Public Meetings - Great Barrington, Massachusetts

The Great Barrington Planning Board held a public hearing on a proposed zoning amendment to eliminate the 45-room limit for hotels and motels, as introduced by Select Board member Philip Ornstein. The board discussed the amendment's implications, received public comments, and voted to continue the hearing to December 10, 2026, citing the need for further deliberation and stakeholder engagement. Public Comments & Testimony - Eileen (public attendee): Asked whether there have been any recent hotel applications or developer inquiries regarding the amendment, and whether the stalled Searles hotel project suggests a lack of market demand. Planning Board Chair Chris responded that no such inquiries have been received, and declined to speculate on the Searles project. - James Carzone (84 North Lane Road, online comment): Expressed support for removing the 45-room limit, stating that Great Barrington is in economic distress and that the change could increase business and revenue. Thanked Mr. Ornstein for his transparency. - Unnamed public attendee (online): Supported the amendment, noting that the special permit process provides adequate protections. The speaker stated they had voted for the 45-room limit years ago but now believe the time has come to open up development, citing personal experience living on a fixed income. Discussion Items - Philip Ornstein (Select Board member, proponent): Presented the amendment as a modest change to encourage responsible economic development. He noted that the current 45-room limit, combined with high construction costs and interest rates, effectively prohibits new hotel development in a tourist-dependent town. He clarified that no developer had requested the change and that it is not a quick fix for budget challenges, as any new hotel would take 3–5 years. He emphasized that existing zoning controls (site plan review, special permit, use restrictions in residential zones) remain in place. - Planning Board Concerns: Members Jackie Keynes and Jeremy Ega expressed that the process felt rushed. They noted the board had been planning to study the issue more thoroughly for the May town meeting, and that the special town meeting timeline deprived them of adequate time for community engagement and analysis of traffic, scale, and character impacts. Chair Brandy Nelton echoed these concerns, stating the Select Board's action was not collaborative and that the Planning Board prefers to be fully informed before supporting zoning changes at town meeting. - Question on Urgency: Board member Art asked about the urgency of bringing the amendment to the special town meeting. Mr. Ornstein responded that the special meeting was primarily called for a wastewater grant, and the Select Board chose to add several items, including this one, which had been under discussion for over a year. He argued that the amendment is a minor rule change and not a decision on whether the town needs another hotel—that is for developers and guests to decide. - Procedural Point: A question was raised about whether a defeated zoning article can be reintroduced quickly; it was noted that a two-year latency period may apply, though the town manager confirmed it is two years. Key Outcomes - Motion to Continue Hearing: Jackie Keynes moved to continue the public hearing to Thursday, December 10, 2026, at 6:00 PM at Town Hall. The motion was seconded by Jeremy Ega and passed unanimously by voice vote (all present in favor). This action effectively tables the matter for the upcoming special town meeting, as the hearing will not close before then. - Next Steps: The Planning Board intends to use the intervening time to engage stakeholders and study the implications of removing the 45-room limit, including traffic, infrastructure, and community character.

The Great Barrington Select Board met on October 14, 2026, to consider a declaration of local emergency concerning the Housatonic Waterworks Company, a private water supplier serving approximately 850 connections. After extensive discussion and public comment, the board voted unanimously to adopt a declaration, with amendments requiring select board approval for emergency expenditures and referencing a prior request for the governor to declare a statewide emergency. Public Comments & Testimony - James Arzon (84 North Lane Road) opposed the declaration, arguing the board already has tools and the declaration would give unchecked spending authority. He cited years of mismanagement, including willful withholding of test results and a fire hydrant failure, and urged the town not to purchase the waterworks. - Donna Jacobs (260 Park Street, Housatonic ratepayer) expressed encouragement for the preparedness step but stressed the need to hold Housatonic Waterworks accountable and avoid shifting improperly incurred liabilities to taxpayers. - Eileen Mooney (the newsletter) asked about coordination with the Board of Health, suggesting the Board of Health needs more preparation and involvement before a declaration. - Ruby Chang (Long Pond Road, Board of Health member) requested that the Board of Health be included in preparations, noting the need for public communication about water storage and testing, and asked about construction on Christian Hill Road. - Deborah Herman (373 North Plain Road, Housatonic ratepayer) raised concerns about the invisible health risk of HA5 and questioned the company's insolvency while paying salaries and attorneys, suggesting possible criminal activity. Discussion Items - Town Manager Liz presented a detailed memo on the legal authority under MGL Chapter 44 Section 31, distinguishing between a declaration (stronger) and a resolution (weaker). She emphasized the declaration is precautionary, does not transfer ownership or authorize expenditures, and is intended to strengthen municipal preparedness, interagency coordination, and eligibility for grants such as USDA project planning grants. - Board members discussed the merits: Phil stated the declaration is underwhelming but supports it due to potential benefits; Ben argued it is a critical first step to communicate urgency and push state officials to act; Eric supported it as a tool for preparedness and grant eligibility, and stressed the need for regular reviews; Garfield urged swift action; Kate (conservation agent and ratepayer) highlighted a recent near-miss at the fire district meeting and questioned communication requirements. - Legal counsel Michael D'Artensio clarified that the select board's authority under the declaration is internal (authorizing expenditures without prior appropriation) and cannot compel third parties. He noted the distinction from Board of Health or governor actions. - The board debated amendments: Steve moved to require select board approval for any emergency expenditures in a public meeting, and to reference a previous letter asking the governor to declare a statewide emergency. The motion passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - The select board unanimously voted to adopt the Declaration of Local Emergency for the Housatonic Waterworks Company, effective immediately. The declaration recognizes a threatened interruption of essential drinking water service and directs the town manager to coordinate emergency planning, including identification of vulnerable populations, emergency water distribution, and interagency coordination. - Amendments were incorporated: (1) any emergency expenditures require select board approval in a public meeting; (2) the declaration references the board's earlier request for the governor to declare a statewide emergency. - The declaration explicitly does not assume town ownership or control of Housatonic Waterworks, impose obligations on the Great Barrington Fire District, or authorize independent expenditures. - The board will periodically review the declaration and may rescind it when circumstances warrant. - During select board time, Phil suggested re-evaluating the use of executive session for negotiations; Ben thanked participants; Garfield expressed frustration about the pace; Eric corrected misinformation about tax impacts of separate town projects.

The Board of Library Trustees met on October 13, 2026, beginning at 5:32 p.m. Present were Laura Mars, Donna Jacobs, Russell Samora, Sharon Shalo, Lauren Clark, and Patrick Hollinger. Frederica Siegel, co-chair of the Ramsdell Building Committee (RBC), appeared as a guest. The board approved the September minutes, discussed the state historic commission process and the town manager's proposed bathroom-only CPC grant, and voted to move ahead with its own Community Preservation Committee application. No public or media comments were made. Consent Calendar - Approved the September 10 meeting minutes unanimously; trustees noted minor spelling errors to be corrected. - Deferred approval of the October special meeting minutes and the joint meeting with the Select Board to November. Ramsdell Building Committee Report and Archives Discussion - Frederica Siegel reported on a September 29 call between Massachusetts Historical Commission (MHC) official Ed Bell and architect Michael Belfour. RBC prepared a summary of the call, PDR approved it, and Siegel recommended the trustees send it to Bell so the later conversation — which moved away from his earlier nine-page letter — would be on the record. - Siegel said she and her RBC co-chair are committed to seeing the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners (MBLC) process through the cost estimate phase until the percentage MBLC will fund is known; there is no cost to the town because MBLC has already supplied funds for that work. - Bell's October 1 letter recommended that the library apply for a 'Roving Archivist' grant funded by the Massachusetts State Historical Records Advisory Board to assess storage, preservation, and access for historical records. Siegel and her RBC co-chair said neither the trustees, RBC, local Historical Commission, nor Historical Society should be the applicant. Siegel opposed Historical Commission member Malcolm Fick as the applicant because he is not a neutral party, and pressed the trustees not to ignore the grant opportunity. - Lauren Clark asked whether MHC had provided written confirmation of the call; Siegel said Bell would not write such a letter. Sharon Shalo questioned relying on a summary of the conversation, argued Bell was overstepping by assigning the trustees responsibility for archives they do not own, and cited 2014 minutes showing only temporary storage was granted for those materials at Ramsdell. Patrick Hollinger said the trustees should write to the head of MHC because 'if it is not written down, it never happened.' Laura Mars described her June 2025 efforts to interest Malcolm Fick in off-site storage options, saying the Historical Commission did not follow through. CPC Grant and Bathroom Renovation - The co-chairs reported that they plan to make RBC chairs the sole contact for PDR and CHA and keep trustees as the town contact, to reduce confusing communication. - Town Manager Liz proposed a $350,000 CPC grant for a standalone downstairs bathroom renovation. The co-chairs wrote to her saying the trustees intended to continue with their own CPC application for the full renovation. The first CPC application is due November 6 at 4 p.m., and all CPC applications must now go through the town manager's office. - Trustees discussed whether to compete with or accept the $350,000 proposal. Some argued a smaller award could be folded into the larger project and was more palatable; others argued the trustees should request as much as possible and not negotiate against themselves. Patrick Hollinger also argued the town manager lacks authority to decide CPC projects, and another trustee said a larger request would send a stronger signal to funders. A motion was made and seconded to thank the town manager for the $350,000 proposal while proceeding with the trustees' own CPC application. The motion carried; at least one trustee voted present, citing unresolved questions or a preference for partnering with the town manager. - Patrick Hollinger warned that Massachusetts Architectural Access Board rules require full accessibility work once renovations exceed 30 percent, making a piecemeal bathroom renovation noncompliant; he said the town has been in violation for years and that Michael Belfour had also called the plan not viable. Reports - Director's report: A new full-time main-desk employee starts at the end of October; interviewing continues for another full-time position; three full-time and two part-time vacancies remain. A new digital service, 'Common Shelf,' was recently launched. - Treasurer's report: None. - Friends of the Library: Book sales were busy Friday and Saturday but washed out Sunday and Monday; weekend sales will continue while weather holds. The last poetry reading of the year took place, and Lee Bank's annual grant supporting children's books was received. - Liaison reports: The Historical Commission last met July 24; the October 5 meeting was missed due to a conflicting Select Board meeting. Its agenda included authorizing funds for archival materials at Ramsdell and a review of MHC's response to the library trustees. The Finance Committee had no relevant items. New Business and Other Discussion - Sharon Shalo asked about the planned Halloween parade participation. After noting that Sarah Parker stepped down as head of HIC, Sharon volunteered to contact Betsy and Ed about using older book carts and will send an organizational email. - An author-photographer who photographed every Berkshire County library is planning a May talk for the 'Quiet Places' book; the program is likely to be held at Ramsdell. - Trustees discussed a next joint meeting with the Select Board, believed to be scheduled for October 26; Lauren Clark will confirm and circulate the correspondence. Trustees hoped the next session would be more collaborative. - Trustees reviewed open meeting and conflict-of-interest training. They learned that trustees are treated as town employees for fundraising purposes, may raise funds for projects, and cannot raise money to influence voters; and that expressing opinions to a quorum by email can violate the open meeting law. Trustees also discussed documenting their authority to fundraise, citing prior state ethics findings and the precedent of fundraising for Mason Library. Key Outcomes - Approved September 10 minutes unanimously; deferred the October special and joint Select Board minutes to November. - Voted to proceed with the trustees' own CPC grant application alongside the town manager's $350,000 bathroom proposal. The deadline is November 6 at 4 p.m.; the board still needs to ask the town manager how far in advance applications must reach her office. - Agreed to continue pursuing the cost estimate and MBLC funding percentage before making final project decisions. - No formal vote was taken on the response to Ed Bell's October 1 letter or on who should apply for the Roving Archivist grant. - Trustees will sign the MBLC extension letter, seek clarification from Town Manager Liz, and arrange in-person presence at an MBLC meeting; Patrick Hollinger offered to attend. - Sharon Shalo will coordinate Halloween parade logistics with Betsy and Ed.

The Great Barrington Planning Board met on October 8, 2026. The board unanimously approved a special permit for a fence at 267 Long Pond Road, deliberated on extending the Housatonic Mill Revitalization Overlay District, and debated the process and merits of proposed changes to the hotel/motel room limit. Consent Calendar - The board approved the minutes from their September 24 meeting. Discussion Items Special Permit: 267 Long Pond Road - The board held a public hearing for a special permit requested by Melanie Suzanne Greenberg (represented by Kirsten Baringer) to install a six-foot tall, 27.5-foot long lattice fence above an existing stone wall in the front setback. The fence is over 50% transparent. - The proposal is intended as a garden feature, replacing a section of an existing 8-foot stockade fence. - Board member Jackie noted the stark improvement over the existing fences, calling the proposal a "very good solution for visibility and openness." - Chris reported the Select Board provided a positive recommendation, and no other town boards had jurisdiction. - The board found the proposal had a positive impact on neighborhood character and no negative impacts on traffic, the environment, or town services. Housatonic Mill Revitalization Overlay District - The board discussed extending the district to include the Rising Mill area. A major point of debate was Section 9.8.10, which mandates 20% affordable units in developments of 10 or more units. - Board member Pedro advocated for striking the mandate, arguing the town’s primary need is for all types of housing to grow the population and tax base, and the mandate acts as a disincentive to development. - It was noted the Smart Growth Overlay District (SCOD) provides strong incentives and state funding for affordable housing in the area, potentially making the requirement redundant. - Staff will draft text and map amendments, likely including the removal of the affordable housing mandate, for future review. Hotel/Motel Room Limits - A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to a zoning amendment proposed by the Select Board to lift the current 45-room limit on hotels. - Process: Several board members expressed strong frustration with the Select Board’s accelerated timeline, viewing it as an attempt to bypass the Planning Board’s deliberative process. Jonathan stated he would resign if the board sent a recommendation to town meeting. The board acknowledged a legal obligation to hold a public hearing on October 15th but intends to continue its own process for a potential vote at the May town meeting. - Policy Debate: The board discussed the merits of the room limit itself. Concerns were raised about the impact of larger chain hotels on traffic, downtown parking, town character, and existing businesses. Jonathan cited an existing hotelier reporting a 40% annual occupancy rate as a point of caution. Other members argued the special permit and site plan review process provides sufficient context-specific controls. The board requested more information on hotel economics, parcel suitability, and design standards. Key Outcomes - Special Permit Approved: Unanimous vote (4-0) approving the fence at 267 Long Pond Road. - Housatonic Overlay Amendments: Staff will prepare amendments incorporating board feedback, including the likely removal of the 20% affordable housing requirement. - Hotel Room Limit Process: The public hearing on October 15 remains scheduled, but the board will continue its own independent consideration of the room limit for a future town meeting vote. No final action on the policy was taken. - Future Agendas: The board reviewed upcoming items, including seasonal community zoning, a mill overlay proposal, and 5G telecommunications regulations.

The Great Barrington Select Board met on Monday, October 5, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. The board received the town manager's report, approved routine licenses and minutes, reviewed the FY25 audit, heard a one-year update on traffic-calming measures in the East Street/Gilmore/Anderson neighborhoods, discussed FY28 Community Preservation Act applications and the Collins Center EMS study, and acted on two National Grid utility pole petitions. Members of the public spoke at length about the Housatonic Water Works emergency and traffic danger. Consent Calendar - Approved the September 14, 2026 meeting minutes as amended (unanimous); the amendment corrected a name in the citizen speak section. - Approved a one-day beer and wine license for Berkshire Community Land Trust's October 18, 2026 brunch at River Run Farm/Off the Shelf Farm, 200 North Plain Road, 10:30 a.m.–1:00 p.m. (unanimous). - Approved a retroactive one-day all-alcohol license for the 'Night at the Center' fundraiser held October 2 at 15 Christy Barn (unanimous); this was an administrative carry-over left off the prior agenda. - Accepted a $191.10 donation to the Great Barrington Libraries and a $100 donation to the Claire McTeague Senior Center from Elizabeth Elliott (unanimous). Public Comments & Testimony - Housatonic Water Works: Donald Jacobs (260 Park Street) said a water emergency has existed since December 24, 2025. He reported that Housatonic Water Works' water source is threatened by non-payment and that rate increases are proposed. He described three requests in a draft letter to the Attorney General's Energy and Ratepayer Advocacy Division: intervene with the DPU for emergency/interim relief; investigate Housatonic Water Works' use of ratepayer money, compliance with DEP/DPU orders, and its financial disclosures; and establish an independent escrow or protected payment mechanism so ratepayers can pay into a protected fund rather than the utility. - Housatonic Water Works: James Garzone (84 North Plain Road) said the Great Barrington Fire District should not be coerced into continuing to supply water, opposed a free takeover, and said the problem has been known for over a decade. He also said businesses are leaving and some seniors feel the town is driving them out. - Housatonic Water Works: Julie Kay (22 Pleasant Street) reported sudden high water pressure, $2,000 in plumbing repairs, and similar reports from neighbors. She supported the escrow idea, said she is no longer willing to pay her water bill, and urged the town to ask the state for help. - Housatonic Water Works: Anna Taiga (216 South Street, Housatonic) said she has experienced repeated rate increases, the manganese work is on hold, and she pays about $20 per month extra for whole-house filters despite town grant assistance. She said the roughly 800 Housatonic ratepayers deserve priority and requested weekly formal updates from the town. - Traffic safety: Aaron Mesh (15 Gilmore Avenue) said the new stop signs are not working; he estimated about 40 percent of drivers fail to stop, described 40–70 mph speeds, vehicles on sidewalks, crashes, and noise at all hours. He said he would personally contribute thousands of dollars for speed humps and warned of a possible fatality. - Traffic safety: Michelle Bear (70 Division Street) recalled severe speeding in the same neighborhood in the early 1990s and said the town should not wait decades to act. She also questioned the accuracy of radar sign placement near railroad tracks, called for a cruiser on Division Street, and criticized the town's response to her public records request after the September 28 hearing. - Traffic safety: Other residents from East Street, Cottage Street, and North Plain Road said conditions have worsened, especially with summer construction and the planned state bridge project, and asked the board to seek state traffic-calming funding. - Community Preservation Act: Frederica Siegel (27 Round Hill Road), co-chair of the Ramsdale Building Committee, said the committee had not been informed or consulted on the proposed Ramsdale Library CPA item. - Open meeting law training: An attendee asked why the October 6 training for boards and committees is closed to the public. The town manager said it is free state-provided training for current appointed/elected members, is required every two years, and another session will be offered for those considering service. - Public health: A representative said over 100 people attended a recent flu/COVID clinic and announced two more: October 14, 1:00–3:00 p.m., and October 21, 3:00–6:00 p.m., with homebound options and a call line at 413-243-5540. Discussion Items FY25 Audit Review - Tom Scanlon of Scanlon & Associates presented the town's FY25 financial audit, the firm's eighth year with the town. He reported a clean opinion with no modifications. The federal single-audit threshold was raised from $750,000 to $1 million in 2026; the town remained subject to the audit requirement. - Key numbers included a $9.7 million OPEB liability (down from $15.7 million in 2017), about $1 million in the OPEB trust, and a roughly $36,000 net pension liability. The general fund unassigned balance was $8 million against an approximately $39 million budget, about 20–21 percent. Certified free cash was $11.2 million, and stabilization was $2.3 million; a $5.1 million accrued marijuana settlement liability explained the lower unassigned balance on the GAAP statements. - The budget generated about $2.1 million in free cash from revenues, including about $1 million from hotel/motel and cannabis fees (about $640,000 from cannabis tax), $895,000 in appropriation turnbacks, and roughly $3 million from the current-year budget. - Scanlon said controls over cash, investments, and receivables were good, but bank-transfer cleanup is needed so the correct funds earn interest. He offered to perform additional testing in areas such as police details if the board requested. Traffic-Calming One-Year Review - Chief Adam Carlotto presented speed and volume data from the stop-sign pilot installed last year at Gilmore/Anderson, Gilmore, and East/Anderson. Data covered January 1–June 30, 2026; summer data were excluded because of construction-related closures/detours. - He said the stop signs were a low-cost good-faith effort but were not as effective as hoped. Complaints of rolling stops, rapid acceleration, noise, and lack of enforcement continue. - Among the 10 radar sign locations, speed compliance ranged from 94.67 percent (Hillside) down to 22 percent on the two Monument Valley Road signs; Main Street was about 44 percent. Six-month volumes ranged from roughly 31,000 vehicles (Hillside) to 1.054 million (Main Street), with about 202,000 on East Street. - Enforcement is limited: grant-funded overtime from the Governor's Highway Safety Bureau produced the most enforcement, and the current grant cycle has ended. A dedicated traffic unit would be desirable but staffing and budget constraints remain. The chief said technology-based enforcement is currently limited to school bus violations. - Board members and residents discussed speed humps as the preferred next step. The board asked the administration to come back with options and costs, including speed humps, and to examine whether the upcoming state bridge construction and detours can include neighborhood traffic-calming measures. FY28 CPA Application Process - The town manager said FY28 Community Preservation Act applications will need his endorsement before going to the Community Preservation Committee, to better align with capital planning and strategic priorities. - He is working on a recommendation to fund an ADA-accessible first-floor bathroom renovation at Ramsdale Library. The building's 30 percent improvement trigger has a 36-month window expiring around town meeting, allowing up to about $300,000 in improvements without requiring full building compliance. - He also proposed a consultant evaluation of the affordable housing trust and CPA process, using Prosperity Way as a test case. This is still a draft and will be discussed further on October 26; public comment will be accepted online. EMS / Collins Center Study - The board continued discussion of the September 28 Collins Center ambulance/EMS presentation. Members highlighted the large overlap between fire department and ambulance calls and wanted more operational and financial analysis before choosing among options such as town-operated service, an enterprise entity, or the status quo. - Fire Chief Turner said the next step is direction from each participating select board. Heather, an online participant, said towns that left the study, including Stockbridge and West Stockbridge, are no longer receiving updates but may still access public materials; the two towns have formed their own partnership and plan their own ambulance service next year. - No decision was made, but the board asked to bring the parties together and continue the discussion. Public Hearings - National Grid petition for one new utility pole and overhead conductors on State Road beginning 10 feet west of the Hillside Avenue centerline and extending approximately 80 feet southwest: approved unanimously. - National Grid petition for one new pole, guy stub, span guy, anchor, and anchor guy on West Jeffery Road near Maple Avenue: approved unanimously. Key Outcomes - Approved minutes, licenses, donations, and both National Grid pole petitions unanimously. - Select Board member Bill said he would advocate for Governor Healy and the Berkshire delegation to declare a state of emergency over Housatonic Water Works. - Directed administration to return with traffic-calming options and costs, including speed humps, possibly with a menu of choices, and to engage on state bridge project traffic impacts. - Directed that FY28 CPA applications be endorsed by the town manager before CPC review; Ramsdale Library bathroom and affordable-housing process evaluation will return on October 26. - Agreed to continue EMS discussions with more data and a broader group of stakeholders; no structural decision made. - Housatonic Water Works remains an active issue; residents asked the board to pursue state intervention and weekly public updates.

The Great Barrington Board of Health met remotely on October 1, 2026. The meeting included discussion of West Nile virus cases, a proposal to hire additional health department staff, updates on the manganese filtration system at the water plant, concerns about groundwater contamination from an auto wrecking facility, and a review of solid waste hauler regulations. The board also heard public comment regarding vaccine education. Approval of Minutes - The board approved minutes from September 3, 2026, with Dr. Ruby Chen abstaining due to absence. The August 6, 2026 minutes remain unapproved and will be revisited at the next meeting. Board Health Updates & Discussion West Nile Virus Update - Dr. Ruby Chen reported 11 human cases of West Nile virus in the Boston suburbs, predominantly elderly males, with one female. Most cases involved meningitis or encephalitis. No local cases in Great Barrington, but she urged residents to protect against mosquitoes due to recent heavy rain. Staffing Support for Health Agent - Dr. Chen proposed sending a letter to the Select Board and Town Manager requesting the hiring of a part-time administrative/inspector to support the health agent, noting the heavy workload and upcoming permitting season. Board members agreed but first will consult with Health Agent Liz by email to gather her input before drafting the letter. Manganese Filtration System – Water Works - Dr. Chen reported ongoing contact with Solo Dennis of Mass DEP regarding the manganese filtration plant. Recent media reports indicate a lack of funds to complete the system. The board will follow up. Auto Wrecking Company – Groundwater Concerns - A board member raised concerns about potential groundwater contamination from the All-Star auto wrecking site, referencing a 2022 fire, an oil spill, a dry well, and DEP fines for non-compliance. The board discussed the need to identify which town agency is responsible for monitoring wells and groundwater quality in the area. Dr. Chen will start conversations with relevant departments. Solid Waste Hauler Regulations - The board discussed updating the town’s hauler regulations using a new Mass DEP template. Key issues include whether to cover residential only or both residential and commercial haulers, and how to enforce compliance for haulers that take waste out of state. The first step will be to circulate the draft to current permit holders and the Town Manager for feedback before scheduling a public hearing. Permit Fee Schedule - The board reviewed the fee schedule, which was updated earlier in 2026. They decided to take up a comprehensive review again next year at the same time. Pool Barrier at Lantern Motel - Health Agent James reported coordination with the Building Department on pool barrier fencing at the Lantern Motel. The board is flexible about the fence type as long as it meets safety requirements. The building department is managing the permitting process. COVID-19/Flu Test Kits and Lipton Mart Fine - James noted that new COVID/influenza test kits have arrived and are being distributed. The Lipton Mart fine remains unpaid; a second notice was sent, and a hearing may be scheduled if payment is not received within 21 days. Seasonal Inspections - The permitting season for wells is beginning, and approximately 23–25 barn and animal inspections are pending. Restaurant inspections are going well with the help of Rebecca. Future Regulations - The board prioritized updating hauler regulations before taking up other regulations such as mobile body art and noise. Public Comments & Testimony Dina Fisher (84 Cottage Street) - Ms. Fisher requested that the board develop an educational program about the safety and efficacy of COVID-19 and flu vaccines, citing community fear due to federal changes. She argued the board has an obligation to educate the public. Dr. Ruby Chen responded with a detailed explanation of Massachusetts’ vaccine regulatory process, noting that state oversight remains robust. The board thanked her for her comment and stated they would take it under advisement, with a response possible at the November meeting. Key Outcomes - The September 3 minutes were approved (Dr. Ruby Chen abstained). - The board will consult with the health agent and then draft a letter to the Select Board/Town Manager requesting part-time staff support. - The board will follow up with Mass DEP on the manganese filtration system funding issue. - The board will begin investigating groundwater monitoring responsibility for the area near the auto wrecking site. - The board will circulate the draft hauler regulations to permit holders and the Town Manager for feedback. - The next meeting is scheduled for November 5, 2026, at 7:00 PM, with a hybrid format.

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The Ramsdale Building Committee convened a public meeting on September 29, 2026, at 4:03 PM, with members Frederica, Pat, John, Lauren, and Pam present, constituting a quorum. The meeting focused on the Ramsdale Library project, including a co-chair's report on recent inter-board meetings, a liaison update from the library trustees, and a discussion about the long-standing absence of a Department of Public Works (DPW) representative on the committee. No formal votes were taken on substantive matters; the committee approved the August 25th minutes unanimously. Consent Calendar - Minutes Approval (August 25, 2025): Motion made by Frederica, seconded by Pat, and passed unanimously by roll call (Frederica, Lauren, Rowan, Pat, John all voted Aye). Co-Chairs' Report - September 2nd joint meeting with Pam Sandler, Lon Clark, Laura Mars, and the co-chair reviewed recent renderings and determined them to be not satisfactory, prompting a request for the trustees to identify their budget. - Trustees' budget for the project was reported as $50,000 that had been appropriated. - September 10th: Library trustees meeting occurred. - September 22nd: A joint select board/library trustees meeting took place where the library trustees voted to ask the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners (MBLC) for two extensions, and the select board agreed. - September 25th: A brief meeting was held with an MBLC representative, the project architect, the OPM (Owners Project Manager), the co-chairs of the trustees, and the co-chairs of the building committee. John was not present at that meeting. Discussion Items - The meeting was called to order at 4:03 PM. A roll call confirmed a quorum with Frederica, Pat, and John present; later, Pam was acknowledged present, and Lauren was present. - Minutes from the August 25th meeting were approved unanimously by roll call vote. - Liaison Report (Lauren): Lauren noted that the Ramsdale Building Committee, the local historical commission, the trustees, and the select board all need to align on the Ramsdale project. She said things have gotten

The Great Barrington Select Board met on September 28, 2026, to discuss a regional EMS study, an update from the Housatonic Improvement Committee, several licensing matters, and a show cause hearing for All Star Salvage. The meeting also included votes on a fence special permit, a transit nondiscrimination policy, a new liquor license, and a town meeting warrant article. Consent Calendar - The board approved the minutes of the September 2, 2026, regular meeting (one member abstained due to absence). Public Comments & Testimony - Michelle Loubert (Division Street) testified about noise from All Star Salvage, describing constant crushing sounds and backup beepers that have made her backyard unusable. She submitted a recording and recounted a history of complaints and a MassDEP consent order related to a 2022 fire and contamination concerns. - Elizabeth Berliner (Division Street) expressed concerns about large trucks rounding the corner near her home and potential groundwater contamination from the salvage yard. - Valerie Loker (North Plain Road, Housatonic) described traffic hazards from tractor trailers hauling crushed cars, stating the business has exploded beyond a 'mom and pop' operation and that the road infrastructure cannot support the volume. - Mary Formel-Vladiger (neighbor) said she has lived next door for years and does not find the noise excessive, noting the land has been in use for 50 years. - A dispatcher for All Star Salvage said the noise from clanging rims has decreased, and the business uses only one four-car hauler, not multiple large carriers. - Nada Jacobs (Park Street, library trustee) criticized how questions were presented to the library trustees at a prior joint meeting and clarified that her earlier comment about 'we have to catch up' referred to the town as a whole, not just the trustees. - Michelle Loubert (again) noted the Housatonic water tower is privately owned and that the Housatonic Improvement Committee should be aware of issues like All Star Salvage. She also raised concerns about the timing of public comment before votes. - Jim Bailey (Housatonic) argued the town cannot afford the library renovation, criticized lack of transparency, and called for a fair public comment process. He mentioned paying $25 for a public records request to obtain information he believes should be freely available. - A resident criticized the rising volume of public records requests as a symptom of poor transparency, warned of escalating taxes from multiple essential service projects, and urged either restrained spending or honest communication about future tax increases. Discussion Items - EMS Regionalization Study (Collins Center): Becca Meekins and Heather Barberry presented three models for emergency medical services in the Southern Berkshire region: (1) expansion of the current nonprofit Southern Berkshire Ambulance to all eight towns with increased staffing and a satellite station in New Marlborough; (2) creation of an EMS district with independent taxing authority requiring special legislation; (3) municipal integration with Great Barrington absorbing EMS into the fire department. Detailed financial projections based on Equalized Valuation and call volume were provided. Board members asked clarifying questions about assessment structures, capital planning, staffing models, and the inclusion or exclusion of interfacility transfers. The group aims to find consensus among town representatives in the coming month. No decision was made. - Housatonic Improvement Committee (HIC) Update: Sarah Barner and Betsy reported on the committee‘s 2026 goals, including visioning sessions held in August 2025, community events (e.g., Long Table Dinner, Harvest Festival, Virtual Bus) and a capital improvements pipeline for Housatonic. They requested $10,000 in annual operating support from the town budget, noting committee members donated over $35,000 in labor. The committee also advocated for a community-led visioning process for the Commons Park and early preservation planning for the water tower. Board members thanked them for their work. - Old Maids Park Preliminary Engineering: Chris (town planner) updated the board on the MVP community planning project for Old Maids Park. A $50,000 CPA grant approved at May Town Meeting will fund a survey, concept plans, and additional public meetings. The engineering phase focuses on land-side improvements and will coordinate with Mass Wildlife’s separate dam removal. Board discussed that the survey data will not go stale and can inform future improvements. No vote was needed, but the board signaled endorsement of the direction. - Show Cause Hearing – All Star Salvage: This was the most extensive discussion. Town staff (Liz, Chief Carlotta, Building Commissioner, Town Planner) presented alleged violations of the noise bylaw, operation outside licensed hours, and potential building code and zoning non-compliance. Noise readings by police (36–56 dBA at unknown distances) did not exceed the 86 dBA threshold at 50 feet. Licensee’s attorney Sean McCormick presented an acoustical study by Cross Spectrum Acoustics showing only two exceedances (a dump truck gate and loading aluminum) that they have committed to remediate. He argued the business has operated for decades, that a 1994 special permit (of which only a recording notice was found) superseded the 1984 permit, and that the current use is lawful. He resisted claims the business changed substantially. Public comment was strongly against the operation, citing noise, traffic, and environmental concerns. The board voted unanimously to continue the hearing to October 26, 2026, at 5:00 PM to allow the building inspector to present, for review of new documents (including a possible 1994 permit), and for further staff investigation. - Review of Special Town Meeting Warrant Article: The board approved placing Article 6 on the warrant, which would eliminate the zoning bylaw’s 45-room limit for hotels and motels, while keeping all other requirements (special permit, parking, etc.). A two-thirds vote is required. Public hearing before the Planning Board is scheduled for October 15. Key Outcomes - Motion passed (positive recommendation to Planning Board): 6-foot lattice fence at 267 Long Pond Road (special permit). - Motion passed: Adoption of the updated three-year Title VI and ADA policies for the South County Connector transit program. - Motion passed: Approval of new annual on-premises beer and wine license and common victualler license for Siam Square (C Town Thai Cuisine LLC) at 290 Main Street. - Motion passed: Continuation of the show cause hearing for All Star Salvage to October 26, 2026, at 5:00 PM, to gather additional information and hear from the building inspector. - Motion passed: Approval of the hotel room limit removal article for the October 19, 2026 Special Town Meeting warrant. The meeting adjourned at approximately 8:40 PM.