GREENFIELD — At-Large City Councilor Penny Ricketts was hospitalized last week after suffering a “stroke event” while at home, according to her campaign manager, Amy Proietti.
This happened Sunday, June 17. Ricketts was admitted to Baystate Franklin Medical Center after the stroke on June 17 and transferred to Baystate Medical Center in Springfield for further treatment on Wednesday. She was discharged Friday, according to Proietti.
“She is at home and she is resting comfortably and getting outpatient therapies,” Proietti said.
No further update on Ricketts’ condition was provided, though Proietti expects the family to give more information later in the week.
Ricketts was noticeably absent from Wednesday’s City Council meeting, though City Council President Karen “Rudy” Renaud said at the time it was due to a personal matter.
“We’re all sorry to hear about what happened and concerned. Everybody’s rooting for Penny and we missed her and are looking forward to her return,” Renaud said. “We know she’s a fighter; we know she’s going to be back probably better than ever.”
Renaud said there is no policy in place if a councilor has an extended absence.
“This is really an outstanding circumstance and that seat will be there for Penny returns no matter how long it takes,” Renaud said.
According to the bylaws overseeing City Council, any member that misses 10 or more unexcused full council or committee meetings “shall be subject to disclosure by” the council president at a regular council meeting.
Renaud suggested that due to Ricketts’ absence, the council should re-institute remote participation, which is allowed in certain circumstances under Massachusetts Public Meeting Law and regulations from the state Attorney General.
Mayor William Martin signed an executive order allowing members from boards and commissions to use remote participation or otherwise opt out of the practice in August 2015.
According to Renaud, the council adopted the practice, though after attempting it unsuccessfully during a meeting in 2017, had opted out.
Proietti said the medical issue has resulted in “a number of unexpected expenses,” so donations are being accepted at Franklin First Credit Union. Those interested can donate directly to the “Penny Fund” at the credit union, or at a GoFundMe page which will be set up this week, according to organizers.
Reach Dan Desrochers at:
ddesrochers@recorder.com
413-772-0261, ext. 257