Mayor Reichelt Announces Formation Of Big E Trust Committee

Published on August 07, 2026

West Springfield, MA:  Mayor William Reichelt, in collaboration with Town Council President Michael LaFlamme, today announced the formation of the Big E Trust Strategic Advisory Committee to conduct a comprehensive review of the Big E Trust, which has served the Town and its residents for more than thirty years.

Established in 1995 through a partnership between the Eastern States Exposition and the Town of West Springfield, the Big E Trust has provided significant benefits to the community for more than three decades. Mayor Reichelt believes that, after over thirty years in operation, it is appropriate to undertake a comprehensive review of the Trust’s governance, operations, community impact, and long-term stewardship to help ensure it continues to fulfill its original charitable purpose for future generations.

To lead this effort, Mayor Reichelt has appointed Councilor Brian Griffin to serve as Chair of the Strategic Advisory Committee. Councilor Griffin will oversee the Committee’s work, facilitate public engagement, and develop recommendations regarding the future administration and governance of the Trust. The Committee will examine the Trust’s history, governance, operations, community impact, and opportunities to strengthen its long-term stewardship while honoring the charitable purpose established through the 1995 Trust Agreement.

The Committee will also include one additional member of the Town Council, appointed by Council President Michael LaFlamme, along with three West Springfield residents appointed by the Mayor following recommendations from the two Council members serving on the Committee.

“The Big E and the Town of West Springfield have enjoyed an extraordinary partnership for well over a century,” said Mayor Reichelt. “The Big E Trust has now been serving our community for more than thirty years, and I believe it is appropriate to take a thoughtful look at how it has operated during that time and consider whether there are opportunities to strengthen it for the future. I appreciate Councilor Griffin’s willingness to chair this effort and look forward to reviewing the Committee's recommendations.”

Councilor Griffin said he intends for the Committee’s work to be open, collaborative, and focused on preserving the Trust’s long-term value to the community. “This is an opportunity for us to help shape the future of one of West Springfield’s most important charitable assets,” Griffin said.  “We want to hear from people who care about our community, appreciate the role the Big E plays in our success, and want to contribute to a thoughtful and transparent process.”

West Springfield residents interested in serving as one of the Committee’s three Citizens-at-Large are encouraged to submit an application using this link: tinyurl.com/BigETrustCommittee. The deadline for applications is September 4, 2026.

The Strategic Advisory Committee is expected to begin its work this fall, with opportunities for public participation throughout the review process.

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