During a recent council meeting, residents voiced significant concerns regarding public safety and procedural protocols. David Owen, a resident of 12 Mason Road, highlighted the deteriorating condition of several bridges spanning local canals, expressing alarm over closures that he contended should not occur given that the infrastructure is scheduled for inspections every two years. “How could these bridges deteriorate to the point of closure?” Owen asked, urging city officials to expedite necessary repairs.
In response, Councilor Sullivan clarified that the bridges in question fall under the jurisdiction of the Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) rather than the Holyoke Department of Public Works (DPW). He explained that while MassDOT has been monitoring the bridges, the rate of damage has accelerated more quickly than was anticipated. Sullivan added that the city’s DPW is collaborating with state legislators and MassDOT to speed up repair efforts.
Another resident, Jose Adastra of 139 Hillside, raised procedural issues during the public comment portion of the meeting. He urged the council to eliminate the requirement for speakers to disclose their street addresses, asserting it could endanger some individuals and dissuade community participation. Additionally, Adastra proposed extending the speaking time for public comments by one minute. Although his remarks included broader allegations about federal enforcement that went unaddressed, the procedural suggestions prompted a reaction from council members.
The council president acknowledged Adastra’s concerns, indicating that procedural matters, including public-comment protocols, would be considered in future sessions. However, no formal change regarding the address requirement was adopted during the meeting, with councilors requesting staff to take note of the suggestion.
Looking ahead, council staff confirmed they would document the request concerning public-comment addresses, with potential discussions on proposed changes expected at an upcoming rules or administrative session. Meanwhile, collaboration between the DPW and state representatives with MassDOT will continue as they work to establish repair schedules for the aging bridges.
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