Good morning, Springfield.

People in Agawam and nearby towns have seen more coyotes this spring as many animals are raising their pups.

Local animal control advises carrying citronella spray when on trails and to back away slowly if you see a coyote showing warning signs—such as staring or following you.

On May 8, the School Committee approved the School Department’s $671 million fiscal year 2026 budget—an increase of 7% from FY25—that funds over 70 schools with special allocations for early learning, mental health services and teacher contracts, including $48 million for school-based budgets.

The Springfield Education Association held a protest on April 30 at Roger L.

Putnam Vocational Technical Academy as they negotiated a new contract for over 2,300 teachers, asking for 15 sick days and higher salary increases over four years—school officials offered only 3% per year. Union leaders warned that better pay and benefits are needed to keep teachers in Springfield Public Schools amid growing staff shortages.

Mayor Domenic Sarno unveiled Springfield’s $985.7 million fiscal year 2026 budget on May 8 at City Hall — the plan shows a 6.1% increase and zero layoffs — and he said the budget funds key services in education, public safety, and housing while City Council holds hearings on the proposal later this spring.

Springfield City Councilor Sean Curran sent a letter to Gov. Healey on May 5 asking her to create a Western Mass. undersecretary of economic development to support projects like the UMass Springfield expansion and Basketball Hall of Fame Hoop City Sports Complex—he said the role might boost local economic initiatives as the city faces rising unemployment of 5.2%.

Local officials and health experts expressed concern after federal funds for asthma prevention and in-home remediations in Springfield, Chicopee and Holyoke were cut on April 25.

Governor Healey and Mayor Sarno condemned the move — and state officials have filed a formal dispute, warning that the decision may worsen health outcomes for residents.

ROAR! Comedy: Aaron Chen

8-11 p.m. — MGM Springfield — Fun experience — Enjoy an exciting night of laughter with Aaron Chen, a rising star in comedy from Australia.

ROAR! Comedy: Aaron Chen

8-11 p.m. — MGM Springfield — Tickets required — Enjoy a night of laughter with rising star Aaron Chen from Australia.

Volunteer Fair

On Sunday, May 18 at 1pm, over a dozen local non-profit organizations will be on hand to talk about the work they do and the volunteer opportunities they offer. The event is free and open to the public.

Comedy Night with Nicky Smigs

8-11 p.m. — MGM Springfield — Ticket prices vary — Experience laughs with a talented comedian who started at Second City Chicago.

30th Anniversary Self Advocacy Conference

9 AM – 4 PM — Sheraton Springfield Monarch Place Hotel — Registration required — Celebrate three decades of self advocacy and connect with like-minded individuals.

Open Home Tour

11 a.m. - 3 p.m. — 47 Garfield St, Springfield, MA — Free entry — Explore a charming property listed by J Barrett & Company.

On-Site Tour of Best Senior Living Amenities

9 a.m. - 7 p.m. — 370 Pine St, Springfield — Free entry — Explore exceptional senior living dining and activities at this informative tour.

IRONMAN 70.3 Western Massachusetts

8 AM — Downtown Springfield, MA — Various costs for bike rentals — Compete in a scenic triathlon with a swim in the Connecticut River and bike through charming New England landscapes.