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1. I sold my car after I paid the excise for the full year. What do I do?

Come into the office with the plate return receipt from the Registry of Motor Vehicles and tell us where the vehicle went (traded, sold, junked, etc). If the plates were transferred, bring in a copy of the new registration.

2. Why did my house value go up?

Your house value went up to reflect market value. Values are adjusted each year to reflect recent sales that have taken place in your neighborhood.

3. I'm 70 years old. Is there any break on my taxes?

Yes, there are exemptions for elderly people over 70 years of age if they qualify financially. There is an income limit and an estate limit. It is $650 off the tax bill per year.

4. I don't think the value of my property is right. What can I do?

You can file for an abatement when the actual tax bill goes out. That bill is received January 1, and the abatement needs to be filed between January 1 and January 31. The assessors will review the property.

They will either abate the value for an error in listing, adjust the grade, correct the area, etc. or they may deny the request for the abatement if they find that the original value was correct. If the taxpayer still disagrees, they can take their case to the Appellate Tax Board and present their case before a commissioner and that Board will make a decision on the value.

5. How do you determine the value of my property?

The value is determined by the sales of similar property in your neighborhood. Five sales of homes of similar size, neighborhood, style, grade, land area, and other characteristics are used to arrive at the value of your home.

6. How do I file for an abatement?

Abatement forms must be filed in January. You can come into our office at City Hall or download the form from our website.

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1. What is a business certificate?

A business certificate is a registration of a business that is conducted in the City of Northampton. It is commonly referred to as a "D/B/A form" or a "Doing Business As form". Its purpose is primarily for consumer protection and public information.

2. Who must file a business certificate?

Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 110, Section 5 states that any person conducting a business under any title or business name other than the real name of the person conducting the business must file the certificate. A 'person' is defined as an individual, partnership, or corporation. Exemptions to filings are allowed under Section 6 if the corporation is doing business in its true corporate name, or if a legal partnership doing business under any title which includes the surname of any partner. Certain other exemptions exist for trusts and limited partnerships.

3. Who must sign the business certificate?

If the business is owned solely by one person, only that person needs to sign. If is is a partnership of two or more people, but not a formal legal entity, both or all of the partners must sign. If it is a legal partnership, any officer who has authority to sign on behalf of the partnership may do so. If it is a corporation, an officer who has signatory authority must sign. All signatures must be made in front of a notary.

4. How do I file a business certificate?

To file a Business Certificate Filing Form, you may visit the City Clerk's Office during office hours. You may also download the form from this site and file via U.S. mail. Fill out the form and remember to have the signature(s) notarized and send it to:
Northampton City Clerk
City Hall Room 4
210 Main St.
Northampton, MA 01060-3148

5. How long is a certificate valid?

The certificate is valid for four years from the date of filing. It is renewable thereafter.

6. What is the filing fee?

There is a $50 filing fee, payable to the City of Northampton. Certified copies of the completed filing are available for $10 each. All payments must be made by bank check or money order. No personal checks accepted.

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1. Will our rates go up with the new contract?

Like other utilities, such as telephone and natural gas, rates are determined by federal regulatory authorities, not by the municipalities or other entities who grant the franchises. In this case, rates are determined in negotiations by cable companies and the Federal Communications Commission (FCC).

2. Where is the nearest Comcast office?

Northampton residents who wish to see a customer service representative in person should visit the Amherst Office,160 Old Farm Road, Amherst, MA 01002.

Comcast also maintains a 24 hours, seven days a week customer service phone line 1-800-266-2278 .

3. How much money does Comcast give Northampton annually for the exclusive right to provide cable services?

The last cable contract authorized a one-time grant of $150,000 for the TV Access studio on Bradford Street and equipment. In addition, Northampton receives an annual user’s fee of 50 cents per subscriber.

4. Can the new contract improve the quantity and quality of the commercial program packages offered by Comcast?

The city’s contract with Comcast does not cover commercial program packages. Again complaints about pricing and programs should be directed to Comcast and the FCC. The contract, however, does apply to programming on Channel 15 and is an important part of the CAAB’s recommendations to the Mayor in contract renewal negotiations.

5. Why do we have all those shopping channels?

As already noted, Northampton’s contract with Comcast does not cover their commercial programs and program packages. Complaints need to be sent to Comcast and the FCC.

6. Can we negotiate with a cable server other than Comcast?

This is a contract renewal and under these terms Northampton expects to enter into a positive negotiation with Comcast. If the negotiations break down completely, Northampton does have the right to deny re-licensing.

7. Does the contract provide instruments to require better services from Comcast? Is there a way to monitor programs and services annually and take Comcast to task if they don’t live up to their contract

The Ascertainment process as well as community hearings are a means to review the present level of services and to make recommendations on monitoring and evaluation in the future contract.

8. Why does Channel 15 no longer provide classes and support local video productions?

Personnel at the Access studio have been reduced to one part-time Comcast employee. We see the revitalization of Channel 15 staff, studio and program offerings a primary goal of the new contract.

9. Will the CAAB make recommendations on making the studio more accessible, for example, move it to the Northampton High School? If so, how and when will this happen. Who will fund it? How will it be adm

As part of the revitalization, the CAAB is investigating moving the Access studio to Northampton High School which already has a media center and is wired for broadcast. A nonprofit organization (501 ©) 3 ) would replace Comcast as manager of the station. This organization would be responsible for hiring employees, overseeing the studio and for Community Access programming. Successful models of this approach exists in Easthampton, Amherst and Greenfield.

10. Will seniors get a discount in the new contract

At the Council on Aging hearing several weeks ago, Northampton Seniors indicated that was one of their most important priorities. That priority will be communicated to the Mayor along with the other recommendations raised by Northampton public access viewers.

11. How can we be assured that our concerns and wishes actually get into the contract?

Following these hearings, as part of the legal requirements of the Ascertainment process, the CAAB will prepare a report listing recommendations and issues concerning Community Access TV based on information we have collected at these hearing and any written communications received before June 30, 2005. This information will be provided to the Mayor and her legal counsel prior to the commencement of negotiations with Comcast. This report will be available to the public.

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1. What is CDBG

Community Development Block Grants

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1. What is COVID-19 and how is it spread?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the COVID-19 virus is spread much like influenza, person-to-person through close contact (within about 6 ft.), via respiratory droplets when someone coughs or sneezes, and to a lesser extent through contact with infected surfaces.

2. What is the difference between Coronavirus and COVID-19?

The World Health Organization (WHO) defines coronaviruses as a large family of viruses that cause illness ranging from the common cold to more severe diseases. On February 11, The World Health Organization announced “severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2)” as the name of the new virus. Viruses, and the diseases they cause, often have different names, for example, HIV is the virus that causes AIDS. COVID-19 or coronavirus is the disease responsible for the virus called SARS-CoV-2 or severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2.

3. What are the symptoms to watch for?

Similar to the flu, symptoms may include fever, cough, and shortness of breath 2-14 days after exposure. Symptoms can be mild to severe illness, and result in pneumonia. 

4. Where do I go if I think I have symptoms?

For your safety and the safety of the community, if you have traveled to COVID-19 infected areas, or had contact with someone who has, and feel sick with a fever and cough within 14 days, call your medical office and/or hospital ahead of time and explain your recent travel history and symptoms before visiting a doctor’s office, Emergency Department, or Urgent Care Center. Medical staff can help to make decisions about whether, when and where, you should be evaluated. This will avoid spreading the virus further to individuals in waiting rooms and other areas at these locations. As always, if you are experiencing life-threatening symptoms, call 911 and seek emergency care.

5. What can I do to keep safe?

• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
• Stay home when you are sick, except to get medical care.
• Cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue, then dispose in the trash.
• Clean frequently touched surfaces and objects daily – including tables, countertops, light switches, doorknobs, and cabinet handles – using a regular household detergent and water. If surfaces are dirty, they should be cleaned using a detergent and water prior to disinfection.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom, before eating, and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing. If soap and water are not readily available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. Always wash your hands with soap and water if your hands are visibly dirty.

6. Should I wear a facemask?

The CDC does not recommend wearing a mask when out in the general public, as that has not been shown to prevent virus spread and can take masks away from people that need them.

7. If I have a fever and a cough will I be tested for COVID-19?

Not necessarily. Your healthcare provider will determine the appropriate level of testing. Testing to detect this virus is only performed at the CDC and recently the Massachusetts Department of Public Health has also received approval to perform the tests.

8. How will I be cared for if I test positive for COVID-19 and what is the treatment?

We know that most patients who test positive will not require hospitalization. We also know that, so far, the COVID-19 virus has had minimal impact on the health of children. However, patients who do need inpatient care will receive care in isolation once admitted.

9. Is there a vaccine for COVID-19?

There is no vaccine, as of yet, to protect against COVID-19. Some antiviral medications are in the process of testing to see if they can address some of the symptoms.

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1. Are second boosters available?

Yes. At the end of March 2022 the CDC recommended second boosters for certain individuals ages 50 and older as well as certain individuals with moderate to severe immunocompromising conditions.

Please make an appointment here:

https://www.cdc.gov/media/releases/2022/s0328-covid-19-boosters.html

More information about second boosters here:

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/booster-shot.html

2. Are boosters available for children ages 12-15?

Yes! The CDC approved Pfizer vaccine boosters for children aged 12-15 on Jan 5, 2021.

3. Where can I get a COVID vaccine?

We encourage appointments in April but are taking walk-ins at our locations. To make an appointment, click here.

In April our regularly scheduled clinics are at the

 Elks Lodge at 17 Spring Street in Florence on Mondays 10am-6pm and Fridays 10am-2pm

and Thornes Marketplace in downtown Northampton on Thursdays 2pm-6pm and Saturdays 12pm-3pm. 

We are doing HOME VISITS for homebound individuals in Hampshire County and are also working with Boards of Health across Hampshire County to provide mobile clinics in the communities. To request a mobile clinic or refer somene to the home visit program please contact kkelly@northamptonma.gov 

If our clinic times do not work for you, you can also look on the Massachusetts VaxFinder page here:  https://vaxfinder.mass.gov/

4. What is the difference between a “booster” dose and a third dose?

Third doses in a series of either Pfizer or Moderna have been recommended for people with severe to immune compromising conditions because of the possibility their first two doses might not be enough to fully protect them. These doses are given at least 28 days past their second dose and should be the same vaccine they already received. (There is no additional dose for J&J vaccine at the moment.)  

Booster doses of Pfizer vaccine are another dose given 6 months past the second dose of Pfizer for  anyone who fits the booster criteria. (see next question)

5. Who is eligible for a “booster” shot?

Boosters are available for the following:

• anyone ages 12+  who received their second dose of Pfizer vaccine at least 5 months ago may receive a booster dose of Pfizer. 
• anyone ages 18+ who received their second dose of Pfizer or Moderna vaccine at least 5 months ago may choose a booster dose of Pfizer, Moderna, or J&J*
• anyone ages 18+ who received  their one dose of Janssen Johnson & Johnson vaccine at least 2 months ago may choose a booster dose of Pfizer, Moderna, or J&J.*

The CDC recently made SECOND boosters available for individuals over the age of 50 and certain people with moderate to severe immunocompromise.

*Please note regarding J&J: On December 16, 2021 the CDC endorsed updated recommendations to express a strong clinical preference for individuals to receive an mRNA COVID-19 vaccine including Moderna and Pfizer vaccines over the Johnson and Johnson Janssen vaccine for any dose (first or booster).

6. Is the Health Department offering “booster” doses?

Yes, we are offering booster doses for anyone who is fully vaccinated. We do check your vaccine card and/or record to make sure your booster is timed correctly. Please see the related question about booster eligibility. 

7. What does “moderate to severe immunocompromise'' mean?

These conditions or treatments include but are not limited to:

• Active treatment for solid tumor and hematologic malignancies
• Receipt of solid organ transplant and taking immunosuppressive therapy
• Receipt of CAR-T-cell or hematopoietic stem cell transplant (within 2 years of transplantation or taking immunosuppression therapy)
• Moderate or severe primary immunodeficiency (e.g. DiGeorge syndrome, Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome)
• Advanced or untreated HIV infection
• Active treatment with high-dose corticosteroids (i.e. equal to or greater than 20mg or equivalent per day), alkylating agents, antimetabolites, transplant-related immunosuppressive drugs, cancer chemotherapeutic agents classified as severely immunosuppressive, tumor-necrosis (TNF) factor blockers, and other biologic agents that are immunosuppressive or immunomodulatory

8. I have a moderate or severe immunocompromise, how do I find a third dose of vaccine?

You can walk in or make an appointment at any of our clinics. 

We offer third doses in the series of Pfizer or Moderna at our clinics for people with moderate to severe immune compromise.  The CDC page on immunocompromising conditions is here. Third doses are available for people who have received the second dose of either Pfizer or Moderna vaccine a minimum of 28 days ago; these third doses should be the same vaccine that was received for first and second dose. Three months after the third dose they are due for a booster dose of either mRNA vaccine (Pfizer or Moderna). 

Individuals with moderate to severe immunocompromise who received Janssen J&J vaccine as their first dose should receive a dose of an mRNA vaccine (Pfizer or Moderna) 4 weeks after the first J&J dose and then a booster dose 2 months after that additional dose.) 

More information about immunocompromising conditions and COVID vaccines is HERE. 

9. Does the Health Department have Pfizer, Moderna and J&J Vaccine?

Yes, typically we do. The website is updated with the doses that are available.

Our nurse keeps a list of individuals who need a dose of Moderna vaccine. Explanation: There are 10 doses per vial of Moderna. We open one vial at a time so we don’t waste vaccine doses. 

Please leave your name and phone number on her voicemail. Kate Kelly = x1216  It is also reasonable to look for Moderna by calling local pharmacies or other pop-up clinics in the area. VaxFinder is the statewide resource. https://vaxfinder.mass.gov/

We will be able to increase appointment availability once the “booster” is officially approved by CDC. 

10. I lost my vaccine card or need vaccine record information.

There are three ways to obtain your vaccination record:

1. Access your own vaccination record at https://www.myvaxrecords.mass.gov/

2. Access your vaccination record on your own healthcare web portal. The fastest way for you to obtain a copy of your vaccination record in Massachusetts is to access your primary care provider's web portal for your immunization record and save or print your vaccine record from there. 

3. Call your provider for an MIIS vaccine certificate or printout of your vaccination records. Massachusetts healthcare providers who give any vaccines (all primary care providers) have access to the Massachusetts Immunization Information System and can download a vaccination certificate. 

4. Request a handwritten card from the place where you received your vaccine dose(s). If you received your dose(s) at the Northampton Health Department we ask staff to work on new card requests during clinics each week and we mail them. We will try to accommodate you as soon as possible. Please know that we receive many requests for lost cards and this can take a week or more to get to you. To request a handwritten card, please send email with your name, date of birth, mailing address, and phone number (in case we have questions) to kkelly@northamptonma.gov OR call Public Health Nurse Kate Kelly and leave a message with this information at 413-587-1216.

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1. When is open burning season?

Northampton residents are allowed to burn brush, cane, driftwood, and forestry debris (not including grass, hay, leaves, or stumps) between January 15 and May 1. If you would like to burn in those months, you must call Northampton Public Safety at 413-587-1100 to request a free burning permit. Once a permit is obtained, you must call the day you intend to burn to notify dispatch at 413-587-1100.

2. How do I get a permit or smoke detector certificate?

Call Melissa Browsky in the administrative office at 413-587-1032 to schedule an appointment.

3. How do I get a copy of a fire report?

Please send a letter requesting this information to:
Chief Brian Duggan
26 Carlon Drive
Northampton, MA 01060

Your request will be answered as soon as possible.

4. How often should I change my smoke detector batteries?

The Northampton Fire Department recommends changing your smoke detector and carbon monoxide detector batteries twice a year, when you change your clock in the spring and fall.

5. Will the Fire Department come out and inspect or replace the batteries in the smoke detector in the home of my elderly parents?

Yes. The Fire Department has a program to provide free smoke detectors / batteries for elderly residents. To make an appointment to have a detector installed, call 413-587-1032.

6. How do I get one of those red house number markers?

The Northampton TRIAD Committee coordinates the posting of house numbers. A donation of $5 is suggested but not required. To request a number, call the Fire Department or the Council on Aging and leave your name, phone number, and property address.

7. Do you refill or recharge fire extinguishers?

No, the Fire Department does not provide this service. The phone book lists a number of vendors who sell and service fire extinguishers under ‘Fire Extinguishers’ in the yellow pages.

8. Where are smoke detectors required to be located?

Per M.G.L. Chapter 148, Section 26E, smoke detectors are required in residential structures on each level of habitation and the basement level. Such smoke detectors shall be installed “on the ceiling of each stairway leading to the floor above, near the base of, but not within each stairway and ... outside each separate sleeping area.”

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1. What does an air source heat pump look like?

All air source heat pumps (ASHP) include an outdoor unit that will look similar to the unit in Figure 1.

Figure 1: Typical ASHP outdoor unit

Ductless air source heat pumps, sometimes referred to as mini-splits, will have one or more indoor units that mount high on an inside wall. Figure 2 shows a typical air source heat pump indoor unit.

Figure 2: Typical ASHP indoor unit with remote control

Ducted air source heat pumps are connected directly to a building’s ductwork so there are no indoor wall units to be seen.

2. Why should I consider an air source heat pump?

There are many reasons why an air source heat pump could be a good fit for your home.
• Energy savings. If you heat with oil, propane, or electric resistance heat, you could save hundreds of dollars a year on your heating bill by installing an air source heat pump.
• High-efficiency cooling. Air source heat pumps also provide air conditioning or dehumidification and are more efficient than window units and most central air conditioning systems.
• Increased resiliency. Efficiently cooling even one room in a home may be a life-saver for people at risk of dying from excessive temperatures during heat waves due to a warming climate.
• Improved home comfort. In addition to providing cooling, heat pumps filter and dehumidify air, which can improve the air quality and comfort of your home.
• Flexible options. Heat pumps are a flexible technology that can be installed in homes of all shapes and sizes with different needs—whether you need a whole-home system replacement, you wish to increase the efficiency of heating one part of your home or you wish to add extra heating for part of your home that’s never warm enough.
• Lower your carbon footprint. As a clean heating and cooling technology, converting from burning fossil fuels to using an air source heat pump will help reduce your carbon footprint and dependence on imported fossil fuels.
For homeowners interested in converting from oil, propane, or electric resistance heating to gas (but can’t due to the natural gas moratorium), an air source heat pump provides a clean, lower-carbon alternative that will be as low-cost to run as a gas system while also providing cooling for the hottest days of the year and an ability to be powered partially or wholly by renewable energy. Consider cold climate air source heat pumps to be the cleaner alternative to natural gas!

3. What is an air source heat pump and how does it work?

Air source heat pumps are appliances that provide heating and cooling by moving heat into a building (for heating) or out of a building (for cooling). Heat pumps do not create heat, they just move heat from one place to another.
They accomplish this by using a refrigerant that absorbs heat from colder air in order to move that heat into a space with warmer air – much the same way that a refrigerator or air conditioner works except that it can move heat in both directions. A cold climate air source heat pump can do this even when the winter air is well below freezing: today’s cold climate air source heat pumps can extract heat from the air all the way down to -13°F. In the summer, the process is reversed and heat is absorbed from the cooler indoor air and moved to the warmer outdoor air.
Since it takes far less energy to move heat than it does to create heat, heat pumps are one of the most efficient home heating systems available. There are two primary types of air source heat pumps:
Ductless air source heat pumps – Each ductless system includes one outdoor unit connected to one or more indoor units with small copper lines.
Ductless air source heat pumps are the most efficient air-source systems and are often installed in homes and offices to supplement existing systems, usually in the most frequently used rooms like family rooms or bedrooms or hallways that can reach multiple rooms.
These systems often come with remote controls that allow you to use them for heating, cooling, dehumidification or as a ceiling fan. Because each indoor unit can be controlled individually, you can reduce your energy use even more by lowering the temperature in rooms that are not being used.

Ducted air source heat pumps – A ducted system has an outdoor unit that is connected to a building’s ductwork, much the same way that a furnace is connected to a home’s ductwork. Only with an air source heat pump the system is not creating heat, but rather moving it from the outdoor air inside so that the air handler in your ductwork can circulate it throughout the building. Cideo on ductless air source heat pumps

4. How will converting to an air source heat pump effect greenhouse gas emissions?

If you currently use electric baseboard, oil, propane or natural gas to heat your house you will reduce greenhouse gas emissions by converting some or all of your heating needs to an air source heat pump. An air source heat pump being run by electricity you buy from a Massachusetts utility will produce fewer greenhouse gas emissions per unit of heat delivered than even the most energy efficient traditional home heating system.  This fact takes into account the greenhouse gas emissions caused by producing the electricity to run the heat pump and from any leakage of refrigerant while charging or operating the heat pump. If your electricity supply includes more low/no-carbon renewable energy than the standard utility mix then your greenhouse gas emissions will be even lower.

5. Why are air source heat pumps sometimes referred to as a renewable heating/cooling system?

Air source heat pumps are sometimes said to be “renewable” or “clean” heating and cooling systems because they do not create heat, but rather they move heat – a renewable resource found throughout the environment – from one place to another. This process is powered by electricity, which can also be sourced from renewable sources like solar, wind, or hydro.
About 12% of Massachusetts’ electricity sold by utilities is currently generated by renewable electricity (by law this has to increase 1% every year) and air source heat pumps generate fewer emissions per unit of heat than traditional home heating systems.

6. How do the annual maintenance costs of an air source heat pump compare to other heating systems?

Annual system maintenance, which consists of cleaning air filters and an annual maintenance checkup for the outside unit, costs about the same as annual servicing charges for a boiler or furnace.

7. I hear that air source heat pumps can also be used for cooling. How do the annual operating costs of an air source heat pump compare to other cooling systems?

Today’s new air source heat pumps are twice as efficient as typical window air conditioners and up to 50% more efficient than central air conditioners. If you replace window AC units with air source heat pumps of the same cooling capacity, you would cut your cooling bill in half – as well as lowering your heating bill.

8. Are there state or utility subsidies or rebates that can be used to reduce installation costs?

Yes, and the contractors selected to provide air source heat pumps through the HeatSmart Northampton program will help customers receive all available subsidies and rebates.

Because cold climate air source heat pumps are highly energy efficient, installing a system makes you eligible for a rebate from MassSAVE – Massachusetts’ utility-supported energy efficiency program. Depending on the type and efficiency of heat pump you install, Mass Save offers rebates of up to $500 for heat pumps. Additional information on these rebates can be found here: https://www.masssave.com/en/saving/residential-rebates/electric-heating-and-cooling/.

Mass Save also offers a HEAT Loan for efficient technologies like heat pumps. Through the HEAT Loan program, you could qualify for a 0% interest loan of up to $25,000 over a term of up to 7 years, which you could use to finance your heat pump installation. Additional information on the HEAT Loan can be found here: https://www.masssave.com/en/saving/residential-rebates/heat-loan-program/

Because cold climate air source heat pumps are considered a clean heating and cooling technology, installing a system makes you eligible for a rebate from the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center (MassCEC) – Massachusetts’ renewable energy support agency. Rebates from the MassCEC range from $625 to $6,000 per system depending on system type and your income and family size. Additional information on these rebates can be found here: http://www.masscec.com/get-clean-energy/residential/air-source-heat-pumps

9. How long does it take for the annual cost savings of an air source heat pump to match the installation costs? How fast would it pay for itself?

The cost of heating depends on the cost of the fuel used, which fluctuates significantly from year to year. The cost of heating with an air source heat pump (electricity) is usually similar to heating with natural gas. This means the typical homeowner will save hundreds of dollars a year compared to heating with oil, kerosene, or propane, and potentially thousands of dollars a year compared to electric baseboard heating. So if you are using an air source heat pump instead of one of these more expensive-to-run heating systems to heat all or some of your home your savings will exceed the initial installation cost (without rebates) in 5 to 10 years, depending on energy prices.

Contractors selected to provide air source heat pumps through the HeatSmart Northampton program will help customers determine more exact payback times after rebates for each specific system.

10. How long do air source heat pumps last?

Air source heat pumps typically run for 15 years.

11. How complicated is it to install an air source heat pump? How much time does it take?

A ductless air source heat pump can be installed in less than a day. It entails mounting indoor units on brackets attached to inside walls, running copper lines through a 3 inch hole in an outside wall to the outside unit and mounting the outside unit on a stand or on a bracket attached to the outside wall. When a HeatSmart Northampton installer conducts a free site visit of your home, they will also assess whether there are any issues in your home that could cause an installation to take more than a day.

12. How noisy are air source heat pumps?

An air source heat pump is quieter running than a refrigerator and much quieter than a typical window AC unit.

13. Are there any disadvantages to air source heat pumps?

As outdoor temperatures drop, so does the efficiency of an air-source heat pump, since the heat pump is transferring heat from the air instead of generating it by burning a fuel. For example, a unit that delivers four units of heat for every unit of electricity at 50°F, may only deliver two units of heat for every unit of electricity at temperatures below zero. When outside temperatures get extremely cold (around -15° F) the systems will shut down, therefore homeowners may choose to keep existing heating systems in place to serve as a backup when outdoor air temperatures are very low.

To put this into context, in Northampton typical nighttime low winter temperatures stay above zero degrees Fahrenheit and generally stay above 10 degrees Fahrenheit. But on rare occasions temperatures have been known to drop well below zero. Therefore a backup system would be needed on rare occasions.

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1. Where is your office located?

We are two doors down from City Hall in Memorial Hall. We are right next to Pulaski Park and the Academy of Music. Our office is located on the first floor. Handicap access is available by parking to the left of Memorial Hall and entering the doors closest to the Unitarian Society.

2. How do I become a substitute in the Northampton School Department?

If you want to be a substitute teacher, you must have your bachelor's degree. If you want to be a substitute nurse, you must be an R.N. If you want to be a substitute paraprofessional or educational support professional (ESP) you must have a high school diploma and previous experience with children.


You may complete your application either online through www.SchoolSpring.com or by submitting an application and additional required materials directly to the Human Resources Department. See the Human Resources Page for more information.

3. Can I submit a resume for any future openings you may have?

No, we only accept applications for current, open positions. Those positions are posted on our bulletin board and on the website, and we also advertise positions in the Daily Hampshire Gazette, professional association websites, JobsintheValley.com and occasionally on Craigslist.
Educational jobs for the Northampton Public School System are published on www.SchoolSpring.com.

4. I haven't received my new insurance card. Who do I contact?

The City has contracted with the Group Insurance Commission of Massachusetts (GIC) to provide health insurance beginning January 1, 2014. You can expect to received your new card by the 3rd or 4th week of December. If you have not received your card from the health insurance provider you chose by January 15, 2014, please contact Joanne Lagrant at 413-587-1256.

5. I am on the city's group health insurance, how do I get reimbursed for the outpatient / inpatient surgery co-pays?

Your health insurance vendor may send an Explanation of Benefits (EOB) to your home each time they receive a claim on your behalf that is subject to an eligible co-pay. If you don't receive it within two months of service, please contact your health insurance provider and request the EOB. When you receive the EOB that shows your inpatient or outpatient surgery co-pay, bring that EOB into Human Resources to request a reimbursement.

6. Is there any time limit on submitting for reimbursements?

Yes. All claims must be submitted within one year of when they are processed. Claims that are older than one year are not eligible for reimbursement.

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1. What is the entire scope of the conversion program?

The City has converted 2,196 city-owned streetlights along City streets to LEDs and is in the process for converting 31 “cobrahead” lamps and floodlights in city parking lots. As a separate project, the City has replaced 11 parking lot fixtures with LED fixtures and replaced the light bulbs in 135 decorative post top fixtures with LEDs.

2. How will this conversion effect the city’s energy use and budget for streetlights?

The LED streetlight upgrade will result in a 75% reduction in energy use when compared to current technology and lower the city’s electric bill by about $180,000 per year. These savings, along with a $210,000 rebate from National Grid, means this project will pay for itself within five years. As a reference, the 185,000 kWh per year energy savings are enough to power 120 average Massachusetts homes.

3. What other benefits are there in an LED conversion?

LEDs last far longer than existing High Pressure Sodium (HPS) streetlights. The new LED fixtures are rated to maintain at least 70% of their light output for 100,000 hours, which is about 20 years.
The LED fixtures will reduce light pollution and lower the amount of trespass light shining onto yards and into houses.
? Unlike the majority of the city’s current streetlights, the LED lights will shine almost no light above 80 degrees up from vertical and zero light above 90 degrees up from vertical.
? The new LED streetlights will produce 58% less light then the current HPS streetlights. However, they will look as bright as the old fixtures because the light they produce is more useful to the human eye.
? While current streetlights shine light in a 360 degree circle around the light, the new LED fixtures will shine light predominately up and down the street, greatly reducing the amount of light trespass into yards and windows.
Because they use less energy, LEDs also help to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Switching to LED streetlights will reduce the city’s greenhouse gas emissions by approximately 300 metric tons of CO2 per year.
Light from the LED streetlights make colors look brighter and more “true” to natural color. Trees look green instead of brown, a blue car looks blue instead of grey. Due to this improved color rendition things appear brighter and sharper under LEDs which is why police and other safety personnel prefer LEDs.

4. What is an LED?

It is a Light Emitting Diode.

5. What type of streetlights did the LED streetlights replace?

The vast majority of the historic roadway streetlights in Northampton were High Pressure Sodium (HPS) cobrahead fixtures and a few were Mercury-Vapor (MV) lamps.

6. What does color temperature mean?

Color temperature of lighting is measured in Kelvin (K) units. Lower temperatures are warmer and yellower; higher temperatures are cooler and bluer. Our existing high pressure sodium (HPS) streetlights have a color temperature of 2200K. LED streetlights have color temperatures ranging from 3000K or lower (warm white) to 6000K (day white). The LED streetlights that are being installed have a color temperature of 3000K, which is the warmest color LED lamp that the city can install and still receive a rebate from the electric utility.

7. Hasn't the American Medical Association (AMA) raised health concerns about LED streetlights?"

In June 2016, the American Medical Association (AMA) issued guidance for communities on selecting among LED lighting options to minimize potential harmful human and environmental effects. The neighborhood streetlights installed by the City of Northampton meet or exceed the AMA's recommendations.

8. Shouldn’t the new LED streetlights be shielded so that drivers cannot see the source of light?

No, the new lights, which have been certified by the International Dark Sky Association to be a fully-shielded, full-cutoff fixture, are designed to provide a smooth transition from the brightest area of light directly under a lamp to the dimmest area between lamps. Adding extra shielding to prevent light from shining up and down the street would result in sharp transitions from bright areas to dark areas along the road. This would inhibit drivers and pedestrians located under the streetlight from clearly seeing cars and people located in the darker areas of the road. The source of light in an LED streetlight is directed downward enough to avoid causing drivers from experiencing disability glare from the light.

9. Will new LED streetlights produce unwanted spill light?

No, the new lights reduce unwanted spill light into homes and properties as most of the light is directed up and down the street. However, if a homeowner reports that there is light coming directly into their home from the new LEDs, the homeowner can request that the city evaluate the light to see if it fits the criteria to have a shield installed on the streetlight to control the unwanted light.

10. How do I report an LED outage or request a house shield?

The Streetlight Modification Form can be found on http://northamptonma.gov/1736/Streetlight-Modification-Request. You will be able to either submit your request online, or download the form and mail it to the Northampton's Energy and Sustainability Officer. For more information, contact Chris Mason at 413-587-1055 or cmason@northamptonma.gov.
The city will evaluate all requests for shields to determine if the streetlight’s position in relation to the house will result in more than 0.009 foot-candles of illumination from the streetlight reaching the house. If the city determines that this may be possible, it will have a shield installed on that lamp so as to block the lamp’s illumination from the house. Depending on which shield will block light from reaching the house, the city will choose to install a house-side shield, a street-side shield or a cul-de-sac shield.

11. Does the City use LEDs for any other fixtures currently?

Yes. The parking lot lights in the Hampton Ave parking lot were updated to LED lights several years ago. Also, the new ornamental post-top fixtures in the new Pulaski Park are LED fixtures.

12. How did the City determine streetlight wattages and brightness levels?

In the 1990s, the City unified the city’s streetlights by street classification (arterial, connector, and residential). This project largely follows what was done then by replacing HPS streetlights with LED streetlights that have the same perceived level of brightness as the old lights. However, there are a few exceptions: lighting in downtown urban areas will receive LED streetlights of slightly lower perceived brightness than the old HPS lamps; lighting along residential streets that are used during rush hour as cut-through streets will receive the same wattage (and brightness) of streetlight as all other residential areas (these streets had brighter lamps previously); and the amount of brightness in the industrial park will be greatly reduced by using lower power and fewer streetlights.

13. Did the City consider a wireless control system that would allow dimming of the streetlights?

Yes but dimming controls are not included in the project. The current cost of wireless controls added 40% to the overall project cost. In addition, the National Grid streetlight tariff does not yet reflect savings from dimming so the City wouldn’t save additional money on utility bills from dimming. However the City is adding components to each fixture that will make the streetlights dimming control-ready so we can take advantage of the technology when the prices come down and the utility savings are guaranteed to show up on our electric bills. In the meantime, many of the streetlights will be installed at a dimmer, lower-power setting resulting in the city producing less greenhouse emissions even if we don’t realize cost savings on the electric bill by doing so.

14. Have the LED streetlights resulted in higher levels of blue light?

Possibly, but minimally at the most. It is more likely that the new LED lights have reduced the amount of blue light produced by the City’s streetlights. This is because, while the light from 3000K LED lamps contains a higher percentage of blue light than found in the light from HPS lamps, the LED fixtures will produce far less light (58% less light) than the HPS fixtures. Remember, the light from LED lamps is far more useful to the human eye, so less light is needed to provide visual clarity and the city is reducing perceived light levels in several parts of the city. The City calculates that the new lights are producing somewhere between 24% less blue light up to 6% more blue light than the lamps they replaced.

15. Is there a connection between LED streetlights and circadian sleep cycles?

The City of Cambridge posted a helpful article on streetlights and circadian sleep cycles for their LED streetlight conversion project. An Overview of Street Lights and Circadian Sleep Cycles by Dr. Steven Lockley, Harvard Medical School, Division of Sleep and Circadian Disorders provides helpful information. http://www.cambridgema.gov/electrical/steetlightsandcircadiansleepcycles

16. What other Massachusetts municipalities have converted streetlights to LED?

This is not a complete list as more cities are making the conversion every month:

Amherst, Chelsea, Natick, Weston, Arlington, Dartmouth, New Bedford, Westwood, Bedford, Fairhaven, Newton, Winchester, Boston, Fitchberg, Randolph, Winthrop, Brookline, Greenfield, Salem, Woburn, Cambridge, Hamilton, Sharon, Cape Cod (20 towns), Haverhill, Shirley, Chelmsford, Holyoke, Watertown

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1. Does my event need a short term (one-day) liquor license?

If your event is open to the public, so that any individual walking off the street can attend, whether you are charging a fee for the alcohol or not, you need a short term liquor license. If your event is private and invitation only, you do not need a short term liquor license. If you are unsure whether or not you need one, please call the License Commission office to inquire.

2. How do I apply for a short term (one-day) liquor license?

You can either submit the application and the corresponding documents via email or you can drop them off in person. The short term license application is found online and should be submitted COMPLETELY with TIPS certifications for the proposed servers and a certificate of insurance proving liquor liability for the event with a per occurrence amount of no less than $250,000. 

Please review the short term liquor license page for information on all of the requirements.

3. Can wine & malt section 12 (on-premises) establishments serve cordials and liqueurs?

Yes. On December 5, 2019, an order to accept M.G.L. Ch. 138 §12 permitting cordials and liqueurs was signed by the City Council. This acceptance allows wine and malt license holders to also sell cordials and liqueurs, subject to approval of the Local Licensing Authority and the ABCC.

4. I have a liquor license and would like to offer outdoor seating. Do I need to get prior approval?

Yes, any changes to your licensed premises, including outdoor seating, requires you to file an application for an alteration of premises, which must be approved by both the Northampton License Commission and the ABCC. Until you receive approval from both commissions, you can not commence alcohol service outside. If you are proposing to place tables and chairs on public ways, you must apply to the Department of Public Works for an outdoor tables and chairs permit.

5. Do I need a common victualler license and how do I apply for one?

Any establishment where food is sold the the premises contains kitchen and dining room equipment and the capacity for preparing, cooking and serving food, is required to have a common victualler license. Licenses are issued on an annual basis for a cost of $50.00. The common victualler application is found online and is required to be submitted with the supplemental documents that can be found here. Applications must be submitted at least one week prior to the next scheduling License Commission meeting. 

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1. What is a roundabout?

Modern roundabouts were developed in the United Kingdom in the 1960s and now are widely used in many countries. The modern roundabout is a circular intersection with design features that promote safe and efficient traffic flow. At roundabouts in the United States, vehicles travel counterclockwise around a raised center island, with entering traffic yielding the right-of-way to circulating traffic. In urban settings, entering vehicles negotiate a curve sharp enough to slow speeds to about 15-20 mph; in rural settings, entering vehicles may be held to somewhat higher speeds (30-35 mph). Within the roundabout and as vehicles exit, slow speeds are maintained by the deflection of traffic around the center island and the relatively tight radius of the roundabout and exit lanes. Slow speeds aid in the smooth movement of vehicles into, around, and out of a roundabout. Drivers approaching a roundabout must reduce their speeds, look for potential conflicts with vehicles already in the circle, and be prepared to stop for pedestrians and bicyclists. Once in the roundabout, drivers proceed to the appropriate exit, following the guidance provided by traffic signs and pavement markings.

2. How do roundabouts differ from older traffic circles and rotaries?

Modern roundabouts are much smaller than older traffic circles and rotaries, and roundabouts require vehicles to negotiate a sharper curve to enter. These differences make travel speeds in roundabouts slower than speeds in traffic circles and rotaries. Because of the higher speeds in older circles and rotaries, many were equipped with traffic signals or stop signs to help reduce potential crashes. In addition, some older traffic circles and rotaries operated according to the traditional "yield-to-the-right" rule, with circulating traffic yielding to entering traffic.

3. How do roundabouts affect safety?

Several features of roundabouts promote safety. At traditional intersections with stop signs or traffic signals, some of the most common types of crashes are right-angle, left-turn, and head-on collisions. These types of collisions can be severe because vehicles may be traveling through the intersection at high speeds. With roundabouts, these types of potentially serious crashes essentially are eliminated because vehicles travel in the same direction. Installing roundabouts in place of traffic signals can also reduce the likelihood of rear-end crashes and their severity by removing the incentive for drivers to speed up as they approach green lights and by reducing abrupt stops at red lights. The vehicle-to-vehicle conflicts that occur at roundabouts generally involve a vehicle merging into the circular roadway, with both vehicles traveling at low speeds — generally less than 20 mph in urban areas and less than 30-35 mph in rural areas.

A 2001 Institute study of 23 intersections in the United States reported that converting intersections from traffic signals or stop signs to roundabouts reduced injury crashes by 80 percent and all crashes by 40 percent.1 Similar results were reported by Eisenman et al.: a 75 percent decrease in injury crashes and a 37 percent decrease in total crashes at 35 intersections that were converted from traffic signals to roundabouts.2 Studies of intersections in Europe and Australia that were converted to roundabouts have reported 41-61 percent reductions in injury crashes and 45-75 percent reductions in severe injury crashes.3

4. What are the features of a good roundabout designs?

Proper design can help to optimize the safety benefits of roundabouts. Centerlines of roads leading to roundabouts should be properly aligned with the central island. Approach roads should be sufficiently curved, far enough in advance of roundabouts, to reduce vehicle speeds of entering drivers. Islands separating the approach and exit lanes, known as splitter islands, should extend far enough from the roundabout to provide pedestrian refuge and to delineate the roundabout. Traffic signs, pavement markings, and lighting should be adequate so that drivers are aware that they are approaching a roundabout and that they should reduce their travel speed. With multi-lane roundabouts, signs and lane markings should help drivers chose the appropriate lane when entering and exiting the roundabout. The figures below show sample guide signs and lane markings used at roundabouts.

5. What are the common types of crashes at roundabouts? What can be done to prevent them?

Despite the demonstrated safety benefits of roundabouts, some crashes still occur. An Institute study of crashes at 38 roundabouts in Maryland found that four crash types (run-off-road, rear-end, sideswipe, and entering-circulating) accounted for almost all crashes. A common crash type at both single-lane and double-lane roundabouts involved vehicles colliding with the central island. These crashes, which often involved unsafe speeds, accounted for almost half of all single-vehicle run-off-road crashes. Collisions occurred more frequently at entrances to roundabouts rather than within the circulatory roadway or at exits. About three-quarters of the crashes involved property damage. There were no right-angle or head-on collisions, potentially severe crash types that commonly occur at traditional intersections.4

In the study of crashes at Maryland roundabouts, Institute researchers concluded that unsafe speeds were an important driver crash factor. Some drivers may not have seen the roundabout in time. Measures to alert drivers of the need to reduce speeds (e.g., speed limit signs well in advance of roundabouts) and increase the conspicuity of roundabouts (e.g., larger roundabout ahead signs and YIELD signs, enhanced landscaping of center islands, pavement with reflector markings) may help to reduce crashes at roundabouts. Certain design features such as adequate curvature of approach roads also may aid in reducing speeds.

6. How do roundabouts affect traffic flow?

Several studies conducted by the Institute and others have reported significant improvements in traffic flow following conversion of traditional intersections to roundabouts. A study of three intersections in Kansas, Maryland, and Nevada, where roundabouts replaced stop signs, found that vehicle delays were reduced 13-23 percent and the proportion of vehicles that stopped was reduced 14-37 percent.5 A study of three locations in New Hampshire, New York, and Washington, where roundabouts replaced traffic signals or stop signs, found an 89 percent average reduction in vehicle delays and a 56 percent average reduction in vehicle stops.6 A study of 11 intersections in Kansas found a 65 percent average reduction in delays and a 52 percent average reduction in vehicle stops after roundabouts were installed.7

A recent Institute study documented missed opportunities to improve traffic flow and safety at 10 urban intersections suitable for roundabouts where either traffic signals were installed or major modifications were made to signalized intersections.8 It was estimated that the use of roundabouts instead of traffic signals at these 10 intersections would have reduced vehicle delays by 62-74 percent. This is equivalent to approximately 325,000 fewer hours of vehicle delay on an annual basis.

7. Are there other benefits?

Because roundabouts improve the efficiency of traffic flow, they also reduce vehicle emissions and fuel consumption. In one study, replacing a signalized intersection with a roundabout reduced carbon monoxide emissions by 29 percent and nitrous oxide emissions by 21 percent.9 In another study, replacing traffic signals and stop signs with roundabouts reduced carbon monoxide emissions by 32 percent, nitrous oxide emissions by 34 percent, carbon dioxide emissions by 37 percent, and hydrocarbon emissions by 42 percent.10 Constructing roundabouts in place of traffic signals can reduce fuel consumption by about 30 percent.9,11 At 10 intersections studied in Virginia, this amounted to more than 200,000 gallons of fuel per year.8 And roundabouts can enhance aesthetics by providing landscaping opportunities.

8. Can roundabouts accommodate larger vehicles?

Yes. To accommodate vehicles with large turning radii such as trucks, buses, and tractor-trailers, roundabouts provide an area between the circulatory roadway and the central island, known as a truck apron, over which the rear wheels of these vehicles can safely track. The truck apron generally is composed of a different material texture than the paved surface, such as brick or cobble stones, to discourage routine use by smaller vehicles.

9. How do roundabouts affect older drivers?

Age-related declines in vision, hearing, and cognitive functions, as well as physical impairments, may affect some older adults' driving ability. Intersections can be especially challenging for older drivers. Relative to other age groups, senior drivers are over-involved in crashes occurring at intersections. In 2006, forty percent of drivers 70 and older in fatal crashes were involved in multiple-vehicle intersection crashes, compared with 22 percent among drivers younger than 70. Older drivers' intersection crashes often are due to their failure to yield the right-of-way.12 Particular problems for older drivers at traditional intersections include left turns and entering busy thoroughfares from cross streets. Roundabouts eliminate these situations entirely. A recent study in six communities where roundabouts replaced traditional intersections found that about two-thirds of drivers 65 and older supported the roundabouts.13 Although safety effects of roundabouts specifically for older drivers are unknown, the 2001 Institute study of 23 intersections converted from traffic signals or stop signs to roundabouts reported the average age of crash-involved drivers did not increase following the installation of roundabouts, suggesting roundabouts may not pose a problem for older drivers.1

10. Are roundabouts safe for pedestrians?

Roundabouts generally are safer for pedestrians than traditional intersections. In a roundabout, pedestrians walk on sidewalks around the perimeter of the circulatory roadway. If it is necessary for pedestrians to cross the roadway, they cross only one direction of traffic at a time. In addition, crossing distances are relatively short, and traffic speeds are lower than at traditional intersections. Studies in Europe indicate that, on average, converting conventional intersections to roundabouts can reduce pedestrian crashes by about 75 percent.14,15 Single-lane roundabouts, in particular, have been reported to involve substantially lower pedestrian crash rates than comparable intersections with traffic signals.16

11. Do drivers favor roundabouts?

Drivers may be skeptical, or even opposed, to roundabouts when they are proposed. However, opinions quickly change when drivers become familiar with roundabouts. A 2002 Institute study in three communities where single-lane roundabouts replaced stop sign-controlled intersections found 31 percent of drivers supported the roundabouts before construction compared with 63 percent shortly after.5 Another study surveyed drivers in three additional communities where single-lane roundabouts replaced stop signs or traffic signals.6 Overall, 36 percent of drivers supported the roundabouts before construction compared with 50 percent shortly after. Follow-up surveys conducted in these six communities after roundabouts had been in place for more than one year found the level of public support increased to about 70 percent on average.13

The additional travel lanes in multi-lane roundabouts increase the complexity of the driving task. Information is not yet available on drivers' attitudes toward multi-lane roundabouts in the United States.

12. What are the impediments to building roundabouts?

Despite the safety and other benefits of roundabouts, as well as the high levels of public acceptance once they are built, some states and cities have been slow to build roundabouts, and some are even opposed to building them. The principal impediment is the negative perception held by some drivers and elected officials. Transportation agencies also have long been accustomed to installing traffic signals, and it can take time for deeply rooted design practices to change.

13. How common are roundabouts in the United States?

The first modern roundabouts in the United States were constructed in Nevada in 1990. Since that time, although the precise number of roundabouts is unknown, approximately 1,000 have been built. By comparison, there are about 20,000 roundabouts in France, 15,000 in Australia, and 10,000 in the United Kingdom. States that have active programs to construct roundabouts include Alaska, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Hawaii, Indiana, Kansas, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Nevada, New Hampshire, New York, North Carolina, Oregon, South Carolina, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, and Wisconsin.

14. Do roundabouts require more space than traditional intersections?

Roundabouts do not necessarily require more space than traditional intersections. Geometric design details vary from site to site and must take into account traffic volumes, land use, topography, and other factors. Because they can process traffic more efficiently than traffic signals and stop signs, roundabouts typically require fewer traffic lanes to accommodate the same amount of traffic. In some cases, roundabouts can require more space than stop signs or traffic signals at the actual intersection to accommodate the central island and circulating lanes, but approaches to roundabouts typically require fewer traffic lanes and less right-of-way than those at traditional intersections. The following example from Asheville, North Carolina, illustrates that roundabout dimensions can be compatible with those of traditional intersections.

15. What are appropriate locations for roundabouts?

Roundabouts are appropriate at many intersections, including high crash locations and intersections with large traffic delays, complex geometry (more than four approach roads, for example), frequent left-turn movements, and relatively balanced traffic flows. Roundabouts can be constructed along congested arterials, in lieu of road widening, and can be appropriate in lieu of traffic signals at freeway exits and entrances.

16. What types of intersections may not be good candidates for roundabouts?

Roundabouts are not appropriate everywhere. Intersections that may not be good candidates include those with topographic or site constraints that limit the ability to provide appropriate geometry, those with highly unbalanced traffic flows (that is, very high traffic volumes on the main street and very light traffic on the side street), and isolated intersections in a network of traffic signals.

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1. Will my car really make a difference?

Yes. We only need a small percentage of vehicles acting as Pace Cars to slow traffic city-wide. This starts a positive cycle. People feel more comfortable walking or cycling, which reduces traffic levels, making streets even safer, meaning even more people can walk or cycle.

2. Does the Pace Car provoke road rage?

No. Many people who sign up to the Pace Car Program were already acting as unofficial Pace Cars. They report that incidents of road rage decrease when they badge their car as a Pace Car. Instead of the driver behind thinking they are stuck behind some 'idiot' who doesn't know how to drive, the Pace Car sticker lets them know that there is a purpose for why the car is being driven within the speed limit.

3. What happens if I accidentally speed?

Take a breath and slow down. The Pace Car pledge is a declaration of intent, not a legally binding contract or repressive cult where you will be stoned if you break the 'rules'! Kicking the speed habit can be hard work. Allow yourself more time to get places so you won't be so tempted to speed.

4. Do I only act as a Pace Car in my neighborhood or on all streets?

On all city streets. The Pace Car is a kind of treaty between neighborhoods: you respect the quality of life in our neighborhood and we will do the same for you. The Pace Car promotes a new civility and mutual respect on our streets.

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1. How do I get a permit for new construction on my property?

File a zoning permit with the Building department describing your project to determine if you just need a building permit or if you need a public review/public hearing for wetlands, zoning relief, architectural review etc.  NOTE: Not all projects require a public hearing.

The permit path to project completion varies depending on the zoning district where your property is located, whether or not there are wetlands and how big your project is.

Other permits may be required from the Department of Public Works. Please visit their page.

2. What if my project requires a public hearing?

You must apply for the appropriate permit in the Office of Planning & Sustainability by following these instructions.

Application deadline is generally 30 days prior to the public hearing. Staff will not schedule a public hearing, however, until an application is complete with all the needed information so the application can potentially be acted on the same night. (Planning Board, Zoning Board, and the Conservation Commission generally meet second and fourth Thursdays, Central Business Architecture first Tuesdays, and other boards as needed.)

It is strongly urged that all applicants check with appropriate city staff before filing an application to ensure that all information and materials required to address the project are submitted with the application.

3. What type of permits are reviewed at public hearings?

Permit Type and standards

Site Plan Approval (Planning Board) review looks at the details of a project (e.g., traffic mitigation, stormwater, pedestrian access), not the use. The board can only deny a site plan if the project cannot meet the technical criteria-- usually only if an applicant refuses to provide necessary information. Some projects require special permits and site plan approval simultaneously. Other agencies and representatives can help review major and complex projects to provide feedback to applicants and boards. Required Vote:  Majority of members present.

Special Permit (Planning Board and Zoning Board) review determines whether or not the proposed use is appropriate based on the permit criteria. The board may deny a project IF it finds that the criteria are not met, or cannot be met even with conditions. Required Vote: Board super-majority (5 planning board or 3 zoning board)

Special Permit (Planning Board) for multifamily or mixed commercial/residential within 1/2 mile of train or bus pulse point if 10% are affordable units, and reduction of parking to encourage density. Required Vote: Majority of the Board

Subdivision approval of projects which require new roads (Planning Board), based on infrastructure standards, and approval not required of survey plans, based on sufficiency of the frontage. Required Vote:  Majority of members present

Central Business Architecture (Central Business Architecture Committee) review of  the design of buildings, not the uses, in accordance with existing standards. Required Vote:  Majority of members present

Wetlands permits (Order of Conditions and Determination of Applicability) (Conservation Commission) review is of the wetlands impacts based on specific criteria, not the desirability of a project. Required Vote: Majority of members present

Historical Commission (demolition delay and historic district) review is based on the specific historic preservation or compatibility standards in the regulations, not on the desirability of a project. Required Vote: Majority of members present

4. How do I find out about projects in my neighborhood?

Applications and supporting materials for pending projects that require a public hearing are available at www.NorthamptonMA.gov/Pending or Planning & Sustainability, City Hall,210 Main St., Northampton (8:45 AM to 4:30 PM). Planning staff is available to answer questions: www.northamptonma.gov/Directory.aspx?did=22.

Public Hearing notices are available at www.gazettenet.com/Public-Notices (search for Northampton) and public agendas are posted http://northamptonma.gov/agendacenter. For some projects abutters will get mailed a notice about two weeks prior to the hearing, and a notice will be posted on the property. (Notice is not mailed for continued public hearings, but they are posted at the agenda center.)

Not all projects require a public hearing. Those projects may be reviewed at the Building Department website.

5. Where do I comment or ask questions about a project?

Comments/questions may be made to city staff via voice or via email ahead of the public hearing.  Comments may also be made during the public hearing for that item.

Public hearings open at or after the time advertised, never early. The chair will open the hearing and the applicant will present their plans and the board will then ask its questions. After that, members of the public are invited to ask questions and offer any comments. Written comments, including the name and address of the person making the comment, may be submitted to the board up until the time the public hearing is closed. Most public hearings are closed and decisions are issued on the same night, although some complicated projects or incomplete filings may be continued to a specified date and time.

6. Who approves projects that require a public hearing?

The Planning Board, Zoning Board, Historical Commission, Conservation Commission, and Central Business Architecture hear permit applications at advertised public hearings. Depending on the relevant statute, the city or the applicant may publish legal notices and notify abutters. Anyone is welcome at hearings and invited to participate.

Boards are made up of unpaid community volunteers--dedicating their time to serve our community. Planning & Sustainability staff assists applicants, community members, and boards to ensure a legal, fair, and transparent process following regulations and broader Sustainable Northampton Comprehensive Plan goals and objectives.

Neither the Mayor nor City Councilors review or approve permits.

7. How are decisions made and what happens after a public hearing?

The Board determines when there is enough information to close the public hearing. The Board must make a decision based upon regulations and adopted plans and consideration of public comments. There are often many ways to address the standards. The Board must evaluate what the applicant has presented and whether that application meets the standards as presented or with conditions.  The Board cannot redesign a project based on ideas generated during public hearings.

Approval standards are at www.northamptonma.gov/938/Permits-Codes. Public comments are very important and often persuasive, especially when they align with the regulatory standards. Testimony does not replace, however, the board's reliance on other information, statutes, city plans and regulations, and case law. (See Unrepresented Democracy in Local Zoning and Planning Boards). The City writes its own zoning and other ordinances, typically based on the City’s Sustainable Northampton Comprehensive Plan (updated 2021), which includes climate resilience and regeneration, bike/ped, and open space elements. Projects such as affordable and attainable housing and encouraging land use patterns that support commercial centers and reduce greenhouse gas emissions often come from community-wide goals even when immediate abutters might have a different vision. 

After the public hearing is closed, no new testimony or information can be accepted. The permit granting board deliberates and makes their decision. Planning & Sustainability staff then issues the necessary decision. Notice of the decisions varies based on statutory requirements, with notice of Zoning Board and Planning Board decisions mailed to abutters. Abutters have the right to appeal, within strict appeal periods and procedures established by law for each permit process.  Appeal periods are noted on decisions.

Applicants must pick up certified copies of the decision from the City Clerk at the end of the appeal period and record the decision at the Register of Deeds before seeking a building permit.

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1. Can I withdraw or borrow from my funds while still employed?

No. State law prohibits withdrawing or borrowing from your accumulated deductions while still a contributing member. Your funds can only be withdrawn upon termination of employment.

2. Are there penalties for withdrawing my funds?

For direct withdrawal of funds, 20% of your total accumulated deductions will be withheld for federal taxes. This amount is not necessarily the amount you may actually owe when you file your federal taxes, rather it is a standard withholding requirement.

Please be aware that when you file your federal taxes you may also be subject to a federal tax penalty for early withdrawal of retirement funds. Check with the IRS for complete information.

3. Can I rollover my funds to another plan?

Yes. Upon termination of employment you may rollover your funds to a qualified plan such as an IRA. We do not withhold federal taxes on funds that are rolled over into a qualified plan.

4. Can I get a refund if I owe child support?

You may not be entitled to some or any of your retirement funds if you owe back child support. All applicants are checked with the Department of Revenue for child support obligation purposes before funds are released.

5. Can I leave my funds in the system upon termination of employment?

If you are not vested you may leave your funds in the retirement system for up to 10 years, upon which time your account is considered abandoned.

6. Can I transfer my funds to another retirement system?

You may transfer your funds and creditable service to any public municipality retirement system within the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. To do so, ask your new retirement system to request a transfer from our system. No forms are required from our office to process a transfer, only a letter from the requesting retirement system.

7. Is there a waiting period before I can apply for a refund?

Your application will not be acted upon or processed in any way until the retirement office has been notified that your employment has been terminated, and the completion of one full pay period past your date of separation.

8. How long does it take to get my refund?

Assuming the above conditions are met, we will generally process your application within 60 days of receipt. All refunds require board approval before any funds can be released. The board meets once a month, generally during the last week of the month. Depending upon circumstances, we are sometimes able to process applications the same month they are received.

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1. What is a single use plastic bag?

A thin-film single-use plastic bag is a bag with a thickness of 3.0 mils or less which are intended for single-use transport of purchased products.

2. Who is affected by this ordinance?

All sales outlets, stores, shops, restaurants, markets, supermarkets, clubs, pharmacies or other places of business located within the City of Northampton which sell or convey merchandise directly to the ultimate consumer.

3. When does this ordinance take effect?

January 1, 2016

4. What types of bags can I use?

Reusable bags - bags that have a thickness greater than 3.0 mils and are specifically designed for multiple use and are made of thick recyclable plastic, cloth fabric or other durable materials that do not decompose into harmful chemical components. A reuseable bag may be recyclable or compostable and is specifically designed and manufactured for reuse.

Biodegradable bags - Bags that: (1) contact no polymers derived from fossil fuels; and (2) are intended for single use and will decompose in a natural setting to an environmentally beneficial material at a rate comparable to other biodegradable materials such as paper, leaves, and food waste.

Compostable plastic bags - plastic bags that: (1) conform to the current America Society for Testing and Materials International D6400 for compostability; (2) are certified and labeled as meeting the ASTM D6400 standard specification by a recognized verification entity; and (3) conform to any other standards deemed acceptable by this section.

5. Are there exemptions?

Yes there are three exemptions:

1. Thin-film plastic bags used to contain dry cleaning, newspapers, produce, meat, bulk foods, wet items and other similar merchandise, typically without handles;

2. Any flexible transparent covering for uncooked or raw meat, poultry, raw fish, hard cheese, cold cuts, fruit, and vegetable products, baked goods, or bread;

3. Thin-film single-use plastic bags under 3.0 mils purchased prior to April 1, 2015, and used before July 1, 2018.

6. What happens if you do not comply?

If it is determined that a violation of the single-use plastic bag ban ordinance has occurred, the Mayor's designee (who is the Health Department Inspectors) shall issue a warning notice for the initial violation.

If an additional violation of the ordinance has occurred within one year after a warning notice has been issued for an initial violation, the Mayor's designee shall issue a notice of violation and shall impose a penalty against the retail establishment.

The penalty for each violation that occurs after the issuance of the warning notice shall be no more than: 1) $50 for the first offense; 2) $100 for the second offense and all subsequent offenses. No more than one penalty shall be imposed upon a retail establishment within a seven-calendar-day period.

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1. Why doesn’t the City of Northampton install more stop signs, particularly at 4-way intersections, to reduce speeding and crashes?

Many people believe that installing more stop signs, particularly at all approaches to intersections, will slow traffic speeds and prevent crashes.

There is no real evidence to indicate that stop signs decrease the speed of traffic. Impatient drivers view the additional delay caused by unwarranted stop signs as "lost time" to be made up by driving at higher speeds between stop signs.

Unwarranted stop signs breed disrespect by motorists who tend to ignore them or slow down without stopping. These "roll through" stops can sometimes lead to tragic consequences.

Unwarranted stop signs also create negative environmental impacts via increased CO2 emissions, decreased fuel efficiency, and degraded neighborhood sound/air quality.

2. What are the official guidelines that determine when a stop sign is warranted?

The Massachusetts Highway Department requires that all cities and towns follow the national guidelines outlined in the "Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices" (MUTCD) in determining the use of traffic control devices, including STOP signs:

The purpose of the stop sign is to prevent collisions. It is not intended, nor shall it be used for the control of speed, traffic calming, or to forestall pedestrian, rear-end, or turning movement accidents.

To insure uniformity in stop sign studies and recommendations, the warrants as provided in the 2003 MUTCD. Section 2B.05 will govern.

Multi-way stop Signs must meet the warrant criteria as outlined in Section 2B.07 of the 2003 MUTCD.

Source: Massachusetts amendments to the 2003 manual on uniform traffic control devices and the standard municipal traffic code, October 2006

3. When are stop signs used?

Stop signs are designed to assign and control the right-of-way at locations where the prevailing traffic volumes and reported crash history make assignment of right-of-way desirable. As simple as that may appear on the surface, the decision to install these signs requires careful consideration of engineering criteria.

4. What are the specific criteria for installing stop signs?

To determine whether or not a stop sign would be the best and most appropriate measure of traffic control, Northampton Department of Public Works (DPW) engineers analyze the various characteristic of an intersection. Some of the questions they ask themselves include:

Is this an intersection of a minor road with a main road where application of the normal right-of-way rule (e.g. yield to the right) is unduly hazardous?

Is this an intersection where a street enters an arterial (major) street?

Is this an intersection where a combination of speed, restricted view and reported crash history indicates a need for control by the stop sign?

5. What are the specific criteria for installing all-way stops?

In order for Northampton to consider the installation of an all-way stop, MassHighway requires that the following MUTCD "warrants" must be satisfied:

Where traffic control signals are justified, the multiway stop is an interim measure that can be installed quickly to control traffic while arrangements are being made for the installation of the traffic control signal.

A crash problem, as indicated by 5 or more reported crashes in a 12-month period that are susceptible to correction by a multiway stop installation. Such crashes include right- and left-turn collisions as well as right-angle collisions.

Minimum volumes:
The vehicular volume entering the intersection from the major street approaches (total of both approaches) averages at least 300 vehicles per hour for any 8 hours of an average day, and

The combined vehicular, pedestrian, and bicycle volume entering the intersection from the minor street approaches (total of both approaches) averages at least 200 units per hour for the same 8 hours, with an average delay to minor-street vehicular traffic of at least 30 seconds per vehicle during the highest hour, but

f the 85th-percentile approach speed of the major-street traffic exceeds 65 km/h or exceeds 40 mph, the minimum vehicular volume warrants are 70 percent of the above values.

Where no single criterion is satisfied, but where Criteria B, C.1, and C.2 are all satisfied to 80 percent of the minimum values. Criterion C.3 is excluded from this condition.

source: 2003 Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD)

6. How does the City of Northampton know whether or not a particular intersection meets the MUTCD warrants?

The Department of Public Works (DPW) analyze problematic intersections using using historical crash data maintained by the Northampton Police Department together with volume and speed data collected through traffic study.

Sometimes these traffic studies are conducted for the city by an outside entity like the Pioneer Valley Planning Commission (PVPC) or, in the case of a new commercial or housing project, by private engineering firms paid for by the project developer.

7. What are the "rules of the road" at Northampton intersections where multi-way stop signs have been installed in accordance with MUTCD warrants?

The Massachusetts DMV driver’s manual offers the following guidance: “If a four way or all-way sign is added to a STOP sign at an intersection, all traffic approaching the intersection must stop. The first vehicle in the intersection or four-way stop has the right of way.”

The unofficial rules of thumb at four-way stop intersections are as follows:

If you are the only vehicle at the intersection, stop, look all ways, and proceed.

If there is already another vehicle at the intersection, it has the right-of-way.

If two vehicles arrive at the same time, the vehicle on the right has the right-of way.

8. Shouldn't Northampton be allowed to install stop signs where and when it wants, particularly when requested by a neighborhood?

When misused, the stop sign can create an inconvenient, and even dangerous, situation for motorists and pedestrians. Drivers are more likely to intentionally violate unwarranted signs.

Research has shown that unwarranted stop signs and stop signs that have been used for speed control, do not have the effect desired. Speeds between the stop signs increase as drivers try to make up for lost time. Drivers tend to roll through the unwarranted stop signs with higher frequency (over 50%).

Traffic accidents at unwarranted stop controlled intersection are often higher than when the intersection was uncontrolled or two-way stop controlled. There is also an increase in noise and air pollution levels to nearby residents as the result of vehicles braking and accelerating.

Stop signs cannot be viewed as a cure-all for solving all safety problems, but, when properly located, they can be useful traffic control devices to enhance safety for all roadway users.

9. Where can I read more information and research on stop signs?

Federal Highway Administration Intersection Safety Brief
Institute of Traffic Engineers (ITE) STOP Sign Issue Brief
Massachusetts Amendments to the 2003 MUTCD
Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD)

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1. How long has Northampton provided Veteran's Services?

After the Civil War, Northampton began providing for needy veterans. Today this program is administered by the Veteran's Services Department.

2. What are Veteran's Services?

There are both benefits and services provided to veterans.

Benefits related to food, clothing, shelter, and medical care for veterans of all wars and their dependents. Services relate to processing claims for veterans and their dependents. These include compensation, V.A. pensions (service and non-service connected) rehabilitation, counseling relative to employment, Social Security, Supplementary Security Income and a variety of other areas.

The department has recently been successful in helping to get the burial allowance increased for those veterans who have died without funds so that they might be afforded a dignified burial.

3. Where does the money come from for Veteran's Services?

Both the city and state share in the funding of this program. Each year Northampton budgets money for veteran's benefits and is reimbursed 75% of the cost of this aid to veterans by the commonwealth.

4. What is the difference between Veteran's Services and Veteran's Affairs (VA)?

The Veteran's Services Department administers benefits for Northampton veterans which are separate and distinct from those provided by the Veteran's Affairs (VA), a program of the federal government. The city Veteran's Services Department works closely with the VA in searching out any additional aid available to the veteran.

5. How does Veteran's Services relate to the Vietnam Veteran?

The department naturally offers its services to all veterans but, recognizing the unique needs of the Vietnam Veteran, the agent works primarily with Vietnam veterans and their particular projects. The VA Outreach Center on Pleasant Street offers job workshops, counseling, and employment referral to those unemployed. In addition it has inaugurated the memorialization of those Vietnam veterans at our war memorial site in front of Memorial Hall.

6. Who may apply for benefits?

Any person with proof that he or she is a veteran or a dependent of a veteran is entitled to file an application.

7. What does it take to qualify for benefits?

Veteran's services and benefits is a selective program based on certain conditions established by law. The principal requirements are:

• War time service with discharge or separation under honorable conditions
• Legal residence in the City of Northampton
• Financial need

8. Where may I file an application?

The Veteran's Services Department is located on the first floor at the Memorial Hall Building:
240 Main St.
Suite #4
Northampton, MA 01060-3113

You may also call 413-587-1299.

9. Where can I get a copy of my discharge papers?

Massachusetts residence at the time of entrance into the service:

• War Records Department
  Room 1004
  100 Cambridge St.
  Boston, MA 02203
  Ph: 1-617-727-2964

Out of state residence at the of entrance into the service, please contact the Veteran's Agent via email.

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1. How can I vote if I can't get to the polls on Election Day?

 Voting by mail is available to all voters for all elections in 2020. NEW LEGISLATION allows you to vote by mail without an excuse.

2. How do I apply to vote by mail?

A written request is needed that includes the name of the voter, legal voting address, address where the ballot will be sent, and the voter (or designee) signature.  

If you are registered as a Democrat, Green Rainbow, Libertarian, or Republican, you can only receive the ballot for the party with which you are affiliated.

If you are requesting an absentee ballot for a primary election and you are not an enrolled voter (have no political party affiliation) you must also choose a party ballot.  For the September 1, 2020 Primary Election there are four party ballots to choose from:  Democratic, Green Rainbow, Libertarian, or Republican.  No ballot can be mailed without this information.  

3. What is the deadline for requesting a vote by mail ballot?

Applications must reach the City Clerk’s Office by August 26 close of business for the State Primary.

Applications must reach the City Clerk’s Office by October 28 close of business for the State Election.

4. When does my vote by mail ballot need to be returned in order to be counted?

State Primary ballots need to be back to the City Clerk’s Office by 8 p.m. on September 1.  THEY CANNOT BE DROPPED OFF AT THE POLLS.

State Election ballots need to be postmarked no later than November 3 and must be back at the City Clerk’s Office no later than November 6th close of business.

5. Can someone else apply for the ballot for me?

Yes; a family member, close relative, or other person residing in the same household may apply for a ballot to be mailed to you.

6. How often must I apply for a ballot?

You must file a new application annually for one or all elections for that calendar year.

7. If I am permanently disabled, can I always vote at home?

Yes. Your doctor can write a letter that you must file with the City Clerk. The letter must state that you are permanently unable to go to the polls due to a physical disability. The City Clerk’s Office will automatically send you an application every year. The application must be filed with the City Clerk every year.

8. Can someone help me mark the ballot?

Yes. If you cannot read the ballot or cannot mark the ballot, anyone of your choosing can help you. The assisting person must complete the brown envelope with the voter's name and complete the assisting person section and state the reason the voter could not mark the ballot.

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1. What do the flashing blue lights at intersections mean?

When the blue lights at traffic signals in downtown Northampton and Florence are flashing a snow emergency is in effect. That means no overnight on-street parking from 12:01 a.m. - 6 a.m. (2 a.m. - 7 a.m. for Main Street).

2. How do I know if there is a ban in effect for on-street parking?

When the blue lights on the traffic signals in downtown Northampton or Florence are flashing, a winter parking ban is in effect, there is no on-street parking throughout Northampton from 12:01 a.m. - 6 a.m. (2 a.m. - 7 a.m. for Main Street).

When a Snow Emergency is called, a City-wide night parking ban goes into effect: overnight parking is prohibited on any street from 12:01 a.m. - 6 a.m., except downtown on Main Street where the prohibition is from 2 a.m. - 7 a.m.

Snow Emergencies remain in effect until cancelled and are often enforced for more than one night. The Winter Information Line is updated and Alert emails are sent when the Snow Emergency is cancelled.

Overnight parking is available in the John E. Gare garage at all hours on a space-available basis. There is a fee for overnight parking in the garage. Free overnight parking is available in the city parking lot on Armory Street (near the Parking Garage) from 8 p.m. - 8 a.m.

If you park on a city street or in a city parking lot (except the Armory Street lot) your vehicle will be subject to ticketing and towing. This is a public safety issue.

Parking bans can extend a few days, stay informed by calling the snow information line at 413-586-6969 or by signing up with Reverse-911 to receive, email, text or telephone updates.

3. How do I know if a parking ban has been lifted?

Snow emergencies remain in effect until cancelled and are often enforced for more than one night. The Winter Information Line is updated and alert emails are sent when the Snow emergency is cancelled.

Sign up to receive alerts and stay informed.

4. My street was plowed, why is there still a parking ban?

Snow emergencies and parking bans can remain in effect for several days. Department of Public Works crews not only plow snow but also sand streets and perform snow removal operations. Snow clearing and removal operations may take place over several days and a parking ban will remain in effect until the roads are clear and safe for on-street parking.

5. Where can I park during a snow emergency?

Overnight parking is available in the E.J. Gare Garage at all hours, on a space-available basis. There is a fee for overnight parking in the garage. During Winter Parking Bans, free overnight parking is available in the city parking lot on Armory Street (near the garage) from 8 p.m. - 8 a.m. All cars must be moved by 8 a.m. and cannot return until 10 a.m. and moved again from 6 p.m. allowed to return at 8 p.m. for plow crews to clear that parking lot.

6. My vehicle was towed now what do I do?

If your vehicle was towed contact Emergency Dispatch (413) 587-1100 to find out where your vehicle is and who to call to retrieve it. Any vehicle that is towed was also ticketed. If you think your vehicle was wrongly towed you must first appeal the parking ticket, information on appealing the parking ticket can be found on the ticket itself or by visiting Parking Ticket Appeal.

7. My mailbox was hit by a city snowplow, what do I do?

Occasionally mailboxes are damaged due to snowplowing operations. The Department of Public Works makes every effort to avoid damaging mailboxes but sometimes due to the amount of snow, weight of the snow or ice and the speed the plows need to travel at, mailboxes are sometimes damaged.

If you are unable to still receive mail go to your local Post Office and make arrangements for mail pick up.

If your mailbox was damaged as a result of city snowplowing operations visit the City Clerk's Office website for information on filing a claim. City Clerk's Office

8. Does the city provide sand to residents?

Winter sand is free for residents (two bucket maximum) and is available at the Department of Public Works yard 125 Locust Street, on a self-serve basis any time the main Department of Public Works gates are open.

9. Can I push snow into the street for removal?

When plowing or snow blowing your driveway, please do not put snow into or across the street. It's against city ordinances to do so because it can freeze and cause ice ruts, making driving dangerous for everyone, including plow drivers.

10. Do I have to shovel out my fire hydrant?

If possible, please shovel out the fire hydrant near your home as well as any storm drain grates. If rains follows the snow, street flooding and icing can quickly become a problem.

11. When do I have to shovel my sidewalk?

It is important for the health and safety of residents that sidewalks are cleared of snow within 24 hours from the end of a snow event. If you are responsible for a sidewalk on your property please clear the snow as soon as possible. Fines can be levied by the Police Department if snow is not cleared. Changes were recently made to the sidewalk snow removal ordinance, a link to the ordinance is available below.

Code of Ordinances 285-17

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1. How did the Youth Commission start?

The Northampton Youth Commission first met in September of 2001 when a group of ambitious teenage residents of Northampton approached Mayor Mary Clare Higgins with the idea of creating a special commission. The goal of the organization was to give youth their own voice in city politics, a voice that without the presence of the Youth Commission was all too often dismissed or ignored.

2. What types of things has the Youth Commission been involved in?

Initiative to lowering the municipal voting age (Vote16) (2021); Drafted and introduced a revised plastics ordinance, 'Plastic Reduction & Sustainability Ordinance' (2019-2020); No Hate Space Anti-Bullying Assemblies at Northampton High School (2011); Support Letter for Lilly Library's Young Adult Program (2011); Main Event Teen Center Benefit Concert (2007); Mayors Hot Chocolate Run for Safe Passage (2006); Holiday Giving (2006); Youth Commission Radio Show (current); Northampton Public Access Television (2005); Art benches in downtown Northampton (2005); Bridge the Gap Concert to fundraise for Senior Center (August 2004); Opposition to the Northampton Noise Ordinance Youth Summit (January 2004)

3. When and where does the Commission meet? Can anyone attend?

The Youth Commission meets in the Hearing Room in City Hall at 7 p.m. on the first and third Wednesday of every month (but not on legal holidays) during the school year. The meetings are open and the public is welcome.

4. How can I become a member? What are the qualifications?

To be a member of the Youth Commission, you must be between the ages of 13-18 and be a legal resident of Northampton. It is recommended that you attend at least one meeting before signing up to be a member. You can also ask about signing up at the meeting.