South Hadley disabling comments on social media pages

Well, soon you won't be able to leave a comment on South Hadley Town social media posts. 22 News reporter Nick Antonakis joins us live in studio now with the reason behind this change. Yeah, Julia, as of the new fiscal year that starts on July 1st, comments on South Hadley Post will be shut down. The town says this has to be done in accordance with the state's public records law, but also due to budget cuts. Massachusetts requires all records created or received by government entities, including social media be retained. South Hadley's third party archiving software cost the town $10,000 a year, according to the town administration, and their new budget doesn't allow for it. Some responses on social media have shown people are upset, particularly about their free speech being limited. Assistant Town Administrator and Human Resources Director Chuck Rummeletti. He says there are other ways that you can make your voice heard. We still have all the traditional means and are very responsive. It's and we will still continue to post information outward on social media. So, um, still plenty of ways for people to get engaged and, um, share feedback, communicate with the town. Rummeletti added that there are other Western Massachusetts communities that don't allow commenting on their posts, including Holyoke and Palmer. Now stay tuned for 22 news later this evening for additional details surrounding the future of South Hadley's comment sections. Working for you, Nick Antonakis, 22 News.