Happy Everything!

Dear Hawley Residents and Friends:

Happy Hanukkah, Merry Christmas, Happy Kwanzaa; in short, I hope you enjoy whatever you celebrate!

Office Hours

Technically, I should still have office hours from noon to 4 on Tuesdays, Tax Collector Betty Nichols should be around from 2 to 4 on Tuesdays, and Town Clerk Ellie Van Iderstine should be in on Fridays from 10 to 2. However, at this time of year holiday chaos may keep us from being in the office during our regular hours. Please call before you come over (413-339-5518). If no one answers, and you want immediate help, feel free to call me at home (413-339-4747). I am in frequent touch with everyone at the office.

A Floodplain Insurance Question

We have just received new floodplain maps. They may change the status of some residences. If you are required to have flood insurance in order to keep your mortgage, please let me know (413-339-5518; info@townofhawley.com). It may be that you won’t need it in the future. The Selectmen are scheduled to discuss the floodplain maps at their next meeting on Tuesday, December 30.

Holiday Trash and Recycling

Remember, the Ashfield Transfer Station will be closed on the next two Thursdays, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.

The solid waste district has sent us the handy-dandy flyer below to remind residents what sorts of holiday wrapping items can be recycled. If you’d like a slightly more thorough listing, look at this article.

Smart Meters and More on the Way

The town recently received word from National Grid that it plans to install smart electric meters in our area. The process will take time. In the meantime, you may be seeing more power trucks around town. You may also see tree-clearing trucks; National Grid is hoping to reduce the frequency of power outages in Hawley. And Verizon trucks are on the move as well, doing some of the make-ready work for our future broadband roll out.

Early January Crafting

January is coming soon … and with it more crafting with Mary Ann Adams at the library!

That’s it for now. Stay warm and dry. I hope you spend at least part of the next couple of weeks with loved ones and friends and enjoy a little eggnog, a few cookies, and even a little fruitcake. Don’t forget to reach out to isolated neighbors to spread a little holiday cheer.

With warm wishes,

Tinky Weisblat
Gal Friday
Town of Hawley

413-339-5518
info@townofhawley.com