Holyoke CPA Committee reviews $725,000 Scott Tower restoration, garden funding bids

Other Committee · Meeting of January 14, 2026

Holyoke's Community Preservation Act Committee heard funding pitches for a $725,000 Scott Tower restoration and a community garden expansion at its January 14 meeting. Yoni Gugauer, the city's Director of Conservation and Sustainability, presented Phase 2 improvements to the 1939 Civilian Conservation Corps stone tower at Anniversary Hill Park, requesting $200,000 in new CPA funds to complement a $425,000 state Parkland Acquisitions and Recreation grant and $100,000 in prior CPA money already in hand; plans call for a new aluminum interior staircase, masonry repointing, a wheelchair ramp, and accessible landscaping, with construction required to begin by July 1 under the state grant's terms. Jess Gerstney and a Neighbor to Neighbor staffer identified as Lena presented a Dwight Street Community Garden revitalization proposal seeking CPA money for 14 new raised beds, fruit trees, electrical service, and increased hours for garden coordinator Gabby Perry, with all construction labor to be performed by volunteers.

Committee member Michael pressed both applicants on electrical infrastructure costs and utility security, and the committee flagged an unresolved internal question about whether CPA funds may be used for staff salaries. No funding votes were taken; the committee will hold a third applicant presentation night in February before deliberating on awards.

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Source: the Other Committee meeting of January 14, 2026, reported from the official video recording and transcript.