Public Meetings - Great Barrington, Massachusetts

The Great Barrington Select Board convened on April 27, 2026, at 6:00 PM. The meeting covered a wide range of topics including a public hearing for a liquor license transfer, approval of multiple temporary entertainment permits, adoption of the updated Trust Policy 2.0, and a review of a citizen complaint against the Select Board Chair. Town Manager Liz Hartsgrove provided updates on infrastructure, public safety, and upcoming community events. Consent Calendar - The board approved the transfer of an all-alcohol beverage package store license from Trata's Fine Wine and Spirits to Angolina Liquors Inc. at 490 Main Street. The applicant, Jatendra Kumar Patel, has over 15 years of experience in the industry. The transfer was approved unanimously via roll call vote (Phil: aye, Eric: aye). - The board approved a temporary entertainment permit for the Housatonic Improvement Committee to host "Party in the Park" at Housatonic Commons on Saturday, June 13, 2026, from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM. The event is expected to draw over 1,000 residents and visitors. Unanimous approval. - The board approved fundraising events by Murphy Leary American Legion Post 298 in downtown Great Barrington and Housatonic Village during May 2026. Proceeds support veterans in need and scholarship programs. Unanimous approval. - The board approved a temporary entertainment permit for the Mahaiwe Performing Arts Center's annual gala at Memorial Field on Sunday, August 2, 2026, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM, with setup on July 31 and breakdown on August 3. Unanimous approval. - The board approved the Berkshire Cider Project's Farm Winery Farm Market license for sale and sampling at the Berkshire Farmers Market during the 2026 season. Unanimous approval despite the applicant's absence. - The board approved annual spring license renewals for real estate sign permits (Alden Country Real Estate Services, Berkshire Hathaway Home Services, etc.) and Wind in the Pines for coin-operated soft drink and food machine. Unanimous approval. - The board appointed Diane Hall as Great Barrington's representative to the Berkshire Health Group Board. Unanimous approval. - The board approved a proposal from Jeffrey Delzell of UMass Amherst to install two wayfinding signs at the Route 7 rotary directing visitors to the W.E.B. Du Bois home site. Signs will be blue, 6-inch letters, cultural/tourist signage. Unanimous approval. Public Comments & Testimony - Rosa Ramirez (Lenox, works in Great Barrington) spoke in support of the Trust Policy 2.0, stating it builds safety and trust for immigrant and multicultural populations by ensuring local institutions do not collaborate with federal immigration enforcement in ways that create fear. She emphasized that the policy removes barriers to reporting crimes, seeking medical care, and accessing education. - Jim Bailey, representing a veterans perspective, voiced concern that no veterans organizations were consulted during the development of the Trust Policy 2.0, particularly the community care component. He urged the board to include veterans going forward. - Erica Milkey (360 Park Street, Housatonic) thanked the board and community for the Trust Policy 2.0, noting the long grassroots effort since 2016. She expressed enthusiasm for the creation of a community care team and the policy's living document nature. - Luke Prima (301 Mining Valley Road, Great Barrington) supported the Trust Policy 2.0, praising its high-level vision that allows the town to breathe life into it. He urged the board to vote that night to avoid further resource drain. - Lina Polo (80 Elizabeth Street, Pittsfield, works in Great Barrington) spoke as a public health professional, supporting the policy as a tool to reduce fear and confusion, enabling families to access healthcare and programs. - John Brested (78 Egremont Plain Road) raised concerns about the proposed update to the Master Plan potentially including a Great Barrington Regional Airport (GBR). He asked Town Manager Liz to inquire before the May 2nd town meeting how the airport would affect homes abutting the airport, particularly his property and the two historical homes at 76 and 80 Egremont Plain Road. He cited the town charter section on town manager powers. - Liz Bingham (32 East Street, Great Barrington) requested that age and economic status be added to the Trust Policy as protected categories. She also raised concerns about pedestrian safety during the upcoming State Road bridge project, specifically crossing at the crosswalks near Avery/East Street and the fire station. She noted previous suggestions for a push-button crossing aid. Additionally, she referenced a previous agreement by Chair Steve Bannon regarding a warming center open 24/7 during winter storms, contrasting with limited hours at Berkshire South. - A citizen (name not fully captured) asked about the addition of a 30th article on the warrant. Town Manager Liz clarified that capital articles were separated out to clarify voting. Discussion Items - Trust Policy 2.0: The board reviewed the final draft of the Trust Policy 2.0, which operationalizes the 2017 Trust Policy by establishing clear governance procedures, documentation standards, care coordination, communication protocols, and annual review requirements. Key points include: clear procedures for police interactions with federal immigration authorities (verifying credentials, documenting custody transfers, not detaining solely for civil immigration enforcement), proactive communication standards, establishment of a pilot Community Care Team advisory board, and training infrastructure. The policy was described as a living document to be reviewed annually. Discussion included clarifying that the new policy replaces the 2017 version and addresses the ambiguity of the earlier policy regarding ICE interactions. - Citizen Complaint Review: The board reviewed the March 9th complaint against Chair Steve Bannon, continued from April 13, 2026. Complainant John Brested argued that during the February 9th meeting, he was cut off after 105 seconds (less than the three minutes typically allowed) while asking hypothetical questions about police tracking of ICE detainees. He felt the process was unfair and that the board's procedural restrictions (five-minute time limit for his presentation) prevented him from fully presenting his concerns. Chair Steve Bannon responded by citing his interpretation of bylaws: the chair has discretion to limit speaking at times other than the four required periods (public hearings, special permit hearings, media time, citizen speak time). He provided statements from three former chairs supporting this interpretation. Board member Eric concluded that the complaint was informative, acknowledged that the hypothetical questions were challenging for the police chief to answer, and that as a board member he could have intervened to allow John to rephrase. He proposed a comprehensive review of all Select Board bylaws and policies, a motion that was seconded and passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - Trust Policy 2.0 adopted unanimously. The board voted to approve the updated policy as presented. A full vote was taken and passed with all members in favor. - Citizen complaint resolved with no action against Chair Bannon. The board voted to take no action on the complaint itself, but instead directed the board and town manager to conduct a thorough review of all Select Board bylaws and policies, including speaking procedures. The motion passed unanimously. Town Manager's Report - Division Street Bridge is scheduled to reopen tomorrow (April 28) at 10:00 AM after excavation confirmed repairs were within scope of option A. DPW completed fill and paving. - Recognition of fire department and mutual aid partners for responding to two major structural fires: one on Cottage Street (fully involved, hazardous materials managed, no injuries) and a second at the Woody Farm Hill Farm property on Stockbridge Road (limited water supply, fully evolved structure, resident lost). - Housatonic Waterworks Company will conduct annual hydrant flushing from May 11-22, potentially causing low pressure or discolored water. - Early planning underway for Great Barrington's 250th 4th of July celebration in 2026, convening community stakeholders for a multi-day experience. - Annual Town Meeting: Saturday, May 2nd at 2:00 PM to consider FY27 operating budget, capital investments, special articles (service enhancements, seasonal community designation, citizen petitions, etc.). - Annual Town Election: Tuesday, May 12th, including a Proposition 2½ override.

The Great Barrington Board of Health met on April 16, 2026, both in person and via remote participation. The meeting covered approval of March minutes, Earth Day cleanup details, and major department updates including the elimination of the health inspector position and transition to contracted services. No members of the public attended. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (March): Motion made and seconded; roll call vote (Peter, Ruby, Michael Lanou) unanimously approved. Discussion Items - Earth Day Cleanup (April 25, 2026): Organized by Housatonic the Beautiful and the Housatonic Improvement Committee. Starts at 8:30 a.m. with coffee and pastries at Ramsdale Library; cleanup from 9 a.m. to noon. Bags provided: yellow for trash, green for recyclables. DPW will collect the following Monday. Board member suggested providing instruction sheets on proper recycling (e.g., no dirty recyclables, no NIPs [small bottles]) to increase recyclable tonnage and reduce town disposal costs. - Department Updates & Health Inspector Position Cut: The health inspector position was eliminated due to budget constraints. A contract was finalized with the Southern Berkshire Public Health Collaborative to provide up to 24 hours per week of inspection services starting May 1, 2026, through June 2027. The contracted service will handle food inspections, complaint follow-ups, and other duties under the Board of Health's direction. One board member expressed disappointment that the cut was made unilaterally without prior board consultation, noting the salary savings appeared marginal (approximately $3,000–$4,000 difference) and that the collaborative did not notify the board of the request. The town manager arranged a meeting for the following week with a board member. - Other Updates: Seasonal pool inspections (12 pools) will begin before Memorial Day. The health department is also involved in regional emergency preparedness planning. Key Outcomes - Minutes approved unanimously from March 2026 meeting. - Contract with Southern Berkshire Public Health Collaborative finalized; services expected to begin May 1, 2026. The collaborative will need to be formally appointed as agents of the board at the next meeting. - Next meeting: Moved from May 7 to May 14, 2026, due to a board member conflict. Likely to be held virtually if the town hall room is unavailable (planning board meets same time that Thursday). - Meeting adjourned at 6:49 p.m.

The Great Barrington Select Board met on April 14, 2026, to hear an update and discuss repair options for the sinkhole that formed at the Division Street Bridge over the Housatonic River. Engineers from Tie and Bond presented findings from their investigation, including a dye test, and outlined two repair options. Following public comment and board deliberation, the board voted 3-1 to proceed with a local excavation and compaction repair, with a commitment to reconvene if the fix proves unworkable or unsafe. Discussion Items Division Street Bridge Sinkhole Update Town Manager Liz introduced Dan Holmes and Andrea Lacasse from Tie and Bond Engineering, who were contracted to evaluate the sinkhole that appeared in mid-March 2026. - The sinkhole is located at the northern side of the east abutment, measuring roughly 55 inches by 42 inches with a void depth of 5 to 6 feet. - A dye test using 3,000 gallons of water traced some flow to an abutment weep hole and joint, but did not reveal an underground utility or a stockpile of missing material. The engineers hypothesized sediment may have slowly migrated through the weeps over time. - MassDOT indicated the full bridge replacement project is scheduled for advertisement on June 27, 2026, with construction potentially beginning in the fall of 2026. Repair Options Presented - Option 1 (Local Excavation & Recompaction): Excavate the area near the sinkhole, backfill with gravel or CDF, and repave. This could be completed by the DPW in roughly one month with minimal disruption. Cost under $50,000. Does not definitively address the root cause, requiring ongoing monitoring. - Option 2 (Full Excavation): Dig down 15 feet to expose the weeps, install proper drainage, and backfill. Would require a contractor, full public bidding, and would take several months. Significantly more costly and disruptive, but could potentially provide a more permanent solution. Board Deliberation - Garfield expressed concern that Option 1 felt like a "band-aid" and would not provide sufficient certainty regarding public safety. He stated he wanted the "best for the town." - Phil noted the short timeline until the planned DOT full bridge replacement in the fall, suggesting a temporary fix (Option 1) combined with strict monitoring was the most pragmatic path. - Eric emphasized safety and the need for a clear process, supporting Option 1 with the option to pivot to a full meeting if it fails. - Town Manager Liz confirmed funding of up to $100,000 is available from an FY24 street and bridge improvement project bond. Public Comments & Testimony - Michelle Hubert (70 Division Street): Strongly criticized the board's decision to proceed with Option 1. She stated the town "avoided a tragedy" and urged the board not to "gamble" on public safety. She warned of potential liability for the town if the repair fails. Key Outcomes - First Motion for Option 1 (Steve, seconded by Eric): Passed unanimously (4-0). - Reconsideration: Following public comment, the board discussed the risk of recurrence. - Second Motion for Option 1 (Steve, seconded by Phil): Passed 3-1. Garfield changed his vote to "No," reiterating his safety concerns. - Directives: The DPW will immediately begin excavation under Option 1. Town Manager Liz will confirm the MassDOT bid advertisement date. Tie and Bond will monitor the excavation and advise the board if a pivot to Option 2 or a full closure is necessary. The board committed to holding a new public meeting if the repair approach changes.

The Great Barrington Select Board met on Monday, April 13, 2026, for a regular meeting that included announcements, town manager reports, license approvals, a citizen complaint, a real estate taking for the Division Street Bridge project, and a policy discussion on a trust policy amendment. The meeting began at 6:00 PM and lasted approximately two hours. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes of the March 23, 2026 meeting unanimously. - Approved a request from Brian Burkle, race director, for the Great Josh Billings Runaground Triathlon on Sunday, September 20, 2026, using town roads from 8:30 AM start, with no changes from the previous year. Unanimous. - Passed over a common victualler license application for Riverside Cafe (401–405 Stockbridge Road) as no applicant was present. - Approved a temporary liquor license for Annie Guthrie/Guthrie Center for its summer concert series at 2 Van Deusenville Road, events from 6 PM to 10 PM on specified dates. Unanimous. - Approved a temporary entertainment license for Keegan Pyle of the Community Development Corporation of Southern Berkshire for an award ceremony on Thursday, June 4, 2026, 5:30–7:30 PM at 453 Stockbridge Road. Unanimous. - Approved a combination of temporary entertainment and liquor licenses for the Berkshire International Film Festival (BIFF), including use of a tent in Gilgall Park (May 28 and 30, 5–7 PM), installation of banners, a moratorium on parking time limits, and use of four parking spaces behind town hall, all as presented. Unanimous. - Approved the appointment of Kathy Ruger of Housatonic as an election poll worker for the upcoming town election. Unanimous. Public Comments & Testimony - Erica Milki (360 Park Street, Housatonic) expressed strong support for the trust policy annex and the community advisory group, saying it would increase communication, transparency, and community safety. She was involved in the original 2017 trust policy. - Rachel Dival (240 Second Park Street) thanked the board and partners, stating the annex would formalize and support organizing work for vulnerable populations. - John (speaking both as a community member and on behalf of People’s Pantry) thanked Bridge, the police chief, and the board, emphasizing the importance of the trust policy for vulnerable populations. - John (the same individual from the prior citizen complaint) expressed general support for fleshing out the trust policy but noted a “political agenda” related to ICE and DHS. He recounted a case of an ICE arrest that he said was poorly documented, and urged the board and legislators to improve record‑keeping in the criminal justice system. - Sandra Ashley (community member) thanked all involved and expressed full support for the trust policy annex and the community engagement it provides. - Alex (15 Street) expressed gratitude and highlighted the value of using a public health lens, noting that public health is a collaborative effort regardless of department staffing. - Seguraveras (tourist, George Street) complained about a 924% increase in his water/sewer bill, arguing that usage categories based on number of toilets are unfair (e.g., a single person with two toilets vs. a family with one toilet). He asked the board to survey households and adjust billing. The chair acknowledged the concern and stated the board would look into it. Discussion Items - Citizen Complaint (Item 6A): The board voted to approve ground rules for considering a citizen complaint (from John, the same individual). The rules limited structured input (5 minutes per side), no general public comment, and 5 minutes of board deliberation. John objected to the late notice of the rules (received only the previous afternoon) and requested postponement because one board member was absent. After debate, the board voted to postpone the complaint to its next meeting on April 27, 2026 (the next scheduled meeting, with the same three members present). The board noted that the ground rules would apply at that future meeting. - Division Street Bridge Right‑of‑Way Taking: Chris Remball, town engineer, explained that the state requires the town to acquire certain easements and property rights outside the existing roadway for the bridge replacement project. Three property owners were notified, appraisals were done, and “just compensation” amounts were determined. Two owners expressed reluctant acceptance; no formal objections were received. The board approved the order of taking and awarded the specified damages (roll call vote: all aye). This step enables MassDOT to advertise for construction, though construction is not expected to begin this summer. - Trust Policy Amendment (“Annex”) Discussion: Gwen Van Sail (Bridge director) presented an update on the proposed annex to the 2017 Trust Policy. The annex details operational procedures, including an annual review, governance and coordination among town departments, documentation and transparency standards, and creation of a pilot “Community Care Team” (advisory board appointed by the town manager). The police chief (Adam Carlotto) helped draft the language but was absent due to an event. Board members raised questions about the distinction between the trust policy and the annex, resource implications (especially for solo public health officer), and clarity of annual reporting expectations. The board agreed to set a future date for a vote (likely the next meeting) and noted that the annex would be revised to ensure alignment with the original trust policy. Public comments were overwhelmingly supportive. Key Outcomes - Votes taken: - Minutes (March 23, 2026) approved unanimously. - All license/permit applications (triathlon, Guthrie Center, CDC, BIFF, poll worker) approved unanimously. - Order of taking for Division Street Bridge right‑of‑way approved (roll call, all aye). - Citizen complaint postponed to April 27, 2026 meeting (with ground rules applied). - Motion to postpone passed (majority; one board member questioned immediate need, but the board agreed to postpone). - Next steps: - The citizen complaint will be heard on April 27, 2026 under the approved ground rules. - A vote on the trust policy annex will be scheduled for a future meeting when the police chief can attend. - The town manager will investigate the water/sewer billing concern raised by a resident.

The Great Barrington Planning Board met on Thursday, April 9, 2026, at 4:00 PM (local time) to conduct regular business. The meeting included approvals of a lot line adjustment, withdrawal of a solar facility special permit, and site plan reviews for Fairview Hospital and a new restaurant at 105 Stockbridge Road. All votes were unanimous. Consent Calendar - Form A for 206 Blue Hill Road: Approved unanimously to create a 996-square-foot non-building lot (Lot 2) to be conveyed to an abutter to resolve an encroachment. The applicant was Patrick Mahold, land surveyor representing owner Joe Lewis. Motion by Pedro Pachano, seconded by Malcolm Fick. Discussion Items - Withdrawal of Special Permit for 53 Van Doosenville Road: The board accepted the applicant’s letter to withdraw the special permit application for a commercial-scale ground solar energy facility without prejudice. Motion by Malcolm Fick, seconded by Jonathan Hankin. - Site Plan Review – Fairview Hospital Addition: Continuation from February 12, 2026. The applicant (Berkshire Health Systems, represented by Joel Roach, VP of Facilities, and Josie Sexton of Erdman Architects) presented supplemental materials addressing previous board questions: site lighting details, wayfinding plan, cut/fill analysis (4,000 cubic yards cut, 5,500 cubic yards fill, net import of 1,500 cubic yards), erosion and sediment controls (SWPPP submitted to EPA), landscaping (including neighbor input), a viewshed analysis from Lewis Avenue showing visual separation by the preserved Andrews house, and ADA parking compliance (four additional spaces to meet 10% outpatient requirement). Signage was discussed but will be reviewed later via the building department. The board reviewed site plan criteria and found the revisions satisfactory, except for a request to avoid invasive plants (specifically Bush Honeysuckle) and to correct a typo in the light pole detail (pole base dimension erroneously listed as 30 feet; actual mounting height is 14 feet, compliant with bylaw limit of 15 feet). The ZBA’s two conditions (helipad and bed increase) were noted as not applicable. Motion to approve site plan with conditions: (1) revise plant list to exclude invasive species, (2) send revised light pole detail to the board. Motion by Jonathan Hankin, seconded by Malcolm Fick. Unanimous approval. - Site Plan Review – 105 Stockbridge Road: Application by Mountain View General Contractors (Jeffrey Pierce) on behalf of Jay Z Group (new owners of the former Shiro) for exterior alterations to the building, including new siding (Everlast composite, dark gray) on the parking lot side and an addition replacing the former drive-thru. The addition adds hibachi dining, sushi bar, and bar, totaling 144 seats. The board discussed parking requirements (45 spaces needed, current site has 29 spaces plus a deeded 22 spaces from an adjacent property, totaling 49). The applicant confirmed shared parking arrangement. The board also addressed Route 7 landscaping requirements: one tree per 25 feet of frontage. The existing shrubs and a Japanese maple were deemed insufficient; the board required one additional small tree from the approved list in the front strip. The applicant agreed. The board ran through site plan criteria and found no issues beyond parking and landscaping. Motion to approve site plan with conditions: (1) ensure sufficient parking per bylaw (3 spaces per seat), (2) plant one additional small tree in the front landscape buffer. Motion by Jonathan Hankin, seconded by Malcolm Fick. Unanimous approval. Key Outcomes - Form A approval for 206 Blue Hill Road: Unanimous. - Withdrawal of special permit for 53 Van Doosenville Road: Unanimous. - Fairview Hospital site plan approval: Unanimous, with conditions to revise invasive plant list and correct light pole detail. - 105 Stockbridge Road site plan approval: Unanimous, with conditions to confirm parking compliance and plant one additional front tree. - Next meeting scheduled: April 23, 2026 at 5:00 PM for an interactive session on the Open Space and Recreation Plan goals. - Board announcements: Malcolm Fick will not be present at the April 23 meeting due to surgery; he noted he will not seek re-election but requested continuation as associate member on BRPC. Several board members may attend a state solar siting meeting on April 23 (future Thursday).

The Finance Committee and Select Board met jointly to make recommendations on the Annual Town Meeting warrant. They reviewed the draft warrant article by article, approving most routine items unanimously. The most extensive discussions concerned the $1 million procurement investigation reserve, Article 13 capital contingencies, ambulance funding, and police body cameras. The town manager said the updated draft warrant, explanations, and slides would be posted for the public. Public Comments & Testimony - The Affordable Housing Trust co-chair said the trust gives quarterly reports to the Community Preservation Committee, all trust spending requires a public vote, and she is available to walk anyone through account use. - Jim Garzone of 84 North Plain Road supported members' concerns about the school budget, cited more than $65,000 already spent on Housatonic Water Works legal fees and another $75,000 requested, and called for greater oversight of the fire district and lower taxes. - A resident asked whether Town Meeting could substitute a 4 percent school budget increase; a board member responded that the school assessment generally cannot be amended on the Town Meeting floor. - A resident urged reconsideration of the Community Preservation Act and removal of nonessential spending, saying the town had changed since 2018. - Charlie Ferris opposed the real estate tax exemption citizen petition, saying it would shift taxes to second homeowners and high-value retirees, is not means-tested, and could drive investment to lower-tax towns. - A resident said a bridge project removed from the budget had a 2017 engineering report identifying severe/major deficiencies needing repairs as soon as possible, and asked that it be prioritized. - A resident asked where the proposed budget materials were on the town website; the town manager said the warrant and slides would be posted. Discussion Items: Budget and Warrant Articles - Article 1 — Prior-year invoices: recommended paying $52,524.45 in leftover FY25 invoices, mostly from public works plus about $5,381 from the Fire Department, because the bills were not encumbered before the July 15 deadline. Unanimous. - Article 2 — FY26 budget adjustments: recommended $325,000 for snow and ice, $140,000 for FY26 firefighter salaries under negotiation, and $286,360 for the wastewater treatment plant. Unanimous. - Article 3 — Accounting/procurement investigation reserve: recommended setting aside $1,000,000 in free cash in a special reserve controlled by the Finance Committee. The town manager called it a placeholder, with obligations still undetermined; she cited a $748,000 change order without town manager authorization among 12 change orders on one project. Select Board vote was 4-1. - Article 4 — Rescinding old borrowing authorizations: recommended rescinding $702,451, including $48,420 remaining for community preservation/memorial field improvements and authorizations for public restrooms, police station generator, transfer station kiosk, town hall grounds improvements, park improvements, and a DPW escalator. Unanimous. - Article 5 — Elected officials' salaries: recommended $24,500 total, or $4,900 per Select Board member. Unanimous. - Article 7 — Discretionary services and community partnerships: recommended $341,964, including lifeguards, skate park monitor, Housatonic Water Works legal fees, the co-responder program, parking enforcement officer, and two leases. The co-responder program costs about $100,000 for a contracted clinician; $65,983.80 had been spent to date on Housatonic legal fees. Unanimous. - Article 8 — Free cash to reduce the tax levy: recommended appropriating $2,000,000 from free cash, with contingencies tied to the Proposition 2 1/2 override outcome. Members warned that if the override fails and all contingent spending is triggered, remaining free cash would drop to roughly $454,000. - Article 9 — Wastewater enterprise operating budget: recommended $3,554,051. Unanimous. - Article 10 — Berkshire Hills Regional School assessment: recommended $23,873,781. A member noted about 77 percent of taxpayer money goes to schools and enrollment had declined 22 percent, calling the trend unsustainable; multiple members expressed frustration with school district engagement and said they would pursue letters, regional agreement changes, and state legislation. - Article 11 — Out-of-district vocational tuition/transportation: recommended $150,000 as a placeholder. Unanimous. - Article 12 — Revolving fund limits: recommended $25,000 plumbing, $65,000 wiring, $20,000 gas, $20,000 parks/recreation, $150,000 Council on Aging transportation, and $20,000 EV charging stations. Unanimous. Capital Spending Authorization: Article 13 Article 13 was divided into three scenarios: (1) citizen petition articles pass and the override ballot question passes; (2) citizen petition articles are withdrawn or fail and the override passes; and (3) the override fails, leaving only projects not funded by free cash. Two citizen petition articles total $565,000 — $490,000 for ambulance and $75,000 for RTE implementation. - Section 1 recommendations: IT assessor software upgrade $43,000; online permitting software $90,000; master plan update phase one $50,000; police cruiser replacement $85,000; DPW roadway improvements $410,000; DPW crosswalk work $171,000; road work engineering $250,000 from Chapter 90 and $300,000 from capital stabilization; town building water infiltration testing $135,450; Brush Hill Road culvert $777,500 grant-funded. The IT and master plan items drew the most debate but were recommended. - Section 2 recommendations, if the citizen petition articles fail/are withdrawn and the ballot question passes: police body cameras $48,201; firefighter backup turnout gear $45,800; fire station exhaust vent system upgrade $80,000; two accessible electric transit vehicles $36,410; Pearl Street manhole installation $22,000. Body camera funding was conditioned on retaining the current camera system or adoption of an AI policy by the Select Board, and was placed in both Section 1 and Section 2. - The committee also carried the Section 1 road, crosswalk, engineering, infiltration, culvert, assessor, online permitting, and master plan items into Section 2 where appropriate. If the ballot question fails, only Chapter 90, capital stabilization, and grant-funded projects were recommended to proceed. Service Enhancements and Remaining Articles - Article 14 — Service enhancements: recommended a $47,500 package effective if the override passes (arts/culture $25,000; employee professional development $12,500; computer replacement $10,000). Also recommended a $97,000 alternative package if the relevant citizen petition articles are not approved or are withdrawn, covering arts/culture, health and water quality internship, fire department washer/dryer, employee professional development, and computer replacement. - Article 15 — Wastewater enterprise capital authorization: recommended $635,000. Unanimous. - Article 16 — Unemployment trust fund: recommended $40,000. Unanimous. - Article 17 — Affordable housing trust fund: recommended $31,933.99 from the short-term rental special reserve revenue fund. Members discussed reporting and oversight; the trust co-chair later said quarterly reports are provided and all spending is voted publicly. - Article 18 — Ambulance service funding: after motions for $414,676 with a signed-agreement contingency and for level funding at $304,909 were withdrawn or failed, the committees recommended appropriating $327,777 not-to-exceed to an ambulance service rather than naming Southern Berkshire Ambulance. One member voted no, saying the amount was too low. - Articles 19 and 20 — Community Preservation Committee items were noted as CPC recommendations and did not require separate committee recommendations. - Article 21 — Accept MGL c. 37A increased fee limit: approved unanimously. - Article 22 — Seasonal community designation: approved unanimously. - Article 23 — Brush Hill culvert easements: approved unanimously. - Article 24 — Housing authority home rule petition: approved unanimously. - Article 25 — Marijuana court judgment: recommended appropriating $5,026,008.44 from free cash to fund the FY26 court judgment. Unanimous. - Article 26 — Marijuana settlement: recommended appropriating $11,814.16 from free cash to reimburse Great Barrington Retail Inc. for community impact fees. Unanimous. Key Outcomes - The boards advanced essentially all warrant articles with favorable recommendations, most unanimously. - Ambulance funding was capped at $327,777 not-to-exceed, with no vendor named. - Body camera funding was approved only with the condition that the current system be retained or that the Select Board approve an AI policy first. - The town manager will finalize and post the draft warrant, article explanations, and budget slides for voters.

The Great Barrington Finance Committee and Select Board met jointly at 5 p.m. on April 8, 2026, for the FY2027 budget public hearing. The proposed operating budget was $16,345,834, and more than 40 people participated online. The annual town meeting is scheduled for Saturday, May 2, 2026, at 2 p.m. at the Berkshire Hills Regional School District school. Public Comments & Testimony - Amanda Timpain urged support for including the skate park in a special article, citing Railroad Street Youth Project and the skate park's role as a safe place for teens; the presence of summer staff is what keeps it safe. - Elliot Seward opposed the police budget's proposed use of AI facial-recognition software, citing privacy concerns, lack of regulation, and the risk that body-camera images could be used to train AI models. - An unnamed online speaker made the same point, saying adding facial recognition to police body cameras would turn an accountability tool into a surveillance tool. - James Bailey, commander of VFW Post 8183, thanked the town for past funding and said veterans would accept cuts if necessary; he objected to the VFW being classified simply as a nonprofit and described its honor-guard and community work. - An unnamed non-veteran speaker said he supported the town's veterans and noted the relatively small size of veterans' funding compared with other budget areas. - A resident identified as Shapiro asked for total budget figures and confirmed that the proposed $1.6 million Shaw Bridge capital item had been removed from the capital plan; she requested before-and-after capital totals, which were stated as $5.4 million before and $2.3 million after. - Ms. Siegel asked about public input on the RTE and the seasonal community designation; the chair said those items are not part of the FY27 budget discussion, the RTE is a citizen petition for the fall, and the seasonal community article will be on the warrant. - A resident identified as Herman supported care for Old Maids Park but asked the town to consider renaming it, calling the name offensive to unmarried women. - A speaker identified as Mr. Wine spoke about Southern Berkshire ambulance service, burnout among 32 working-class EMTs and paramedics, and the organization's long volunteer roots. - Leo Wagner of Railroad Street Youth Project supported the skate park and state park monitor budget line, describing peer-to-peer relationships, intergenerational storytelling, and care happening at the skate park. - Denise Forbes said she pays over $14,000 a year in taxes, opposed the override and debt exclusion, called the school vote a bad decision, cited a $1 million procurement audit, and suggested fundraising and more cuts instead. - James Bailey, speaking again, said he was disappointed in the school board's push for a new school, argued the town's bond rating should have been publicized, and urged ending the Community Preservation Act, saying the state match is now only 18 cents compared with the original dollar-for-dollar match. - A resident suggested forming a committee to pursue new revenue and businesses compatible with the town's character. - James Barzoni agreed, saying businesses are closing and struggling to hire because taxes and rents are too high, and he supported ending the CPA. Discussion Items - The town manager gave a budget overview: the FY27 budget follows the town's mission and financial policies, uses a $2 million free-cash offset, and includes $2 million for either a debt exclusion or override. Special articles cover Southern Berkshire Ambulance, unemployment, 'locational schools,' and a collective-bargaining item. Discretionary operating items such as Housatonic Waterworks legal costs, private subsidies, Lake Mansfield lifeguards, State Park Monitor, and the police co-responder were moved to special articles. Capital projects would use capital stabilization grants, Chapter 90, and free cash, with no borrowing, and two scenarios depend on whether $565,000 in petitioned articles pass. The review also covered the wastewater enterprise and the Community Preservation budget. - The boards discussed whether to place a $2 million Proposition 2½ override or a debt exclusion on the ballot. Supporters of the override said it is permanent, helps the town's bond rating, and avoids repeating the problem next year; supporters of the debt exclusion called it temporary and less painful for taxpayers. The town manager said the tax bill would be similar either way, and a $2 million override would add about $518 to the average tax bill. A $1 million procurement audit and the last Prop 2½ override in 1991 were also cited. - The boards reviewed and voted on operating budget categories: General Government, Public Safety, Public Works, Cultural/Recreation/Building Services, and Miscellaneous. During the Public Safety discussion, Police Chief Carlotta said the parking-enforcement program essentially pays for itself, and the town manager recommended putting the $2,000 parking-enforcement item on a special article rather than in the operating budget. - In closing remarks, board members thanked participants; one defended the recent school vote as reflecting high turnout and younger families, while another said a voter told her she might have reconsidered if she had known the town's financial condition, and urged voters to educate themselves. Key Outcomes - The Select Board voted 4-1 to recommend a $2 million Proposition 2½ override ballot question. The Finance Committee voted 3-2 to recommend the debt exclusion instead; a subsequent clarification in the transcript describes the ballot question as an override. - The Finance Committee voted unanimously to add the $2,000 police parking-enforcement item to a special article for town meeting. - Both boards approved the following FY27 operating budget totals for town meeting: General Government $2,168,937; Public Safety $3,238,718; Department of Public Works $2,929,346; Cultural, Recreation and Building Services $1,204,862; and Miscellaneous $6,803,972. - The boards indicated that warrant articles and capital items would be taken up at the following night's meeting.

On April 7, 2026, the Great Barrington Select Board and Finance Committee held a joint meeting to review the Town Manager's adjusted FY27 general fund operating and capital budget recommendations, free cash allocations, special articles, the Southern Berkshire Ambulance funding request, and the wastewater enterprise capital plan. No written agenda or minutes were provided in the source material. The boards did not take final votes; they continued deliberations and scheduled a public hearing for the next day at 5:00 p.m. Town Manager's FY27 Operating Budget Recommendations - The Town Manager presented a revised recommended general fund operating budget of $16,354,835, a negative difference of 5.78% from FY26, while preserving a 2% COLA for all union and non-union employees, retaining staff, avoiding layoffs or building closures, and instituting a hiring freeze. - The Town Manager said she achieved approximately $1.6 million in operating cost reductions. The budget also relies on $2 million from a ballot question and $2 million from free cash. - Snow and ice costs were estimated at $300,000 to $325,000 above the $150,000 regular operating line item. - Department-by-department recommendations included centralizing purchasing, travel and training, and dues/memberships into the Town Manager's office; reducing the reserve fund from $200,000 to $125,000; temporarily splitting the assistant accountant position into a part-time accountant arrangement and a clerical line; reducing IT and telephone/data service costs; pausing funding for the deputy police chief position; removing the dedicated parking control officer position; reducing police training and events lines; adding an $8,000 vehicle supplies line for the Fire Department; retaining all DPW union positions; pausing the transfer station automated kiosk project; using a contracted health inspection service for 15 to 18 hours per week; and shifting Housatonic Water Works legal fees, VFW/American Legion leases, lifeguards, skate park monitoring, and other discretionary items into special articles. Free Cash and Special Articles - Certified free cash was reported at $11,248,266. The first obligation was the cannabis settlement, leaving a remaining balance of $6,119,257.56. - Additional obligations included approximately $52,000 in unpaid prior-year bills, a $1,000,000 placeholder for a procurement audit obligation, a $414,676 Southern Berkshire Ambulance assessment, $40,000 for unemployment, approximately $150,000 for vocational school assessments, and $140,000 for collective bargaining. - The Town Manager warned that the procurement audit obligation could approach $1 million because auditors have already identified more than $800,000 on one DPW project, involving contracts and change orders signed by staff rather than the Town Manager. - After those obligations, the Town Manager set aside $75,000 for Housatonic Water Works legal costs, $30,000 and $23,000 for VFW and American Legion leases, funding for lifeguards and the skate park monitor, and $100,000 for a co-responder program. - The boards had previously directed $2 million from free cash to offset the FY27 operating budget. After that, two citizen petition articles were noted: $490,000 for Southern Berkshire Ambulance vehicles and $75,000 for residential tax exemption implementation, leaving a remaining free cash balance of $1,435,075.11. - If the citizen petition articles fail, approximately $565,000 would become available for other capital or enhancement items. Capital Improvement Plan - Recommended capital projects that are independent of free cash included a five-location crosswalk installation/replacement project funded through Chapter 90 funds, a Brush Hill Road culvert grant project of $777,500, and $410,000 in Chapter 90 road improvements. - The Town Manager recommended $135,450 for water infiltration testing at Town Hall, Mason Library, and the Fire Station, funded through capital stabilization. - Engineering recommendations included $550,000 for the South Main Street TIP project and the Park Street TIP project, funded through capital stabilization and Chapter 90 funds. - A $22,000 Pearl Street drainage enclosure project was recommended only if petition articles fail. - Several board and committee members raised concerns about the Shaw Bridge and the Division Street sinkhole. The Town Manager said Shaw Bridge rehabilitation was not included in the FY27 free cash capital recommendations, but state funding opportunities were being pursued. Southern Berkshire Ambulance Funding Discussion - Southern Berkshire Ambulance representatives requested a $414,676 operating assessment and presented a citizen petition article seeking $490,000 to help pay for two ambulances already on order, each costing roughly $500,000. An alternative multi-year capital payment proposal totaling about $462,000 was also discussed. - The representatives said the service is fully staffed for the first time in years, operates three ambulances during the day and two at night, and has reduced overtime costs. They projected ambulance revenue down from about $1.7 million to $1.5 million due to 10% reductions in Medicare and Medicaid reimbursement, with roughly 60% of their budget consisting of insurance costs. - They noted donations increased 400% in the second half of the year, Stockbridge approved $50,000, and a major donor contributed $25,000. They warned that if revenues fall short, service levels could drop to two ambulances during some days and one ambulance on some nights. - Several Select Board and Finance Committee members said annual increases of 30% to 40% were unsustainable, that Great Barrington was bearing a disproportionate share of the cost, and that this was an extremely difficult budget year. Some members suggested the capital request should be handled through free cash or a citizen petition rather than added to operating costs. - Ambulance representatives emphasized that the service faces a structural funding deficit, not a management deficit, and expressed openness to multi-year contract negotiations with the Town Manager. They also said the citizen petition could be withdrawn by the petitioner at Town Meeting if a different funding approach was agreed to. Wastewater Enterprise Capital Plan - Wastewater capital projects would be funded from retained earnings and user fees, not free cash or tax levy funds. - Recommended projects included $100,000 for sewer infrastructure work, $145,000 for a sludge loadout upgrade, a $30,000 placeholder for year six of a Clean Water State Revolving Fund project, and $160,000 for phase one of inflow and infiltration design work, with phase two estimated at $838,000 in FY28. Ballot Question Discussion - The Town Manager reviewed three ballot options: a Proposition 2½ override, a debt exclusion, or placing both on the ballot. - She warned that if the ballot question fails, the town would have to eliminate discretionary services, free-cash-funded capital projects, service enhancements, and the $414,676 ambulance special article, leaving only about $171,000 in free cash. - A speaker, Aileen, asked how voters would be expected to vote if petition articles fail; the Town Manager clarified that special articles would be contingent on the ballot question passing and that the warrant language would be written accordingly. Key Outcomes - No formal votes were taken on the FY27 budget, the ballot question, special articles, or the ambulance requests. - A public hearing was scheduled for the next day at 5:00 p.m., with budget discussions to continue afterward. - The Town Manager said corrected capital slides would be posted online after updating the water infiltration testing cost to $135,450. - The joint meeting adjourned by unanimous consent.

The Great Barrington Parks Commission held a meeting on April 6, 2026, to review multiple field and park usage requests, discuss maintenance standards, address geese mitigation at Lake Mansfield, and explore future fee structures for town facilities. Key actions included approving several seasonal permits, tabling one application, and planning for a fee discussion. Consent Calendar - Minutes Approval: The minutes of March 9, 2026, were approved with a motion by Terry and a second by Tom. Commissioner Debbie recused herself and abstained due to absence at the prior meeting. - Miller’s Field Usage: A request from the Millers to use Memorial Field on Sundays 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. and Thursdays 5–7 p.m. (consistent with past years) was approved by the chair and town manager under existing policy after the application was delayed in reaching the commission. The approval will be formally considered at the May 4 meeting. - Monument Mountain High School Baseball: Use of Memorial Field for games was also approved by the chair and town manager, per policy. - Berkshire School Baseball Field Use: The Berkshire School requested to use Memorial Field on Wednesday of the meeting week (their field was underwater). The commission conditionally approved, pending final check with DPW on field conditions. Public Comments & Testimony - Jim Bailey (resident, Housatonic): Expressed concern about the Mahaiwe Theater’s past gala on the baseball field, citing tent removal delays and debris left behind that could harm players. He suggested using the Dewey property as an alternative venue. He also noted the Mahaiwe group’s high revenue ($5.5 million in 2022) and assets ($12 million) and argued they should pay a significant fee for field use. - Speaker during GB Little League discussion: Noted that over half of Little League participants are not Great Barrington residents, highlighting the need for a fair fee system. Discussion Items - Great Barrington Girls Softball (Sherry Ross): The league requested field use April 12–June 19 (originally), extended to June 30. Hours: Monday–Friday 4:30–8:30 p.m., Saturday 6 a.m.–12 p.m. The motion to approve passed unanimously after clarifying the player count (30 listed, but likely for both youth and senior leagues) and field maintenance expectations. - Field Maintenance Requirements: The commission introduced a new “usage requirements” document covering pre-season, mid-season, and post-season meetings; training on raking and equipment; DPW-provided equipment; raking of clay after every use; and communication protocols. Leagues must also provide a code of conduct for parents, players, and coaches. The document applies to all leagues (Little League, Babe Ruth, Millers, etc.) and includes a licensee clause for reporting improvement needs. - Atonic Improvement Committee – Commons Use (June 13 Event): The committee requested use of the Commons and the Hoosie Dome (rain backup) for a cheerleading event on June 13, 2026, expecting 1,200 attendees (up from 700–800 last year). Portable bathrooms (three) and a dumpster will be provided. The Hoosie Dome may be opened as overflow space. Motion to approve passed unanimously. - Atonic Tree Planting Project: The committee, in conjunction with the Housatonic Beautiful Fund, plans to plant 28 trees in spring 2026 (10 on the rail trail, others on private property with permission). One ceremonial tree (a burr oak) will replace three service berries cut down in the Commons. The commission raised liability concerns about private citizens planting trees on town property; it was noted the tree committee would handle planting, and a waiver would be required. The DPW and town manager approve all locations. Approval was given unanimously pending proper waivers. - Adult Softball Pickup (Laird Townsend): Request to use Olympian Meadows softball field on Sundays at 1 p.m. for pickup games was tabled because the applicant was not present. The commission will contact him to gather more information. - Great Barrington Little League (Amanda Leavenworth, president): The league requested use of both fields (major and minor) from 3:30–8 p.m. weekdays and 9 a.m.–4 p.m. weekends for the season. They have 12 teams (4 T-ball, 4 coach-pitch, 2 minors, 2 majors) with 143 kids enrolled. They also use practice fields in other towns. The commission discussed field size differences, interleague play (with Adams, Cheshire, Pittsfield, etc.), and maintenance responsibilities. The league agreed to help with after-season cleanup and to have a liaison (Toby) with DPW. Approved unanimously. - Berkshire Youth Cheer – Time Extension: A previously approved event on May 15, 2026, was extended from 5–7 p.m. to 5–9 p.m. to include a pizza night. Approved without a formal vote (considered a minor change). - Berkshire Rain (Chris Island): Request for field use was denied because all fields are already assigned to Babe Ruth, Millers, high school, and Berkshire School, with usage seven days a week from 4:30–8 p.m. weekdays and 9 a.m.–6 p.m. weekends. - Smash Stigma Event (Gary Pratt, Rural Recovery): Requested use of the Commons for the 10th anniversary event on June 12, 2026, from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. (two hours longer than previous years). The date falls on the Jewish holiday of Rosh Hashanah, but the organizer chose to proceed. Motion to approve passed unanimously. - Berkshire Environmental Action Team (Chris Rembrandt): Requested permission to host a community engagement event at Old Maids Park on May 16, 2026 (rain date May 17) as part of an MVP grant for resilient design. No exclusive use. Motion to approve passed unanimously. - Geese Mitigation at Lake Mansfield (GSMT): The commission reported that police and DPW will perform three daily visits to deter geese using non-lethal methods (flashers, snow fences, metallic ribbon, and air horns). Volunteers are not used due to liability concerns with devices like pop guns and lasers. The program is ongoing. - Fees Discussion: The commission discussed the need to create a revenue stream for parks and facilities. A preliminary fee structure has been sent to Town Manager Liz for review. The commission emphasized that fees would apply to both for-profit and nonprofit users (including Little League and yoga) and could be offset by volunteer maintenance. The Lake Mansfield lifeguards and skate park staff will be funded via a separate warrant article rather than the general budget. - Atonic Improvement Committee Update (Sarah, Chair): Reported progress on three core goals: (1) Community events (Earth Day, Berkshire Bus pilot, long table dinner, Halloween); (2) Tree and trail restoration ($300,000 raised for 28 trees, connecting Flag Rock trail to village core); (3) Public outdoor space improvements (flower fund for planters, inventory of potential improvement sites). The committee continues to work with the Housatonic Beautiful Fund (a 501c3) as fiscal sponsor. - Minutes Posting Issue: Commissioner noted that approved minutes have not been posted on the town website since May 2025. The commission will follow up with Cara to resolve. Key Outcomes - Approvals: - Great Barrington Girls Softball (April 12–June 30) – unanimous. - Atonic Improvement Committee event (June 13) – unanimous. - Tree planting (28 trees, including Commons) – unanimous, with conditions on liability waiver. - Great Barrington Little League (full season) – unanimous. - Smash Stigma event (June 12) – unanimous. - Berkshire Environmental Action Team event (May 16/17) – unanimous. - Berkshire Youth Cheer time extension (May 15) – verbal approval. - Berkshire School baseball field (one-time) – conditional approval. - Tabled: Laird Townsend adult softball request (applicant absent; commission to contact). - Denied: Berkshire Rain field use (no availability). - Next Steps: - Commission to place an item on the May 2026 agenda to discuss fee structures, including potential fees for large events like the Mahaiwe gala. - Leagues to submit codes of conduct at next meeting. - Commission to follow up on minutes posting with Town Hall staff. - The gees mitigation program will continue with paid staff (police/DPW) visits three times daily. - Other: The commission emphasized that all field users must adhere to the new maintenance requirements and attend pre-season, mid-season, and post-season meetings.