Lenox public meetings in 2025

Cultural Council

The Lenox Cultural Council will consider and vote on FY 26 grant applications. The council will also review the calendar for required MCC paperwork and receive a treasurer’s update on FY 25 grant reimbursements. Any additional items will be addressed under other business.

• Review and vote on FY 26 grant applications
• Review calendar for MCC required paperwork
• Treasurer’s update on FY 25 grant reimbursements
• Other business

Community Preservation Committee

The Lenox Community Preservation Committee will review five applications totaling $1.1 million for FY27, including drainage and lighting improvements at The Mount and a $500,000 development project on Pittsfield Road. The committee will also set a final review meeting for January 20, 2026.

• Friends of the Lenox Meeting House: $229,783
• HomeFarm: $200,000
• Pennrose: $500,000
• The Mount: $55,000
• Ventfort Hall: $138,000

Board of Health

The Lenox Board of Health will provide updates on several health programs, including a clinic season wrap‑up, the Apple Squeeze table, sharps‑waste kiosk education, naloxone distribution, and the use of opioid settlement funds. The board will also receive a status report on the permitting process for the Chabad Kitchen. The meeting includes a period for citizen comments before adjournment.

• Clinic season wrap‑up update
• Apple Squeeze table update
• Sharps kiosk education update
• Naloxone program update
• Opioid settlement funds update

Planning Board

The Planning Board will discuss its draft workplan and priorities for 2026. It will hear a presentation on a proposed sign bylaw for the joint Planning Board/Historic District Commission. The board will consider amendments to the zoning bylaw aimed at increasing housing density and streamlining multifamily and mixed‑use provisions. Finally, members will vote on moving Site Plan Approval authority for the Gateway Mixed‑Use Development Overlay District from the Planning Board to the Zoning Board of Appeals, and receive an update on a Rural and Small Town Development Fund grant to study zoning changes for a sewer expansion.

• Discuss draft 2026 Planning Board workplan and timeline
• Presentation of draft sign bylaw for joint Planning Board/Historic District Commission
• Discuss proposed zoning bylaw amendments to increase housing density and streamline multifamily and mixed‑use provisions
• Vote on transferring Site Plan Approval authority in 10.2.4 Gateway Mixed‑Use Development Overlay District from Planning Board to Zoning Board of Appeals
• Update on Rural and Small Town Development Fund grant to study zoning amendments for proposed sewer expansion

Lenox Library

The Library Board of Trustees will meet to review the Director's report and discuss the strategic plan for fiscal years 2027-2031. The board will also address old business regarding meeting room usage policy.

• Strategic Plan: FY2027-2031
• Policy Review: Meeting Room Usage

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will review two special permit requests. The first request is for 7 Holmeswood Terrace to add an additional garage bay and convert the existing garage to a two‑car garage under §5.3.5. The second request is for 29 Church Street, seeking special permits under §§5.3.3 and 5.2 and a variance under MGL Chapter 40A §10 to permit a duplex on a parcel smaller than 20,000 sq ft in the C district. The board will also consider approval of the November 19, 2025 meeting minutes.

• Special Permit for 7 Holmeswood Terrace to add a garage bay and convert garage under §5.3.5
• Special Permit requests for 29 Church Street under §§5.3.3, 5.2 and a variance under MGL Chapter 40A §10 to allow a duplex on a parcel under 20,000 sq ft in the C district
• Approval of minutes from the November 19, 2025 meeting

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Lenox Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing on December 3 at 7:00 p.m. to consider an application from SCCD 29 Church LLC for the property at 29 Church Street. The applicant seeks special permits for non‑conforming structures and a schedule‑of‑uses permit, plus a variance under MGL Chapter 40A §10 to waive the two‑family house requirement and convert the existing mixed‑use building into a duplex on a parcel under 20,000 sq ft. Application materials are available at the town clerk’s office and on the ZBA website. Comments may be submitted by email to [email protected] or in person at 6 Walker Street.

• Special permits requested under §5.3.3 (Non‑Conforming Structures) and §5.2 (Schedule of Uses)
• Variance sought under MGL Chapter 40A §10 to relieve §6.2.1 (Two‑Family House or Duplex) requirement
• Proposed conversion of existing mixed‑use building to a duplex in the C district
• Parcel identified as Map 43, Parcel 169, less than 20,000 sq ft

Community Preservation Committee

The Lenox Community Preservation Committee will approve the minutes from the November 13, 2025 meeting. It will continue reviewing FY27 preservation applications, including several projects with specified funding amounts. The committee also set the schedule for a final review meeting on January 20, 2026 and noted the Annual Town Meeting date of May 7, 2026.

• Friends of the Lenox Meeting House – Preservation and Reconfiguration of Building Interior – $229,783
• HomeFarm – Jaques Barn and Farmhouse Restoration Phase II – $200,000
• Pennrose – 238 Pittsfield Rd Development – $500,000
• The Mount – Drainage, Accessibility, and Lighting Improvements – $55,000
• Ventfort Hall – Carriage House Restoration – $138,000

Affordable Housing Trust

The Lenox Affordable Housing Trust will review the minutes from the November 10, 2025 meeting and receive a financial report. Members will discuss updates on the CPC application, town‑owned land options, and recent program reports. The board will vote on a property tax exemption proposal to be forwarded to the Assessors Board. Additional items include an HPP update and planning for the next meeting on January 5, 2026.

• Review minutes from the November 10, 2025 meeting
• Financial report and vote on allocation of funds
• Discuss community support for the CPC‑AHT application
• Vote on property tax exemption proposal to the Assessors Board
• Review town‑owned land sources and land acquisition approach

Planning Board

The Lenox Planning Board meeting will consider a discussion on a sign bylaw. The board will also vote to approve the minutes from the October 28, 2025 meeting.

• Sign bylaw discussion
• Approval of minutes from October 28, 2025

Conversation Commission

The Conservation Commission will consider a request to determine whether the resource‑area boundaries shown on plans for 383 Housatonic Street are accurately delineated. It will also review two Certificates of Compliance: one for Stone Path Development at 241 Walker Street (DEP#198-0300, 2018) and another for the Berkshire Natural Resource Council at 0 Undermountain Road (DEP#198-0310, 2018). The agenda includes approval of the minutes from the October 16, 2025 meeting.

• Request for determination of applicability – 383 Housatonic Street
• Certificate of Compliance – 241 Walker Street (Stone Path Development, DEP#198-0300, 2018)
• Certificate of Compliance – 0 Undermountain Road (Berkshire Natural Resource Council, DEP#198-0310, 2018)
• Approval of minutes – October 16, 2025

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Lenox Zoning Board of Appeals will consider three special permit or waiver requests and approve the September 15, 2025 meeting minutes. The 61 Taconic Avenue request seeks permission to remove an existing enclosed porch and add a two‑story addition without increasing the property’s non‑conformity. The 10 Richmond Mountain Road request seeks to reconfigure the Appletree Inn’s non‑conforming use, reducing building footprint by 92 sq ft and expanding parking. The 55 Pittsfield Road request is a site‑plan waiver to add about 1,376 sq ft to the north side of the Antimony Brewing building in the C3A zone.

• 61 Taconic Avenue – special permit to remove porch and construct two‑story addition
• 10 Richmond Mountain Road (Appletree Inn) – special permit to remodel, reduce footprint by 92 sq ft and add parking
• 55 Pittsfield Road (Antimony Brewing) – site‑plan waiver for ~1,376 sq ft addition in C3A district
• Approval of September 15, 2025 meeting minutes

Permanent Building Committee

The Permanent Building Committee will consider approving expenditures for the Library Dome Project. It will also consider approving a space utilization study. No other agenda items are listed.

• Approve expenditures for the Library Dome Project
• Approve a space utilization study

Select Board's Office

The Select Board will consider several consent agenda items, including an appointment to the Zoning Board of Appeals and two one‑day liquor licenses for Ventfort Hall. They will ratify the Town Manager’s appointment of Paul Mattingly as Town Clerk. The Board will vote on a storm‑drain easement at 65 Cliffwood and hold a public hearing on National Grid/Verizon’s request to place poles and wiring for EV charging near East Street. They will also approve a special Town Meeting warrant and discuss conservation at the Church on the Hill Cemetery.

• Appointment of Albert Harper to the Zoning Board of Appeals (vacancy until 2028)
• One‑day all‑alcoholic beverages liquor license for Ventfort Hall on Oct 25
• Ratification of Paul Mattingly’s appointment as Town Clerk
• Approval of storm‑drain easement at 65 Cliffwood
• Public hearing on National Grid/Verizon pole and wire installation for EV charging near East Street

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will first approve minutes from its prior meeting. It will then discuss the town's current financial status with the Town Manager. The committee will discuss and vote on warrant articles for an upcoming Special Town Meeting. Finally, it will discuss and vote on committee roles for the next budget cycle.

• Approve minutes from prior Finance Committee meeting
• Discuss current state of town financials with Town Manager
• Discuss warrant articles for Special Town Meeting
• Vote on warrant articles for Special Town Meeting
• Discuss and vote on committee roles for upcoming budget cycle

Housing Authority

The Lenox Housing Authority will hold a regular meeting to discuss a tenant forum, review recent meeting minutes, and examine financial statements for June through August 2025. It will provide updates on unit renovations and resident services, and present bid results for an ARPA-funded repair and renovation of a side porch at the West Street Complex. The meeting will also include the Executive Director’s report and any additional items the chair may raise.

• Tenant Forum – LTO
• Curtis Commercial Space discussion
• Accounts Payable – monthly balance sheets for June–August 2025
• Old Business – updates on unit renovation projects (FISH #152118, #152119)
• New Business – ARPA FF side porch repair bid results for West Street Complex

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will review two special permit applications under §5.3.5 to modify existing non‑conforming structures. One request at 7 Holmeswood Terrace seeks to add a garage bay and convert a one‑car garage to a two‑car garage. The second request at 61 Taconic Avenue proposes removing an enclosed porch and constructing a two‑story addition. The board will also approve the minutes from the September 15, 2025 meeting.

• 7 Holmeswood Terrace – special permit to add a garage bay, converting one‑car garage to two‑car
• 61 Taconic Avenue – special permit to remove north‑side enclosed porch and build a two‑story addition
• Approval of September 15, 2025 meeting minutes

Community Center

The Lenox Community Center Board will meet to discuss rentals and the ice skating rink, review mission and vision statements, and consider holiday gift giving. The meeting includes reports from the Director and Program Manager.

• Review/update mission and/or vision statement
• LCC Community Survey results
• Holiday Gift Giving
• Rentals and Ice Skating Rink
• Director's Report

Planning Board

The Lenox Planning Board will hold a public hearing on proposed bylaw amendments regarding fencing and accessory dwelling units, and will review a subdivision plan for 421 East Street. The board will also approve minutes from the previous meeting.

• Public hearing: Fencing bylaw amendments
• Public hearing: Accessory Dwelling Units bylaw amendments
• Review: ANR Plan - 421 East Street
• Approval: September 23, 2025 minutes
• Location: Town Hall, 6 Walker Street

Housing Authority

The Lenox Housing Authority will hold a tenant forum, review minutes from July and September 2025, and examine monthly balance sheets and quarterly operating statements. It will discuss program metrics such as rent collection, vacancies, and waitlists, and provide updates on unit renovations at 5D and 13 Church Street. New business includes the bid results for an ARPA-funded side‑porch repair at the West Street Complex (unit 689‑1B). The meeting will also feature the executive director’s report and public hearing notices.

• Tenant Forum – LTO
• Curtis Commercial Space discussion
• Review of monthly balance sheets for June‑August 2025 and quarterly operating statements
• Updates on unit renovations: FISH #152118 (Unit 5D) and FISH #152119 (13 Church Street, Unit A101)
• Bid results for ARPA FF repair & renovate side porch at West Street Complex, unit 689‑1B

Lenox Library

The provided agenda contains only procedural boilerplate and does not list any specific topics for discussion or decision.

Select Board's Office

The Select Board will discuss replacing the short-term rental registration chapter with a new general bylaw. The board is also reviewing potential warrant articles and the timing for a Special Town Meeting.

• Public hearing on proposed 'Operation of Short-Term Rentals' general bylaw
• Purchase and Sale Agreement for parcels at 41 & 51 Housatonic Street
• Ratification of Mark L. Smith as Chief of the Lenox Police Department
• Update to Community Choice Power Supply Program electric aggregation rate
• Appointment of Francis Vahle to the Historical Commission

Historic District Commission

The Historic District Commission will vote on a Certificate of Appropriateness for a new single-story building at 135 Main Street. The body will also discuss a letter for building owners and approve meeting minutes.

• Vote on Certificate of Appropriateness for 135 Main Street
• Discuss and vote on letter for building/business owners
• Approval of meeting minutes

Affordable Housing Trust

The Trust will review the September 15, 2025 meeting minutes and receive a financial report. Members will vote on how to allocate Trust funds and approve a warrant article for a November 2025 special meeting. The agenda also includes discussion of changes to the First Time Homebuyer Assistance Program and a CPC funding application due October 31. An executive session is scheduled to consider acquisition of property or properties.

• Review and approve September 15, 2025 meeting minutes
• Financial report and vote on allocation of funds, including warrant article for Nov. 2025 special meeting
• Review and vote on changes to the First Time Homebuyer Assistance Program
• Discuss and vote on CPC Application for funding due Oct. 31
• Executive session to discuss acquisition of property or properties

Conversation Commission

The Conservation Commission opened the meeting but, due to lack of a quorum, all agenda items were continued to the October 16 meeting with no discussion or testimony. Items on the agenda include a Certificate of Compliance for 241 Walker Street (Stone Path Development), a request to determine applicability of resource‑area boundaries for 383 Housatonic Street, a Notice of Intent to replace the water main beneath Holmes Road, Holmeswood Terrace and Route 7 and create a redundant loop, and approval of the September 18, 2025 minutes.

• Certificate of Compliance – 241 Walker Street, Stone Path Development (DEP#198-0300, 2018)
• Request for Determination of Applicability – 383 Housatonic Street (boundary accuracy of resource areas)
• Notice of Intent – replace water main beneath Holmes Road, Holmeswood Terrace & Route 7; install new section east of Route 7; portions within 100‑foot buffer zone of a BVW
• Approval of minutes – September 18, 2025

Affordable Housing Trust

The provided agenda for the September 26, 2025, meeting contains only procedural boilerplate and does not list any specific topics for discussion or decision.

Community Preservation Committee

The Lenox Community Preservation Committee will discuss a public hearing, approve minutes from January 16 and July 7, set the FY27 application review timeline with due dates, and review the upcoming budget.

• Public hearing
• Approve minutes from the January 16 and July 7 meetings
• Set FY27 application deadlines: applications due by Friday, October 31 at 4:00 pm
• Schedule initial review meeting for Thursday, November 13 at 6:00 pm
• Schedule final review meeting for Tuesday, January 13, 2026 at 6:00 pm

School Committee

The Lenox School Committee will hold a joint meeting with the Select Board to interview applicants for a vacant committee seat. Committee members will discuss the candidates and then vote to appoint one to serve until the next annual town election, after which the position will be filled by election under state law.

• Interview applicants for vacant School Committee seat
• Discuss candidates with Select Board
• Vote to appoint selected candidate to School Committee
• Appointee to serve until next annual town election
• Seat to be filled by election per Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 41 Section 11

Tri Town Board of Health

The Tri-Town Board of Health will meet to discuss tobacco regulation edits and a Department of Public Health cancer study. The board will also review the SBPHC IMA Exhibit C and coordinate the performance evaluation of the TTHD Director.

• Review and approval of SBPHC IMA Exhibit C changes
• Edits to Tobacco Regulations
• Performance evaluation of Director of TTHD
• Discussion of Department of Public Health Cancer Study
• Updates on Public Health Excellence grants and vaccine clinic schedule

Select Board's Office

The Select Board will consider three special one‑day liquor license requests for events on September 27 and 30. The board will also vote to classify the Labor Counsel position as a Special Municipal Employee, approve a sidewalk extension on Main Street, and hold public hearings on liquor license amendments. Additional items include committee appointments.

• Special one‑day wine and malt liquor license for Leena Schettini’s Apple Squeeze, Sep 27, 10 am‑5 pm at the Lenox Village
• Special one‑day wine and malt liquor license for Jaqueline Donovan’s Members Party, Sep 30, 10 am‑5 pm at Ventfort Hall
• Special one‑day all‑alcohol liquor license for Lorena Astrid Ojeda Verastegui’s Members Party, Sep 27, 10 am‑5 pm at Ventfort Hall
• Vote to classify the Labor Counsel position as a Special Municipal Employee under MGL Chapter 268A
• Approve extending/constructing new sidewalk on west side of Main Street from Cliffwood St. to Greenwood St.

Planning Board

The Lenox Planning Board will review the finalized accessory dwelling unit (ADU) bylaw. It will also review a proposed Institutional Uses bylaw that includes new Dover Amendment changes. The board will prepare for a public hearing on the Institutional Uses bylaw scheduled for October 14. Finally, the board will approve the minutes from the September 9, 2025 meeting.

• Review finalized ADU bylaw
• Review proposed Institutional Uses bylaw with new Dover Amendment changes
• Prepare for public hearing on Institutional Uses bylaw on October 14
• Approve minutes from September 9, 2025

Conversation Commission

The Lenox Conservation Commission will review a Certificate of Compliance for 121 East Dugway Road. It will consider a request to determine applicability of signage at 472 West Mountain Road in the Pleasant Valley Wildlife Sanctuary. Notices of Intent for construction projects at 55 Pittsfield Road and 70 Kemble Street will be discussed. The commission will also approve the minutes from the September 4, 2025 meeting.

• Certificate of Compliance – 121 East Dugway Road (Greylock Design Associates)
• Request for Determination of Applicability – 472 West Mountain Road, Pleasant Valley Wildlife Sanctuary (interpretive signage and trail re‑wilding)
• Notice of Intent – 55 Pittsfield Road, Antimony (addition near a bordering vegetated wetland)
• Notice of Intent – 70 Kemble Street, Shakespeare & Company (four new houses, access road improvements, stormwater management near a bordering vegetated wetland)
• Approval of minutes – September 4, 2025

The Conservation Commission unanimously approved four applications: a Certificate of Compliance for 121 East Dugway Road; interpretive signage and trail re‑wilding at 472 West Mountain Road; an addition to Antimony Brewing at 55 Pittsfield Road; and construction of four houses with road and stormwater improvements at 70 Kemble Street. The minutes from the September 4, 2025 meeting were also approved.

• Approved Certificate of Compliance for 121 East Dugway Road (5-0)
• Approved interpretive signage and re‑wilding project at 472 West Mountain Road (5-0)
• Approved addition to Antimony Brewing at 55 Pittsfield Road (5-0)
• Approved construction of four houses and site improvements at 70 Kemble Street (5-0)
• Approved minutes of September 4, 2025 (5-0)

Affordable Housing Trust

The provided agenda for the September 15, 2025, meeting contains no specific discussion topics or decisions. The document consists of procedural boilerplate and meeting notice requirements.

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will continue a hearing regarding a special permit for a Verizon Wireless antenna. The board will also consider a request to reduce property line setbacks from 250 feet to approximately 170 and 158 feet.

• Special Permit for 165’ tall monopole and Verizon Wireless equipment at 165 Kemble Street
• Dimensional Variance to reduce setbacks to 170’ and 158’ from property lines
• Approval of August 20th, 2025 minutes

Southern Berkshire Public Health Collaborative

The Southern Berkshire Public Health Collaborative will approve July 11, 2025 meeting minutes and review staff updates, including a draft clinic protester policy that may become an action item. Members will hear FY26 public health nursing and agent service invoice information and consider an advisory letter from the Massachusetts Association of Land Surveyors and Civil Engineers. The meeting also includes a final call for MHOA conference registrations before adjournment.

• Approval of July 11, 2025 meeting minutes (action item)
• Draft Clinic Protester Policy (potential action item)
• FY26 Public Health Nursing and Agent Service invoices (staff update)
• Advisory letter from Massachusetts Association of Land Surveyors and Civil Engineers
• Final call for MHOA conference registrations

Lenox Library

The provided agenda contains only procedural boilerplate and meeting notice requirements. No specific topics for discussion or decision were listed.

Select Board's Office

The Select Board will vote to authorize the Town Manager to sign a contract with Associated Construction for a wastewater treatment plant refurbishment. The meeting includes public hearings on a traffic rule amendment that would ban parking on both sides of Kneeland Avenue between West Street and Sunset Avenue. A liquor license request for Bea’s House restaurant at 80 Church Street will also be heard. Verizon will present a request to install poles and wires along Housatonic Street near Crystal Street.

• Authorize contract with Associated Construction for wastewater treatment plant refurbishment
• Public hearing on amendment to Section 5-6 of Traffic Rules: no parking on either side of Kneeland Avenue from West Street to Sunset Avenue
• Public hearing on Bea’s Lenox, Inc. request for an annual all-alcoholic beverages on‑premises restaurant liquor license (manager Molly Lyon‑Joseph)
• Public hearing on Verizon request to locate poles, wires and fixtures along Housatonic Street near Crystal Street

Planning Board

The Planning Board will vote to finalize the accessory dwelling unit (ADU) bylaw after incorporating comments from the Attorney General. It will continue discussion of the sign bylaw as it relates to the Historic District and address terminology for street, lot line, and setback definitions. The board will review a proposed Institutional Uses bylaw that adds new Dover Amendment provisions. The agenda also includes approval of the minutes from the August 26, 2025 meeting.

• Finalize ADU bylaw incorporating Attorney General's comments
• Continue discussion of Sign bylaw for Historic District and street/lot line, setback terminology
• Review proposed Institutional Uses bylaw with new Dover Amendment changes
• Approve minutes from August 26, 2025 meeting

The Board approved the revised accessory dwelling unit (ADU) bylaw and scheduled a public hearing for October 14, 2025, with a 5‑0 vote. The minutes from the August 26, 2025 meeting were accepted as amended by a 4‑0 vote. The Board also agreed no further changes will be made to the ADU bylaw before the hearing unless a major issue arises. Discussion continued on a historic‑district sign bylaw and updated childcare terminology in the Institutional Uses bylaw, with plans to compile comments and adopt consistent language.

• Approved revised ADU bylaw and set public hearing for Oct 14, 2025 (5-0)
• Accepted August 26, 2025 minutes as amended (4-0)
• Agreed no further changes to ADU bylaw before hearing unless major issue arises
• Agreed to compile stakeholder comments on historic‑district sign bylaw
• Agreed to use updated childcare terminology in Institutional Uses bylaw

Conversation Commission

The Conservation Commission approved the August 21, 2025 minutes unanimously. It also voted 6‑0 to continue the September meeting to October 2, 2025. The commission scheduled site visits to Antimony and Shakespeare & Company on September 9 and will set a later date for the Pleasant Valley visit. Commissioner Ammendola recused himself from the Shakespeare & Company hearing due to a conflict of interest.

• Approved August 21, 2025 minutes (6-0)
• Voted to continue the meeting to October 2, 2025 (6-0)
• Scheduled site visit to Antimony on September 9, 2025
• Scheduled site visit to Shakespeare & Company on September 9, 2025
• Planned to schedule Pleasant Valley RDA site visit at a later date
• Commissioner Ammendola recused from Shakespeare & Company hearing (conflict of interest)

Community Center

The Community Center board will review reports from the Director, Program Manager, and Senior Service Coordinator. The body will discuss old business regarding the beach and rental policies, as well as new business concerning pickleball and survey results.

• Review of rental policy
• Discussion of beach-related old business
• Discussion of pickleball
• Review of survey results

Historical Commission

The Lenox Historical Commission approved the minutes of its August 12 meeting. The body discussed the deteriorating condition of the Church on the Hill cemetery, options for 51 Housatonic Street, and a draft minimum‑maintenance bylaw, but no votes were taken on those items. Those matters will be revisited at future meetings.

• Approved minutes of August 12 meeting (no vote tally provided)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will discuss updates to town bylaws regarding accessory dwelling units, signs in the Historic District, and fencing at intersections. The board will also review a specific property on Shaylor Hill Road and provide an update on Lenox Landings.

• Form A-7 Shaylor Hill Road
• Review of AG’s response to ADU bylaw
• Discussion of Sign bylaw in relation to Historic District
• Review of 86.1.12 Fencing as it pertains to intersections
• Update on Lenox Landings and final road sign-off

The board voted 4‑0 to approve the amendment of the two parcels at 7 Shaylor Hill as an ANR. It also accepted the Attorney General’s comments on the ADU bylaw, adopted the state definition of an ADU, and kept the existing fence‑view language unchanged. The board will prepare a draft sign‑bylaw overlay and meet with the Historic District Commission before finalizing it. Minutes from the August 12 meeting were approved 4‑0.

• Approved 7 Shaylor Hill ANR (4-0)
• Accepted AG‑response edits to ADU bylaw and adopted state ADU definition
• Decided to keep fence‑view language in §6.1.12 as written
• Agreed to prepare draft sign‑bylaw overlay and meet with Historic District Commission
• Noted Lenox Landings issue requires no Planning Board action
• Determined Lenox does not qualify for Seasonal Community designation at this time
• Approved August 12, 2025 minutes (4-0)

Conversation Commission

The Conservation Commission approved the Certificate of Compliance for 239 Undermountain Road by a 6‑0 vote. It approved the application for a new footbridge at 0 East Street with a Negative Determination #2, also by a 6‑0 vote. The commission approved the July 10, 2025 meeting minutes with a 4‑0 vote (two members abstained).

• Approved Certificate of Compliance for 239 Undermountain Rd (6-0)
• Approved application for 0 East St footbridge with Negative Determination #2 (6-0)
• Approved July 10, 2025 meeting minutes (4-0, 2 abstentions)

Planning Board

The Board approved the Form A plan to combine two parcels at 800 East Street (4‑0). It also approved the revised fence bylaw and moved it to a public hearing (5‑0), and approved the July 22 minutes (5‑0). The Board tasked members to draft a new multi‑family housing section, postponed a meeting with the Historic District Commission, and will revisit ADU structure eligibility at a future meeting. Plans were outlined to discuss short‑term rental regulations with the Select Board.

• Approved Form A plan for 800 East Street (4‑0)
• Approved revised fence bylaw, move to public hearing (5‑0)
• Approved July 22, 2025 minutes (5‑0)
• Tasked P. Kueber and E. Coughlin to draft new multi‑family housing section
• Postponed meeting with Historic District Commission pending counsel input
• Agreed to revisit ADU structure eligibility at a future meeting
• Planned meeting with Select Board and informal town session on short‑term rentals
• Postponed HDC sign‑bylaw discussion until legal questions are answered

Historical Commission

The Lenox Historical Commission approved the minutes from the July 10 meeting and the July 28 public meeting. Members discussed the demolition delay on 51 Housatonic Street and the town’s possible purchase of the property. They agreed on next steps to gather information from the architect and realtor, attend the upcoming Select Board meeting, and continue community outreach to preserve the building. The meeting adjourned after establishing these actions.

• Approved minutes of July 10 meeting and July 28 public meeting
• Agreed on next steps: gather info, attend Select Board meeting, build community support

Board of Assessors

The Board approved the July 10 meeting minutes (3-0). It also approved Motor Vehicle Excise Tax Commitment #4 as presented (3-0). A motion to grant Motor Vehicle Excise Tax Abatement applications was made and seconded, with one member abstaining; the minutes do not record a final vote outcome. The meeting was adjourned at 2:36 p.m.

• Approve July 10 minutes (3-0)
• Approve Motor Vehicle Excise Tax Commitment #4 (3-0)
• Grant Motor Vehicle Excise Tax Abatement applications (Tom abstained; outcome not recorded)
• Adjourn meeting at 2:36 p.m. (3-0)

Historical Commission

The Lenox Historical Commission met on July 28, 2025 to discuss a demolition delay for 51 Housatonic Street. Commissioners and members of the public presented historical context, preservation concerns, and parking issues. No vote, approval, denial, or other formal action was recorded before the meeting adjourned.

Planning Board

The Planning Board approved the June 24, 2025 meeting minutes by a 5‑0 vote. The board agreed to change the fencing bylaw language, using “Non‑residential Screening” and replacing “front yard” with “street line.” It also decided to place all sign regulations in a single bylaw, add a Historic District section, schedule a joint meeting with the Historic District Commission, and seek town counsel’s advice on authority.

• Approved June 24, 2025 minutes (5-0 vote)
• Adopted “Non‑residential Screening” term in fencing bylaw
• Replaced “front yard” with “street line” in fencing bylaw
• Decided to regulate all signs under a single bylaw with a Historic District section
• Scheduled joint meeting with the Historic District Commission to review sign bylaw draft
• Will consult town counsel on authority to regulate Historic District signs

Conversation Commission

The Conservation Commission voted 4‑0 to accept the proposed conditions for the Laurel Lake annual drawdown and herbicide application. The commission also approved the June 26, 2025 meeting minutes by a 4‑0 vote and adjourned the meeting at 8:02 pm. The commission is awaiting applicant confirmation to schedule a peer‑review for the 383 Housatonic Street resource‑area boundaries.

• Accepted Laurel Lake drawdown and herbicide conditions (4-0)
• Approved June 26, 2025 meeting minutes (4-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 8:02 pm (4-0)

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors approved the minutes from the June 12 meeting. All current officers were retained for Fiscal Year 2026. The Board granted the motor vehicle excise tax abatement applications as presented. The meeting was adjourned at 2:50 p.m.

• Approved June 12 minutes (3-0)
• Retained Thomas Romeo as Board Chair for FY 2026 (3-0)
• Retained Wayne Lemanski as Vice Chair for FY 2026 (3-0)
• Retained Jaimy Messana as Clerk for FY 2026 (3-0)
• Granted motor vehicle excise tax abatements (3-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 2:50 p.m. (3-0)

Historical Commission

The commission approved the minutes from the June 18 and July 2 meetings, pending a minor correction. It approved the current draft of the minimum‑maintenance bylaw and will send it to Matt Kollmer for comment. A public meeting on the demolition delay at 51 Housatonic Street was scheduled for July 28, 2025, with notices to be drafted and delivered. The commission also assigned follow‑up tasks on cemetery preservation, the town history website, and street‑light refurbishment, and set the next meeting for September 11, 2025.

• Approved prior meeting minutes (June 18 & July 2) pending minor correction
• Approved current draft minimum‑maintenance bylaw for review by town officials
• Directed Eammon to send the draft bylaw to Matt Kollmer for comment
• Scheduled public demolition‑delay meeting for 51 Housatonic St on July 28, 2025
• Assigned Lucy to draft demolition notices and work with Eammon on delivery
• Deferred selection of a consultant for 51 Housatonic St rehabilitation to a future meeting
• Olga will seek advice from Preservation Massachusetts on cemetery gravestone condition
• Jim will follow up with Bill Gop regarding Westinghouse street‑light installation

Select Board's Office

The board approved the Department of Public Works' proposed water and sewer fee schedule changes. It also approved a two‑week cumulative sign placement for Berkshire Community College at several locations, excluding Church on the Hill. Liquor license amendments were approved for Canyon Ranch at 165 Kemble Street and for The Whitlock (formerly The Church Street Inn) at 16 Church Street. The consent agenda, minus item a), was approved.

• Approved consent agenda less item a) (5‑0)
• Approved two‑week cumulative BCC sign placements, excluding Church on the Hill (5‑0)
• Approved Canyon Ranch liquor license manager change to Jennifer Gelormino (5‑0)
• Approved The Whitlock liquor license d/b/a change and manager change to Elizabeth Nackoul (5‑0)
• Approved water and sewer fee schedule changes (5‑0)

Community Preservation Committee

The committee reviewed a request for $250,000 to purchase a 10‑acre parcel at 0 Main Street for open space and recreation. A motion to approve the funding was made by F. Keator and seconded by K. Graham. The motion passed with all members voting aye. The committee noted that $162,000 remains in the Open Space Reserve after this allocation.

• Approved $250,000 from Open Space and Recreation Reserve to purchase 10‑acre parcel at 0 Main Street (unanimous)

Historical Commission

The Lenox Historical Commission voted unanimously to impose a 12‑month demolition delay on the residential structure at 51 Housatonic Street. A public hearing on the demolition request must be held within 30 days as required by town bylaws. Commission members Tom Romeo and Marybeth Mitts will conduct a walkthrough of the property, and Kimberly Duval will compile a list of consultants to evaluate rehabilitation and affordable‑housing options. The meeting adjourned at about 2 pm.

• Imposed 12‑month demolition delay on 51 Housatonic St (unanimous vote)
• Required public hearing on demolition request within 30 days (bylaw)
• Assigned Tom Romeo and Marybeth Mitts to conduct property walkthrough
• Assigned Kimberly Duval to create and share list of consultants for evaluation
• Considered engaging a consultant to assess rehabilitation cost and affordable‑housing potential
• Agreed to improve communication between town officials and the Commission

Conversation Commission

The Conservation Commission voted 5-0 to continue the Laurel Lake herbicide hearing until July 10, 2025. The commission authorized a peer review of the 383 Housatonic Street Resource Development Area, with the proposal signed by Chair Neal Carpenter and payment to be arranged by Rodney Galton. Minutes from the June 5, 2025 meeting were also approved unanimously.

• Continued Laurel Lake herbicide hearing to July 10, 2025 (5-0)
• Authorized peer review of 383 Housatonic St RDA (unanimous)
• Approved June 5, 2025 meeting minutes (5-0)

Planning Board

The Board approved the minutes from the June 10, 2025 meeting by unanimous roll‑call vote. It adopted specific language for the fencing bylaw, setting height limits for side, rear, and front yard fences, and renamed section 6.1.13 to "Commercial Screening." Staff will revise the ADU bylaw with Attorney General‑recommended changes and share it with Town Counsel, and the final fencing bylaw will be reviewed at the next meeting.

• Approved June 10, 2025 minutes (5‑0 vote)
• Adopted fencing bylaw wording: side/rear fences ≤6 ft, front fences ≤4 ft
• Renamed section 6.1.13 to "Commercial Screening"
• Staff to mark‑up ADU bylaw with AG‑recommended changes and send to Town Counsel
• Will review final version of fencing bylaw at next meeting

Zoning Board of Appeals

The board approved the withdrawal of a special permit request for a 6‑sq‑ft sign at 203 Main Street. The minutes from the June 4, 2025 meeting were approved. The board voted to continue the hearing on the 165 Kemble Street cell‑tower permit until August 6, 2025.

• Withdraw special permit request for 6‑sq‑ft sign at 203 Main Street (5‑0)
• Approve minutes from June 4, 2025 (5‑0)
• Continue hearing on 165 Kemble Street tower permit to Aug 6, 2025 (5‑0)
• Schedule balloon test for tower site July 21‑23, 2025
• Schedule site visit for July 22, 2025 at 12 pm

Zoning Board of Appeals

The board voted 5‑0 to allow Lenox Hotel Venture LLC to withdraw its 203 Main Street sign permit request. It also approved the June 4, 2025 meeting minutes by a 5‑0 vote. Finally, the board voted 5‑0 to continue the hearing on the 165 Kemble Street tower and antenna application until August 6, 2025, with a balloon test scheduled for July 21‑23 and a site visit on July 22.

• Approved withdrawal of 203 Main Street sign permit request (5-0)
• Approved minutes of June 4, 2025 (5-0)
• Continued 165 Kemble Street tower hearing to Aug 6, 2025 (5-0)
• Scheduled balloon test for tower site July 21‑23, 2025
• Scheduled site visit for tower site July 22, 2025 at 12 pm

Historical Commission

The commission approved the minutes from the March, April and May meetings. Members agreed to tour the Historic District to identify buildings that may qualify for new plaques. Lucy will write to Matt Kollmer to ensure future demolition requests follow the Demolition Delay bylaw. The commission voted to send a strong letter opposing the proposed S 1428 and HD 4331 legislation, with Lucy drafting the letter. The Minimum Maintenance bylaw subcommittee will revise the draft based on recommended changes before the next meeting.

• Approved minutes of prior meetings (March 20, April 10, May 19)
• Members will independently tour the Historic District to identify plaque candidates
• Lucy will write to Matt Kollmer to ensure demolition requests comply with the Demolition Delay bylaw
• Commission moved to send a strong letter opposing S 1428 and HD 4331 to Rep. Leigh Davis and Sen. Mark; Lucy will prepare the draft
• Commission generally endorsed the draft Minimum Maintenance bylaw with recommended changes
• Subcommittee (Lucy, Jim, Dave) will incorporate changes and prepare a revised draft before the next meeting

Select Board's Office

The board reorganized, appointing Max Scherff as chair and Neal Maxymillian as clerk, each by a 5‑0 vote. It approved the consent agenda, including two $1,000 donations and a one‑day liquor license, by a 5‑0 vote. It also approved an amendment to Gateways Inn's all‑alcohol hotel liquor license to allow an outdoor seating area at 51 Walker Street, by a 5‑0 vote. The board then entered an executive session and adjourned.

• Appointed Max Scherff as Chair of Select Board (5‑0)
• Appointed Neal Maxymillian as Clerk of Select Board (5‑0)
• Approved consent agenda items including two $1,000 donations and a one‑day liquor license (5‑0)
• Approved amendment to Gateways Inn liquor license for outdoor seating at 51 Walker Street (5‑0)
• Entered executive session to consider real‑property matters (unanimous roll‑call)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:37 pm (unanimous roll‑call)

Board of Assessors

The Board approved the FY26 Preliminary Real Estate and Personal Property Warrant and Notice of Commitment. It also granted motor vehicle excise tax abatements and approved the Motor Vehicle Excise Tax 2025 Commitment #3. Minutes from the May 15 meeting were approved, and the meeting was called to order and adjourned as scheduled.

• Approved FY26 Preliminary Real Estate and Personal Property Warrant and Notice of Commitment (3-0)
• Granted motor vehicle excise tax abatement applications (3-0)
• Approved Motor Vehicle Excise Tax 2025 Commitment #3 (3-0)
• Approved minutes of May 15 meeting (3-0)
• Called meeting to order at 1:00 pm (3-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 2:06 pm (3-0)

Planning Board

The board voted 5‑0 to keep Tom Delasco as chair, Mark Smith as vice‑chair, and Dan Bross as alternate. A second 5‑0 vote approved the Institutional Uses bylaw as submitted. The board also approved the May 27, 2025 minutes with a 4‑0 vote.

• Reorganized board leadership (chair, vice‑chair, alternate) – approved 5‑0
• Approved Institutional Uses bylaw – approved 5‑0
• Approved May 27, 2025 minutes – approved 4‑0

Conversation Commission

The Conservation Commission voted 5‑0 to accept the 80 Plunkett Street septic system application and issue a negative determination. The Commission also voted 5‑0 to continue the hearing on the Laurel Lake herbicide and drawdown plan until June 26, pending a response from NHESP.

• Denied septic system upgrade application for 80 Plunkett St (5-0)
• Extended hearing on Laurel Lake herbicide plan to June 26 (5-0)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board denied the special‑permit request for a larger sign at 203 Main Street and scheduled the hearing to continue on June 18. It approved a variance allowing an 8‑foot fence at 207 East Street. The board also adopted the May 21, 2025 meeting minutes.

• Special permit for 203 Main Street sign not granted; hearing continued (no vote recorded)
• Variance for 207 East Street fence approved (all members in favor)
• May 21, 2025 minutes approved (3 ayes, 2 abstentions)

Select Board's Office

The Lenox Select Board approved the May 21 meeting minutes and the consent agenda items, including a National Grid easement and a collective bargaining agreement. It approved a change of license manager for The Cornell Inn, a transfer of a hotel license to Berkshire Untold, and a new wine‑and‑malt package store license for Mazzeo’s Italian Deli. The board also approved a purchase agreement for approximately 10 acres at 0 Main Street adjacent to Kennedy Park.

• Approved May 21 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda items: National Grid easement and collective bargaining agreement (5-0)
• Approved change of license manager for Ivy Wave Hospitality LLC d/b/a The Cornell Inn, 203 Main St (5-0)
• Approved transfer of hotel license from LH Manager Northeast, LLC (194 Pittsfield Rd) to VH Berkshires LLC d/b/a Berkshire Untold (5-0)
• Approved new wine and malt off‑premises package store license for Mazzeo’s Italian Deli, LLC, 490 Pittsfield Rd (5-0)
• Approved purchase agreement for approx. 10 acres at 0 Main St, Parcel ID 22-3-0 (5-0)

Planning Board

The Planning Board approved both Form A applications presented by Foresight Land Services, voting 4‑0 on each. The Board also adopted several revisions to the Institutional Uses Bylaw, including renumbering uses and updating definitions. Discussion of the 2021 Master Plan was postponed to a future meeting. The minutes from May 13, 2025 were approved unanimously.

• Endorsed first Form A plan (East Street & East Dugway Road) – vote 4-0
• Endorsed second Form A plan (East Street & Birchwood Lane) – vote 4-0
• Approved revisions to Institutional Uses Bylaw (renumbering, terminology, definition edits)
• Postponed discussion of 2021 Master Plan to a future meeting
• Approved May 13, 2025 minutes – vote 4-0

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board approved a Special Permit for a six‑foot fence at 91 West Street, with a condition that the fence be removed or altered by July 15 2032. The Board also approved a Special Permit for 211 Main Street to replace a non‑conforming garage with a two‑car garage and an accessory dwelling unit above. Both permits passed unanimously.

• Special Permit granted for 91 West Street fence, effective until July 15, 2032 (5‑0)
• Special Permit granted for 211 Main Street garage replacement and ADU (5‑0)
• Minutes from April 16, 2025 approved (5‑0)

Select Board's Office

The Board approved a one‑day liquor license for the Lenox Dale Fire Company (4‑0 vote, one member abstaining). It also approved the remaining consent agenda items—including a $25 fire department donation, another one‑day liquor license, a mobile food permit for the library event, and authorization for the Town Manager to sign an electric aggregation contract (5‑0 vote). Finally, the Board approved a partnership with Pennrose Development to pursue a grant for roadway and infrastructure improvements (5‑0 vote).

• Approved one‑day liquor license for Lenox Dale Fire Co., 4‑0 (EL abstaining)
• Approved donation acceptance request ($25 to Fire Department), 5‑0
• Approved one‑day liquor license for Oskar Hallig at Ventfort Hall, 5‑0
• Approved mobile food establishment request for Patriot Pop at Library event, 5‑0
• Authorized Town Manager to sign Berkshire County Municipal Electric Aggregation Contract, 5‑0
• Approved partnership with Pennrose Development for grant application, 5‑0

Historical Commission

The commission postponed review of prior minutes until the June 12 meeting. It voted unanimously to approve the demolition of the dilapidated barn at 42 Walker Street, urging the owner to salvage historic materials. The preventive‑maintenance bylaw subcommittee will present a draft proposal at the next meeting. Plans to replace Westinghouse lights were reported but not decided.

• Postponed review of prior minutes to June 12 meeting
• Approved demolition of barn at 42 Walker Street (unanimous)
• Subcommittee will present draft preventive maintenance bylaw at next meeting

Conversation Commission

The Conservation Commission approved four project applications: a certificate of compliance for 349 Old Stockbridge Road, an invasive water chestnut removal at Laurel Lake, a 1,500‑sq‑ft addition at 55 East Street, and a footbridge at Hollowell Preserve. All approvals passed unanimously or with full support. The commission also decided to request a proposal from Stockman and Associates for a wetland peer review and approved the April 17, 2025 minutes.

• Approved certificate of compliance for 349 Old Stockbridge Road (5-0)
• Approved Laurel Lake invasive water chestnut removal project (5-0)
• Approved 1,500‑sq‑ft addition at 55 East Street (4-0)
• Approved footbridge installation at Hollowell Preserve (5-0)
• Decided to request proposal from Stockman and Associates for wetland peer review
• Approved minutes of April 17, 2025 (4-0)
• Meeting adjourned at 8:32 pm

Board of Assessors

The Board approved the April 9 meeting minutes unanimously. It also approved all motor vehicle excise tax abatement applications presented, with a 3‑0 vote. Procedural motions to call the meeting to order and to adjourn were each adopted unanimously. No other actions were taken.

• Called meeting to order (3-0)
• Approved April 9 minutes (3-0)
• Granted motor vehicle excise tax abatements (3-0)
• Adjourned meeting (3-0)

Planning Board

The Board unanimously endorsed the form A application to carve out a 2‑acre parcel from the Shakespeare & Company property on Old Stockbridge Road. They added the Great Estate bylaw clarification to the agenda for future meetings and adopted several revisions to the Institutional Uses bylaw, including changes to use‑table definitions and setback language. The April 22 minutes were approved, and the discussion on fencing (section 6.1.12) was tabled.

• Endorsed ANR plan for 2‑acre Shakespeare & Co parcel (4-0)
• Added Great Estate bylaw clarification to future agenda
• Adopted revisions to Institutional Uses bylaw (use‑table, adult day‑care, setback language)
• Approved minutes of April 22, 2025 (3-0)
• Tabled discussion of section 6.1.12 “Fencing” for future meeting

Select Board's Office

The Board tabled acceptance of the April 16 minutes to the next meeting. It approved a $500 donation from Chief Christopher O’Brien and the Berkshire Bach Society's auditorium use on Sep 13 2025 and Jan 24 2026, while holding two one‑day liquor license requests. The Board denied Sunrun’s door‑to‑door solicitation request and approved Shots Café’s outdoor dining license through Nov 1 2025. Finally, the Board voted to enter executive session.

• Tabled acceptance of April 16 minutes to next session
• Approved $500 donation from Chief Christopher O’Brien (3‑0)
• Approved Berkshire Bach Society auditorium use Sep 13 2025 & Jan 24 2026 (3‑0)
• Held Michael Dell’Aquila one‑day liquor license request (HOLD)
• Held Ericka Hanger one‑day liquor license request (HOLD)
• Denied Sunrun door‑to‑door solicitation request (3‑0)
• Approved Shots Café outdoor dining license through Nov 1 2025 (3‑0)
• Entered executive session (3‑0)

Planning Board

The Planning Board decided not to form a focus group and will rely on the Chamber of Commerce for outreach on the sign bylaw. It also removed the Abandoned Sign definition from that bylaw and eliminated section 8.8.2.2 on Outdoor Activity Areas from the Institutional Uses draft. The board voted to revert to the original fencing bylaw allowing a 6‑foot street‑line fence and agreed to amend the Mobile Food Establishment bylaw at Town Meeting. The minutes from the April 8 meeting were approved.

• Did not form a focus group; chamber to handle outreach (decision)
• Removed Abandoned Sign definition from sign bylaw (decision)
• Deleted section 8.8.2.2 Outdoor Activity Areas from Institutional Uses draft (decision)
• Reverted to original fencing bylaw allowing 6' street‑line fence (decision)
• Agreed to amend Mobile Food Establishment bylaw at Town Meeting (decision)
• Approved April 8, 2025 minutes (all in favor, 1 abstain)

Conversation Commission

The Conservation Commission approved the Notice of Intent to modernize the Crystal Street wastewater treatment plant. It voted to recommend that the town accept a donation of property at 0 Sargent Brook Road and will draft a letter for the Select Board. The commission also approved the March 6, 2025 meeting minutes and adjourned the meeting.

• Approved Notice of Intent for Crystal Street wastewater plant modernization (unanimous)
• Recommended town accept donation of property at 0 Sargent Brook Road (unanimous)
• Approved March 6, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 8:12 pm (unanimous)

John Drummond Kennedy Park Restoration Committee

The committee accepted the minutes from the October 17, 2024 meeting. Chair Ruth Wheeler appointed Susan Lyman as the committee secretary. The members unanimously decided to write a letter to the Select Board urging the Town of Lenox to consider purchasing the 10‑acre Smith Property, listed for $250,000. No other formal actions were taken.

• Accepted minutes of Oct 17, 2024
• Appointed Susan Lyman as committee secretary (unanimous)
• Unanimously decided to write a letter to the Select Board urging purchase of the 10‑acre Smith Property for $250,000

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals approved a special permit for the renovation and expansion of the residence at 14 Old Stockbridge Road, including a larger garage. It also granted a special permit for a massage business at 88 Housatonic Street and postponed the fence variance for 91 West Street to the May 21 meeting. The minutes from the April 2 meeting were approved and the meeting was adjourned.

• Grant special permit for 88 Housatonic St massage business (5-0)
• Continue hearing on 91 West St fence variance to May 21 (5-0)
• Grant special permit for 14 Old Stockbridge Rd renovation and garage expansion (5-0)
• Approve minutes of April 2, 2025 (5-0)
• Adjourn meeting (5-0)

Select Board's Office

The board accepted the March 19 and April 2 minutes and approved the consent agenda, holding only the Zoning Board appointment and fire chief ratification. It approved Lilac Park concert use, tick‑safety signage, and the Element Lenox Berkshires hotel liquor license. The board approved a $17.25 million General Obligation Bond Anticipation Note to fund water‑treatment, public‑safety, and road projects. It also approved the warrant for the May 1 Annual Town Meeting.

• Accepted minutes of 3/19/2025 and 4/2/2025 (3-0 vote)
• Approved tick‑safety signage placement (4-0 vote)
• Opened public hearing for Element Lenox Berkshires hotel liquor license (4-0 vote)
• Closed public hearing for Element Lenox Berkshires hotel liquor license (4-0 vote)
• Approved Element Lenox Berkshires hotel liquor license (4-0 vote)
• Approved $17.25 million bond anticipation notes (4-0 vote)
• Approved warrant for the 2025 Annual Town Meeting (4-0 vote)

Board of Health

The Board of Health approved the minutes from the April 10, 2025 meeting. The board received updates on naloxone and sharps disposal, green burial policy, and TTHD inspections, but no further actions were taken. No other decisions were recorded.

• Approved meeting minutes

Historical Commission

The commission postponed review of prior minutes to the June 12 meeting. It voted unanimously to approve Susan Foulds' request to demolish the dilapidated barn at 42 Walker Street and asked the owner to consider salvaging historic materials, assigning Dave to notify the owner. The preventive‑maintenance bylaw subcommittee will present a draft proposal at the next meeting.

• Postponed review of prior minutes to June 12 meeting
• Approved demolition of barn at 42 Walker Street (unanimous)
• Dave to write to the owner with demolition decision
• Subcommittee to present draft preventive maintenance bylaw at next meeting

Board of Assessors

The Board voted 3-0 to grant eight fiscal year 2025 real estate tax abatements and deny six applications. It also approved the motor vehicle excise tax commitments for 2025‑2 and 2024‑8, and granted the related motor vehicle excise tax abatements, each by a 3-0 vote. The March 27 meeting minutes were approved, and the meeting was adjourned at 4:02 pm.

• Opened executive session to discuss abatement applications (3-0)
• Granted 8 real estate tax abatements and denied 6 applications (3-0)
• Approved March 27 meeting minutes (3-0)
• Approved motor vehicle excise tax commitments 2025‑2 and 2024‑8 (3-0)
• Granted motor vehicle excise tax abatements (3-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 4:02 pm (3-0)

Planning Board

The Planning Board approved the minutes from March 25, 2025. It postponed the Institutional Uses bylaw and the fencing bylaw from being presented at the May town meeting. The board also voted to move the Mobile Food Establishment bylaw to the Annual Town Meeting. A motion to close the public hearing on the fencing amendment was unanimously adopted.

• Approved March 25, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Postponed Institutional Uses bylaw to May town meeting
• Moved Mobile Food Establishment bylaw to Annual Town Meeting (unanimous)
• Postponed fencing bylaw from May town meeting
• Closed public hearing on fencing amendment (unanimous)

Finance Committee

The committee approved the April 3 meeting minutes after a motion by Blaise Gregory, seconded by Kevin Kump, with three members abstaining and the rest in favor. A motion to adjourn was made by Hank Maimin, seconded by Josh Levin, and passed unanimously. The remainder of the session consisted of updates and discussions on departmental budgets, software implementation, staffing, and debt service, but no further votes were taken.

• Approved meeting minutes (motion by BG, second by KK, all in favor; AB, HM, KC abstained)
• Adjourned meeting (motion by HM, second by JL, all in favor)

Select Board's Office

The board approved a one‑day liquor license for Karen Hines at 27 Church Street on April 3 from 4:30‑6 p.m. by a 5‑0 vote. It ratified the collective bargaining agreement with Teamsters Local 404 for the Department of Public Works for FY 2026‑2028, also by a 5‑0 vote. The board approved a temporary sandwich‑board sign to be displayed at the Community Center lawn for the spring and fall Fix‑It Fairs, with a 5‑0 vote. The board adopted a warrant article to have the town meeting accept the HERO Act veteran exemption provisions (Clauses 22I and 22J) at 100%, passing 4‑0 with one abstention.

• Approved one‑day liquor license for 27 Church St event (5‑0)
• Ratified DPW collective bargaining agreement FY2026‑2028 (5‑0)
• Approved temporary sandwich‑board sign for Fix‑It Fair (5‑0)
• Adopted warrant article to accept HERO Act veteran exemptions (4‑0, 1 abstain)
• Tabled acceptance of March 19 minutes to April 16

Historic District Commission

The Historic District Commission approved Certificates of Appropriateness for 35 Walker Street signage, 6 Walker Street memorial monument, and 169 Main Street ramp and lighting, each with a lighting condition of 2700 K or less. The commission also approved motions allowing Neena Martino to sign each certificate on its behalf. Minutes from the March 17 meeting were approved, and the commission adjourned.

• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for 35 Walker St exterior signage (4-0)
• Authorized Neena Martino to sign the 35 Walker St certificate (4-0)
• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for 6 Walker St memorial monument with lighting ≤2700 K (4-0)
• Authorized Neena Martino to sign the 6 Walker St certificate (4-0)
• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for 169 Main St ramp, stairs, and lighting ≤2700 K, Model LFA-F01-SW5A (4-0)
• Authorized Neena Martino to sign the 169 Main St certificate (4-0)
• Approved March 17, 2025 minutes (3-0, 1 abstention)
• Adjourned the meeting (4-0)

Finance Committee

The committee approved the minutes from the March 12 meeting after a motion by Mindi Morin, with Blaise Gregory approving and Kevin Kump seconding. A second motion to end the meeting was made by Mindi Morin, seconded by Josh Levin, and was approved by all members. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved March 12 meeting minutes (BG approved, KK seconded)
• Approved motion to adjourn meeting (BG first, JL second, all approved)

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors approved the February 27, 2025 meeting minutes with a 3-0 vote. They also approved the Motor Vehicle Excise Tax Abatement Applications, again 3-0. The meeting was adjourned at 10:17 a.m. with a unanimous 3-0 vote. An open discussion on a possible secession plan was held, but no formal action was taken.

• Approved minutes of February 27, 2025 (3-0)
• Granted Motor Vehicle Excise Tax Abatement Applications (3-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 10:17 a.m. (3-0)

Planning Board

The Planning Board decided the Historic District Commission will have jurisdiction over permanent signs but not temporary signs, and will ask staff to consult town counsel for clarification. The Board removed the proposed requirement that institutional-use driveways be paved. It adopted a fence rule limiting front‑yard fences to 4 feet in height and no more than 50 % solid. Motions to approve the March 11 and March 18 meeting minutes were passed.

• Agreed HDC has jurisdiction over permanent signs, not temporary signs
• Directed staff to seek town‑counsel clarification on HDC guideline status
• Subcommittee to draft Historic District‑specific sign section and schedule HDC review
• Removed line requiring paved driveways from Institutional Uses bylaw draft
• Set front‑yard fence limit: max 4 ft height and ≤ 50 % solid
• Approved March 11 minutes with amendments (unanimous)
• Approved March 18 minutes with amendments (abstention by K. McNulty‑Vaughan)

Historical Commission

The Lenox Historical Commission approved the minutes of its February 20 meeting. No other formal actions were approved or denied. Members discussed outreach to property owners, the affordable‑housing project at 238 Pittsfield Road, the Certified Local Government program, and revisions to demolition‑delay bylaws, and assigned follow‑up tasks.

• Approved minutes of February 20 meeting

Select Board's Office

The Board accepted the March 5 minutes and approved the consent agenda. It approved VFW veteran banner signs on telephone poles and the Wit Gallery's summer art displays in Lilac and Triangle Parks. The Board also approved two intermunicipal agreements and adopted the FY 2026 water and sewer rates, keeping water at $8.22 per 1,000 gal and raising the sewer rate 8% to $16.84. Finally, the Board entered executive session to discuss collective‑bargaining strategy.

• Accepted March 5 minutes (3-0 vote)
• Approved consent agenda (5-0 vote)
• Approved VFW veteran banner signs on telephone poles (5-0 vote)
• Approved Wit Gallery art displays in Lilac and Triangle Parks (5-0 vote)
• Approved 2026‑2029 IMA for shared inspectional and zoning enforcement services (5-0 vote)
• Approved 2026‑2029 IMA for shared building department administrative assistant services (5-0 vote)
• Approved FY 2026 sewer rate increase to $16.84 (8%) and water rate at $8.22 (5-0 vote)
• Entered executive session to discuss collective‑bargaining (roll‑call vote by MM, DR, EL, NM, MS)