Chicopee council sends proposed purchase of Exchange Street building for school offices to finance committee

The Chicopee City Council voted to refer to the finance committee a mayor's order authorizing negotiation to acquire 219 and 225 Exchange Street for the purpose of relocating the school department administrative offices.

Mayor said the building — roughly 27,000 square feet and formerly occupied by bank and retail tenants — fits the city’s criteria for an accessible, downtown location on bus routes and could consolidate satellite staff now housed elsewhere. “Right now we’re paying $280,000 to rent annually at Dulong Circle,” the mayor said, and an appraisal included in the seller’s proposal values the property at $2,236,000.

Councilors asked for a site tour and additional financial detail. “I’m in favor of doing it, but I do have other questions,” Councilor [unnamed] said and moved that the order be sent to finance for review. Several councilors noted downtown revitalization and reduced long-term rental costs as benefits; others asked about lease obligations at Dulong Circle and parking capacity. The mayor said the city’s finance team had already begun preliminary discussions on funding strategies and stressed the intent to avoid additional burdens on taxpayers.

The council’s vote to refer the matter to the finance committee was unanimous (11–0). The finance committee will schedule a public hearing and councilors requested a site visit so members can inspect the property before further action.

Background: the mayor said the city issued a request for interest in March and received one proposal from the current occupant. The plan includes contracting for a Phase I environmental assessment, an updated appraisal if needed, and schematic design and compliance reviews before any purchase contract is executed.