Chicopee Noted Springfield, Holyoke Problems with Adult Businesses, Passed Zoning Regulations in 1993 and 1994

In 1994, Chicopee aldermen unanimously approved regulations on adult businesses. These included keeping them at least 500 feet from schools, libraries, parks, playgrounds and recreational areas. The Union-News reported,

Several aldermen on the 13-member body pointed to recurring problems and ongoing struggles in cities such as Springfield and Holyoke which do not have laws on the books and are now trying to deal with them after the fact…

“These laws are tried and true [said Ward 7 Alderman George R. Moreau]. We took bits and pieces from other states and other areas after months of research…”

[Ward 1 Alderman James K.] Tillotson said his committee wholeheartedly recommended Moreau’s legislation because it is “in the best interest of the city” and it addresses a problem which is occurring in other communities which never bothered to deal with it beforehand.

“Anti-pornography laws get approval: Chicopee OKs broad measure”, Union-News, 7/6/94

In 1993, the Chicopee aldermen gave their unanimous approval to two ordinances that required special permits for adult bookstores and theaters located within 500 feet of residential districts, schools, etc. The Union-News reported, “The Zoning and Ordinance committees which gave favorable recommendations to the legislation state that, based on research and documentation, it is their opinion that statistics and studies indicate that ‘adult entertainment businesses have a deleterious effect on nearby businesses and residential areas, causing increased crime or police calls as well as the attraction of male and female prostitutes and a general lessening of the quality of life in the area.'” (“Board OKs limits on adult stores, theaters”, Union-News, 2/17/93)