Holyoke committee reviews Amanda Garcia's home occupation permit for accounting business

Holyoke's Development and Government Relations Committee convened on April 8, 2025, to discuss a special permit application for a home occupation business submitted by Amanda and Marcos Garcia. The meeting, which included a public hearing, aimed to address concerns raised by neighbors regarding the operation of an accounting firm at their residence located at 25 Breton Lane.

The committee opened the public hearing to allow for community input, following a previous session held on March 11. Amanda Garcia presented her case, emphasizing that her accounting business operates discreetly and has not caused any disruptions in the neighborhood. Several letters of support from neighbors were read into the record, highlighting the positive impact of the Garcias' business on the community and affirming that it does not negatively affect the quality of life in the area.

However, some committee members expressed concerns about the nature of the business and its implications for the neighborhood. Councilor Bacon noted past inquiries from residents regarding the property's occupancy and reported that there were suspicions about the Garcias not living at the address. This led to a discussion about the number of employees associated with the business, with Amanda clarifying that she has one full-time employee who works on-site and several remote employees.

The committee acknowledged the mixed sentiments from the neighborhood, with some residents supporting the business while others raised concerns about increased traffic and the use of the property for additional business activities. Councilor Bartley emphasized the need for careful consideration of the permit, suggesting that it should include contingencies to address any potential issues that may arise.

As the meeting concluded, the committee members recognized the importance of balancing business development with community concerns. The decision on the special permit will be made in the coming weeks, with the committee committed to ensuring that the interests of both the Garcias and the surrounding residents are taken into account. This ongoing dialogue reflects Holyoke's efforts to foster local business growth while maintaining the integrity of its neighborhoods.