Public Meetings - Great Barrington, Massachusetts

The Finance Committee of Great Barrington met at the Fire Station on September 23, 2026, at 5:00 PM. The meeting included committee announcements, approval of minutes, a presentation by guest speaker Patrick White on municipal finance, discussion of key town fiscal issues, and citizen comments. Members emphasized the need for proactive financial planning and expressed concerns about the town's long-term fiscal sustainability. Public Comments & Testimony - Vivian L. – Questioned aspects of Patrick White's presentation that had been difficult to hear due to technical issues. Raised points about school choice/in-tuition costs and the residential tax exemption, urging the committee to consider proven precedents from other states. Asked for future agenda time to present specific policy examples. - Sharon – Urged the committee to recommend that the Select Board initiate renegotiation of the three-town regional school agreement, citing the need to move away from the current foundation enrollment formula toward a more equitable model (e.g., equalized property values). Noted that voters rejected the levy override, limiting the town's ability to increase the school budget. Suggested rejecting the operating budget to gain leverage. - James (84 North Lane Road) – Thanked Patrick White and echoed the need to renegotiate the school agreement. Called for the town to vote against the operating budget at town meeting and to stop adding new departments (e.g., the South County Connector) without a sustainable funding plan. Highlighted the loss of young people due to lack of jobs and stressed that the town must address its structural deficit. Discussion Items - Committee Member Announcements: Michelle reported that the Select Board meeting she attended the previous night repeatedly stated “we have no money.” She urged the committee to change the charter to require monthly meetings and review of receipts/expenditures. Rayo noted that Williamstown’s Finance Committee meets monthly and analyzes data proactively. Jeff emphasized the need for purposeful collaboration with other town bodies and access to objective information early in the planning process. Doug expressed support and noted the town has been “reactionary, not anticipatory,” citing Cook’s Garage as an example where the town was unaware of insurance status. The committee discussed the need to clarify its advisory role. - Approval of Minutes: Minutes from June 16, 2026, were approved unanimously. Minutes from June 29 were not yet available. Minutes from August 11, 2026, were approved unanimously. - Assignment to Community Preservation Committee (CPC): The committee tabled the assignment because no member currently on the committee is able to serve on the CPC. Discussion included logistical constraints and the statutory requirement that the representative must be from the Finance Committee. Motion to table was approved (4-1? The vote was described as roll call: Michelle, Doug, and the chair voted “I” (yes); others apparently also in favor? The transcript indicates all five voted in favor of tabling. We'll note it as passed.) - Guest Presentation – Patrick White (“Parsonomics”): Patrick White, a former Stockbridge Select Board member and CFO, presented a comprehensive financial analysis for Great Barrington. He highlighted that the school budget is the largest driver of fiscal pressure: Great Barrington currently pays about 70% of the regional school budget, but if enrollment declines continue in partner towns, this share could rise to 83.5% by 2030. He advocated for renegotiating the regional agreement to a compromise between foundation enrollment and full equalized property value (EQV), suggesting a “floor” mechanism to prevent disproportionate burden. Other topics included: new growth opportunities (zoning reform, hotel expansion), potential revenue from personal property tax compliance, stormwater fees, and senior tax deferrals. He presented a public online dashboard (parsonomics.com) that allows users to model the effects of various fiscal decisions. Members thanked him and noted the urgency of the data. - Future Agenda Planning: The committee discussed the need for the town manager (Liz) to attend a meeting to discuss two priority items: (1) initiating a process to reconsider the regional school agreement, and (2) a financial analysis of the South County Connector pilot program, particularly the long-term commitment if state grants cease. They targeted October 28 at 5:00 PM (Plan A) or October 27 at 6:00 PM (Plan B) for a meeting with the town manager. The joint meeting with the Select Board on September 29 (if confirmed) was noted. Key Outcomes - Minutes Approved: June 16 and August 11 minutes approved. (June 29 minutes not yet available.) - CPC Assignment Tabled: Motion to table the appointment of a Finance Committee representative to the CPC passed unanimously. The item will be revisited at a future meeting. - Priority Topics Identified: The committee agreed to request a meeting with Town Manager Liz to address (1) renegotiation of the regional school agreement and (2) financial sustainability of the South County Connector. Dates of October 27 or October 28, 2026, were proposed. - Data Tool Received: Patrick White’s “Parsonomics” dashboard was presented and acknowledged as a resource for the committee and the public. - No Formal Motion on School Agreement: After discussion, the committee decided not to move a motion that evening but instead to prepare a well-informed recommendation in collaboration with the Town Manager at the upcoming joint meeting. Note: The agenda and minutes for this meeting were unavailable; the summary is based solely on the raw transcription.

The Great Barrington Conservation Commission met on September 23, 2026, to consider several notices of intent under the Scenic Mountain Act and Wetlands Protection Act. The meeting included a withdrawal of a boardwalk project, approval of a single-family home with conditions, updates on an approved project, and administrative matters regarding local wildlife refuges and a building remediation. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The minutes of August 26, 2026 were approved as written by unanimous vote. Public Comments & Testimony - 166 Castle Hill Avenue Project: Several neighbors spoke during the public hearing. Tracy Holland (165 Castle Hill) asked whether the house would be visible from Lake Mansfield. The applicants stated the house is set back over 200 feet from the lake, is a single story, and the dense forest and new plantings would screen it. Kathleen, a lakefront resident, expressed concern about tree cutting and increased visibility from the lake. Laura Stephen (Sumner Street) asked whether the planting plan was committed; the applicants confirmed 100% commitment with a 90% survival condition. Christine Laura (29 Castle Hill) asked about the house location relative to a large maple tree. Margaret McTeague (Castle Hill Avenue) asked if the home would be a primary residence; the chair ruled that not relevant. Umyer (11 George Street) raised concerns about a future boardwalk and dock, noting that the current OSRP prohibits docks. The chair noted that the boardwalk item was not on the agenda. Lauren (Columbia County, NY) spoke in support of the project. Richard (unidentified) asked about the tree removal and replanting ratio. Discussion Items - Withdrawal of 164 Castle Hill Boardwalk: The first notice of intent (file number 167-0491) for a boardwalk and walking path at 164 Castle Hill Avenue was withdrawn temporarily by the applicant. The public hearing was closed by motion and unanimous vote. Andrew Mankin recused himself. - Notice of Intent for 166 Castle Hill Avenue (SMA 9-4-2026): The applicant, Berkshire Engineering on behalf of Maureen Cohen, proposed a single-family home, driveway, pool, and landscaping. The house was reduced from original plans by 1,000 square feet to approximately 4,500 square feet, with a height not exceeding 22 feet. The design includes a green roof, preservation of a large maple tree, restoration of a historic stone wall, and a stormwater management system with bioretention cells. The landscape plan includes removal of 15-16 trees and replanting of 16 trees, 12 evergreens, and 82 native shrubs. The project is outside of wetland buffers but within the Scenic Mountain Act jurisdiction. Commission members asked about driveway grade, buffer zones, stormwater, and final building plans. - Update on 139 Alford Road (Emily Stockman): Emily Stockman presented updated plans for an approved project (file number 167-0486). The permit holders scaled back the deck and stairs due to cost, reducing impact and retaining same limits of work. Erosion controls and turtle exclusion barriers were installed. The commission approved the updated plans dated September 4, 2026 by unanimous vote. - McAllister Wildlife Refuge Sign Vandalism: Kate reported that the “dogs must be leashed” sign was vandalized. Spare signs are available. Discussion ensued about dog waste bag supplies and trash collection. The commission will investigate DPW or parks department assistance or consider using conservation funds. - Cook’s Garage Remediation Update: Kate provided an update on the ongoing remediation of Cook’s Garage. The emergency certification from DEP lapsed. The building contains asbestos and is structurally unsound. Efforts are focused on manual removal of debris (windows, bricks) from the Housatonic River, with consultation from DEP, Natural Heritage, and EPA. A MISA checklist and possibly a new emergency certification will be brought before the commission. No action was taken. Key Outcomes - Approval (166 Castle Hill): The commission approved the project as presented with conditions: (1) final building plan must be submitted for review prior to construction; (2) building height not to exceed 22 feet; (3) plantings as described in the submitted plan are committed. Vote: Andrew Mankin recused; remaining members voted in favor (Andy Diddy, Ashley Shaw, Andrew Miano, Ted Pickering, Kate – all aye). - Approval of Updated Plans (139 Alford Road): The commission approved the updated site plan dated September 4, 2026, for the 139 Alford Road project, noting no increase in impact. Vote: unanimous (including Andrew Mankin, who returned). - Next Steps: The commission will follow up on the McAllister sign and dog waste issue. Kate will prepare a MISA checklist or emergency certification for manual removal of debris from the Housatonic River at Cook’s Garage.

The Select Board and the Library Trustees of Ramsdell Library held a joint meeting to discuss a September 8, 2026 letter from the Massachusetts Historical Commission (MHC) regarding the proposed renovation and expansion of the Ramsdell Library. The central topics included the MHC's seven recommendations, the feasibility of meeting deadlines for a $9.4 million MBLC grant, financial constraints, and the path forward for the project. Public Comments & Testimony - John Nelson, co-chair of the Ramsdell Building Committee, expressed full support for the architectural firm Perry Dean Rogers & Partners (PDR), noting their unanimous selection and experience with historic preservation. He emphasized that the firm's philosophy was to retain and respect the original 1906 building. - Deepa Venket, from CHA (Owners Project Manager), detailed the project timeline and funding process. She explained that cost estimates were originally scheduled for November 2026, but the MHC letter has caused delays. She noted that the MBLC requires certified votes by June 2027, and obtaining an extension beyond that date could result in losing the grant entirely. - Jimmy Bailey, a resident, criticized the lack of cost estimates and called the process a "pipe dream" for a select few. He urged the Select Board to prioritize the financial burdens on taxpayers, including the elderly and those struggling. - James Garzone, a resident, supported the Town Manager's fiscal caution, listing other essential town projects (wastewater, school, waterworks, PCBs, Cook's Garage) that total millions. He stated the town is "drowning in taxes and debt." - Frederica Siegel, co-chair of the Ramsdell Building Committee, reported that during the meeting, a donor had offered $10,000 to fund a historic preservation consultant if the town manager agrees to facilitate mediation. She urged the board not to end the process prematurely. - Several other residents spoke in favor of seeking an extension and working collaboratively, while others stressed the need for concrete cost figures before committing to the project. Discussion Items - MHC Letter and Consultant: The letter recommended hiring an independent consultant to review alternatives to demolishing the 1930 addition. Library trustees and PDR argued the letter contained inaccuracies and that many recommendations (e.g., archival storage, construction protection) are standard and can be addressed through a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA). The group debated whether the consultant's findings would require a full redesign or simply a narrative assessment. - Financial Constraints: Town Manager Liz Hartwell stated that the town has no free cash available and only $500,000 in levy capacity. She emphasized that even a $5 million project would add a significant burden, and the town cannot afford a project without a clear cost estimate and revenue plan. She stated, "I cannot support moving forward with a five-plus million dollar project period." - Fundraising: Trustees reported that fundraising has been hindered by negative press and lack of clarity. They noted that potential donors are waiting for more project certainty. Some residents questioned the lack of documented pledges, while trustees stressed confidentiality. - Grant Deadlines and Extension: The first deadline is December 31, 2026, to complete the MHC process. A second deadline in June 2027 requires certified town meeting votes. CHA warned that an extension beyond June 2027 would likely cause loss of the grant and require a new application. The Select Board discussed requesting an extension from MBLC for both deadlines, acknowledging that even a successful December extension does not resolve the town's broader financial challenges. Key Outcomes - Motion to Request MBLC Extension: The Select Board voted unanimously (5-0) to request an extension from the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners for both the December 31, 2026 deadline and the spring 2027 deadline (roll call vote: Bill, Ben, Garfield, Eric, Phil all voted "aye"). The motion directed the appropriate parties to petition MBLC for the extension based on the MHC letter and financial uncertainties. - Motion to Approve Festival Latino Event: The board unanimously approved a special entertainment license and site plan for Festival Latino to use the Town Hall parking lot and gazebo on September 26, 2026. - Motion to Remove 45-Room Cap on Hotels: The board voted unanimously (5-0) to initiate a zoning amendment to remove the 45-room cap on new hotels, while keeping the existing special permit process. This requires public hearings and planning board input. - Motion to Approve Special Town Meeting Warrant: The board unanimously approved the warrant for the upcoming special town meeting, which includes articles for wastewater treatment (enterprise fund), Cook's Garage abatement, a clerical error correction, a citizen petition, and prior-year invoice payments.

The meeting was called to order at 6:37 p.m. and opened with a motion, second, and unanimous approval. The board reviewed the August minutes, which were approved by acclamation. The main focus of the meeting was a debrief on the Long Table Dinner event, followed by discussion of possible improvements for next year's event. Consent Calendar - The August meeting minutes were approved unanimously. - The meeting was opened via a motion and second; no roll call was needed since a quorum was present. Public Comments & Testimony - [No public comments or testimony were provided during this segment of the meeting.] Discussion Items - Long Table Dinner Recap: Members reported that more than 200 people attended the event, with live music and multiple food vendors. The vendors included Oslo (mentioned as

The Library Board of Trustees held a special meeting on September 18, 2026, at 5:30 PM to prepare for a joint meeting with the Select Board scheduled for September 26, 2026, at 6:00 PM. The primary agenda was to discuss the next steps for the Ramsdale Library renovation project following a critical September 8, 2026 letter from the Massachusetts Historical Commission (MHC). Trustees debated whether to hire an independent historic preservation consultant, as recommended by MHC and PDR, and considered the financial, timing, and procedural implications. The meeting concluded with a plan to seek clarification from the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners (MBLC) and to gather supporting documentation from PDR and MBLC before the joint meeting. Public Comments & Testimony - Peter, a Great Barrington taxpayer, expressed strong concern about the MHC letter, describing it as "the most brutal and brutally honest communication from one governmental agency to another" he had ever seen. He argued that taxpayers deserve answers about how the town commissioned a report that MHC found to be "replete with factual misstatements" and lacking objectivity. He questioned who was responsible and suggested that PDR should redo the report on their own dime, not at taxpayer expense. - John Nelson, a member of the Ramsdale Building Committee, countered that MHC's letter itself contained significant factual errors. He urged the board to wait for PDR's forthcoming statement correcting those misstatements before making any decisions based on MHC's claims. Discussion Items - Purpose of the Joint Meeting: Chair Laura explained that the joint meeting with the Select Board would focus on next steps, specifically whether to hire a consultant and who would pay for it. A possible vote on the agenda is to authorize hiring a consultant. - Trustees' Positions on Hiring a Consultant: - Pat firmly opposed hiring an independent consultant, stating "Absolutely no" and questioning the qualifications of the MHC letter's author (an archaeologist, not an architect). He noted that the Ramsdale Building Committee already has a historic preservationist architect (Pam Sandler) who could advise at no cost. - Russell said he did not have enough information to decide, citing uncertainty about whether MHC's recommendations are suggestions or mandates. - Laura expressed skepticism, noting the cost (estimated $250-$500 per hour, with 20 hours costing up to $10,000) and the tight timeline (a possible MOU deadline by end of the year). She also pointed out that the building's 1930s addition contains little of historic value. - Frederica argued that PDR is qualified (they have historic preservation experience) and that the board should not react in a knee-jerk manner. She urged focusing on getting a letter from MBLC about their experience with similar situations and a letter from PDR addressing their capabilities. She felt that hiring an independent consultant might be a good idea if it gives time to build public support. - Warren (possibly the town manager or staff) noted that the meeting is not to dispute the MHC letter but to decide next steps. He emphasized that the letter's severity surprised even MBLC officials. - Key Questions Raised: The trustees brainstormed questions for the joint meeting, including whether the MHC letter is a mandate, whether it jeopardizes the building's historic designation, whether an appeal/factual response is possible, and whether MBLC will extend the grant deadline if a consultant is hired. They noted that losing the grant could mean forfeiting a significant amount (approximately $2 million from the town plus state funds). Key Outcomes - No formal vote was taken on hiring a consultant, but the consensus leaned against it at this time due to cost, timeline, and the belief that PDR is capable. - The board agreed to prepare a set of bullet points for the joint meeting, including questions to clarify the authority of MHC's letter. - They committed to seeking a pre-meeting answer from MBLC on whether MHC's letter is a mandate and whether an extension on the grant is possible. - They will request letters from PDR (addressing their historic preservation qualifications) and from MBLC (providing context on similar situations). - The meeting adjourned at 6:41 PM.

The Sewer Commissioners (acting as the Select Board) met to review sewer rate projections, discuss a warrant article for a $20.7 million wastewater treatment plant upgrade, and consider applying for a new state nitrogen reduction grant. The board voted unanimously to place the full project on the October 19, 2026 special town meeting warrant and gave consensus to pursue the grant. Discussion Items - Sewer Rate Study & Projections: Justin Skelly (DPC) presented a rate model showing that after the already-approved 12% annual increases through FY28, the town could reduce increases to 3% annually for FY29–FY31 while maintaining a healthy retained earnings balance ($6 million). The projections assume a $20.7 million SRF loan at 2% over 20 years with debt service of $1.2 million/year starting in FY2030. The board noted that only sewer users (not all taxpayers) fund the enterprise fund. - Warrant Article for $20.7M Project: The board debated whether to ask voters for the full $20.7 million or a smaller $3.9 million subproject. The town manager (Liz) and engineers argued that doing the full project now is more cost-effective, avoids construction inflation, and meets the SRF deadline. The board agreed, citing proactive planning and the ability to reduce the request on the floor if needed. - Long Island Sound Nitrogen Grant: Justin Skelly described a new one-time DEP grant program ($7.2 million total) for treatment plants in the Long Island Sound watershed. Great Barrington could apply for up to $6.5 million for construction costs, including design fees. The application deadline is December 2026; a pre-application webinar is October 7, 2026. The $5,000 application fee is already in the town’s budget. The board expressed strong support, calling it “free money” with no downside. Key Outcomes - Vote on Warrant Article: Unanimous vote (Phil, Benfield, Garfield, Eric, Steve) to place a $20.7 million wastewater treatment plant upgrade article on the October 19, 2026 special town meeting warrant. - Grant Application: The board gave consensus to proceed with applying for the Long Island Sound nitrogen grant. The town manager will prepare the application and keep the board updated. - Next Steps: The town manager will create a webpage explaining the project for voters, and the engineering team will continue design work to meet the SRF shovel-ready deadline of October 2027.

The meeting of the Great Barrington Affordable Housing Trust was held remotely on September 15, 2026, at 6:30 PM, with all members present (Fred Clark, Ananda Timpane, Garfield Reed, Bill Cook, Peter Most, and Joseph Method). The board approved minutes, discussed financial reports and the annual CPA request, received an update on the ADU program, and debated parameters for an RFP for the Rising Dale ball field property, resulting in several votes. Consent Calendar - The minutes from the August 17, 2026 meeting were approved unanimously via roll call (Ananda yes, Garfield aye, Bill yes, Peter aye, Fred yes). Discussion Items - Reports and Financial Overview: The board noted that quarterly reports from Habitat (related to Prosperity Way) and Construct (housing assistance grant) are due before the October meeting. Members requested more detailed information on closing schedules and anticipated use of funds. Garfield Reed raised concerns about Jim Bailey's allegations regarding misuse of funds at Prosperity Way, clarifying that oversight lies with the town manager's office, not the trust. - CPA Request for FY28: The board discussed the annual CPA funding request. Ananda Timpane recommended continuing to ask for the maximum allowable amount (approximately $620,000), emphasizing that the trust's role is to advocate for housing crisis needs. Others debated a more realistic figure in the $300,000–$400,000 range. The consensus was to maintain the maximum request and provide a strong argument at the October meeting. Peter Most raised the possibility of a regional affordable housing trust under the Seasonal Communities Act, but the board agreed a decision on funding such a trust would rest with the CPC, not the trust. - ADU Program Update: The ADU program launched on September 1, 2026, with applications open until November 20, 2026. Berkshire Regional Planning created a website, and publicity included an article in the Berkshire Edge. The board agreed to invite Brett Roberts from Berkshire Regional Planning to the October meeting for a progress update. - Rising Dale Ball Field RFP: The board discussed key parameters for the RFP to develop affordable housing on the three-acre site. After extended debate: - Motion to leave options open (rental, homeownership, or mixed): Passed 5–1 (one opposed). - Motion to cap total dwelling units at 12: Passed 4–2. - Motion for a minimum of 8 units: Failed 2–4. - Motion for a minimum of 12 bedrooms: Failed 1–5. - Motion for a minimum of 6 units: Failed 2–4. The board agreed to include the following in the RFP: utilize cluster zoning, preserve night sky visibility and existing tree barriers, accept proposals for either ownership or rental models, and limit total dwelling units to a maximum of 12. Further discussion on sidewalks and bus stops was deferred. Key Outcomes - The board will ask the CPC for the maximum allowable CPA allocation for FY28, with a draft argument presented at the October meeting. - The Rising Dale RFP will be drafted by Chris (staff) with the approved parameters: cluster zoning, night sky and tree protections, open to ownership/rental, and a cap of 12 units. A rubric will be used to evaluate proposals. - The ADU program’s community informational meeting and October update from Berkshire Regional Planning were scheduled. - The next meeting is expected in October 2026.

This meeting of the Great Barrington Select Board on September 14, 2026, included the town manager's report on several initiatives, including the police chief transition, affordable housing, transportation, and community programs. No formal votes or consent calendar actions were recorded, as the meeting focused on informational updates and announcements. Select Board Announcements - Chair's announcements: The chair thanked everyone involved in the HIC event and the 9/11 ceremony held at the Great Barrington Fire Station, including the presentation of the new 9/11 memorial in front of the station. Town Manager's Report (September 14th Report) - Ramsdale Public Library renovation: The town received correspondence from the Massachusetts Historical Commission regarding the Ramsdale Public Library renovation and addition project. The letter provides feedback for the town and trustees on balancing restoration/preservation of the historic building with the library's operational needs. The correspondence will be in the town manager's packet and discussed at a joint meeting between the library trustees and select board on September 22nd. - Sewer commissioners meeting: The sewer commissioners (the select board) will meet Thursday, September 17th at 5 p.m. via Zoom to address financial and infrastructure matters, including sewer rates, the upcoming special town meeting warrant article and project scope, and a possible vote on the Mass DEP nitrogen grant. - Police chief appointment: The town manager has decided to negotiate a contract with interim Police Chief Adam Carlotto to serve as permanent police chief. A community survey will be launched to gather resident priorities for the police department over the next 10 years. - Affordable housing (ADU program): The town, in partnership with the Affordable Housing Trust and Berkshire Regional Planning Commission, is launching an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) program with 0% interest loans that may be fully forgiven after 10 years. $150,000 is available for eligible property owners who create ADUs and maintain them as income-eligible rentals. - South County Connector: Work continues to strengthen this regional transportation operation. The RTEC will meet September 16th at 3 p.m. Recruitment/staffing is the immediate priority; several hires have been made already. - Community Care Team: First meeting held September 10th; next meeting October 15th at 5 p.m. Vision statement and goal prioritization are next steps. - Training: A training for town boards/committees/commissions is set for Tuesday, October 6th at 6 p.m. in partnership with town council. [The transcript cuts off at this point; meeting content appears to end mid-sentence/without adjournment. No public comment, consent calendar, or votes appear in the available record. No speakers other than the chair, town manager, and select board members are identified.]

The meeting covered discussions on potential bylaws for 5G small cell wireless and abandoned buildings, along with several zoning amendment proposals including hotel room limits, overlay district extensions, and modifications to the Simon's Rock campus overlay district. The board scheduled future meetings to delve into these topics and also addressed public comments and permitting process concerns. Consent Calendar - Approval of minutes (no further details provided in the transcript). Public Comments & Testimony - Vivian expressed interest in contributing to the 5G research and raised concerns about data center regulations following Governor Healy's executive order. She offered to provide an article link. - Eileen noted audio difficulties for online attendees, attributing them to microphone placement. - James supported removing the hotel room limit but expressed concerns about enforcement and potential profit for a property owner (Mr. Majito). Discussion Items 5G and Small Cell Wireless Bylaw - Discussion on limited municipal control under federal law; antennas often placed in public rights-of-way. - Town manager found a sample bylaw from Barnstable but had not yet reviewed it. - Board agreed to gather more background information and schedule a dedicated meeting later in the fall. Abandoned Buildings Bylaw - Member raised concerns about unsecured buildings causing public safety risks (vandalism, trespass, fire). - Debate on scope (all buildings vs. non-residential) and potential overlap with existing building code. - Decision: Town planner will check if building code already covers security; board will decide after further investigation. Draft Zoning Amendments A1: Hotel/Motel Room Limits (Section 7.10.2) - Current limit of 45 rooms per hotel/motel. Jonathan provided data on existing Great Barrington hotels (e.g., Fairfield Inn – 93 rooms) and new Lenox hotels (90+ rooms). - Proposal to strike Section 7.10.2 entirely, removing the room cap while retaining the special permit process. - Debate on economic impacts, feasibility, and potential locations. No final decision; scheduled for dedicated discussion on October 8. A2: Extension of Pentatonic Mills Revitalization Overlay District to Rising Mill Property (Section 9.8) - Proposal to extend the overlay through the Industrial Zone to include the Rising Mill property. - Discussion on zoning map and carved-out residential properties; board agreed to explore details and map at the October 8 meeting. B: Model Bylaws for Seasonal Communities - State released model bylaws for small wind and battery storage; board awaiting more information. - Also discussed regional need for a USDA-approved animal processing facility; sewer/water availability in Great Barrington noted as an asset. - Decision: Further research needed; scheduled for October 22. C: Simon's Rock Campus Overlay District (Section 9.15) - Discussion on permitted uses, limitations to existing buildings, and potential revisions. - Board considered moving certain uses from by-right to special permit and possibly striking co-living. - Decision: Review current language at the next meeting (September 24). Town Planner's Report - Valley Association to present on Housatonic and Green River watershed work at the September 24 meeting. - Special permit application for a front fence replacement noted. Board and Subcommittee Updates - Jackie reported persistent delays in fire department permitting for apartment renovations, expressing frustration with the review process. She noted inability to start construction despite a 15-day review requirement. Concerns to be raised with the town administrator and select board. - Jeremy provided Community Preservation Committee (CPC) dates: Step 1 applications due November 6 with review on November 10; Step 2 applications due December 11 with reviews on December 15, January 5–7, 2027. Key Outcomes - Next meeting (September 24): Focus on campus overlay district revisions. - October 8: Discuss hotel room limits and overlay extension to Rising Mill. - October 22: Seasonal communities model bylaws. - November: Animal processing facility feasibility. - 5G and abandoned buildings: Further research before scheduling. - Jackie's concerns about fire department permitting to be escalated to town administration. - Public comments noted.