HOUSING

Tenants at the Pleasant View Apartments in Easthampton, Massachusetts, had their rent increase by nearly 35% after the building sold for $4 million.

According to records obtained by The Republican newspaper, Chicopee Housing Authority residents say the authority's former executive director made discriminatory remarks primarily towards Puerto Ricans, Black people and people with disabilities.

On the shelter front, Mass. lawmakers have requested information about the impact of change on the state's shelter system, before they authorize necessary, requested funding.

With temperatures expected to be in the teens and single digits this week and snow expected tonight, several emergency shelters have been put in place in western Massachusetts.

The speech was eight pages long and touched on everything from the economy to the housing crisis in Massachusetts.

"I believe these changes are appropriate and needed to ensure the long-term sustainability of the state shelter system," she said.

Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey is starting to roll out some specifics from her forthcoming fiscal year 2026 budget, announcing Monday that it will include a provision to do away with renter-paid broker's fees.

Mass. lawmakers are planning for a 2.2% increase in tax revenue to spend in the fiscal year 2026 budget. There is uncertainty beyond that.

Geraldine McCafferty, director of housing for the city of Springfield, said there are a few overflow sites where people can go to seek shelter in the city.

Financial assistance is available to households in Hampden County who make too much money to qualify for low-income heat assistance, and need a utility bill paid.