Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Property Maintenance topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Residents, councilors press McDonald’s to address overgrown lot near 117 Jacob St.
Summary
At a Jan. 30 Public Works Committee hearing, Councilor Mary Beth Pniak-Costello said neighbors reported trash, overgrowth and small fires on a vacant lot near 117 Jacob St. Health and building staff said they’ve notified the property owner and will request No Trespassing signs and barriers; the committee placed the matter on file for follow-up.
On Jan. 30, 2025 the Chicopee City Council Public Works Committee heard from councilors and city staff about an overgrown vacant lot near 117 Jacob Street that residents say attracts trash and occasional fires.
"This is an empty lot owned by McDonalds," Councilor Mary Beth Pniak-Costello told the committee, citing neighbor complaints about trash, overgrowth and what she described as the residue of a campfire. She said residents had seen clothing and other items left at the site and were concerned about safety.
Health Director Lisa Sanders said she had sent a notice to McDonald’s about litter and overgrowth but told the committee she cannot enforce trespass on private property. "As far as people being on private property there isn't anything I can do about it, but I can certainly address any litter or overgrowth, which I have, and I can monitor it," Sanders said.
Building Commissioner Frank Boron said the lot appears to be a cut-through from the neighborhood and recommended the city ask the property owner to post No Trespassing signs and consider barriers or fencing to limit access. "I think if it's a cut-through, it still might continue as long as they clean up the trash and keep the grass cut," Boron said.
Assistant DPW Superintendent John Beaulieu noted ownership questions can complicate enforcement: "Mr. Gomez could own the McDonald's on the drive, but McDonald's Corporation could own that property," he said, adding that staff will try to identify the owner and engage them about maintenance and posting.
Councilor Shane Brooks suggested a friendly request to fence or otherwise block the access point to the parking lot to reduce foot traffic and potential hazards.
After discussion the committee voted to close public input and to place the item on file for staff follow-up. The roll-call vote recorded Krampits, Labrie, Brooks and Pniak-Costello in favor; Councilor Courchesne was absent.
The committee did not adopt new enforcement powers at the meeting; staff said their next steps are to confirm property ownership, send notices already issued, and request that the owner post signage and address overgrowth and trash.
