Holyoke CPA Committee Advances Nick's Nest Jukebox Restoration Toward March Vote

HOLYOKE -- February 11, 2026, Holyoke's Community Preservation Act Committee advanced a $20,000 proposal to restore the vintage band box and jukebox system at Nick's Nest restaurant toward a funding vote on March 4. Jennifer Shatenoff presented photographs and a contractor estimate from an Iowa-based specialist, described as among the few people in the country who work on such systems, covering repair of the control module, mechanical and aesthetic work on the band box figures, travel, reinstallation, and on-site testing. The committee expressed broad enthusiasm but flagged a critical obstacle: state CPA law requires a formal historic designation before funds can be released, and the Holyoke Historical Commission currently lacks a quorum to issue one. Committee member Chris, who sits on the commission, confirmed the body is actively recruiting volunteers, and staff coordinator Naomi offered to explore a state-level designation as an alternative path. Parks and Recreation withdrew its FY26 applications before the meeting, leaving Nick's Nest as the sole presenter. Public surveys in English and Spanish are set to launch within days, with the committee scoring vote to follow before March 4.