This law helps us provide generations of Veterans—and their survivors—with the care and benefits they’ve earned and deserve. This page will help answer your questions about what the PACT Act means...

COVID-19 & Flu Vaccination at the Holyoke Mall August 6th & 13th

Posted on August 5, 2022

Heat Advisory issued Thursday 8/4 & Friday 8/5: Public Cooling Centers Available

Posted on August 3, 2022

The National Weather Service is forecasting high heat and humidity for tomorrow 8/4/22 and Friday 8/5/22. A heat advisory has been issued from 11am Thursday to 8pm Friday. If you are looking to cool off and get out of the heat, here are a few options. All of these are free to enter, air conditioned...

Heat Advisory Thursday 8/4 and Friday 8/5 – How to Cool Off

Posted on August 3, 2022

PUBLIC NOTICE: Delay in Trash & Recycling Pickup

Posted on August 2, 2022

This is an important message from the Department of Public Works. Due to various staffing concerns, the DPW has fallen behind in trash and recycling collection. If you are a Tuesday pick up and have not been picked up, trucks are expected to be completing your route tomorrow. Please expect this delay for the remainder...

PRESS RELEASE: Holyoke’s Christmas Tree Selection

Posted on August 2, 2022

Holyoke Mayor Joshua A. Garcia invites anyone in the local area who wishes to donate a tree for possible selection as this year’s City Christmas tree to contact the Mayor’s Office at (413)561-1600. Trees must be located within the local area and must be away from electrical lines. The deadline for tree submissions is Friday,...