The Council on June 18 voted to appropriate up to $25,000 from free cash to help fund the Northampton Public Schools superintendent search planned for the 2025-26 school year. The mayor and school committee told the council the outgoing superintendent's last day will be June 30, 2026, and the district expects to begin the formal search process with a discussion at the school committee's August meeting.

Why it matters: Superintendent searches typically require professional recruitment services, advertising and community engagement. School committee members estimated recent searches cost in the tens of thousands; the council approved a $25,000 appropriation to alleviate pressure on the district's operating budget and cover search costs including consultant fees or advertising.

Next steps: The school committee plans a public discussion and timeline in August. The city's appropriation will be available to the school department to contract for search services and related outreach. Councilors said $25,000 approximates prior search costs and asked staff to report back on use of funds following procurement.

Ending: The appropriation passed unanimously after the council suspended rules to permit a same-night vote.