Holyoke Council Refers Spy Camera, Glove Bans To Panel

Select Board · Meeting of September 2, 2026

HOLYOKE — The Holyoke City Council sent proposed bans on police "shock gloves" and automated license plate readers to its Public Safety Committee after ten speakers urged action during public comment. Speakers cited a $1.9 million settlement paid after an Aurora, Colorado family was held at gunpoint on a false ALPR match and a New Bedford case in which an officer used camera data to stalk an ex-partner. Councilor Devine said she had already begun gathering Flock contract details after a constituent complaint.

In other business, the council voted unanimously to merge Holyoke's Historical Commission and Local Historic District Commission, disbanded the volunteer Parking Advisory Committee for lack of quorum, and approved transferring three Newton Street parcels to the Holyoke Redevelopment Authority for $1 to advance a roughly 115-unit affordable housing project. "The continued use of ALPRs... only serves to undermine public trust," one commenter told the council.

In the full story:

• Who Was There
• Organizations And Documents Referenced
• The complete report — 3,321 words

Source: the Select Board meeting of September 2, 2026, reported from the official video recording and transcript.