West County Notebook: July 9, 2026

Greenfield faces nearly $2M in cash book variances, putting free cash in limbo

Greenfield's City Council is considering hiring Clifton Larson Allen LLP for $75,000 to reconcile the city's cash books for FY25. The city faces errors in documentation, transfers, payroll and vendor warrants.

New pavilion to debut at 177th Franklin County Fair in Greenfield

The Franklin County Fairgrounds is set to introduce a new 5,400-square-foot open-air pavilion in time for the 177th Franklin County Fair in September, marking the first new structure built at the fairgrounds in 40 years.

Massachusetts lawmakers push for strict data center rules

State lawmakers have proposed a legislative change that would hold data centers responsible for their environmental and financial impact on communities, requiring them to use their own sources of clean energy, pay their own gas infrastructure costs, meet water protection and cumulative impact standards, and forfeit the state tax exemption if not in compliance.

Selectboard seeks solution for Orange Armory flooding

The Selectboard voted to authorize the town's chief procurement officer to spend up to $20,000 in emergency funds to address the Orange Armory's persistently flooded basement, which has caused electrical damage and mold.

Zoning amendments in Greenfield seek to clarify educational, religious exemptions

The Greenfield Planning Board voted to approve zoning amendments to clarify how educational, religious and charitable uses are exempt from zoning regulations under the Dover Amendment, and to provide a process for applicants to demonstrate their qualifications for the exemption.