Whately Center School Committee Pushes Forward on Kitchen Outreach, Survey Plans

WHATELY -- June 16, 2025, Whately's Center School reuse subcommittee advances commercial kitchen outreach and closes out a $32,256 feasibility study. The all-volunteer committee, operating under the School Committee, heard from member Carolyn that Aaron Vega, CEO of the Economic Development Opportunity Council in Springfield, has agreed to help broker meetings with the Greenfield Business Association and the Franklin County Chamber of Commerce as the group seeks partners for a proposed commercial kitchen, co-working space, and possible childcare facility in the historic building. A farmer survey is targeted for distribution the week of June 29. The feasibility study, funded largely by a $14,000 Heart Family Fund grant and $14,000 in Community Preservation Act money, came in at $32,256.22, with a $406.22 overage absorbed by staff budget after the consultant billed for uncontracted meeting attendance and mileage. The committee also flagged an unaddressed liability concern: the building's front steps are in poor condition and accessible to the public, with members calling for temporary barriers and a check-in with town building official Garrett Barry.