EASTHAMPTON — This week, Easthampton made a generous move by donating $4,000 to the Easthampton Community Center (ECC) to help tackle food insecurity. This support comes after Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits were frozen during the federal government shutdown.
Mayor Salem Derby and Police Chief Chad Alexander presented the funding to ECC Executive Director Robin Bialecki. The donation consists of $2,000 from the city and another $2,000 matched by local police associations.
Derby noted the importance of finding solutions during challenging times. He worked with the city auditor to identify available funds within an account tied to the city’s American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). Remarkably, this account has been generating interest since April, allowing for continued support even after the donation.
The funding will be available until the end of November, and Derby hopes it will help the ECC provide numerous holiday meals for those in need. “This sets a precedent for creatively supporting local organizations,” Derby remarked, emphasizing the city’s commitment to helping residents during tough times.
In related local news, WESTHAMPTON has secured $168,000 in state grants for essential repairs on a culvert connected to Pine Island Lake. Town Coordinator Doug Finn explained that this funding will be used to reinforce a 60-inch diameter culvert that runs 150 feet beneath Reservoir Road. Although the culvert is currently oversized and stable, early signs of wear prompted the timely repair.
The repair process, known as relining, involves inserting a new tube into the existing structure. This method is not just cost-effective but also extends the culvert’s lifespan. Finn explained that a liquid slurry will be added for extra reinforcement. “It’s like putting a new tube inside an old one,” he said.
Pine Island Lake, surrounded by private properties, is popular for recreational activities. The funding comes through the MassWorks Infrastructure grant, aimed at community development in rural areas with smaller populations, making it particularly beneficial for Westhampton.
Meanwhile, in SOUTHAMPTON, the Select Board will host a public hearing on November 25 at 6 p.m. regarding changes to the tax levy for the next fiscal year. Residents are encouraged to attend and share their opinions on tax rates for various property classes, including residential, commercial, and industrial categories for fiscal year 2026.
This local focus on funding and community support shows a strong commitment to both immediate needs, like food insecurity, and long-term infrastructure health. By combining resources and engaging residents in discussions, Easthampton, Westhampton, and Southampton are laying a foundation for sustainable growth and support in their communities.
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