Public Meetings - Lenox, Massachusetts

The League of Women Voters hosted a forum on June 23, 2026, in Stockbridge, Massachusetts, featuring two speakers: Laura Brennan, Executive Director of the Berkshire Regional Planning Commission (BRPC), and Chris Benton of the League of Conservation Voters (LCV) Education Fund. The meeting highlighted the role of regional planning in the Berkshires and the importance of voting rights and civic participation. The host welcomed attendees, noted the renovated town hall, and expressed pride in the Massachusetts League of Women Voters' lawsuit against the executive order banning mail-in voting, which a court allowed to proceed. Presentation by Berkshire Regional Planning Commission (BRPC) - Laura Brennan provided an overview of BRPC, established in 1966, one of 13 regional planning agencies in Massachusetts, governed by 32 delegates from each town's planning board. - BRPC serves municipal governments with technical assistance, data, and mapping, noting that only eight Berkshire communities have their own planning staff. - Current program areas include land use, transportation, economic development, public health, energy, and environmental initiatives. BRPC operates with almost zero discretionary funding; staff time is covered by 162 competitive grants from federal, state, and private sources. - Key initiatives highlighted: Home Modification Loan Program (HMLP) for aging in place, Berkshire Benchmarks (demographic data portal), Art Week Berkshires (300+ artists, 10 days), Vaccination Clinics, Berkshire Brownfields (EPA-funded), Berkshire Overdose and Addiction Prevention Collaborative, Berkshire's Outside (600 outdoor access points), and Vision Zero to reduce traffic deaths. - BRPC also manages the Berkshire Group Purchasing Program (26 communities), the Berkshire Public Health Alliance, and Berkshire Funding Focus. - Brennan emphasized the value of regional collaboration, citing the "Berkshire Way" and examples of towns sharing services and nonprofits partnering. Presentation by League of Conservation Voters Education Fund - Chris Benton discussed the connection between voting rights and environmental advocacy, explaining why a climate group prioritizes voter registration and turnout. - He highlighted the nonpartisan work of LCV Education Fund, aiming to register over 500,000 voters in the 2026 cycle, focusing on communities of color and rural areas using tactics like "site-based vote tripling" (one registration yields two additional by personal referral). - Benton described successful coalition work in Maine defeating Question 1 (a 2025 voter suppression referendum that would have cut early voting, ended mail-in voting, eliminated same-day registration, and required voter ID). The coalition included the League of Women Voters and Maine Conservation Voters. - He also praised ranked-choice voting in Maine, citing a recent primary where the winner initially had 28% of the vote but secured victory through ranked-choice tabulation. - Benton stressed that voting barriers are often intentional and disproportionately affect low-income and minority communities, and that clean energy, environmental justice, and voting rights are interconnected. Key Outcomes and Discussion - The meeting concluded with a Q&A session. One question compared Maine's voter participation rates with other states. Benton noted that Maine has high participation but must account for its demographic composition (oldest and whitest state), and that the defeated Question 1 would have disenfranchised rural voters across party lines. - No formal votes or resolutions were taken; the meeting served as an educational forum. - The host expressed pride in the Massachusetts League of Women Voters for suing over the executive order banning mail-in voting, noting a court allowed the case to proceed.

The regular meeting of the Lenox Select Board was held on Wednesday, June 17, 2026, at 6:00 PM at Town Hall. The board approved a consent agenda, granted an outdoor dining license, adopted the state's PACE financing program, and continued discussions on liaison assignments. Key announcements included a thank-you note from the Berkshire International Film Festival and the introduction of a new after-hours drop box for town hall. Consent Calendar - Approved a one-day liquor license for Home Farm at Under Mountain Road (June 19, 5-7 PM, wine and malt beverages only). - Approved the appointment of Mindy Morin as the select board designated to the Berkshire Regional Transit Authority Board. Public Comments & Testimony - No residents addressed the board during the citizens open forum. Discussion Items - Outdoor Dining License for Schatz Cafe: The board reviewed a request from Schatz Cafe (27D Housatonic Street) for an outdoor dining license, noting that previous issues with chair placement had been resolved. The license was approved unanimously. - Adoption of Mass Development's PACE Program: The board discussed the Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) program, which allows commercial property owners to finance energy improvements via a special assessment on property tax bills. Town Manager Jay explained the limited municipal role (collecting payments and forwarding them to Mass Development) and benefits such as increased property assessments and new growth. Approximately 85 of 351 municipalities have adopted the program. The board voted to adopt the resolution authorizing participation. - Liaison Assignments: The board continued discussions on select board member assignments to various town committees and boards. Jared expressed interest in trails, parks, and Kennedy Park; a potential working group for trails and open space planning was proposed. Other assignments discussed included the Chamber of Commerce, Cultural Council, Community Events, Housing Authority, and land use boards (Planning, Zoning, Historic District Commission). The library board of trustees and LLA assignments were temporarily tabled due to ongoing structural discussions. Members agreed to hold a retreat after summer to set priorities. Key Outcomes - Approved: One-day liquor license for Home Farm at Under Mountain Road. - Approved: Appointment of Mindy Morin to the Berkshire Regional Transit Authority Board. - Approved: Outdoor dining license for Schatz Cafe. - Approved: Resolution adopting the Massachusetts Commercial Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) Program. - Ongoing: Liaison assignments to be finalized after further consultation with absent member Max and a future retreat. - Next Regular Meeting: Scheduled for July 8, 2026.

The Lenox Select Board held its regular meeting on June 3, 2026. Board members present included Jared Weber, Neil Maximilian, Ed Lane, and Max Scherf. The meeting covered the adoption of green burial regulations, approval of a revised building department fee schedule, and formalizing the town website as the official meeting posting location, in addition to public comments and consent agenda items. Consent Calendar - Approved use of Lilac Park for weekly concerts (Wednesdays 6-7:30 PM & Sundays 2-4 PM, July 1 - August 26). - Approved use of the auditorium for Tanglewood Talks (Jeremy Youngkin, July 5 - August 23) and preview lectures (June 27). - Ratified the appointment of Bill O'Leary as an alternate member of the Historical Commission. - Approved a one-day liquor license for an event at Benford Hall on June 22, 2026, 6-9 PM. Public Comments & Testimony - Susan May expressed support for green burial as an environmentally friendly end-of-life option, citing concerns over the fossil fuel use in cremation and toxic chemicals in embalming. - Carol Ramsey expressed strong support for green burial, noting she is a long-time member of Green Burial Massachusetts. She stated that the number of Massachusetts towns offering green burial has grown from 3 in 2014 to approximately 50 currently. - Diane Romeo, Chair of the Board of Health, expressed the Board of Health's endorsement of the green burial proposal. She noted the process began in March 2024 with research involving Tri-Town and various experts. Discussion Items - Green Burial Adoption: The board discussed a proposal to adopt green burial options at Mountain View Cemetery. A specific area of 36 spots along the eastern tree line has been surveyed. The regulations will modify existing cemetery rules to allow for natural burial with flush markers, natural landscaping, and reduced mowing. Town Manager Jay noted that formal adoption would modify the cemetery rules and regulations. - Town Website Posting Location: The board discussed and approved a measure to designate the town website as the official posting location for public meetings under Open Meeting Law. Jay explained this was needed to replace the indoor bulletin board (requiring 24/7 building access) and improve public accessibility. An outdoor bulletin board at Central Station will serve as the alternate physical location. - Building Department Fee Schedule: Matt Colmer, Building Commissioner, presented a revised fee schedule for the shared building department. The fees across plumbing, gas, electrical, and building permits will be increased to match regional averages and remain consistent within the shared services consortium. A penalty for failure to file permits was discussed, capped at $5,000 or double the fee. - Committee Liaison Assignments: This item was postponed because board member Mary Beth Mitz was absent due to a family obligation. The board briefly discussed the role of liaisons as a communication resource rather than a management role. Key Outcomes - Green Burial Adopted: The board voted unanimously to adopt the green burial provisions as part of the town cemetery rules and regulations for Mountain View Cemetery. - Town Website Posting Location Approved: The board voted unanimously to adopt the town webpage as the official posting location for meetings, effective immediately. - Building Fee Schedule Approved: The board voted unanimously to adopt the revised Shared Building Department Fee Schedule, effective July 1, 2026. - Meeting Schedule: The next regular meeting was scheduled for June 17, 2026. The meeting was adjourned by a unanimous vote.

The Lennox Select Board convened on Wednesday, May 20, 2026, for a regular meeting. The board welcomed new member Jared Weber and covered a range of topics including approval of the 2026 Concerts in the Park series, several one-day liquor and entertainment licenses, the adoption of a state statute authorizing school bus stop-arm cameras, and manager changes at Gateways Inn and the Lennox Club. The board also held elections for its officers and discussed reorganizing its liaison assignments. Public Comments & Testimony - Concerts in the Park Coordinator (Patrick): Requested permission to use Lylock Park for the 2026 Concerts in the Park series. The 9-concert schedule runs Wednesdays from July 1 to August 26, from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., with Sunday rain dates. The coordinator stated the budget is between $6,000 and $7,000, funded entirely by sponsors. He thanked the Legarse family for donating the pavilion and Reverend Liz Goodman for providing restroom access. The board expressed its appreciation and indicated the request would be formally approved at a subsequent meeting. Discussion Items - Consent Agenda Discussions: The board reviewed items held from the consent agenda. Temporary Sign Request (Berkshire Arts Center): A request for temporary signs from May 21 to 30 was discussed. Board members noted the proliferation of unpermitted signs in town but strongly supported approving the permit since the organization followed the correct application process. The board reaffirmed the policy of the DPW removing unpermitted signs. Entertainment License (Berkshire Scenic Railway Museum): Town staff detailed that Massachusetts General Law (Chapter 140, Sections 181 & 183A) allows the board to issue a one-day entertainment license for a live band at a fundraiser on August 1. The board approved the request. Appointments: The board thanked Dennis Arsenal (Affordable Housing Trust) and Aaron Hebert Smith (Community Center Board) for agreeing to serve and unanimously approved their appointments. - Adoption of Bus Stop-Arm Camera Statute (Chapter 399 of the Acts of 2024): Dr. Collins presented the item, citing direct observation of vehicles illegally passing school buses. He confirmed the system captures only license plates during violations and does not use facial recognition. Chief Smith was consulted and supports the initiative. As the current bus contract has one year remaining, the town will require the next vendor to equip buses with the cameras at their own cost. The board voted unanimously to advance the adoption to a Town Meeting warrant. - Select Board Reorganization: Following the recent election, the board elected Mary Beth as incoming Chair and Max as Clerk. The board reviewed a comprehensive list of proposed liaison assignments, restructured into issue areas (Public Safety, Land Use, Community). Members were encouraged to study the list and provide preferences, with final assignments to be determined at a subsequent meeting. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda Approved: Approved one-day wine/malt liquor licenses for Rebecca Waslowski (Benford Hall, Aug 9), Audubon Society (Pleasant Valley Sanctuary, May 22), and Jacqueline Donovan (Benford Hall, June 5). Approved an entertainment license for Berkshire Scenic Railway Museum (Aug 1). Approved the temporary sign request for Berkshire Arts Center (May 21–30). Approved appointments of Dennis Arsenal to the Affordable Housing Trust and Aaron Hebert Smith to the Community Center Board. - Manager and Officer Changes Approved: Approved the change of manager for Gateways Inn to Colleen Cowan. Approved the change of manager for the Lennox Club to Justin Carafotis and the updated list of club directors. - Bus Camera Program: Voted to advance the adoption of the school bus stop-arm camera statute (Chapter 399 of the Acts of 2024) to a Town Meeting warrant. - Board Officers Elected: Mary Beth elected Chair. Max elected Clerk. Liaison assignments to be finalized at a subsequent meeting.

The 2026 Annual Town Meeting convened at 7:25 PM on May 7, 2026, in Lenox, Massachusetts, with a quorum present and a large turnout of residents. Town Moderator John McNinch presided, and the meeting used electronic clickers for all votes. Key presentations included a fiscal overview from Town Manager Jay Green and detailed budget presentations from the Select Board and School Committee. All 16 warrant articles were approved, with votes ranging from unanimous to a two-thirds vote on the tower lease article. The meeting also featured public comments on school budget sustainability, community preservation funding, and a proposed cell tower lease. Public Comments & Testimony - School Budget (Article 3): Mark Amy (4 Evergreen Trail) thanked officials for their hard work and expressed concern that the rate of school budget growth is not sustainable for some taxpayers, particularly retirees. - Community Preservation Projects (Article 8): A resident asked about reimbursement mechanisms for projects relying on grants and whether CPC funds would be used as matching funds. CPC Chair Tom Delasco clarified that CPC is a reimbursement program and that applicants typically have multiple funding sources. A separate question about the annual CPC revenue was answered: the 3% surcharge generates approximately $481,257.22, plus a variable state match. - Tower Lease (Article 15): - Mark Amy shared a personal story of a serious auto accident on Route 7/20, stating that he was able to call 911 thanks to a cell tower near his home and urged approval to improve coverage. - Donna Colin (302) thanked officials for informational meetings but asked about expected coverage improvements, noting many dead zones remain. She suggested tabling the article for a comprehensive study. - Rich Leftwitz (142 Cliffwood Street) supported the tower but questioned whether $4,000–$6,000 per month lease revenue was too low, hoping for higher bids. - A woman whose home is near the public safety complex opposed the tower, citing health concerns for children at the nearby middle/high school and noting that studies have raised issues. She stated she voted for the complex but not for a cell tower. - Another resident supported quick approval, saying there is no cell signal in their home and that emergency communication is impaired. Discussion Items - Town Manager’s Fiscal Overview: Town Manager Jay Green presented the fiscal environment for FY27, highlighting budget pressures (5% utility increases, 8.75% health insurance), the town’s strong bond rating (AAA), and reserve positions: free cash $5.1 million, general stabilization $825,000, debt service stabilization $2.2 million, OPEB $10 million, water enterprise retained earnings $1.2 million, wastewater $367,000, and Resta River Settlement Fund $26.9 million. The total town spending for FY27 is $44 million (12M operating, 19M school, 3M capital, 4.7M enterprise, 1.1M CPA). The tax levy is increasing 6.8%, with a projected tax rate of $10.52 per $1,000 (last year projected $10.41 but actual $9.85). Median home value $543,800, estimated tax bill $5,721 (about $383 increase over last year). Green also noted $56,000 in broadband grants, $136,000 for EV chargers, $1M+ CDBG for housing rehab, and a $1.6M Housing Works Infrastructure grant. Pending grants total $8.5 million, including $7 million for bridge rehabilitation. - School Budget (Article 3): School Committee Chair Oren Cass and Vice Chair Mike DuPont presented the FY27 school budget of $19,353,258 (including $200,000 from free cash). Cass highlighted promotions from within, collaborative contract negotiations, successful grant writing, technology reviews, and capital needs planning. DuPont detailed budget drivers: $444,000 in mandated expenditures (out-of-district placements, transportation) and nearly $500,000 in benefits increases. Long-term capital needs include roofs ($5.2M), Duffin Theater AC ($350,000), locker rooms, science wing, and parking lots. FY27 capital projects include gym roof repair, Morris second-floor AC, playground, sound system, Chromebook replacements, and new school entries. - Capital Plan (Article 6): The article combined departmental capital expenditures totaling $3,096,145 from free cash, with no impact on the tax levy. Items included $325,000 for town buildings, $125,000 for police, $900,000 for schools, $760,000 for highways, and others. - Community Preservation Projects (Article 8): CPC Chair Tom Delasco presented six recommended projects: (1) Friends of the Lenox Meeting House interior preservation ($229,783 CPC grant), (2) Home Farm Phase II Jacques Barn restoration ($100,000), (3) The Mount drainage and accessibility improvements ($55,000), (4) Ventfort Hall carriage house roof restoration ($138,000), (5) Penrose 283 Pittsfield Road affordable housing ($500,000), and (6) Mass Audubon Pleasant Valley Wildlife Sanctuary climate-resilient trails ($75,000). Total CPC requested: $1,097,783. - Tower Lease (Article 15): Select Board member Neil Max Million explained that the communications tower at the public safety complex has available space, and the town seeks authorization to negotiate leases with vendors. Expected revenue $4,000–$6,000 per month, which could cover operating costs. The article required a two-thirds vote. After public comments, a motion to call the question was approved, and the article passed. - Zoning Amendment (Article 16): Planning Board Chair Tom Delasco presented a housekeeping amendment to Section 10.2.4 of the Gateway Mixed-Use Development Overlay District to clarify site plan approval jurisdiction. The planning board had approved the change. Key Outcomes - Article 1 (Waive Reading): Carried unanimously. - Article 2 (Town Operating Budget): $12,428,605 (including $500,000 from free cash). Carried. - Article 3 (School Budget): $19,353,258 (including $200,000 from free cash). Carried. - Article 4 (Sewer Enterprise): $3,101,675 (funded by user charges, retained earnings, and $400,000 free cash for debt service). Carried. - Article 5 (Water Enterprise): $1,635,369 (funded by user charges and retained earnings). Carried. - Article 6 (Capital Expenditures): $3,096,145 from free cash. Carried. - Article 7 (CPC Annual Funding): Appropriations to reserves (historic preservation $179,433, community housing $179,433, open space/recreation $179,433, administration not listed). Carried. - Article 8 (CPC Projects): Six projects approved totaling $1,097,783 from the CPC fund. Carried. - Article 9 (Chapter 90 Grant Acceptance): $443,976.52 for road work. Carried. - Article 10 (Fire Engine Stabilization): $150,000 from free cash. Carried. - Article 11 (Ambulance Stabilization): $150,000 from free cash. Carried. - Article 12 (Debt Stabilization): $150,000 from free cash. Carried. - Article 13 (Prior Year Bills): $4,738.42 from free cash (required four-fifths vote). Carried. - Article 14 (Veterans Property Tax Exemption): Adoption of MGL Ch. 59, §5, Clause 22G. Carried. - Article 15 (Tower Lease Authorization): Passed by two-thirds vote: 296 yea, 28 nay. - Article 16 (Zoning Bylaw Amendment): Carried. - Adjournment: The meeting adjourned after final announcements, including noting that town elections will be held on Monday.

The League of Women Voters of Central Berkshire County hosted a candidate forum at Lenox Town Hall on May 4, 2026, for the upcoming May 11 town election. Candidates for both the Select Board (three-year term) and the School Committee (one-year term) presented their views and answered audience questions. Two of three Select Board seats and one School Committee seat were contested. Select Board Candidates Forum Candidates David Roach (incumbent), Max Scherf (incumbent), and Jared Weber each had seven minutes to identify the three most important issues facing Lenox and the Select Board. - David Roach highlighted the future of the all-volunteer fire department, noting it could become a paid department costing over $2 million annually. He proposed building affordable housing for volunteer firefighters at the fire station site and subsidizing housing allowances. He also stressed Other Post-Employment Benefits (OPEB) liability, stating the town has saved $8 million but needs another $12 million over ten years. - Max Scherf prioritized fiscal health, emphasizing Lenox’s triple-A bond rating and the risk of losing it with continued debt. He called for strategic capital planning and closer collaboration with town boards and committees. On affordability and affordable housing, he expressed support for the town's affordable housing efforts and acknowledged challenges for lower- and middle-class families. - Jared Weber focused on open and accessible town government, proposing regular office hours and improved communication. He emphasized recruiting more residents onto boards and committees, leveraging his headhunting background. His third priority was responsible stewardship, broadening the economic tax base to reduce residential tax pressure by supporting local businesses and exploring development in Lenoxdale. Audience questions and responses: - Affordable housing and child care: Roach suggested using tax incentives or housing trust loans to support home-based child care and welcomed proposals to the Select Board. Scherf said the LCC issue involves a retiring operator and a town-owned building needing $10 million in repairs; he urged finding a new provider and exploring CPC or grant funding. Weber proposed a temporary subcommittee to examine child care viability and suggested community partners. - Tax increases (22% over two years): Roach noted that much of the increase is driven by uncontrollable costs like health insurance (18% last year) and mandated repairs; the board works to hold level services. Scherf emphasized long-term capital planning to avoid reactive spending and supporting businesses to shift tax burden. Weber echoed broadening the commercial tax base via support for tourism, inns, and cultural institutions, and creative development in Lenoxdale. - Senior activities: Roach said the Community Center runs a strong program with many active seniors. Scherf welcomed seniors to suggest activities to the board. Weber, a Community Center board member, agreed programming is robust and suggested better public awareness via social media and newsletters. School Committee Candidates Forum Candidates Richard Burke (incumbent) and Stephanie Kluka each had four minutes to identify the two most important issues facing Lenox schools. - Richard Burke said the top issue is maintaining the quality and character of Lenox schools amid rising costs and policy challenges. He advocated for career and technical education (CTE) to prepare students for both college and vocational paths without full regionalization. He stressed collaboration with other districts to share services. - Stephanie Kluka focused on programming for diverse learners (students with IEPs or 504 plans), noting a rise from 4% to 12% of students on 504s since 2014. She advocated for inclusive in-district programming, building community partnerships, and creating a unique vocational niche for Lenox rather than regionalizing. She cited her experience as both a special education teacher and parent of two children on IEPs. Audience questions and responses: - School choice repayment rate (set in 1990): Burke explained that Lenox’s policy is to accept choice students only in existing classroom spaces without hiring new teachers, so the incremental cost is low. Kluka said the solution lies in petitioning Boston to change the rate, and also in making Lenox more affordable to attract families. - Regionalization for vocational education: Burke opposed full regionalization as proposed by the Commonwealth (three regional districts in Berkshire County), arguing it would dilute Lenox’s school quality. He supported other forms of collaboration and noted the district is already exploring shared services. Kluka agreed that regionalization is not the answer; instead, Lenox should develop niche vocational programming unique to its community. Key Outcomes - No votes were taken at this forum. The election for Select Board (vote for two) and School Committee (vote for one) will be held on May 11, 2026, from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. at Lenox Town Hall. Voters were encouraged to participate.

The Lenox Select Board met Wednesday, April 22, 2026, to handle routine licenses and appointments, a dealership license name change, the short-term rental registration rollout, a proposed PACE financing program, and preparations for the Annual Town Meeting. The board also offered condolences on the death of a longtime town moderator and town attorney. Meeting Announcements - Town elections are Monday, May 11, 2026. Candidates listed include Dave Roche, a sitting member, and Jared Weber for Select Board; John Kearns for Board of Health; Michael DuPont, Kim Graham, and R. Scott Sibley for three-year School Committee seats; Richard Burr and Stephanie Kluka for the one-year School Committee seat; and Bart Rick Keenan for the Housing Authority. - No candidates were listed for the Board of Assessors or the Planning Board vacancy. The town is also seeking a non-Democrat registrar of voters for a polling vacancy. - Annual Town Meeting is Thursday, May 7, 2026, at 7 p.m. at Lenox Memorial Middle/High School. - The board offered condolences and prayers for a former town moderator and town attorney who had died during the previous week. Public Comments & Testimony - Charlie Thompson, senior vice commander of the local VFW, requested town assistance for additional veterans banners. Last year 100 banners were displayed May-November; an estimated 25-30 additional veterans should be recognized. At $260 per banner, that would cost nearly $8,000. The VFW has contributed $5,000 and asked the town to consider a match; a volunteer, Scott Picintelli, installs the banners at no cost. Thompson also asked whether the VFW could use the old police station because members cannot climb the stairs at the academy building. The board said the town is still evaluating the building and accessibility and referred him for a follow-up. - Kate McNeil of 10 Post Road reported on the first spring Fix-It Fair on April 11, 2026. It helped 43 people; roughly 34 sewing items were handled, six diagnosed as not fixable, and about 22 electrical/mechanical fixes were attempted, including 11 lamps; about eight items could not be fixed. The fall Fix-It Fair will be October 17, 2026. Donations received will support the community center and the Lenox food pantry. Consent Calendar - The board unanimously approved the consent agenda: - One-day all-alcohol beverage license for Berkshire Con Community Foundation, Thursday, April 30, 2026, 5-8 p.m. at Venford Hall. - One-day all-alcohol beverage license for Dunn Jinman and Cassie Brazi, Saturday, June 13, 2026, 3-4:30 p.m. at Redford Hall, 104 Walker Street. - Appointment of Ellen O'Brien to the Housing Trust and Davis Dyer to the Historical Commission. - Berkshire Lyric use of the downstairs auditorium on Saturday, May 16, 2026, 1-4:30 p.m. Public Hearing - Automotive Dealership Name Change - The board opened a public hearing for a dealership license name change. The applicant said the Audi/VW and BMW operations are being split into separate business entities, so the BMW store needs its own license. The new general manager of the BMW store, Jason, was introduced. - The board unanimously approved the class one dealership license name change from Sean and Michael Berkshire's AVLOC to Sean and Michael Berkshire's MLLC, doing business as BMW of Lenox. Discussion - Short-Term Rental Registration Update - Town staff reported that the updated short-term rental bylaw, approved at a fall/November town meeting, is still under review by the Massachusetts Attorney General's Office; approval is now expected in late May or early June 2026. - The building department is completing about 30 inspections per week across the five-town service area, including five to six per week in Lenox. There are roughly 170-200 short-term rentals in Lenox. - The online registration system is nearly ready, but the payment processing component will not be operational until August 2026. - Staff recommended waiving the $150 annual registration fee for 2026 to allow the rollout to proceed more quickly, avoid cash/check processing, and prevent owners from paying twice in a short period. The separate $150 inspection fee charged by the building department would not be waived. - Board members agreed with the waiver. They noted full annual fee revenue would be about $25,500 at 170 registrations and briefly discussed whether future billing should be timed for summer, when owners have rental income, or kept in the first quarter, when staff have more capacity. - The board unanimously voted to waive short-term rental registration fees for the 2026 cycle; the first paid annual renewals would come due in the 2027 cycle. Inspection fees remain in effect. Discussion - PACE Financing - Town staff described Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) financing at the request of MassDevelopment. It is available in Massachusetts for commercial and multifamily properties with more than five units; lenders finance clean-energy retrofits, and the town collects payments through the property tax bill and remits them to the lender. - Staff said there is no public financing, the town has little financial risk, and the town tax lien is senior to the PACE lien. A developer in town is interested, but no project details were provided. - Board members expressed general support for the concept but wanted to consult the treasurer/collector's office and towns already using PACE, such as Great Barrington or Pittsfield, before acting. Concerns included staff workload, legal costs, and the unidentified developer. - The board unanimously voted to table the PACE adoption until after those consultations, taking it up at a future meeting. Town Meeting Preparation - The board set the Town Meeting Preview for Wednesday, April 29, 2026, with two sessions at 1 p.m. and 6 p.m. in the community room at the public safety complex; staff, Select Board, Finance Committee, and School Committee representatives will answer questions. - The annual Town Meeting remains Thursday, May 7, 2026, at 7 p.m.; the board urged residents to arrive early because check-in can slow entry. The new ladder truck and ambulance will be on display at the school from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. - The town will distribute a consolidated packet with the town manager's cover letter, Finance Committee budget communication, the warrant with article explanations, and a glossary of municipal terms. Enterprise funds and related tax-rate questions will be explained. - Board members strongly supported using the electronic voting clickers for town meeting votes; clickers will be available to try at the preview. - The town manager explained a warrant article authorizing the Select Board to negotiate and sign a lease with a telecommunications provider for the public safety tower. A no vote would not stop the RFP but would require a separate off-cycle special town meeting; the tower is consistent with the town's zoning bylaw. - Board members selected articles to present, including operating and school budgets, Community Preservation Committee items, Chapter 90, the telecommunications lease, the veterans' property tax exemption, and the zoning article. Key Outcomes - Unanimously approved the consent calendar items listed above. - Unanimously approved the automotive dealership license name change. - Unanimously approved the 2026 short-term rental registration fee waiver; inspection fees continue. - Unanimously tabled PACE financing pending consultation with town staff and municipalities using PACE. - Scheduled the Town Meeting Preview for April 29, 2026; Annual Town Meeting remains May 7, 2026. - The board indicated it would not meet May 6 unless urgent business arose, and then adjourned.

The Lennox Select Board convened on April 8, 2026, to address community concerns, review the Fiscal Year 2027 Annual Town Meeting Warrant, and conduct routine licensing business. The meeting featured extensive public testimony. Public Comments & Testimony - Lennox Children’s Center (LCC): A community member representing concerned parents and staff requested responses to inquiries from the prior month. She asked whether the board remained committed to helping relocate the LCC, demanded transparency regarding the building’s future (specifically whether it could be sold to a private developer), and disputed a prior claim that the town paid for LCC snow removal, stating the center paid for it. She highlighted conflicting repair cost estimates ranging from $2 million to $10 million. - Board Response: Board members stated they had worked for over a decade to find new locations for the center and that the LCC made the decision to leave. One member cited a 2016 engineering report (EDM) estimating $6.5 million for code compliance, with current costs expected between $8 and $10 million. They explained that spending over $50,000 would trigger full code compliance, making the project financially infeasible. The board pushed back on the characterization of eviction and stated the building is considered dangerous and not ADA compliant. Regarding the snow removal, a member responded that if the DPW assisted, there was no charge. - Pittsfield-Lennox Road Safety and Development: A resident of Links Ford Road presented a petition signed by 200 residents regarding hazardous conditions on Route 7/20. She cited excessive speeding (45 mph limit frequently exceeded), dangerous heavy truck traffic, multiple accidents and fatalities, and a lack of enforcement. She also complained about light pollution from Berkshire’s Untold and a lack of notification regarding the Penrose affordable housing project access points. - Board Response: The board acknowledged speeding issues and highlighted enforcement by Police Chief Smith (unmarked cruiser, speed trailer grant). The resident was directed to the Building Department for light pollution. The board clarified that MassDOT holds full jurisdiction over speed limits, weight limits, and major traffic infrastructure on that state-controlled road. Consent Calendar - Approved a one-day all-alcoholic beverage license for Ollie Berkshire Community College (May 19, 2026, 5-7:30 PM). - Approved 2026 seasonal liquor license renewals for VSO Serenic Club, Whistler’s, and Eastgate. Discussion Items - Affordable Housing Trust Program: A board member announced the First-Time Home Buyer Assistance Program, offering qualified buyers a grant of up to $20,000. - Public Hearing / Cello LLC Liquor License: The board held a public hearing for the change of ownership of Cello LLC’s liquor license to new principal owner Ryan Boya. No concerns were raised. - Fiscal Year 2027 Annual Town Meeting Warrant: Town Manager Jay reviewed the 17-article warrant for the May 7, 2026, Town Meeting. - Budget: Employee benefits were separated from department budgets for transparency. School capital received an additional $500,000. - State Affordable Housing Law: An extensive discussion followed questions about the Penrose project and Community Preservation Act (CPA) funds. The board explained that towns under the 10% affordable housing threshold (40B law) have limited control over such developments. The developer pays full property taxes despite deed-restricted units. The 3% CPA surcharge is a standing set-aside, not a new tax. - Community Engagement: The board announced Town Meeting Preview Workshops (week of April 27) and the use of electronic clickers for all Article votes to ensure voter anonymity. - Key Articles: Article 15 authorizes a wireless tower lease; Article 16 amends the Gateway Mixed Use Development Overlay District. Key Outcomes - Liquor Licenses: Unanimously approved the Cello LLC ownership transfer, the Ollie BCC one-day license, and three seasonal renewals. - Town Meeting Warrant: Unanimously approved the FY27 Warrant. Town Meeting scheduled for May 7, 2026, at 7:00 PM at Duffin Theater. Annual Town Election is May 11, 2026 (7 AM – 7 PM). - Referrals: Light pollution complaints directed to the Building Department. Resident agreed to share contact info for follow-up on MassDOT petition. - Next Meeting: Scheduled for April 22, 2026.

The Lenox Select Board met on Wednesday, March 25, 2026. The chair initially said March 23 before correcting the date. The board announced town meeting and election dates, read a joint statement announcing that the Lenox Children's Center will close, heard public comment from three residents about child care, approved a liquor license manager change, and scheduled its next meeting. There was no consent agenda, and no minutes were presented. Announcements - Town meeting: Thursday, May 7, at 7 p.m. at Duffin Theater at the school. Town elections: Monday, May 11 (not Tuesday), with several open seats; papers have been filed. - Ed read a joint statement from the Town of Lenox and the Lenox Children's Center, posted on the town website and e-blasted to subscribers. The chair said it was jointly authored by Mary Ann Valley and Jay. Lenox Children's Center Closure - The Lenox Children's Center is a privately operated child care provider that has leased the old Center Street School building from the town for decades; the town has kept rent low and maintained the property. - Both parties had identified years ago that the building needed extensive and costly repairs to meet modern child care requirements. The cost exceeds the center's financial capacity, since it relies solely on tuition, and the town's capital and infrastructure obligations. - With town assistance, the center searched for a new facility but found no location that met licensing and space requirements. - The need for a new roof restarted the conversation. After meetings with the select board, Permanent Building Committee, town manager, and DPW superintendent, both sides mutually agreed that continued operation in a building without required repairs was no longer viable. With no workable alternative, the provider made the decision to close on August 31, 2026; the statement emphasized that this was solely the provider's decision. - The statement acknowledged the closure's impact on families, staff, and the broader community, and thanked supporters. Public Comments & Testimony - Karen Labonero spoke on behalf of her daughter and family. Her daughter may step away from her teaching job next academic year because of the lack of reliable child care. Labonero said at least 27 other families rely on the center; she asked whether the town would grant an extension so the 28 families could secure alternative care, especially families with infants. She noted LCC has approximately 30-40 families on its wait list. She asked what steps the town would take to keep child care available and sustainable, whether it would reconsider closure if donations or reduced roofing costs were identified, and what its plans are for the old Center Street building compared with the center's community benefit. - Rebecca Lee, a fourth-generation Lenox resident at 383 East Street, described returning to Lenox to raise her family. Her daughter attended LCC until the past school year; her second child started there in February and, six weeks later, the closure was announced. She said there are virtually no child care options in Lenox; Rainbow Bridge at the United Methodist Church is the only alternative and its infant room is temporarily closed. She contacted facilities in surrounding towns, but the closest opportunity put her at number 21 on a wait list. She said two working parents now face impossible choices, such as moving away or one parent leaving the workforce, and urged the board to make child care a priority for retaining and attracting young families. - Michael Lucia, 261 Old Stockbridge Road, appeared with his wife and two young children. He said he did not know the full backstory and believed the board works hard, but found the joint letter troubling because it made Lenox sound like a poor landlord. He called child care a public good, said the burden falls immediately on parents when a center closes, and urged the board to act with urgency. He noted the town has vacant fire and police stations and, rhetorically, suggested using town hall as a daycare rather than doing nothing. He added that his children do not attend the center, so he was speaking for the community's future. Board Response and Additional Announcements - A board member acknowledged the child care issue is serious and said the town needs to fix the bigger problem. He announced the Fix-It Fair on Saturday, April 11, 1-4 p.m.; the October event drew 26 people, with 19 sewing repairs and 16 mechanical/electrical repairs completed, plus more work than they could reach. He advised people to spread out attendance and stay while repairs are done. A fall Fix-It Fair is scheduled for Saturday, October 17. General Business - The board described the agenda as light, with no consent agenda. The only general business item was a liquor license amendment for 33 Main LLC, doing business as 33 Main at 33 Main Street, changing the license manager to Donna Hammer on its annual all-alcohol hotel liquor license. The board said the paperwork was in order and the change was recommended by the state liquor commission. A motion to approve passed by voice vote with all ayes. Key Outcomes - The Lenox Children's Center will close August 31, 2026; no alternative location was found. - The board unanimously approved the 33 Main liquor license manager change to Donna Hammer. - The town meeting is scheduled for May 7 at 7 p.m.; town elections are Monday, May 11. - No board vote was taken on the child care-related requests raised during public comment. - Minutes were not presented and were deferred to the next meeting; the executive assistant had been on vacation until that day. - The next regular select board meeting is Wednesday, April 8, at 6 p.m.; the board adjourned with all in favor.