CHICOPEE – Mayor John Vieau, City Council President Frank Laflamme and Hampden County Register of Probate Rosemary Saccomani announced the opening of a satellite registry of probate office in City Hall during a May 9 ribbon-cutting ceremony.

The new office serves as an extension of the registry’s services at Roderick L. Ireland Courthouse, providing an alternative destination for Chicopee residents and Hampden County visitors alike. According to the city’s press release, Saccomani and Laflamme discussed the possibility of expanding the office in Chicopee during her election bid. She deemed City Hall a suitable space for the satellite office, with the city then working to enact the concept at their 274 Front St. location.

The registry of probate operates in their jurisdiction as an overseer of family and children matters. The office helps visitors with affairs including divorce, paternity, child support, custody, parenting time, adoption, ending parental rights, abuse prevention, wills, estates, trusts, guardianships, conservatorships and name changes.

The office represents the first satellite location in Hampden County for the registry of probate’s services. Saccomani intends on further expansion for the office’s services in the future. In a discussion with Reminder Publishing, Saccomani shared that expanding the office’s services remained a critical goal of her 2020 election bid for the register of probate position.

During the ceremony, Vieau reflected on how the new office will benefit residents and local attorneys alike. “This expansion of services is not just going to benefit the residents; it’s also going to help the attorneys of Western Mass. who will be able to come here and file with the office of probate,” said Vieau.

Vieau welcomed attorney and former Mayor Richard Kos to speak on the new office. Kos stressed that the office will bring new opportunities for locals. “This is going to be an unbelievable opportunity … I think you’re going to love the work that comes out of this building,” said Kos.

In his address, Laflamme shared that plans for the satellite office started in February 2021. “We discussed what we could do as a team,” said Laflamme. The implementation of the office endured some delays due to the ongoing construction of restorations at City Hall. Vieau explained that the updated air quality system and other new amenities will ensure a productive and safe work environment.

Reflecting on the realization of a long-term project, Saccomani thanked Vieau, Chief of Staff Michael Pise and the City Council for supporting the expansion. “Without their commitment, the office would not be a reality,” said Saccomani. The register of probate said the office will serve as an “alternative” to the courthouse and will be staffed by “experienced” members of her team.

The office, which will be located on the second floor of City Hall, is open during weekdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Readers can learn more about the new office at https://www.mass.gov/locations/hampden-probate-and-family-court.