The Holyoke Finance Committee meeting on January 14, 2024, focused on key budgetary adjustments and the acceptance of a significant grant aimed at enhancing community safety.

The first major item discussed was a proposed transfer of $10,500 within the police department's budget. This transfer would move funds from the patrolmen's line to cover expenses related to technology and data maintenance. The Chief of Police explained that the original budget was underfunded, particularly due to a substantial payment for a new records management system that consumed a significant portion of the IT budget. The committee unanimously approved the motion to transfer the funds.

The second significant topic was the acceptance of the Shannon Community Safety Initiative grant, amounting to $606,446.54. This grant, which requires a 25% in-kind match, is designed to support various community safety programs, including gang suppression and proactive community engagement through walking beats in specific neighborhoods. The police department will allocate approximately $200,000 of the grant towards these initiatives, which will run until December 31, 2025.

Committee members expressed interest in the grant's impact on local youth programs, particularly during the winter months. One member raised concerns about the availability of winter activities for children, suggesting that more programs similar to those offered in other communities could be beneficial.

Overall, the meeting highlighted the city's commitment to enhancing public safety through strategic funding and community engagement initiatives. The committee's approval of the budget transfer and acceptance of the grant marks a proactive step towards addressing local safety concerns and fostering community involvement.