EASTHAMPTON, Mass. (WGGB/WSHM) - Leaders from nine Easthampton unions released a statement on Monday, calling on residents to vote “yes” for the city override.

Unions, including Easthampton Education Association and Easthampton Firefighters Local 1876, warn there could be “immediate and harmful impacts on public services” otherwise.

If you own a home in Easthampton, you could be paying nearly a thousand dollars more a year in taxes, but if voters say no — schools and emergency services face possible cuts.

Unions said cuts could mean slower response times for public safety and less resources for special education, librarians, athletics, music and theater programs in schools. Homeowners insurance rates could also see an increase, they said.

“We come before you today not as politicians, elected officials, or administrators, but as city employees,” the unions said. “We understand that asking residents to support an override is not something anyone takes lightly, but we want residents to hear directly from the people who serve the city every day that these impacts are real and harmful.”

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