‘It’s time:’ Rist won’t seek reelection to Easthampton council

By EMILY THURLOW

Staff Writer

Published: 03-02-2023 3:00 PM

EASTHAMPTON — Dan Rist, the longest-serving member of the City Council first elected when the council form of government was adopted in 1996, will not seek reelection when his term ends at year’s end.

An emotional Rist shared his decision with his fellow councilors at the close of Wednesday’s meeting. Dec. 31 will mark his last day in office, when his 14th term ends.

“Forgive me if I get emotional on this,” said Rist, who has represented Precinct 5 for nearly three decades. “It’s time.”

Rist joined the council 27 years ago to give back to the community that he says helped him raise his five children and now continues to provide for his grandchildren.

Among his current assignments, Rist serves as chairman of the Finance Committee and chairman of the Rules & Governmental Relations. He is also the chairman of the Community Preservation Act Committee.

He’s particularly proud of his efforts on the CPAC helping to fund projects like the rail trail, boardwalk along Nashawannuck Pond, new ball field for Nonotuck Park and accessible trails on Mt. Tom.

“The changes that Easthampton has seen over my years on the council are significant, especially in the quality of life for our residents,” Rist said in a statement. “Easthampton is now considered a ‘destination’ city where many choose to visit and would want to live here.”

Rist’s decision to retire was not unexpected, according to Mayor Nicole LaChapelle. In fact, it was delayed two years, she said.

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“This last term is about codifying historical knowledge with modern municipal functions. Both myself and members of the council realized that need and he stepped forward two years ago to answer that need,” LaChapelle said.

City Council President Homar Gomez acknowledged how difficult it must have been for Rist to announce his retirement after so many years of investment. In a statement to the Gazette, Gomez commended Rist’s professionalism, honesty and dedication to service to the community.

“His advice in these past five years has been always accurate and will be with me all my life. Councilor Rist will always have my admiration for all he has done for our community,” said Gomez.

Rist said that when he was sworn in for his current term, he knew then it would be his last, but wanted to fulfill certain legislative goals, which he feels are now on their way. Two of those goals — transforming the former elementary schools into affordable housing and the Community Preservation Act funding for the restoration of the second floor performing arts facility of the Old Town Hall — are so important to him that he intends to remain involved after his retirement from the council.

“I am proud to say that I feel in some small way I have made a difference,” said Rist.

Emily Thurlow can be reached at ethurlow@gazettenet.com.]]>