Development News for Easthampton, Massachusetts

"Go Digital East Hampton" Program Updates on Digital Literacy and Device Access

Jeff Mastriani of E Media and Ben Parra from the East Hampton Public Library presented an update on the "Go Digital East Hampton" program, a city-wide initiative focused on digital literacy, access to internet-ready devices, and a learn-to-earn program. The program, in its second year and funded by grants, has offered digital literacy classes, expanded tech help hours across seven locations, and distributed devices. They highlighted the program's success, including 48 classes, 3 learn-to-earn cohorts, 90 residents attending classes, and 24 graduates receiving Chromebooks. They emphasized the need for continued funding and support, noting that a budget override failure could lead to staff hour losses and reduced program offerings.

East Hampton Council Opposes Wireless Tower in Southampton Due to Resident Impact

Councilmember Smith read a letter into the public record, signed by herself, President Denim, and Councilor Jamrog McQuade, expressing strong opposition to a proposed wireless telecommunications tower at One Cookook Road in Southampton. The letter highlighted that although the site is in Southampton, numerous East Hampton residents in close proximity would be directly affected by the visual, economic, and quality-of-life impacts. Concerns were raised about altered landscapes, decreased property values, and proximity to homes and children. The letter urged the Southampton Planning Board to deny the application unless a thorough analysis of alternative sites, collocation opportunities, and less intrusive solutions is provided, emphasizing that the burden falls disproportionately on residents while benefits accrue to a private corporation. The letter also noted issues with public notification, including certified mail delivery requiring signatures and limited hours for viewing a balloon demonstration of the tower's height and proximity.

City Council Refers Cryptocurrency ATM Ordinance to Committee Amidst Scam Concerns

The City Council referred a "city council action request for a cryptocurrency ATM ordinance" to the ordinance committee. Vice President Jadzik and Councilmember Newton explained that these ATMs are increasingly being used in scams targeting seniors, leading to significant financial losses. The ordinance aims to regulate or prohibit these ATMs to protect residents from such fraudulent activities.