Northampton council approves resolution opposing expansion of Pioneer Valley Chinese Immersion Charter School

At a Nov. 26, 2024 special meeting, the Northampton City Council approved Resolution 24.16 opposing expansion of the Pioneer Valley Chinese Immersion Charter School.

The measure — introduced Nov. 7 and given a second reading Nov. 21 — was brought back after a charter objection was raised. Councillor LaBarge moved to place the resolution on the floor and the motion was seconded; the presiding official recorded the motion as made by Councillor LaBarge and seconded by Councillor Dobbs (the transcript reads "Doves," which appears to be a transcription error). Councillor Mayuri offered brief remarks thanking the sponsors of the measure "for their work." No amendments or substantive debate were recorded.

The council conducted a roll-call vote. Councilors Dobbs, Elkins, Jarrett, LaBarge, Maori, Moulton and Clemmer voted "Yes." Councilor Perry had not yet arrived and Councilor Rothenberg was not present. The presiding official declared the resolution passed by those present.

Resolution 24.16 opposes expansion of the Pioneer Valley Chinese Immersion Charter School; the text of the resolution and any stated grounds for the objection were not read into the public record during the segments captured in the transcript. The presiding official noted the meeting had been convened specifically because a charter objection had been raised, but the transcript does not record the substance of the objection during this session.

With no further business, the council moved to adjourn. The motion to adjourn passed on a roll call. The presiding official closed the meeting with holiday wishes and said, "We will see you on Sunday fifth."