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Hampden seeks Pioneer Valley Planning Commission help to update open-space plan to keep grant eligibility
Summary
The Select Board voted to request technical assistance from the Pioneer Valley Planning Commission to update Hampden’s Open Space and Recreation Plan so the town can remain eligible for park- and trail-related grants, staff said Jan. 21.
Hampden’s Select Board voted Jan. 21 to pursue technical assistance from the Pioneer Valley Planning Commission (PVPC) to update the town’s Open Space and Recreation Plan (OSRP), town staff said.
Board members and staff said the update is aimed at preserving eligibility for park and trail grants. “There are numerous grants that are available — park grants, trails grants — and having updated open space and recreation plans are prerequisite to being able to submit an application,” a staff member said during the meeting.
The board heard that PVPC receives state funds to provide local technical assistance and typically solicits projects annually. Staff recommended requesting PVPC assistance so the OSRP can be updated at no direct cost to the town, or at least with PVPC handling the bulk of the work; the board agreed to pursue the request.
Town staff told the board PVPC could complete the update by late February if a contract is in place. Staff also noted smaller grant options exist if additional funding is needed for the update.
Board members discussed timing for related grant applications: park grant application windows were described as opening in the late spring or summer, so having a draft OSRP or a contract in place before those application deadlines was cited as important.
The board approved the staff request to seek PVPC assistance. The meeting record notes a motion, a second and an affirmative voice vote; an exact roll-call tally was not specified in the transcript.
The Select Board directed staff to contact PVPC and proceed with the solicitation for assistance; staff will report back with contract details and a timeline for completion.
Ending: The OSRP update is intended to support the town’s ability to apply for state and regional recreation and trails grants later this year; staff will return with contract terms and any follow-up funding needs.
