Public Meetings - Great Barrington, Massachusetts

The Finance Committee of Great Barrington met remotely on Monday, June 22, 2026, at 6:01 PM. All four members (Rayo, Jeff, Michelle, Madonna) were present, establishing a quorum. The meeting featured a lengthy discussion on the town's fiscal challenges, the upcoming town meeting warrant, long-term strategic planning, and committee goals. Town Manager Liz and Assistant Town Manager Allie provided staff input. Consent Calendar: Approval of Minutes - Minutes from the April 21, 2026 meeting were approved (4-0). - Minutes from the April 28, 2026 meeting were approved (4-0). - Minutes from the May 19, 2026 meeting were approved (4-0). - Member Michelle expressed a personal position that she does not believe members who were not present at a meeting should vote to approve those minutes, noting she has never done so in her experience, though she did not formally abstain or object to the vote. Public Comments & Testimony - James (84 North Lane Road): Urged the committee to drive significant change, stating that the town's fiscal problems were known for years and were not fully disclosed prior to the new school vote. He advocated for focusing on retaining and supporting local businesses, citing the loss of Nina Paper Company and empty storefronts. He expressed hope the new committee would use its power to push back on spending. - Jim Bailey (Housatonic): Argued that economic growth is the only solution to the town's problems. He called for the elimination of the Community Preservation Act (CPA), stating, "18 cents on the dollar is not worth it." - Eileen (Audience Member): Requested that meeting packets and the five-year strategic plan be posted and provided in advance of meetings. Discussion Items 1. Upcoming Town Meeting Overview and Reflections (Article 2 Set-Aside) - The committee reviewed the town meeting article regarding a $500,000 set-aside for affordable housing. - A discrepancy in the article's language was discussed. The committee initially expected the amount would remain in free cash as a "set-aside." Town Manager Liz clarified the Town Council drafted it as an "appropriation," which would fully remove the funds from free cash. - Rayo stated this distinction is critical, as removing the funds could drop the town below its recommended free cash minimum. He said he would support a set-aside but could not support an appropriation. - Michelle opposed revisiting the committee's recommendation, arguing that last-minute changes confuse citizens. The committee stood by its previous 4-0 vote not to recommend the article. It was agreed to communicate the nuance of the wording to the Select Board. 2. Five-Year Strategic Plan and Finance Committee Goals - Town Manager Liz presented a financial strategy built on four pillars: School Assessment, Revenue Growth & Economic Development, Capital/Debt Reform, and Financial Policy. Pillars three and four are directly under the Finance Committee's jurisdiction. - Liz emphasized the need for clear, early policy direction from the committee to avoid wasted staff effort, referencing the previous budget cycle where vague policy led to a rejected first draft. - School Budget Discussion: - The committee extensively discussed the lack of engagement with the regional school district, which constitutes over 75% of the town's budget. - Michelle expressed frustration that the fiscal crisis was not publicized prior to the new school bond vote and strongly opposed a Prop 2 1/2 override for FY28, advocating for service cuts and hiring freezes. - Jeff stressed the need to formally engage with the School Committee early in their process, warning the town is in an "untenable financial position" and a favorable vote on the school budget cannot be assumed. - Rayo argued the failed override demonstrated a lack of voter trust. He urged the committee to explore all non-property tax revenue options (e.g., parking, personal property tax compliance) to build credibility before asking voters for more. - Committee Priorities: - The committee struggled to finalize specific goals for the summer, but agreed to use the Select Board's strategic priorities as a foundation. - Town Manager Liz announced a "Municipal Finance 101" training session scheduled for the committee. Key Outcomes - Scheduled Meetings: The committee confirmed its next meeting for July 14, 2026 (6:00 PM, hybrid format) to conduct interviews for the vacant fifth seat. A follow-up meeting was tentatively set for the week of August 11, 2026. - New Member Recruitment: The application deadline was extended by approximately one week to allow for additional candidates. The committee decided to keep the call for interest open until the July 14 meeting. - Directives: Town Manager Liz was asked to provide the committee with the Select Board's strategic priorities and the five-year financial strategy from the February budget book. The committee agreed to communicate the distinction between the set-aside and appropriation to the Select Board. - Policy Focus: The committee committed to a summer work plan focused on drafting a clear financial policy to guide the FY28 budget process, aiming to avoid the issues encountered in the previous cycle.

The Great Barrington Select Board and Finance Committee met on June 16, 2026, to deliberate and make recommendations on articles for the upcoming special town meeting. The agenda included citizen petitions for lifeguards, a skate park monitor, the co-responder program, parking enforcement, veteran property leases, and Housatonic Water Works legal fees; additional funding for the Southern Berkshire Ambulance Squad; and appropriations to address the Morais construction contract litigation. Presentations from service providers and town staff were followed by extensive board discussion about the town's free cash reserves, reliance on one-time funds, and long-term fiscal sustainability. Citizen Petitions Article 1 – Item Recommendations - Lifeguards at Lake Mansfield ($61,285): Eric Jaffey (Berkshire South board chair) emphasized 20 years of incident-free operation, citing drownings at other unguarded lakes. Both boards gave positive recommendations. (Select Board vote: 4–1) - Skate Park Monitor ($32,679): Eric Broom (Railroad Street Youth Project board president) and Amanda described the program as an entry point for youth engagement. (Finance Committee: positive; Select Board: 3–2 positive) - Co-Responder Program ($100,000): Interim Police Chief Adam Berlato highlighted the mental health clinician’s role for both the community and officer wellness. Both boards recommended positively. - Parking Enforcement Officer ($20,000): Chief Berlato noted public safety benefits beyond revenue. (Finance Committee: positive, 3–1; Select Board: 3–2 positive) - VFW Property Lease ($30,000): Jim Bailey (VFW post commander) and members stressed the veterans’ support role and need for a facility. Both boards gave unanimous positive recommendations. - American Legion Lease ($23,000): Unanimous positive recommendations from both boards. - Housatonic Water Works Legal Fees ($75,000): Town Manager Liz Hartman explained the need for legal funds related to a purchase price dispute before the SJC. The Finance Committee gave a negative recommendation (2–2 tie); the Select Board gave a positive recommendation. Southern Berkshire Ambulance Squad Article 4 Chief Kevin requested $86,899 beyond the $327,000 already approved, citing a contractual 7.5% escalation for a three-year term. After debate about fiscal constraints and service continuity, the Finance Committee passed a positive recommendation (4–1). The Select Board also gave a positive recommendation (4–1). Morais Lawsuit and Legal Funding Articles 2 & 3 Town Manager Hartman and Town Counsel David Doneski presented the findings of a forensic audit detailing hundreds of thousands in unauthorized payments to a contractor. The board discussed options: setting aside free cash (Article 2, $1 million), borrowing in the event of a judgment, or proceeding to court. The Finance Committee recommended against Article 2 (negative vote). The Select Board’s deliberation on Article 2 included failed amendments and no final positive recommendation, leaving the article without a board endorsement. For Article 3 ($200,000 from the stabilization fund for legal and consultant services), both the Finance Committee and the Select Board gave positive recommendations, after the Select Board withdrew an amendment to reduce the amount. Key Outcomes - Article 1 citizen petitions: Mixed recommendations; the Finance Committee recommended approval for six of seven items (negative on Housatonic water works legal fees). The Select Board recommended approval for all seven items. - Article 2 (Morais reserve): No recommendation from either board; the May special town meeting will decide the appropriation. - Article 3 (legal costs): Positive recommendation from both boards. - Article 4 (ambulance squad): Positive recommendation from both boards. The boards underscored the need for a multi-year financial plan and urged procurement reforms to prevent recurrence of the contract oversight failures documented in the forensic audit.

The Great Barrington Select Board met on Monday, June 15, 2026, beginning at 6 p.m. The board heard the town manager’s report, approved several temporary licenses and liquor-license amendments, recommended a zoning variance, continued a contested driveway permit application, endorsed the draft Open Space and Recreation Plan, discussed the Ramsdale Library designer selection process, approved a bond anticipation note sale, and confirmed appointments. Votes were unanimous except where noted. Town Manager’s Report and Announcements - Select Board member Bill announced that B and Old Maids will hold an open house/informational conversation Thursday, June 18 at the Unitarian Church in Housatonic; free childcare and dinner are available with registration at the B news website. - The board thanked organizers, sponsors, volunteers, Sarah Parker, and Housatonic Beautiful for the fourth successful Party in the Park. - 2026–27 transfer station decals are on sale now through the town clerk or online; the new permit year begins July 1. - Design documents for the Brookside Bridge project have been submitted to MassDOT. MassDOT recommended designing the bridge for a larger vehicle than originally proposed; the town is evaluating options with MassDOT and coordinating with Division Street Bridge and a possible future Kellogg Bridge TIP project without significant expected schedule or cost changes. - Town staff are monitoring a resident-raised safety concern near the bridge and are working with Tighe & Bond to assess it; residents are encouraged to report potential safety concerns directly to Town Hall. - The town received many creative submissions for decorative crosswalk art for the July 4th/250th celebration; selected designs will be installed downtown. Garfield and Betsy Sherman volunteered on the review committee. - The GB Gratitude program recognized town employees Kathy Couch, Town Clerk Joshua, and highway employee Darrell Austin, and volunteers Bill Meyer, Marilyn Bessewitz, and Nadine Foster. Consent Calendar and Routine Approvals - Minutes of May 13, 2026, and May 18, 2026, were approved unanimously as written. - Steve McAllister was confirmed as the architect/design professional member of the Design Advisory Committee, unanimously. - A temporary beer and wine license for the GB Fish and Game Association’s Father’s Day event, Sunday, June 21, 2026, 11 a.m.–6 p.m., at 338 Long Pond Road, was approved unanimously. - A temporary entertainment license for Bernay Fine Arts at 296 Main Street on Saturday, July 11, 2026, 3:45–6 p.m., with indoor backup if weather is poor, was approved unanimously. - A temporary entertainment license for the Virtual Arts Festival at 380 State Road on July 3–4, 12–4 p.m., and July 5, 12–3 p.m., was approved unanimously for its 26th annual event. - Temporary entertainment licenses for WSBS Radio’s free Tuesday concert series at the Great Barrington VFW, 800 South Main Street, July 7–August 18, 2026, 6–8 p.m., were approved unanimously. - A temporary entertainment license for VFW Post 8348’s July 4th community celebration and picnic at 800 South Main Street, 12–7 p.m., was approved unanimously, with the proposed 3-by-8-foot banner moved from Castanova Park to in front of Town Hall. - A change-of-manager and corporate-name amendment to the all-alcoholic beverages on-premises license for the Common Pub, 425 Park Street, proposed manager Eric Goulange, was approved unanimously. - A new common victual license for the Common Pub, formerly Common or Garden, at 425 Park Street, Monday–Sunday 9 a.m.–2 a.m., was approved unanimously; the discussion noted this license covers food service and a nearby resident supported late-night food availability. - The new common victual license application for Riverside Cafe, Brenda Romero, 4014 Stockford Road, proposed hours Monday–Sunday 7:30 a.m.–8 p.m., was called, but no applicant representative was present and the transcript records no vote on the application. Public Comments & Testimony - Fredrika Siegel, 27 Round Hill Road, said she and her husband have owned a Great Barrington home since 1992 and pay a special personal property tax because the town is not their primary residence. She argued that adopting the proposed residential tax exemption would raise their taxes further and that seasonal residents could face a property-tax increase of up to 50%. She urged the board to value seasonal residents’ experience, diversity, enthusiasm, and volunteerism and to re-examine rules for who can run for and be appointed to local bodies. - A resident named Paul expressed concern and fear about how he and his property were treated in connection with the Open Space and Recreation Plan, said planning board agenda/minutes related to the plan are blank, and stated he has stopped attending planning board meetings and wants to disassociate himself and his property from the plan. Zoning Variance Recommendation to the ZBA - Max Ritt of Shelter Farm LLC, representing homeowner James Penrose, requested a positive recommendation to the Zoning Board of Appeals for a front-yard garage at 150 Herbert Road that does not meet the 30-foot setback under sections 5.4 and 10.4 of the zoning bylaw. The lot is non-conforming and predates current bylaws; Ritt said the Planning Board supported the plan and that existing neighboring conditions, including a grandfathered garage and a commercial property, made the proposal consistent with the area’s vernacular. - One board member said he was not making a negative recommendation but did not want to weigh in because the garage would sit farther forward than existing abutting structures; he abstained. The motion for a positive recommendation passed with one abstention. Driveway Permit Application — 172 Division Street - Aaron B. Admin of White Engineering, on behalf of Greg Nevins and Dana Foster Nevins, presented a revised driveway design for 172 Division Street. The original driveway had a 12–12.5% grade and was not approved by the Fire Chief; the new S-shaped design meets the 10% threshold, meets fire-truck turning radii, and includes rain gardens, stone swales, and detention basins to manage stormwater. - The Fire Chief still commented that he could not guarantee fire apparatus access in severe weather. The board discussed alternatives, including moving the house farther back into the scenic mountain area; the conservation commission had recently approved the current design, which placed the roof peak about six feet below the ridgeline and reduced tree clearing. - Board members expressed concern about liability, public safety, and ensuring future owners know about the Fire Chief’s concern. A motion to continue the application to the board’s next meeting on July 6, 2026, at Town Hall, so the homeowners could respond on a potential sprinkler system and the Fire Chief could be asked to attend, passed unanimously. Draft Open Space and Recreation Plan Endorsement - The board considered a draft endorsement letter for the Open Space and Recreation Plan. Regional planning consultant Seth Jenkins said the public comment period runs through June 20, the state planning grant ends June 30, and the plan has been uploaded to the state to start eligibility for grant programs. - The Planning Board had not yet voted on its endorsement letter; the Agricultural Commission, through Vivian, raised concerns about Goal 1 regarding agricultural heritage and planned to submit follow-up comments. - Board member Phil flagged language on page 48 saying that mixed-use redevelopment schemes at the fairgrounds are "currently being considered" as inaccurate and asked that it be removed. The board voted unanimously to endorse the draft plan and the letter, while noting suggested edits. Ramsdale Library Designer Selection Process - The town manager presented a memo about the next phase of the Ramsdale Library project. The Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners has put the project in line for state funding contingent on completion of the historic review, but design and funding votes remain ahead. The existing Ramsdale Building Committee, the owner’s project manager, and the architect contracts currently take the project through feasibility, design, and cost estimates up to a Town Meeting vote; they do not cover construction documents, contractor selection, or construction oversight. - The town manager outlined possible future options: a project-specific construction/design-review committee, a standing design-review or capital-planning committee, or continuation of current practice. Some board members favored minimizing new committees because of existing vacancies and volunteer bandwidth; one board member suggested the Select Board may need to take on more oversight itself. - Laura Morris, co-chair of the Library Trustees, asked for clarification; the town manager confirmed the current committee remains in place through the Town Meeting vote unless members choose not to continue. Frederica Siegel, a Ramsdale Building Committee member, argued the committee’s mission statement refers to the entire MBLC grant process; the town manager disagreed. The board agreed to request comments from the trustees and to continue the conversation, possibly jointly. Bond Anticipation Note Sale - The board voted unanimously to approve the sale of $1,539,933 of 4.03% general obligation bond anticipation notes dated June 26, 2026, and payable November 20, 2026, to BankESB at par plus accrued interest, if any, plus a premium of $5,389.77. The vote ratified official statements dated June 4 and June 11, 2026, and authorized disclosures, tax-compliance procedures, electronic execution, and related documents. - Town Treasurer Alicia explained that the town received two competitive bids and awarded the notes to BankESB at the lowest net interest cost of 3.15%. The borrowing covers three projects approved at Town Meetings in 2024 or 2025, and the notes will be paid off in November with a permanent bond. FY27 Board, Committee, and Commission Reappointments - The board approved the FY27 Select Board reappointments, with one abstention; one member said he did not have enough information about the original appointments to vote. - A board member noted that several appointees had the same term dates and suggested staggering terms to avoid losing institutional knowledge all at once. The board encouraged residents interested in serving to visit the town website for open appointed and elected positions. Select Board Comments - Board member Garfield said a for-sale sign near the lake made him concerned about future houses across from the lake; he said he did not like that prospect. Key Outcomes - Approved multiple temporary licenses, Common Pub license/name changes, the OSRP endorsement, the BAN sale, and routine reappointments; all passed unanimously except the variance recommendation and reappointments, each with one abstention. - Recommended the Herbert Road garage variance to the ZBA with one abstention. - Continued the 172 Division Street driveway permit to July 6, 2026, at Town Hall. - Moved the VFW July 4th banner location from Castanova Park to in front of Town Hall. - Set next steps for Ramsdale Library design-selection discussions, including trustee comments and possible joint meetings.

The Great Barrington Planning Board met on June 11, 2026, to review a variance application for a garage at 150 Hurlberg Road, discuss board and subcommittee updates, and consider endorsement of the town's Open Space and Recreation Plan (OSRP). The board voted to send a positive recommendation to the Zoning Board of Appeals on the variance and postponed the OSRP endorsement to its next meeting on June 25, 2026. The meeting adjourned at approximately 7:44 PM. Consent Calendar - Minutes of May 28, 2026 meeting: Approved unanimously by voice vote (all in favor, none opposed). Discussion Items - Variance Application for 150 Hurlberg Road (150 Herlbert Road in transcript – name discrepancy): Applicant Max Ritt, representing Shelter Farm LLC for owner James Penrose, requested a variance from front yard setback requirements (Sections 5.4 and 10.4 of the zoning bylaw) to erect an attached garage with a breezeway/mudroom. The existing house (built circa 1990s, though assessor records show 2000) is on a non-conforming lot (less than half acre, less than required lot size). The lot is narrow, with well and septic limiting side placement. The proposed structure would be in the front setback. The applicant noted many similar non-conforming structures in the district. Board members discussed alternatives and noted that the tree on site would be preserved. The board voted to send a positive recommendation to the Zoning Board of Appeals (4 in favor, 1 opposed). - Board and Subcommittee Updates: - Meeting with Building Inspector scheduled for the following Wednesday (June 17) to review processes. - Design Advisory Committee (DAC): Steve McAllister nominated for the fifth position; appointment to be considered by the Select Board on Monday, June 15. - Open Space and Recreation Plan (OSRP) Update: Seth from Berkshire Regional Planning Commission (BRPC) presented a draft endorsement letter and discussed the plan's action items. Public comment period is open until June 20, 2026. The plan has already received endorsement letters from the Conservation Commission and Parks Commission. A letter from the Select Board is pending. Vivian from the Agricultural Commission raised concerns about the plan's emphasis on agriculture (Goal 1) not sufficiently addressing home gardening and food security, given global fertilizer and fuel cost increases. She requested edits to include gardening programs. The board discussed whether to endorse the plan at this meeting or wait. After discussion, the board voted to postpone endorsement of the plan and the accompanying letter to the June 25, 2026 meeting to allow time for review of edits from board members and the Agricultural Commission. Key Outcomes - Variance recommendation: Approved (4-1) to send a positive recommendation to the Zoning Board of Appeals for 150 Hurlberg Road. - OSRP endorsement: Postponed to the June 25, 2026 meeting. The board requested that Seth compile public comments and edits (including from Jackie and the Agricultural Commission) by June 22, and that the final endorsement letter be provided for review before the next meeting. - Public comments: No members of the public spoke during the citizen speak portion. Vivian (Agricultural Commission) provided comments during the OSRP discussion.

The Board of Library Trustees met on June 10, 2026, at 5:30 PM to complete its reorganization, discuss the Ramsdale renovation project, approve the alternative study for the Massachusetts Historical Commission, and address staffing, donations, and outreach planning for the upcoming grant cycle. The meeting included the election of new officers, approval of meeting dates, and a request for discretionary funds for youth programming. Consent Calendar - Minutes of May 13, 2026: Approved unanimously without correction. Discussion Items - Reorganization and Meeting Dates: Officers were elected: Lauren Clark and Laura Mars as co-chairs, Sharon Shalom as secretary/treasurer, all by unanimous roll‑call votes. The board adjusted several monthly meeting dates for Fiscal Year 2027 to avoid holidays and town election conflicts (e.g., July 1 instead of July 8; November 4 instead of November 11; August 12 corrected to the second Wednesday). - Library Director’s Report: Director Dawn reported that circulation numbers were down slightly from April but still above last year’s levels. Electronic resources (Hoopla, Kanopy) usage is up, with audiobooks being the most popular borrows on Hoopla. Staffing remains short by 2.5 FTEs (one adult services, one youth services, and a half‑time position); recruitment is underway but limited by union contract negotiations. A $10,000 transfer from personnel to operations was approved by the town this year. - Request for $500 for Ramsdale Youth Programming: To provide extra funds for youth programming at Ramsdale (the budget is only $800/year, of which $475 is earmarked for a movie license). The board approved a motion to appropriate $500 from Ramsdale donations. (Vote: unanimous roll call) - Donated Mural for Mason Library Children’s Room: An artist and longtime CHP program leader offered to paint a mural in the children’s program room at Mason. The board accepted the donation by consensus, with the understanding that a formal MOU (to be drafted by the director) will protect the library’s rights to the artwork. - Ramsdale Renovation Project Update: The building committee held its penultimate meeting; the alternative study (required due to an adverse effect finding from the Massachusetts Historical Commission for removing the 1930s addition) was reviewed. The board discussed the study’s purpose: to justify the removal and demonstrate why alternatives are not feasible. The study will be submitted to the local historical commission, town manager, and MBLC for comment before being mailed to MHC. Trustees agreed to approve the study after minor typographical corrections (e.g., “wait listed” to “funded”). The timeline depends on passage of measures at town meeting; if they fail, the grant opportunity will not recur for approximately eight years. - Party in the Park (June 13): Volunteers were coordinated to staff the library’s table at the event from 12‑3 PM at Ramsdale. The table will feature project information, postcards with QR codes, and free books from the Friends. Trustees scheduled shifts and logistics. - Plantings for Mason Library Front: DPW lacks funds for landscaping after benches and sculpture installation left bare soil. Options discussed: a donation campaign, patron‑purchased plants on a wish‑list, or waiting for a long‑term plan (perennials/bushes in fall). Lauren offered to contact DPW’s Travis for advice; the board agreed to revisit in July. - Open Meeting Law and Email Communications: New trustee Eileen asked about permissible email communications between meetings. The board clarified that information can be shared but discussion (especially reply‑all) must be avoided; substantive deliberation must occur in posted meetings. Training on open meeting law may be considered. - Need for Additional Meetings and Outreach for the Building Project: Pat Holland Beck urged more frequent meetings (at least twice a month) to organize summer outreach events, a farmers market appearance, a meeting with the town manager, and a marketing push (including a dedicated project webpage and regular PR updates). Other trustees preferred to use the July 1 regular meeting as the next decision point, but agreed to reconfirm that chairs can call a special meeting if necessary. No formal vote was taken on meeting frequency. - Letter to Town Manager/Select Board about the Ramsdale Building Committee: Pat advocated for a formal letter expressing the board’s concern about disbanding the existing committee. Others noted that the board had previously communicated via the director and that the select board would discuss the matter at its June 16 meeting; individual trustees could speak as citizens. No consensus was reached on sending a letter. Key Outcomes - Officers Elected: Lauren Clark and Laura Mars as co‑chairs; Sharon Shalom as secretary/treasurer (unanimous roll‑call votes). - Meeting Dates Adjusted: July 1, August 12, November 4, etc., as corrected. - $500 for Ramsdale Youth Programming: Approved (unanimous roll call). - Mural Donation Accepted: Subject to a written MOU to be drafted by the director. - Alternative Study Approved: With minor typographical corrections; to be submitted to MHC after comments. - No Formal Decision on Additional Meetings: The chairs may call a special meeting if needed; the next regular meeting is July 1. - No Formal Vote on Letter to Select Board: Trustees will attend the June 16 select board meeting as private citizens to comment on the building committee structure if placed on the agenda.

The Select Board met on June 9, 2026, with Finance Committee members participating, to prepare for the June 29, 2026 special town meeting. All Select Board members were present by roll call. The board voted to place three warrant articles on the special town meeting warrant: two citizen petitions and one Select Board-sponsored article. No recommendation votes were taken on the articles; those were deferred to the joint Select Board/Finance Committee meeting on June 16, 2026. The audit discussion was also postponed because the audit had only been released that morning. Warrant Articles Presented - Citizen petition to reconsider Article 7 from the Annual Town Meeting: $341,964 from free cash for lifeguards, skate park monitors, Housatonic Water Works legal fees, the co-responder program, a parking enforcement officer, the BFW property lease, and the American Legion property. The town manager noted these items had been contingent on the failed override. - Citizen petition for Southern Berkshire Ambulance: $86,899 from free cash, after the appropriation was not approved at the Annual Town Meeting. - Select Board-sponsored article on procurement obligations: $1,000,000 from free cash, plus a town manager request for $200,000 from the stabilization fund, to cover potential project obligations, interest, and related costs. The town manager said citizen petition language cannot be changed by town staff; petition signatures were still being certified by the town clerk. Financial Context and Discussion - The town manager reported a certified free cash balance of $1,390,923.95. The total proposed free cash appropriations for the special town meeting are $1,428,863, so approving all three articles as written could not be done legally because the town cannot appropriate below zero. - Department of Revenue guidance recommends free cash between 5 and 7 percent of the operating budget; the town is currently just over 8 percent. The stabilization fund balance is $780,509, equal to 4.78 percent of the FY27 operating budget; withdrawing $200,000 would reduce it to 3.55 percent. The separate capital stabilization fund is around $1.1 million. - The town manager recommended that if free cash is certified at a healthy level, the town should adopt a FY28 policy to replenish $200,000 to the stabilization fund, and recommended a one-year pause on new borrowing, using free cash and Chapter 90 funds for capital projects instead. - Board and committee members discussed the effect of low reserves on the town's bond rating, the risk of further downgrades, and the difference between litigation risk and municipal finance risk. One finance committee member said a scenario dropping free cash to about 1.86 percent made her very nervous. Public Comments and Testimony - A public commenter referred to as Peter Moose argued the town should not set aside $1.2 million for the procurement claim because the underlying contract was unauthorized. He cited an ultra vires defense, said he had litigated a $1.6 billion contract case, and urged the town to contest the claim. - Finance Committee member Michelle blamed town government, not taxpayers, for the procurement problem, expressed frustration, and said she would not recommend the appropriation and wanted the town to fight the claim. - Ryan, a participant in the discussion, argued the town must protect taxpayers, cannot assume it will win litigation, and should prudently set money aside; if the town prevails, the reserved funds could return to free cash. - Ron Bizowitz spoke in support of funding the ambulance squad and veterans, calling the ambulance squad the backbone of town health care and objecting to grouping it with lifeguards and skate park monitors. - Kate Vanels asked for confirmation that the third article is a set-aside rather than an immediate payment; the town manager confirmed that appropriated money is not forced to be spent and would return to free cash if not needed. - Jim Bailey asked about the timing of prior-year bill payments and interim DPW pay; the town manager confirmed bills are paid within the first week after town meeting and the interim DPW superintendent was paid through contracted services. - James Garzone cautioned against repeating past budgeting mistakes and said the town should learn from residents who raised issues in prior years. - Shapiro raised concerns about the town's role at the Great Barrington Regional Airport, saying municipal approval and public process requirements should be studied, and expressed distrust of the town's governance process. Key Outcomes - The Select Board voted by roll call to place the two citizen petition articles and the Select Board-sponsored article, as presented, on the June 29, 2026 special town meeting warrant, and authorized the town manager and town counsel to make non-substantive formatting, numbering, and legal-sufficiency edits. - No recommendations on the articles were made; the Select Board and Finance Committee will discuss recommendations on June 16, 2026. - The audit was not discussed; it will be taken up at the June 16 joint meeting. - No vote was taken on the town manager's recommendations to replenish the stabilization fund in FY28 or to pause new borrowing.

The Great Barrington Select Board met at 6 p.m. on June 1, 2026, jointly with the Planning Board for discussions on seasonal communities and strategic priorities. The Select Board also held a liquor license public hearing, discussed the tax status of the Simon's Rock campus, set a special town meeting, and heard public comment. Announcements and Reports - The Select Board chair announced a special town meeting for Monday, June 29, 2026. He said he did not expect to support the citizens' petition but welcomed the opportunity to discuss where the town stands after the override and what is needed next. - Other announcements included the June 13 Party in the Park in Housatonic; a Berkshire Environmental Action Team community dinner about the future of Old Maids Park on Thursday, June 18, 6-8 p.m. at the Unitarian Church, 1089 Main Street, Housatonic; and Relay for Life on June 27, 12-9 p.m., at Monument Mountain. - The town manager gave no report. Public Hearing — Air Hospitality LLC / The Well - The Select Board opened a public hearing on an application by Air Hospitality LLC for amendments to the all-alcohol beverages on-premises liquor license held at 312 Main Street, Suite 1, Great Barrington, known as The Well. - One Select Board member recused from the hearing and vote, citing a financial relationship between their employer and a business run by the applicants. - Attorney Kathleen McCorman represented Air Hospitality LLC. She said the business has had a successful launch since the current ownership group purchased it about a year ago and that the ownership structure had changed. The requested changes were to make Emily Thompson the license manager, update LLC officers, directors, and managers, and change ownership percentages. - Under the proposed ownership structure, Lisa Ake would hold 45%, Emily Thompson would hold 45%, and Josh Irwin would hold 10%. Emily Irwin and Nick Rhodes were departing. Emily Thompson has been a bartender at The Well since 2016 and would be present at least 35 hours per week. No changes to hours or operations were proposed. - No public comment was offered. The board closed the hearing and approved the change of manager, LLC officers/directors/managers, and ownership interests after a roll call vote, with the recusal noted. Joint Meeting: Seasonal Communities Designation - Town staff explained that the seasonal communities designation will require zoning amendments, including changes related to attainable housing on underutilized lots and allowing tiny houses as year-round housing units. The designation carries a two-year window for zoning compliance. - Staff said funding may become available through a state Notice of Funding Availability, and the Berkshire Regional Planning Commission can provide technical assistance. There is no immediate deadline to apply. - The boards discussed creating a new year-round housing trust, either town-only or regional. Staff noted that a new trust must be established by town meeting and is legally separate from the existing affordable housing trust, even if the same people serve on it. - Members discussed whether neighboring Berkshire communities are also eligible for seasonal communities designation, whether a regional trust makes sense, and whether to bring the matter to the next annual town meeting in May 2027. The Planning Board indicated it could be ready for that timeline. - Under state law, year-round housing restrictions can include a preference for essential municipal employees, such as police, fire, and school district staff. Nonprofit employees are not currently included. Staff said the nonprofit-employee question could be raised with state legislators. Joint Meeting: Strategic Priority Discussion - The boards reviewed the adopted strategic priorities, with staff highlighting areas of overlap between the Select Board and Planning Board. - Complete Streets and sidewalks: The 2017/2018 Complete Streets plan was identified for an update. The Planning Board agreed to take it up. Members also discussed the cost of town sidewalk plowing, the absence of a bylaw requiring property owners to clear sidewalks, and the need to consider street trees in any sidewalk policy. - 5G technology: The town currently has no local bylaw regulating 5G antennas in public rights-of-way. A board member offered draft regulations from Barnstable as a model, and members discussed a possible general bylaw or special-permit approach. - Traffic calming: East Street, South Main Street, and connecting roads were highlighted as problem corridors. Board members and residents described speeding, stop-sign violations, and safety concerns. Suggested tools included speed humps, raised crosswalks, intersection narrowing, and enforcement. Some members noted plow and equipment concerns with speed humps. Staff was asked to return with recommendations. A South Main Street crosswalk improvement is already in the capital improvement plan, and a Berkshire Regional Planning Commission pilot study may be possible. - Child care: The child care committee is still in a fact-finding phase and was delayed by cold and flu season, which affected quorum. It is expected to bring information to the Select Board soon. - Housing and development process: Members spoke in favor of more joint meetings between the Select Board, Planning Board, affordable housing trust, and other committees to streamline review and avoid siloed decision-making. Discussion covered by-right versus special-permit development, community buy-in, cluster development, workforce housing, and redevelopment opportunities. - Simon's Rock / MassDevelopment: Staff has had initial conversations about a MassDevelopment/ULI-style visioning exercise for the Simon's Rock campus to help identify what the community would like to see there before a developer comes forward. - Former dry cleaner site: Staff reported that contaminated soil was removed last fall and that additional testing results are being assembled under an EPA grant. The cleanup is expensive and strictly regulated, and the site is not yet positioned for redevelopment. - Open Space and Recreation Plan: The plan is in final review, with the Planning Board scheduled to see it on June 11 and the Select Board on June 15. It will help position the town for grants. - Economic development: Members discussed advancing the Cook's Garage/426 Park Street redevelopment discussion, simplifying the sign bylaw, and possibly giving the Design Advisory Committee enforcement authority over signs. Staff noted enforcement capacity is a limiting factor. - Parking: Members discussed paid parking, enforcement technology, employee and resident permits, downtown livability, and revenue potential. Some members were skeptical that paid parking would be net revenue-positive. Staff noted that a new parking study and enforcement planning would be needed before implementation. - Hotel room limit: A Select Board member proposed reassessing the 45-room hotel limit, noting that new hotels today are often built at 60-80 rooms to pencil out financially. The cap dates to about 2008 and was intended to protect local bed-and-breakfasts from chain hotels. The boards agreed to gather hospitality-industry input and consider an assessment. - Master plan: The 2013 Master Plan is outdated, and phase-one funding failed at the last annual town meeting. Members supported pursuing grant funding for a community-based master plan update. Simon's Rock Tax Status Discussion - Assessor staff said the property record cards for the Simon's Rock campus are outdated and inaccurate. The campus is split across multiple lots, buildings are not assigned to the correct lots, and the cards would need substantial work before the town could confidently defend an assessment. - Placing unused parcels on the tax roll for fiscal year 2027 would require completing that work before July 1, which assessor staff said is not feasible in the available time. If the town acted and an appeal succeeded, the town could be required to refund approximately $685,000. - A board member proposed sending a letter to Bard/Simon's Rock before the end of June to preserve the fiscal year 2027 option, with assessment details to follow. The motion was amended to say the town views the property as eligible for taxation at some point during fiscal year 2027, with details to follow. The motion was approved. Public Comment - A resident named John said the process used to handle his March 17 complaint was extremely flawed, unfair, and, in his view, violated at least one or two town bylaws, basic courtesy, and elementary logic. He said he had sent a letter to the board and said he would not disappear, but he did not want a back-and-forth at that meeting. - James Garden urged town-wide traffic calming, citing Division Street and Route 41 collisions and the coming Prosperity Way development. He supported better coordination between committees and more enforcement of existing project conditions. He also supported placing Simon's Rock on the tax rolls, citing prior fairgrounds litigation, and said he was still waiting for prior promises to be kept, including possible loss of tax benefits if promises were not honored. - Another resident described out-of-control speeding on Division Street, including a near rear-end collision. She said cars from New York State use Division Street, that mechanical bridge-open signs are still up even though the bridge has been open for weeks, and that the other side of the Division Street Bridge shows a noticeable dip and cracking that should be monitored. Key Outcomes - The Select Board approved the Air Hospitality LLC liquor license amendments after a roll call vote, with one recusal. - The Select Board set the special town meeting for Monday, June 29, 2026, at 6 p.m. at Monument Mountain Regional High School. The citizen petition filing window is June 2 at 8:30 a.m. through June 5 at 4 p.m. The warrant must be posted by June 12. A joint Select Board and Finance Committee warrant review is scheduled for June 9 at 6 p.m. - The Select Board approved a motion directing the town manager and assessor to draft a letter to Bard/Simon's Rock stating that the town views the property as eligible for taxation at some point during fiscal year 2027, with details to follow. - The Select Board confirmed Malcolm Fix as an alternate to the Berkshire Regional Planning Commission. - The boards agreed to continue work on seasonal communities zoning and a possible year-round housing trust, with Berkshire Regional Planning Commission support and a target of the next annual town meeting. - No formal votes were taken on the strategic priority discussion, but the Planning Board agreed to take up the Complete Streets plan update, and staff was asked to bring back options on traffic calming, 5G regulations, signage, parking, and other identified priorities.

The Great Barrington Select Board convened a virtual meeting on May 28, 2026, with all five members present (Phil, Ben, Garfield, Eric, Steve). After brief announcements and no public comments, the board voted unanimously to enter executive session under two provisions of MGL Chapter 30A. The board did not return to open session. Key Outcomes - Motion to convene into executive session under MGL 30A §21(a)(3) to discuss strategy regarding possible litigation related to preliminary results of a forensic audit and procurement practices. Unanimous roll call vote (5-0). - Motion to convene into executive session under MGL 30A §21(a)(7) to approve executive session minutes from May 13, 2026 and May 21, 2026. Unanimous roll call vote (5-0). - The board did not return to open session after either executive session.

The Great Barrington Planning Board convened on May 28, 2026, to review the draft Open Space and Recreation Plan (OSRP). The board discussed the plan's structure, action items, and public feedback, along with providing updates on other town projects. Consent Calendar - Minutes from the May 14th meeting were approved by a motion and second with no discussion. - Roll call attendance: Members present included Pedro Chana, Jonathan Hankin, Chucky Kane, and Brandy Nelson. Jeremy was absent but joined virtually later. Public Comments & Testimony - No citizens spoke during the designated public comment period at the end of the meeting. - During the OSRP discussion, Vivian spoke in support of the agricultural focus, emphasizing the challenges of fertilizer shortages and the importance of local food production, noting Massachusetts only produces 15% of its food needs. - Ileen offered to help edit the plan and asked for confirmation of the June 20th public comment deadline. - Jeremy, joining virtually, stated he would submit comments via email. Discussion Items 1. Draft Open Space and Recreation Plan (OSRP) Review - Presenters: Seth (consultant) and Chris (town staff). - Structure & Purpose: Seth explained the OSRP is structured to meet state requirements for grant eligibility. The priority system reflects implementation timelines (High: 1-3 years, Medium: 4-6 years, Low: 7-10 years). - Endorsements: The Conservation Commission voted to endorse the plan. The Fire Department also submitted a letter of support, citing potential benefits for training, conservation, and economic development on East Mountain. - Board Feedback: - Pedro Chana expressed a desire for greater emphasis on the economic potential of open spaces and suggested creating a public-facing summary of the plan. - Brandy Nelson noted overlaps with existing plans (ADA, Growing Better Great Barrington) and suggested integrating them better. She recommended sharing the recreation map via QR codes linking to the county-wide Berkshire Outside platform and promoting public-private partnerships for maintenance. - Jackie conducted a deep dive into the Action Plan. She found Goal 1 (Agriculture) lacked high-priority items and specific actions (e.g., food hubs, slaughterhouses) compared to the detailed Goal 2 (Linkages). She suggested adding more concrete actions to Goal 1. She also noted the omission of Busatonic Flats and pointed out formatting inconsistencies in Goal 5. - Jonathan Hankin emphasized the need for outreach and a user-friendly town website to effectively 'promote' the plan's goals, noting a disconnect between the plan's outreach goals and the website's architecture. He also raised the point that priorities should be reassessed annually. - Seth's Response: Seth acknowledged the feedback, agreed to strengthen Goal 1 with high-priority actions, fix formatting, and add a bibliography referencing related town plans. He clarified the state review process. 2. Main Street Tree Protection Update - Jonathan Hankin updated the board on concerns from Main Street residents regarding a development project. - Citizens reported that the developer promised to have an arborist on site to protect trees, including their root systems, as required by the building inspector. Despite construction beginning, the arborist has not been present, and roots have been cut. - Residents are worried that trenching for sewer connections will damage the root systems of trees protected under the special permit. The board acknowledged the concern and noted that staff are monitoring the situation. Key Outcomes - Minutes Approved: The minutes from the May 14, 2026, meeting were approved. - OSRP Revisions: The board directed staff and the consultant to incorporate feedback, specifically: strengthening the Agriculture section (Goal 1) with high-priority action items, improving cross-referencing with other town plans, and ensuring accessibility formatting standards are met. - Timeline: The public comment period for the OSRP will remain open until June 20, 2026. The state review is expected in the fall. - Next Steps: The board will present the OSRP to the Select Board on June 1, 2026. A final review and vote on the plan is scheduled for the June 11, 2026 planning board meeting. - Tree Monitoring: Staff will continue to monitor the Main Street project for compliance with tree protection requirements.