CHICOPEE – The City Council approved a change in the deadline to pay the next round of real estate taxes last week at its meeting.

The council approved a new deadline of June 30. If property owners pay on that date or before it, they will avoid any penalties.

The council also approved an appropriation of $367,305 from the city’s free cash to be used a payment for debt that had been consolidated.  Treasurer Marie Laflamme advised the city to consider the move.

The council also approved the acceptance of a $14,000 grant from the Commonwealth to pay for protective equipment for the city.

Mayor John Vieau told the council his administration will be distributing donated masks to municipal employees other than first responders.

He added that he would be meeting with department heads to determine the next city budget. He said he has asked them to prepare a level-funded proposal as he anticipates the city’s revenues will drop between 15 and 20 percent because of the pandemic.

“It’s not going to be easy going through budget hearings,” Vieau told the council. “Everyone is committed. It’s a huge enormous sacrifice for all of us.”