West Stockbridge public meetings in 2025

Conservation Commission

The West Stockbridge Cultural Council will meet to review applications for its 2026 grant program. Members will evaluate the submissions and decide which projects will receive funding. The meeting will be held by Zoom only.

• Evaluation and approval of 2026 Cultural Council grant applications

Select Board

The Select Board will approve the minutes from the December 8 and 11, 2025 meetings. It will set rules for a 10‑minute public comment period. The board will receive updates from the Town Administrator, a vision‑committee candidate forum with Joe Roy, a police department update from Chief Nicole Miller, and will discuss the town governance consultant report.

• Approve minutes from December 8 and 11, 2025
• Set 10‑minute public comment rules (max 3 minutes per speaker)
• Town Administrator update
• Vision Committee – Candidates Forum – Joe Roy
• Discussion and review of Town Governance Consultant Report

The Select Board approved the minutes from the December 8 and December 11, 2025 meetings, with all members in favor. No other proposals—including a candidate forum, a new wheelchair‑accessible van, short‑term‑rental software, and a safety building study—were decided. The meeting was adjourned at 6:18 PM.

• Approved minutes from Dec 8 and Dec 11, 2025 (all in favor)
• Motion to adjourn passed (all in favor)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The West Stockbridge Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing on December 18, 2025, to consider an appeal by Trúc Nguyen regarding a decision made by Town Zoning Enforcement Officer Brian Duval concerning an event at The Foundry on October 12, 2025.

• Public Hearing: Appeal of Zoning Enforcement Officer decision
• Applicant: Trúc Nguyen
• Property: 2 Harris Street DBA The Foundry
• Hearing Date: Thursday, December 18, 2025 at 7PM
• Location: Town Hall, 21 State Line Rd

The West Stockbridge Zoning Board of Appeals held an organizational meeting and unanimously elected Randy Thunfors as Chairman, Jack Houghton Jr as Vice Chairman, and Joe Roy Jr as Clerk. The board also selected Elizabeth Gross as the third associate member, with her appointment pending approval by the Select Board and the Attorney General’s office. The meeting adjourned at 6:36 PM.

• Elected Randy Thunfors as Chairman (unanimous)
• Elected Jack Houghton Jr as Vice Chairman (unanimous)
• Elected Joe Roy Jr as Clerk (unanimous)
• Selected Elizabeth Gross as third associate member (pending appointment)

Town Clerk

The Special Town Meeting approved a $25,000 transfer from Free Cash to the Sewer Enterprise Fund for FY26 revenues. It also approved a $35,000 transfer from Free Cash to fund an engineering study of the wastewater treatment plant. Finally, a $49,000 transfer from Water Retained Earnings to the Water Enterprise Fund for FY26 revenues was approved. All three transfers were recommended by the Finance Committee.

• Approved $25,000 transfer from Free Cash to Sewer Enterprise Fund (FY26)
• Approved $35,000 transfer from Free Cash to fund wastewater plant engineering study
• Approved $49,000 transfer from Water Retained Earnings to Water Enterprise Fund (FY26)

Select Board

West Stockbridge residents will vote on transferring funds from Free Cash and Retained Earnings to support town utilities. All three proposed articles are recommended by the Finance Committee.

• Transfer $25,000 from Free Cash to Sewer Enterprise Fund FY26 Revenues
• Transfer $35,000 from Free Cash for a Wastewater Treatment Plant engineering study
• Transfer $49,000 from Water Retained Earnings to Water Enterprise Fund FY26 Revenues

Dog Park Committee

The committee will approve minutes from the October 25 meeting. It will review maintenance updates, including tree removal, snow removal, and brick installation. The Friends of West Stockbridge Dog Park will present treasurer and secretary reports and discuss fundraising, including a grant application update and strategic planning.

• Approval of minutes from 10/25
• Tree removal
• Snow removal
• Brick installation
• Grant application update

Select Board

The West Stockbridge Select Board will hold a special Zoom-only meeting on December 11, 2025. The agenda includes a presentation and vote by the Board of Assessors on tax classification matters. The meeting also provides a brief public comment period and routine board business.

• Board of Assessors Tax Classification Presentation/Vote – Harold Scheid
• Citizen Speak Time – public comment limited to 10 minutes, each speaker up to 3 minutes
• Select Board Speak
• Adjourn

The Board voted to adopt the percentage of the town's property tax levy for each class of property and set the Residential Factor at 1.0, creating a single tax rate for fiscal year 2026. The motion passed unanimously (3-0). The decision is pending final approval of the town’s tax recap by the Massachusetts Department of Revenue. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Adopted single tax rate for FY 2026, setting Residential Factor at 1.0 (3-0 vote)
• Adjourned the meeting (3-0 vote)

Vision Committee

The West Stockbridge Vision Committee will review the town's operational and organizational assessment. Members will also discuss the status of EV charging stations and town signage costs.

• Update on EV charging stations
• West Stockbridge Operational and Organizational Assessment
• Costs for "Welcome to West Stockbridge" signs
• Review of Vision Committee budget and potential collaboration with Village Association
• Discussion on the possibility of health clinics in West Stockbridge

Planning Board

The Planning Board will review a Form A application from Foresight Land Services for Patricia Khalaf. The board is also scheduled to discuss Subdivision Control Law regulations and the status of FEMA and/or MEMA flood plain maps for zoning updates.

• Form A: Foresight Land Services on behalf of Patricia Khalaf
• Discussion of Subdivision Control Law regulations
• Discussion of FEMA and/or MEMA flood plain maps for zoning updates

The board approved the November 24 minutes unanimously. Member Ryan Beattie recused himself from the Form A agenda item. The board voted to hold a site visit on Jan 3 2026 at 9:30 a.m. and to continue the Form A discussion to Jan 5 2026 at 7:00 p.m. The meeting was adjourned by a 5‑0 vote.

• Approved 11/24/25 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Ryan Beattie recused from Form A agenda item
• Scheduled site visit for Jan 3, 2026 at 9:30 a.m.
• Continued Form A application to Jan 5, 2026 at 7:00 p.m.
• Motion to adjourn passed (5-0)

Select Board

The West Stockbridge Select Board will consider routine items such as approving the November 24, 2025 minutes and setting public comment procedures. The primary decision is a vote to approve the 2026 Annual Alcohol, Entertainment and Auto Class II & III licenses listed on the agenda. A town‑hall consultant report and a brief Select Board speak segment are also scheduled.

• Approve the Minutes from November 24, 2025
• Citizen Speak Time rules limiting public comments to 10 minutes total, three minutes per speaker
• Vote to approve 2026 Licenses: Alcohol (Truc Orient Express Inc., WS Public Market, Queensboro Wine & Spirits, Luigi’s, Heirloom Lodge, The Foundry, Acquevo LLC, Baldwin Farm Wine & Malt), Entertainment (TurnPark Art Space, Amici, Heirloom Lodge, The Foundry), Auto Class II & III and Taxi (Troy’s Garage, William Kie)
• Town Hall Government Consultant Report – Wayne Feiden & Jennifer Tabakin
• Select Board Speak

The Select Board approved the minutes from the November 24, 2025 meeting. It then approved a series of 2026 licenses, including liquor, entertainment, auto Class II/III, and a taxi license. All license motions passed unanimously, with one abstention on a single liquor license. The Board also adjourned the meeting.

• Approved November 24, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved Baldwin Farm liquor license (passed, one abstention)
• Approved liquor licenses for Truc Orient Express WS Public Market, Queensboro Wine 7 Spirits Luigi’s (AMICI), Heirloom Lodge The Foundry, Acquevo LLC (unanimous)
• Approved annual entertainment licenses for TurnPark Art Space, AMICI, Heirloom Lodge, The Foundry (unanimous)
• Approved sundry entertainment licenses for TurnPark Art Space, The Foundry (unanimous)
• Approved Auto Class II and III licenses for Troy’s Garage, William Kie (unanimous)
• Approved Taxi license for William Kie (unanimous)
• Adjourned the meeting (unanimous)

Parks and Recreation

This is a notice for a free community holiday event hosted by West Stockbridge Parks & Recreation, the Public Library, and the Police Department. The event includes a story walk, hot cocoa, cookies, a tree lighting at 5 PM, and Santa giving gifts to children. No formal decisions or discussions are on this agenda.

• Story walk and hot cocoa/cookies from 4:30-6 PM
• Tree lighting at 5 PM
• Santa with gifts for children
• Free event sponsored by Parks & Recreation, Public Library, and Police Department

Community Preservation Committee

The West Stockbridge Community Preservation Committee will approve the minutes from its previous meeting. It will then review and discuss the 2025 CPC applications and consider next steps in the application process. A citizen speak segment allows applicants or residents to address the committee. The meeting will close with any other business and adjournment.

• Approve minutes from previous meeting
• Review and discuss 2025 CPC applications
• Discuss next steps in the application process
• Citizen Speak – public comments from applicants or residents
• Any other business

The committee approved the November 20 minutes by a 4‑0 vote and then adjourned unanimously. It found the playground equipment proposal fundable but decided to table the trail proposal. The committee reached consensus to fund the dog park shed and bench and set follow‑up questions for several other applicants.

• Approved November 20 minutes (4-0 vote)
• Tabled trail proposal from Parks and Recreation
• Deemed playground equipment proposal fundable
• Approved funding for dog park shed and bench (consensus)
• Set questions for dog park shed design and space availability
• Recommended Historical Society representative appear before CPC
• Recommended Congregational Church application be reviewed by Stuart Saginor’s office and possibly town counsel
• Motion to adjourn passed unanimously

Board of Health

The West Stockbridge Board of Health will review and act on the minutes from the previous meeting. It will receive updates on 3 Maple Street and 31 Gwenn Lane. The board will discuss the FY 2027 budget and allow a period for public comments before adjourning.

• Review and act on previous meeting minutes
• Update on 3 Maple Street
• Update on 31 Gwenn Lane
• Discussion of FY 2027 budget
• Public comment period

Affordable Housing Trust

The West Stockbridge Affordable Housing Trust will review and act on the minutes from the previous meeting. The board will discuss updates to the CPA proposal and the Housing Production Plan. Members will sign the Declaration of Trust. The meeting will also set the date for the next meeting.

• Review and act on previous meeting minutes
• CPA proposal submission updates/discussion (referencing 11/20 CPC meeting)
• Housing Production Plan updates/discussion (referencing 11/24 Planning Board meeting)
• Member signatures for Declaration of Trust
• MAHT training options: Massachusetts Housing Partnership, online trainings registration, technical assistance application (deadline 12/22)

Board of Assessors

The West Stockbridge Board of Assessors approved the November motor vehicle abatement applications, the FY 2027 Chapter Land applications, and Motor Vehicle Commitment 6-2025. No vote tallies were recorded in the minutes. The meeting adjourned at 5:45 PM.

• Approved November motor vehicle abatement applications
• Approved FY 2027 Chapter Land applications
• Approved Motor Vehicle Commitment 6-2025

Parks and Recreation

The West Stockbridge Parks & Recreation Committee will consider several items, including approving the minutes from the previous meeting and reviewing the FY27 budget request form. Members will receive updates on Solitude weed management and the status of future tennis‑court repairs, resurfacing, and possible grant funding. The committee will also discuss suggestions for how the Town Hall gym can be used by townspeople and plan upcoming meeting schedules.

• Review and approve previous meeting’s minutes
• Review FY27 budget request form
• Update on Solitude weed management
• Review status on tennis court future repairs, resurfacing, potential grants
• Review and make suggestions on Town Hall Gym usage by townspeople

The committee approved increasing the Parks & Recreation budget from $15,000 to $20,000. It adopted a new meeting format that will be held in person at Town Hall with a Zoom option, on the first Monday of each month (or the second Monday if there is a conflict). The group also agreed to move the Sparkles weekend festivities inside Town Hall due to the cold forecast.

• Approved increased P&R budget to $20,000 (motion by RA, seconded by KB)
• Adopted new meeting format: in‑person at Town Hall with Zoom option, first Monday monthly (second Monday if conflict)
• Decided to move Sparkles weekend festivities indoors at Town Hall after tree lighting

Select Board

The West Stockbridge Select Board will first approve the minutes from the November 24, 2025 meeting. They will then hear a brief public comment period governed by new time limits. The main action is a vote to approve the town's 2026 Alcohol, Entertainment and Auto Class II/III licenses. A government consultant report will also be presented before the meeting adjourns.

• Approve minutes from the November 24, 2025 meeting
• Citizen Speak Time: 10‑minute total, max 3 minutes per speaker
• Vote to approve 2026 Alcohol, Entertainment & Auto Class II/III licenses (e.g., Truc Orient Express Inc., WS Public Market, TurnPark Art Space, Troy’s Garage, William Kie Taxi)
• Town Hall Government Consultant Report – Wayne Feiden & Jennifer Tabakin
• Select Board Speak

Select Board

The West Stockbridge Select Board will consider appointing Courtney Linkugel as a police officer. The board will also discuss and vote on holding a Special Town Meeting on December 16, 2025. Additional agenda items include approving minutes from September 5, October 15, and November 10, 2025, and a Town Administrator update.

• Approve minutes from September 5, October 15, and November 10, 2025
• Appointment of Courtney Linkugel as a police officer
• Discussion and vote to hold a Special Town Meeting on Dec 16, 2025
• Citizen Speak Time rules limiting public comment to 10 minutes total
• Town Administrator update

The Board approved the minutes from the September 5, October 15, and November 10, 2025 meetings. The Board appointed Courtney Linkugel as a full-time West Stockbridge police officer. The Board voted to hold a Special Town Meeting on Tuesday, December 16, 2025 at 6 PM to consider three articles transferring $25,000, $35,000, and $49,000 for water and sewer enterprise fund needs.

• Approved Sep‑5, Oct‑15, Nov‑10, 2025 meeting minutes (all in favor)
• Appointed Courtney Linkugel as full‑time police officer (all in favor)
• Approved holding Special Town Meeting Dec 16, 2025 at 6 PM to consider three funding articles (all in favor)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will meet to discuss a presentation on the Housing Production Plan from the Berkshire Regional Planning Commission. The board will also review a Form A application for Dominick Luchi, NMBS LLC, and Kelly Granger Parsons.

• Housing Production Plan presentation by Berkshire Regional Planning Commission
• Form A: Dominick Luchi - NMBS LLC/Kelly Granger Parsons

The board approved the minutes from the November 10 meeting with a 3‑0 vote. It then endorsed a Form A plan to split 12 acres at 50 Albany Rd into two lots, passing the motion 4‑0. The meeting was formally closed by a 4‑0 vote.

• Approved 11/10/25 meeting minutes (3-0)
• Endorsed Form A subdivision for 50 Albany Rd (4-0)
• Approved motion to close the meeting (4-0)

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee and Water & Sewer Commissioners will meet to discuss budget shortfalls for fiscal years 2025 and 2026, plan for fiscal year 2027, and vote on articles for a special town meeting.

• Discussion of FY25 and FY26 water and sewer budget shortfalls
• Planning for FY27 budget
• Vote on articles for Special Town Meeting regarding water and sewer enterprise funds

Community Preservation Committee

The West Stockbridge Community Preservation Committee will consider the 2025 CPC applications and discuss next steps in the application process. The meeting also includes approval of prior minutes, a citizen‑speak segment, and any other business raised within 48 hours.

• Approve minutes from previous meeting
• Citizen speak for CPC applicants and other residents
• Review 2025 Community Preservation Committee applications
• Discuss next steps in the application process
• Any other business not anticipated within 48 hours

The committee approved the October 23, 2025 minutes by a 5‑0 vote. No funding applications were approved; a motion to extend the application deadline was not seconded, so no action was taken. The meeting was adjourned after a unanimous motion.

• Approved October 23 minutes (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)
• Motion to extend application deadline not seconded – no action

Affordable Housing Trust

The West Stockbridge Affordable Housing Trust meeting will open with a review and approval of the previous meeting's minutes. Members will receive updates on the CPA proposal submitted on November 15 and the Planning Board meeting scheduled for November 24 that includes the HPP agenda. The board will consider member signatures for the Declaration of Trust and explore training options from the Massachusetts Housing Partnership. The session will end with any other business, public comments, and scheduling the next meeting.

• Review and act on previous meeting minutes
• Update/discussion of 11/15 CPA proposal submission
• Update on 11/24 Planning Board meeting – HPP on agenda
• Member signatures for Declaration of Trust
• Discussion of Massachusetts Housing Partnership training options

Vision Committee

The West Stockbridge Vision Committee will review minutes from prior meetings and discuss several ongoing projects. Topics include the town charter draft, the Vision Committee budget breakdown, EV charging station updates, signage costs, and plans for health clinics. The meeting is scheduled for 8 AM on November 11, 2025 via Zoom.

• Review and act on past meeting minutes
• Discuss updates on EV charging stations
• "Welcome to West Stockbridge" signs & costs
• Review breakdown in Vision Committee budget
• Discuss progress of establishing a Town Charter

Planning Board

The West Stockbridge Planning Board will consider approving the minutes from its October 28 meeting. It will also confirm the schedule for future regular meetings and discuss work plans for 2026. Additional business may be addressed if raised within 48 hours.

The Planning Board approved the minutes from the 10/28/25 meeting by a 3‑0 vote, with Dana Bixby recused. The board agreed to invite Chris Powell, chair of the Town’s Affordable Housing Trust, to present at the 11/24 meeting and confirmed the upcoming meeting dates. A motion to close the meeting was passed unanimously (4‑0).

• Approved 10/28/25 meeting minutes (3-0)
• Agreed to invite Affordable Housing Trust chair to 11/24 meeting
• Confirmed upcoming meeting dates: 11/24, 12/8, 1/5, 1/20
• Motion to close the meeting passed (4-0)

Affordable Housing Trust

The West Stockbridge Affordable Housing Trust meeting will open with routine items and a review of the prior minutes. Members will receive coordination updates, including reports from Nicole Ogg (BRPC) and Patrick White (SAHT). The agenda includes discussion of the draft CPC application, which must be submitted by noon on November 15, 2025. The meeting will also allow public comments, address any other business, and set the date for the next meeting.

• Review and act on previous meeting minutes
• General coordination updates – reports from Nicole Ogg (BRPC) and Patrick White (SAHT)
• Discussion of draft CPC application (submission due 11/15/2025 at 12 NOON)
• Public comments from WSAHT members
• Schedule next meeting

Select Board

The Select Board will approve the minutes from the October 15, 2025 meeting. It will hold a ten‑minute public comment period. The board will discuss a vehicle disposal request from Police Chief Nicole Miller and receive updates from the Town Administrator, Parks & Recreation Commission, Dog Park Committee, and town welcome signs. The meeting will end with a Select Board speak and adjourn.

• Approve minutes from October 15, 2025
• Request to dispose of vehicle – Police Chief Nicole Miller
• Parks & Recreation Commission update – Cait Graham & Joe Roy
• Dog Park Committee update – Michael Bolognino
• Town welcome signs – Joe Roy

The Select Board postponed the approval of the October 15, 2025 meeting minutes. It approved a motion to declare the 2016 Ford Police Interceptor Utility surplus and authorize its disposal through a public auction. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Postponed approval of Oct 15, 2025 minutes (motion approved)
• Approved declaration of 2016 Ford Police Interceptor Utility as surplus and authorized auction disposal (motion approved)
• Adjourned meeting (motion approved)

Select Board

The Select Board will meet in executive session to discuss litigation strategy. The discussion concerns the enforcement of a host community agreement with Wiseacre Farm Inc., a cannabis business located at 42 Baker Street.

• Executive session regarding host community agreement enforcement for Wiseacre Farm Inc. at 42 Baker Street

Parks and Recreation

The West Stockbridge Parks & Recreation Committee will review and approve the minutes from the previous meeting. Members will discuss feedback from the recent Halloween event and consider suggestions for next year. The committee will vote on two CPC applications—a walking path and handicap-accessible playground equipment. Additional agenda items include initial planning for the Sparkles project, member and citizen speaking time, scheduling the next meeting, and adjourning.

• Approve previous meeting minutes
• Discuss Halloween event feedback and suggestions
• Vote on CPC application for a walking path
• Vote on CPC application for handicap-accessible playground equipment
• Initial planning for the Sparkles project

The Parks & Recreation Committee approved the minutes from the previous meeting. It approved a CPC application to purchase handicap‑accessible playground equipment, designating it as the first priority. It also approved a CPC application for a town‑hall walking path, designating it as the second priority. The next meeting was scheduled for November 17, 2025 at 5 p.m.

• Approved previous meeting minutes
• Approved CPC application for handicap‑accessible playground equipment, first priority
• Approved CPC application for town‑hall walking path, second priority
• Scheduled next meeting for 11/17/25 at 5 p.m.

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will hold continued public hearings regarding herbicide use in Shaker Mill Pond and on CSX Transportation railroad lines. The body will also review certificates of compliance and updates on several property violations.

• Notice of Intent for annual Aquatic Plant Management Program in Shaker Mill Pond at Albany Road
• Request for Determination by CSX Transportation Inc. for railroad vegetation management
• Request for Certificate of Compliance for Waterview Estates subdivision (Mass DEP #331-82)
• Request for Certificate of Compliance for 76 Lenox Rd. (Mass DEP #311-35)
• Updates on WPA violations at 55 Lenox Rd. and Mill Pond Park

Town Clerk

The Town Clerk has issued a warrant for a special election on Tuesday, November 4, 2025, at the Town Hall, 21 State Line Road. Residents will vote on two questions: a school district ballot authorizing $152,067,064 to fund the Monument Mountain Regional High School project at 600 Stockbridge Road, Great Barrington, and a town ballot to exempt West Stockbridge’s share of the bond payment for that project. Voting will be open from 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. on the election day.

• Special election scheduled for Nov 4, 2025, 11 a.m.–7 p.m. at 21 State Line Road
• School district ballot: authorize borrowing of $152,067,064 for a new high school at 600 Stockbridge Road
• Town ballot: approve exemption from the town’s share of the school district bond
• Project replaces the existing Monument Mountain Regional High School serving grades 9‑12
• Potential grant from the Massachusetts School Building Authority may offset part of the cost

Select Board

The Select Board is conducting an official ballot vote to approve a $152,067,064 borrowing authorization for the Berkshire Hills Regional School District. The funds will design, construct, and furnish a new high school at 600 Stockbridge Road in Great Barrington to replace the existing Monument Mountain Regional High School.

• Official ballot vote on $152,067,064 borrowing authorization
• New high school construction at 600 Stockbridge Road
• Vote to replace existing Monument Mountain Regional High School
• Authorization to borrow under Chapter 71, Section 16(n)
• Potential MSBA grant eligibility noted

Select Board

The town is holding a special election on November 4, 2025. Voters will answer a single question on whether West Stockbridge may be exempt from the provisions of Proposition Two‑and‑One‑Half that require the town to pay its share of the Berkshire Hills Regional School District bond for replacing Monument Mountain Regional High School. If approved, the town would not have to pay its allocated portion of the bond costs.

• Ballot Question: Exempt West Stockbridge from paying its allocable share of the Berkshire Hills Regional School District bond for the new Monument Mountain Regional High School

Parks and Recreation

The Parks and Recreation department is organizing a free community event on October 31. The schedule includes trick-or-treating, a pizza party, and a costume contest.

• Trick-or-Treat from 4:30-6:30pm
• Halloween Pizza Party from 6:30-7:30pm
• Costume Contest starting at 7pm
• Event location: Town Hall Pavilion

Finance Committee

The West Stockbridge Finance Committee will elect FY26 officers, review the previous meeting minutes, and consider the FY27 budget schedule. Department heads from Water/Sewer, Fire, Highway, Buildings/Grounds, and Police will provide updates. The committee will also discuss the Monument Mtn High School Project and review the town's current debt schedule.

• Election of FY26 Finance Committee officers
• FY27 budget schedule discussion
• Updates from Water/Sewer, Fire, Highway, Buildings/Grounds, and Police departments
• Monument Mtn High School Project review
• Review of current debt schedule

Sewer and Water

The West Stockbridge Sewer & Water Commissioners will discuss the residential sewer connection on Lenox Road. They will review capital needs for fiscal year 2026 for both sewer and water systems. They will also consider operating budgets for FY’26 for both utilities. The meeting includes updates from the chief licensed operator and a public comment period.

• Discuss Lenox Rd residential sewer connection
• Discuss FY’26 capital needs for sewer and water
• Discuss FY’26 operating budgets for sewer and water
• Updates from chief sewer/water licensed operator
• Public comment

Planning Board

The West Stockbridge Planning Board will approve the minutes from its October 14 meeting and confirm the schedule for future regular meetings. It will hold a public hearing on a special permit request for a home occupation presented by Sean Timmons. The board may also consider any other business not anticipated within 48 hours before adjournment.

• Approve minutes from the 10/14 planning board meeting
• Confirm scheduling of future regular meetings
• Public hearing on a special permit for a home occupation (Sean Timmons)
• Discuss any other business not anticipated within 48 hours
• Adjourn the meeting

The West Stockbridge Planning Board approved a special permit for Sean Timmons to run his off‑premises landscaping business from his residence at 10 Smith Rd. The board adopted three conditions for the permit, affirmed the required zoning findings, and closed the public hearing and the regular meeting. All related motions passed unanimously (5‑0) except the approval of prior minutes, which passed 3‑0.

• Approved 10/14/25 meeting minutes (3-0)
• Approved conditions for the special permit (5-0)
• Closed the public hearing (5-0)
• Affirmed zoning findings for the permit (5-0)
• Approved the special permit for Sean Timmons (5-0)
• Closed the regular meeting (5-0)

Affordable Housing Trust

The West Stockbridge Affordable Housing Trust will review and act on the prior meeting minutes, update the Declaration of Trust, and discuss feedback on the BRPC Housing Production Plan final draft. The board will also consider Trust operations and regional collaborations, and examine the CPC application that must be submitted by November 15, 2025 at noon.

• Review and act on previous meeting minutes
• Update: Declaration of Trust
• Discussion: Feedback on BRPC Housing Production Plan final draft
• Discussion: Affordable Housing Trust operations and regional collaborations
• Discussion: CPC Application (submission due 11/15/2025 at 12 NOON)

Dog Park Committee

The Dog Park Committee is meeting to review construction progress and the status of a walnut tree. Members will discuss potential facility investments, new signage, and waste and snow removal plans. The body will also address 501 elections and future events with the Humane Society.

• Construction update and walnut tree next steps
• Potential investments: donation box, shed, brick installation, first aid kit, and t-shirts
• New signage for waste baskets, donation QR codes, and maintenance closures
• Waste and snow removal plans
• Planning for 501 elections

Community Preservation Committee

The West Stockbridge Community Preservation Committee will first approve minutes from its previous meeting. It will then discuss the findings of the recent CPC open town meeting and consider next steps for the upcoming application season. The agenda also allows for any other business and concludes with adjournment.

The West Stockbridge Community Preservation Committee approved the minutes of the August 14, 2025 meeting as amended, correcting the Open Space fund to $74,461 and undesignated funds to $279,640, with a 5‑0 vote. Members noted the success of the August 21 open town meeting and discussed possible land for affordable‑housing projects, though no applications had been submitted. The meeting was adjourned unanimously.

• Approved amended August 14, 2025 minutes (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Affordable Housing Trust

The West Stockbridge Affordable Housing Trust will review the prior meeting minutes and update the Declaration of Trust. It will discuss feedback on the final draft of the BRPC Housing Production Plan and consider operations and regional collaborations. The board will also discuss the upcoming CPC application, which is due on November 15, 2025.

• Review and act on previous meeting minutes
• Update: Declaration of Trust
• Discussion: Feedback on BRPC Housing Production Plan final draft
• Discussion: Affordable Housing Trust operations and regional collaborations
• Discussion: CPC Application (submission due 11/15/2025 at 12 NOON)

Vision Committee

The West Stockbridge Vision Committee will review prior meeting minutes and consider costs for new welcome signs. Members will examine the committee's budget breakdown and discuss progress on a town charter and a possible health clinic. Additional topics include a marketing guide, website photos, and ways to increase legislative transparency.

• Review and act on past meeting minutes
• Discuss costs for “Welcome to West Stockbridge” signs
• Review breakdown in Vision Committee budget
• Discuss progress on establishing a Town Charter
• Discuss possibility of health clinics in West Stockbridge

Town Clerk

The Special Town Meeting will consider three articles that amend the town's Zoning Bylaw and General Bylaw. Article 01 proposes redefining accessory apartments as Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) and revises the table of accessory uses and related regulations. Article 02 adds new definitions for owners, primary residential units, and short‑term rentals, and creates new short‑term rental categories with usage limits. Article 03 creates Chapter 274 in the General Bylaw to require registration of short‑term rentals with the Town Administrator, subject to building and fire inspections.

• Delete the definition of Accessory Apartment and insert a new definition for Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU).
• Amend Table 4.11.2 to add ADU use categories and new short‑term rental categories with day‑limit thresholds.
• Add Section 4.11.3.5 detailing ADU size, parking, ownership, and permitting requirements.
• Add Section 4.11.3.8 establishing rules, residency requirements, and penalties for short‑term rentals.
• Create Chapter 274 in the General Bylaw to require STR registration, verification, and periodic inspections.

The Special Town Meeting unanimously approved amendments to the Zoning Bylaw that replace the definition of Accessory Apartment with Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) and update related tables and regulations. It also approved new definitions and a detailed short‑term rental (STR) chapter in the Zoning Bylaw, adding use categories and requirements for STRs. Both actions required a two‑thirds vote and passed unanimously.

• Approved amendment to Zoning Bylaw defining ADUs and revising Section 4.11.2 and 4.11.3.5 (unanimous)
• Approved amendment to Zoning Bylaw adding new definitions (Owner, Primary residential unit, etc.) and new short‑term rental use categories in Section 4.11.2 (unanimous)
• Approved addition of Section 4.11.8 establishing requirements and limits for short‑term rentals (unanimous)

Select Board

The Select Board will hold a special town meeting to consider three articles. Article 01 proposes amending the Zoning Bylaw to replace the definition of Accessory Apartment with an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) and to add new ADU use categories and regulations. Article 02 adds new definitions and short‑term rental categories to the Zoning Bylaw and creates detailed STR requirements. Article 03 proposes adding Chapter 274 to the General Bylaws to establish a registration process for short‑term rentals.

• Delete the existing definition of Accessory Apartment in Section 2.2 and insert a new ADU definition.
• Revise Table of Accessory Uses to add ADU categories with size limits and parking rules.
• Add Section 4.11.3.5 outlining ADU regulations, including by‑right and special‑permit ADUs.
• Add new definitions for Owner, Primary residential unit, Owner‑adjacent unit, Owner‑occupier, Residential unit, and Short‑term rental; delete the “guest house” definition.
• Create new short‑term rental use categories (items 25‑27) and add Section 4.11.3.8 detailing STR requirements and restrictions.

Town Clerk

The Town of West Stockbridge is holding a special election to elect one member of the Select Board for a three‑year term. The election will take place on Monday, November 17, 2025 at the Town Hall, 21 State Line Road. Polls will be open from 10:00 a.m. until 7:00 p.m., and ballots will be provided by the Town Clerk in accordance with state election law.

• Special election for one Select Board member (3‑year term)
• Polling location: Town Hall, 21 State Line Road
• Polling hours: 10:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
• Ballots furnished by the Town Clerk

Select Board

The Select Board will discuss and vote on cannabis-related social equity and host community policies. The board is also considering a contract with Sampson & Weston for an MVP Grant and a pole location on Easland Road.

• Social Equity Policy and Evaluation Rubric and Host Community Agreement Policy and Procedures related to cannabis
• Vote to approve National Grid pole location on Easland Road
• Contract with Sampson & Weston for MVP Grant
• Proposed trail around Town Hall
• Community Choice Power Supply Program electric aggregation rate

The Board approved the September 29, 2025 meeting minutes and adopted the Social Equity Policy, Evaluation Rubric, and Host Community Agreement Policy. It also approved the relocation of National Grid poles on Easland Road and a $348,000 contract with Weston & Sampson Engineer, Inc. for a municipal vulnerability preparedness grant feasibility study. Police Chief Nicole Miller reported receiving a $30,000 justice‑assistance grant and a $25,000 road‑safety grant.

• Approved September 29, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimously)
• Approved Social Equity Policy, Evaluation Rubric, and Host Community Agreement Policy (unanimously)
• Approved relocation of National Grid poles on Easland Road (unanimously)
• Approved contract with Weston & Sampson Engineer, Inc. for MVP grant feasibility study ($348,000) (unanimously)
• Received Ed J. Burns Memorial Justice Assistance Grant $30,000 for digital fingerprint system
• Received Municipal Road Safety Grant $25,000 for traffic message board and bike rodeo

Planning Board

The West Stockbridge Planning Board will meet to approve prior minutes, schedule future dates, and hold an informational session on proposed zoning changes for short-term rentals and accessory dwelling units.

• Approve minutes from September 30 meeting
• Informational meeting on proposed zoning changes for short-term rentals and accessory dwelling units
• Reconfirm and plan upcoming meeting dates

The Planning Board approved the September 8 minutes unanimously. It confirmed the next meeting dates for Oct 28, Nov 10 and Nov 24. By consensus the board declined to consider removing the provision that permits ADUs to be rented as short‑term rentals. The meeting was adjourned with a unanimous motion.

• Approved 9/8/25 meeting minutes (vote 4-0)
• Confirmed upcoming meeting dates: Oct 28, Nov 10, Nov 24
• Declined to consider removing ADU short‑term rental allowance (consensus)
• Motion to close the meeting passed (vote 4-0)

Affordable Housing Trust

The West Stockbridge Affordable Housing Trust board will consider several updates and actions. They will review and act on the minutes from the prior meeting, sign the Declaration of Trust for filing, receive updates on the BRPC Housing Production Plan and CPC funding, and discuss STR and ADU bylaws under the Massachusetts Affordable Homes Act. The meeting also includes public comment and scheduling of the next session.

• Review and act on previous meeting minutes
• Review and sign Declaration of Trust to file with Registry of Deeds
• Update on BRPC Housing Production Plan draft and registration timeline
• Update on Affordable Housing funds via Community Preservation Committee with CPC Housing Liaison Randy Thunfors
• Discussion of STR and ADU bylaws under the Massachusetts Affordable Homes Act

Conservation Commission

The West Stockbridge Conservation Commission will hold a hybrid meeting to discuss aquatic plant management in Shaker Mill Pond and herbicide use on railroad property. The agenda includes updates on enforcement orders and violations at specific locations.

• Public hearing on aquatic plant management in Shaker Mill Pond
• Request for determination on railroad vegetation management
• Update on enforcement order at Mill Pond Park
• Update on violation at 55 Lenox Rd
• Emergency tree report at 8 Cone Hill Road

Town Clerk

The West Stockbridge Special Town Caucus on Oct. 8, 2025 will consider the vacancy on the Select Board after Andrew Potter resigned. The meeting is called by Town Clerk Veronica Barrett and will be held at the Town Offices, 21 State Line Rd. No other agenda items are listed.

• Select Board term: 3 years; incumbent Andrew Potter – resigned

Board of Assessors

The West Stockbridge Board of Assessors will meet on October 7, 2025 at 5:00 PM in the town hall. The board will consider and vote on September motor vehicle abatements, FY 2026 statutory exemption applications, FY 2027 chapter land applications, and a classified recreational land tax lien. Additional matters may be addressed under Other Business.

• Approve September motor vehicle abatements
• Approve FY 2026 statutory exemption applications
• Approve FY 2027 chapter land applications
• Approve classified recreational land tax lien

The West Stockbridge Board of Assessors approved the September motor vehicle abatement applications, the FY 2026 statutory exemption applications, the FY 2027 chapter land applications, and a Chapter 61B land tax lien. No vote counts were recorded in the minutes. The meeting adjourned at 5:30 PM.

• Approved September motor vehicle abatement applications
• Approved FY 2026 statutory exemption applications
• Approved FY 2027 chapter land applications
• Approved Chapter 61B land tax lien

Select Board

The Select Board will meet to discuss the town charter and a new citizen speak policy. The board is also scheduled to vote on a contract for Police Chief Nicole Miller and the appointment of a new Highway Superintendent.

• Appointment of Highway Superintendent Stephen Van Tassel
• Town Charter presentation by Town Counsel Lauren Goldberg
• Vote to approve contract with Police Chief Nicole Miller
• Discussion and vote on updated Citizen Speak Policy

The Select Board approved the September 15 meeting minutes. The Board appointed Stephen Van Tassel as the new Highway Superintendent. The Board approved Police Chief Nicole Miller’s contract. The Board adopted an updated Citizen Speak policy for future meetings.

• Approved September 15 minutes (unanimous)
• Appointed Stephen Van Tassel as Highway Superintendent (unanimous)
• Approved Police Chief Nicole Miller contract (unanimous)
• Adopted updated Citizen Speak policy (unanimous)

Select Board

The Select Board will meet in executive session to discuss two Open Meeting Law complaints filed by Aaron Dubois. The board also intends to conduct strategy and contract negotiations for the Town Administrator and Police Chief.

• Open Meeting Law complaints filed by Aaron Dubois on September 12 and 17, 2025
• Contract negotiations for Town Administrator
• Contract negotiations for Police Chief

Dog Park Committee

The West Stockbridge Dog Park Committee will hold a virtual meeting on September 27, 2025. The committee will approve the minutes from the September 20 meeting, receive an update on park construction, and continue planning for the grand opening scheduled for October 5. Additional items will be addressed under "Other".

• Approval of minutes from 9/20
• Construction update
• Continued planning for 10/5 grand opening
• Other items

West Stockbridge Public Library

The West Stockbridge Public Library Board of Trustees will review, amend, and accept the minutes from the previous meeting. Trustees will hear the Librarian’s Report. Any new business will be discussed before the meeting adjourns.

• Review/Amend/Accept Minutes from last meeting
• Librarian’s Report
• New Business

Affordable Housing Trust

The West Stockbridge Affordable Housing Trust Board will review and act on the prior meeting minutes. It will receive feedback from BRPC consultants on the September 19 draft Housing Needs Assessment & Plan. The board will discuss short‑term rental and accessory dwelling unit bylaws and will sign the Declaration of Trust to be filed with the state. The meeting will also set the date for the next session.

• Review and act on previous meeting minutes
• BRPC consultants to review and provide feedback on 9/19 draft Housing Needs Assessment & Plan
• Discussion of STR & ADU bylaws
• Review and sign Declaration of Trust for state filing
• Schedule next meeting

Parks and Recreation

The committee will finalize plans for Halloween and discuss an October opening party for the Dog Park. Members will also review the Card Pond Groundskeeper budget and potential grants for tennis court repairs.

• Halloween planning and task delegation
• Dog Park opening party discussion
• CPC suggestions for November 15 deadline
• Card Pond Groundskeeper budget review
• Tennis court resurfacing and grant status

The Parks & Recreation Committee approved the previous meeting minutes unanimously. They discussed Halloween party plans for the new dog park but made no formal approvals. The group decided to table the rest of the agenda items for the next meeting. The next meeting is set for May 19, 2025 at 5 pm.

• Approved previous meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Tabled remaining agenda items (no vote recorded)

Dog Park Committee

The West Stockbridge Dog Park Committee will meet to approve the minutes from the September 10 meeting, receive a construction update for the dog park, and continue planning for the Grand Opening scheduled for October 5. The agenda also includes an open session for other items.

• Approve minutes from 9/10 meeting
• Construction update for dog park
• Planning for 10/5 Grand Opening
• Open meeting items
• Other items

Select Board

The West Stockbridge Select Board will vote to enter an executive session and will not return to the open session. The executive session is called to discuss a complaint filed on September 12, 2025 under the Open Meeting Law by Aaron Dubois against the Select Board. No other agenda items are listed.

• Vote to enter executive session under G.L. c. 30A, §21(a)(1)
• Discussion of Open Meeting Law complaint filed Sep 12, 2025 by Aaron Dubois

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will hold public hearings on three requests: a Notice of Intent to implement an annual aquatic‑plant management program in Shaker Mill Pond using EPA‑registered herbicides, a Request for Determination by CSX Transportation to manage vegetation on railroad right‑of‑way with herbicides, and a Request for Determination by Pamela Bartlett to trim trees behind 4 Albany Road. The Commission will also receive updates on ongoing projects at Mill Pond Park, 8 Cone Hill Road, and 55 Lenox Road, and discuss communications about a rare habitat behind 4 Albany Road and an emergency tree at 8 Cone Hill Road. Administrative items include electronic signatures and shared‑agent matters.

• Notice of Intent for annual Aquatic Plant Management Program at Shaker Mill Pond (herbicide use)
• Request for Determination by CSX Transportation for railroad vegetation management using herbicides
• Request for Determination by Pamela Bartlett for tree trimming at 4 Albany Road
• Update on Mill Pond Park enforcement order – excavating near the river
• Update on violation of the Water Pollution Act at 55 Lenox Road

Affordable Housing Trust

The West Stockbridge Affordable Housing Trust will meet to review previous minutes and discuss trust membership. The body will also receive an update regarding the BRPC consultancy and the housing needs assessment and plan.

• Review and action on previous meeting minutes
• Discussion of Trust membership
• Update on BRPC consultancy, housing needs assessment & plan

Select Board

The Select Board will hold a special executive session to discuss strategy for negotiations with nonunion personnel, specifically the Police Chief. The meeting will be held via Zoom on September 10, 2025, at 2:30 PM.

• Executive session for Police Chief negotiations
• Zoom meeting scheduled for September 10, 2025
• Meeting ID: 833 5957 5995
• Passcode: 785186

Dog Park Committee

The West Stockbridge Dog Park Committee will consider a construction update, review and vote on new logo submissions, and vote on remaining items for the October 5 Grand Opening such as face painting. The meeting will also approve minutes from the September 3 meeting and discuss other business.

• Approve minutes from 9/3 meeting
• Construction update
• Review new logo submissions and vote on final logo
• Vote on remaining Grand Opening items (e.g., face painting)
• Other items

Vision Committee

The West Stockbridge Vision Committee will review prior meeting minutes and the budget breakdown. It will consider costs for “Welcome to West Stockbridge” signs and discuss a town charter concept. The committee will also explore an intergenerational park at the New Town Hall site and consider updating its mission statement. Additional items include marketing guide follow‑up and ideas for a new residents’ guide.

• Review and act on past meeting minutes
• Consider costs for “Welcome to West Stockbridge” signs
• Discuss concept of a Town Charter and its implications
• Explore intergenerational park possibilities at New Town Hall location
• Upgrade the Vision Committee’s mission statement

Planning Board

The Planning Board will discuss preparations for an October 14 informational meeting and an October 20 Special Town Meeting regarding zoning changes. The board will also review previous meeting minutes and schedule future dates.

• Preparation for 10/14 informational meeting on zoning changes
• Preparation for 10/20 Special Town Meeting on zoning changes

The Planning Board approved the July 29 and August 19 meeting minutes with minor corrections, each by a 5‑0 vote. It confirmed future meeting dates and agreed by consensus to publish a Local Yokel article on the proposed zoning changes, add the warrant URL, and consider a QR code. The board also decided the upcoming informational meeting will be held in a hybrid (in‑person and online) format, and the motion to close the meeting passed 5‑0.

• Approved 7/29/25 meeting minutes with correction (5-0)
• Approved 8/19/25 meeting minutes with correction (5-0)
• Confirmed upcoming meeting dates: 9/30, 10/14, 10/28, 11/10, 11/24
• Approved publication of Local Yokel article on zoning changes (consensus)
• Decided to add warrant URL to article (consensus)
• Considered creating QR code for warrant access (consensus)
• Approved hybrid format for informational meeting (consensus)
• Motion to close meeting passed (5-0)

Select Board

The Select Board is holding a special Zoom meeting to consider a contract with Tech Environmental. The board will also provide time for residents to speak.

• Vote to approve contract with Tech Environmental

The Select Board reconvened to re‑vote on a contract after a notice error. A motion to enter into a contract with Tech Environmental for odor mitigation at Wiseacre Farm was made, seconded, and approved unanimously. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved Tech Environmental contract for Wiseacre Farm odor mitigation (2-0)
• Adjourned meeting (2-0)

Conservation Commission

The commission approved the MassDOT request to reconstruct existing pedestrian curb ramps on Route 41 with a Neg 3 determination. It also approved Lisa Paul’s request for a septic system upgrade at 6 Bryan Road with a Neg 3 determination. The meeting minutes were approved. The order of conditions for Pratt’s footbridge repairs at 10 Water Street was reissued.

• Approved meeting minutes
• Approved MassDOT pedestrian curb ramp reconstruction (Neg 3)
• Approved Lisa Paul septic system upgrade at 6 Bryan Road (Neg 3)
• Reissued order of conditions for Pratt footbridge repairs at 10 Water Street

Select Board

The Select Board will meet to discuss a special election for a vacant seat and review an updated full-time employee benefits policy. The meeting includes updates from the police chief and librarian.

• Discussion on Select Board Vacant Seat Special Election
• Updated Full-Time Employee Benefits Policy
• Appointment of Marie as Interim Emergency Management Director
• Approval of Dog Park Sign

The Select Board approved the appointment of two new police officers, one part‑time and one full‑time. The Board also agreed to move the next meeting to October 15, to hold a special election on November 17 for a vacant seat, and to adopt an updated full‑time employee benefits policy.

• Appointed Dave Lupiani as Part‑Time Police Officer (motion approved)
• Appointed Donald Rhodes as Full‑Time Police Officer (motion approved)
• Approved moving the Select Board meeting to October 15 (agreement)
• Approved holding a special election on November 17 to fill vacant seat (motion approved)
• Approved updated Full‑Time Employee Benefits Policy (motion approved)

Board of Assessors

The West Stockbridge Board of Assessors will meet to approve motor vehicle abatements from August, statutory exemption applications for fiscal year 2026, and Chapter Land applications for fiscal year 2027. No other substantive items are listed.

• Approve August Motor Vehicle Abatements
• Approve FY 2026 Statutory Exemption Applications
• Approve FY 2027 Chapter Land Applications

The West Stockbridge Board of Assessors approved the August motor vehicle abatement applications. It also approved the FY 2026 statutory exemption applications. Additionally, the FY 2027 chapter land applications were approved. No other actions were taken.

• Approved August motor vehicle abatement applications
• Approved FY 2026 statutory exemption applications
• Approved FY 2027 chapter land applications

Select Board

The West Stockbridge Select Board will hold a Zoom-only meeting on August 26, 2025. The board will vote on a contract with Tech Environmental and hear resident concerns during Citizen Speak Time.

• Vote to approve contract with Tech Environmental

The Select Board approved the minutes from the August 4, 2025 meeting. It agreed to post the open Berkshire Regional Transit Authority seat on the town website and to discuss a possible special town election at the next meeting. The Board also decided to skip the town charter agenda item until Town Counsel can explain the process, and to begin advertising for a new Highway Superintendent. Finally, the Board voted unanimously to withdraw its appeal in the Housatonic Water Company litigation.

• Approved August 4, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Agreed to post Berkshire Regional Transit Authority board seat opening on website
• Agreed to add discussion of possible special town election to next meeting agenda
• Approved to skip Town Charter discussion pending Town Counsel explanation
• Approved to post advertisement and start search for new Highway Superintendent
• Approved withdrawal of appeal to SJC in Great Barrington v. Dept. of Utilities (SJ-2024-0312) (unanimous)

Select Board

The Select Board will meet in a special executive session to discuss litigation strategy. The discussion concerns Wiseacre Farms, Inc.’s compliance with its host community agreement for a marijuana cultivation establishment at 42 Baker Street.

• Litigation strategy regarding Wiseacre Farms, Inc. compliance at 42 Baker Street

Parks and Recreation

The West Stockbridge Parks & Recreation Committee will discuss status updates and 2026 planning for Card Pond, the Zucchini Festival, tennis court repairs, and weed management. Members will also address a public bench issue, Halloween and Sparkles event timing, and a dog park fundraiser. No formal decisions are listed on this agenda.

• Review Card Pond Party and Zucchini Festival ideas for 2026
• Review tennis court repairs
• Discuss potential issue with town bench on public property
• Dog park committee requests meeting to discuss fundraiser ideas
• Schedule day for storage room cleanup

The committee voted to approve the minutes from the prior meeting, with unanimous support. No other formal motions were adopted; the group discussed Card Pond improvements, upcoming events, and assigned follow‑up tasks to members. All other items were informational or planning discussions.

• Approved previous meeting minutes (unanimous)

Select Board

The Select Board will meet via Zoom to conduct town business. The primary action item is a vote regarding a contract with Tech Environmental.

• Vote to approve contract with Tech Environmental

Dog Park Committee

The Dog Park Committee will review construction progress and plan for the grand opening on October 5. The meeting also includes updates and director elections for the Friends of West Stockbridge Dog Park (FOWSDP).

• Construction update
• Planning for 10/5 Grand Opening
• FOWSDP fundraising report
• Zucchini Festival update
• Election of FOWSDP Directors

Dog Park Committee

The committee approved a directional sign for the dog park and bench sponsorships at $2,500 each. It set a $500 budget for the Grand Opening event and decided to gather more information on waste‑removal services. The group will explore free or wholesale food and beverage donations and approved a printed program and volunteer T‑shirts. Officer elections for the Friends of West Stockbridge Dog Park will be placed on the next meeting agenda.

• Approved directional sign for Dog Park out front of town building (below Library sign)
• Approved bench sponsorships at $2,500 per bench
• Set $500 budget for Grand Opening event expenses
• Decided to gather more information on waste removal service before making a decision
• Decided to explore free or wholesale food and beverage donations first
• Approved creation of printed program/flyer for Grand Opening
• Approved creation of volunteer T‑shirts for committee members
• Planned officer elections for Friends of West Stockbridge Dog Park at next meeting

Planning Board

The Planning Board will conduct a public hearing regarding a Special Permit renewal application for Wiseacre Farm. The board will also confirm the date for a Special Town meeting concerning zoning changes.

• Public hearing for Wiseacre farm Special Permit renewal application
• Special Town meeting for zoning changes scheduled for October 20, 2025

The Planning Board voted 5‑0 to accept Wiseacre Farm’s request to withdraw its special permit renewal application without prejudice. The application will be up for renewal again in two years. The Board also voted 5‑0 to close the public hearing and to adjourn the meeting. Upcoming Board meeting dates and the special Town Meeting for zoning changes on 10/20/25 were confirmed.

• Accepted Wiseacre Farm special permit renewal withdrawal without prejudice (5‑0)
• Closed the public hearing (5‑0)
• Adjourned the meeting (5‑0)
• Postponed approval of the 7/29/25 meeting minutes to the next meeting
• Confirmed upcoming Board meeting dates: 9/8, 9/30, 10/14, 10/20, 10/28
• Confirmed special Town Meeting for zoning changes scheduled for 10/20/25

Select Board

The Select Board will meet to discuss the town charter and Housatonic Water litigation. The board will also receive updates on the dog park and the Highway Department.

• Discussion on Town Charter
• Discussion on Housatonic Water Litigation
• Dog Park update from Michael Bolognino
• Highway Department request to advertise for a Foreman

Select Board

The Select Board is meeting in a special executive session to discuss legal strategies. The session is closed to the public to avoid detrimental effects on the town's litigating positions.

• Litigation strategy regarding Housatonic Water Company
• Litigation strategy regarding The Residences on Mill Pond, LLC v. Town of West Stockbridge Mobile Home Park Rent Control Board, et al.

Community Preservation Committee

The Community Preservation Committee will meet to approve previous minutes and discuss the upcoming town meeting. The agenda contains no specific project proposals or funding requests.

• Discussion of upcoming town meeting

The West Stockbridge Community Preservation Committee approved the July 15, 2025 minutes with a 4‑0 vote. Members assigned JP Boscarino and Jared to prepare a PowerPoint for the August 21 meeting and to create handouts. The meeting was adjourned unanimously.

• Approved July 15 minutes (4-0)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Select Board

The West Stockbridge Select Board will hold a special executive session via Zoom to discuss litigation strategy related to Wiseacre Farm. The meeting will not return to open session after the executive session. The session is held under Massachusetts General Laws to avoid a detrimental effect on the public body's litigating position.

• Executive session to discuss litigation strategy regarding Wiseacre Farm
• Meeting held via Zoom with provided access details

Vision Committee

The Vision Committee will review past meeting minutes, discuss costs for new "Welcome to West Stockbridge" signs, and follow up on a comprehensive marketing guide. Members will also explore intergenerational park possibilities at the New Town Hall location and update on EV Level 2 charging stations.

• Review and act on past meeting minutes
• Costs for "Welcome to West Stockbridge" signs
• Comprehensive marketing guide for WS
• Intergenerational park possibilities at New Town Hall location
• Update on EV Level 2 charging stations

The Vision Committee unanimously adopted the meeting minutes and then adjourned. It scheduled a special town meeting for October to vote on zoning updates for accessory dwelling units and short‑term rentals. The committee noted a $1,000 budget available for the visitor marketing guide design.

• Adopt minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourn meeting (unanimous)
• Schedule special town meeting for October to vote on zoning updates

Select Board

The Select Board will meet in a special executive session to conduct strategy sessions. These sessions are in preparation for negotiations with non-union personnel.

• Negotiations regarding the Police Chief Contract
• Negotiations regarding the Town Administrator

Select Board

The Select Board will meet in a special executive session via Zoom. The body will discuss litigation strategy concerning Wiseacre Farm.

• Executive session to discuss litigation strategy regarding Wiseacre Farm

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will hold public hearings on several requests for determinations and notices of intent. The body is reviewing vegetation and infrastructure projects including railroad maintenance and road improvements. The meeting also includes updates on enforcement orders for specific properties.

• Annual Aquatic Plant Management Program in Shaker Mill Pond at Albany Road
• CSX Transportation Inc. vegetation management using herbicides
• MassDOT reconstruction of pedestrian curb ramps on Route 41
• Footbridge repairs at 10 Water Street (Abby Pratt)
• Septic system upgrade at 6 Bryan Road (Lisa Paul)

The commission approved the minutes from the previous meeting. It approved the MassDOT request to reconstruct existing pedestrian curb ramps on Route 41 with a Neg 3 determination. It also approved Lisa Paul’s request for a septic system upgrade at 6 Bryan Road with a Neg 3 determination. Two other requests were postponed to the next meeting.

• Approved meeting minutes
• Approved MassDOT pedestrian curb ramp reconstruction (Neg 3)
• Approved septic system upgrade at 6 Bryan Road (Neg 3)
• Postponed Aquatic Plant Management Program NOI to next meeting
• Postponed CSX Transportation vegetation management RDA to next meeting

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will meet to review and approve motor vehicle tax matters. The session focuses on July abatements and a specific tax commitment.

• Approval of July Motor Vehicle Abatements
• Approval of Motor Vehicle Excise Tax Commitment 4-2025

The West Stockbridge Board of Assessors approved the July motor vehicle abatement applications. They also approved the Motor Vehicle Excise Tax Commitment for 2024‑2025. No other actions were taken. The meeting adjourned at 5:30 p.m.

• Approved July motor vehicle abatement applications
• Approved Motor Vehicle Excise Tax Commitment 4-2025

Select Board

The Select Board will meet to discuss updates from the Police Department and the Zucchini Festival. The board is also addressing the next steps for an open Select Board position and will vote on the Director of Public Works contract.

• Vote to approve Director of Public Works Contract
• Police Department update from Chief Nicole Miller
• Zucchini Festival update from Marge Powell
• Discussion on next steps for open Select Board position
• Friends of the Library update from Carol Kuller

The Select Board unanimously approved Director of Public Works Curt Wilton's contract. It also agreed to hold a Special Town Meeting on short‑term rentals and accessory dwelling units on October 20, 2025. Both board members committed to attend the Wiseacre special permit hearings on August 19 and September 8. The minutes from the July 21 meeting were also approved.

• Approved Curt Wilton's Director of Public Works contract (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from July 21, 2025 meeting (unanimous)
• Set Special Town Meeting date for short‑term rentals/ADUs to Oct 20, 2025 (unanimous)
• Board members agreed to attend Wiseacre special permit hearings on Aug 19 and Sep 8 (unanimous)

Board of Health

The West Stockbridge Board of Health will meet to review previous meeting minutes and discuss specific property updates. The board will address matters regarding 3 Maple Street and the septic system at Pleasant Valley Motel.

• Update on 3 Maple Street
• Pleasant Valley Motel Septic

Planning Board

The Planning Board will meet to discuss potential dates for a special town meeting regarding zoning changes. The board will also consider meeting with a new consultant for an organizational assessment.

• Discussion of special town meeting dates for zoning changes
• Request for board member contact information
• Request to meet with a new organizational assessment consultant

The Planning Board approved the minutes from the July 15 meeting and adopted a new communication procedure directing all contact through the town website. It also approved a Form A land‑conveyance plan for 70 Swamp Rd. and set dates for upcoming meetings and a possible special town meeting on zoning changes.

• Approved 7/15/25 meeting minutes (vote 4-0)
• Approved communication procedure via town website (vote 5-0)
• Approved Form A plan for 70 Swamp Rd., land conveyance to Feldman property (vote 5-0)
• Scheduled meeting with new town consultant for organizational assessment on 8/11 at 12:30 p.m.
• Identified potential Special Town Meeting dates for zoning changes: 10/20 and 10/27
• Confirmed upcoming Planning Board meeting dates: 8/19, 9/8, 9/30, 10/14, 10/28
• Motion to close the meeting passed (vote 5-0)

Dog Park Committee

The Dog Park Committee will review construction updates and coordinate roles with the FOWSDP. The body will discuss fundraising totals, the Zucchini Festival, and timing for the park's grand opening.

• Construction status update including shed, grass, and small dog park hill alternatives
• Report on funds raised to date by FOWSDP
• Planning for the dog park grand opening
• Zucchini Festival update
• Review of logo status

The advisory committee agreed on separate responsibilities for the town committee and the Friends of West Stockbridge Dog Park 501(c)(3). Members were assigned to specific committee and nonprofit sub‑tasks, and four nonprofit subcommittees (Fundraising & Events, Finance, Operations/Maintenance, Communications) were established. The group also decided to research the Nonprofit Center of the Berkshires for fundraising guidance and to schedule the next meeting for August 23, 2025.

• Agreed committee will manage park construction and act as liaison with the 501(c)(3)
• Defined 501(c)(3) duties: operations, fundraising, finances, communications
• Assigned Michael Bolognino, Paige Orloff, Renee McCormick to focus on the committee; Jackie Murray to serve as construction liaison during Bolognino’s vacation
• Assigned Jackie Murray, Michael Bolognino, Ned Rosenthal to communications; Roni Kramer, Jackie Murray, Heather Hicks to finance; Heather Hicks to lead operations/maintenance
• Established four nonprofit subcommittees: Fundraising & Events, Finance, Operations/Maintenance, Communications
• Agreed to define subcommittee goals before offering internships; Renee McCormick will contact Berkshire Community College when ready
• Agreed to research the Nonprofit Center of the Berkshires; Ned Rosenthal will also contact retired development professionals
• Scheduled next regular committee meeting for August 23, 2025 at 10:00 a.m.

Select Board

The Select Board is meeting for a special executive session to conduct strategy sessions. The discussion concerns negotiations with non-union personnel.

• Contract negotiations for Town Administrator
• Contract negotiations for Director of Public Works
• Contract negotiations for Police Chief

The Select Board approved the July 7 meeting minutes and authorized payment of a Tech Environmental invoice using community impact fees. They hired a town‑structure consultant and signed the contract. An alternate delegate for the Berkshire Regional Planning Commission was appointed, and a special town meeting was scheduled for Monday, September 8.

• Approved July 7, 2025 meeting minutes (all in favor)
• Authorized payment of Tech Environmental invoice using Community Impact fees (all in favor)
• Approved hiring of town‑structure consultant and signing of contract (all in favor)
• Appointed Kathleen Keresey as alternate delegate to Berkshire Regional Planning Commission (all in favor)
• Set date for Special Town Meeting on Monday, September 8, 2025 (all in favor)

Select Board

The Select Board will meet to discuss a Town Hall consultant and vote on an alternate delegate for the Berkshire Regional Planning Commission. The board is also expected to vote on setting a Special Town Meeting for September 8, 2025.

• Vote to set Special Town Meeting date for September 8, 2025
• Board vote for Berkshire Regional Planning Commission Alternate Delegate
• Discussion regarding Town Hall Consultant

Sewer and Water

The Sewer and Water Commissioners will meet to act on a sewer connection application and receive an update from the Chief Licensed Operator.

• Sewer connection application for 29 State Line Rd

Planning Board

The Planning Board will conduct a public hearing regarding proposed amendments for Two Harris Street LLC (The Foundry). The board will also select a delegate for the Berkshire Regional Planning Commission and confirm a future hearing date for Wiseacre Farm.

• Public hearing for proposed amendments: Two Harris Street LLC (The Foundry)
• Reconfirmation of Wiseacre Farm special permit public hearing on 8/19
• Selection of delegate to Berkshire Regional Planning Commission

The West Stockbridge Planning Board adopted a set of rules governing time limits and procedures for special permit public hearings, as recorded on May 14, 2024. The rules set speaking limits for applicants, abutters, residents, and allow the chair discretion to extend or restrict time. The board also issued a public hearing notice for a special permit amendment by Two Harris St. LLC scheduled for July 15, 2025 at 7:15 pm.

• Adopted Planning Board Rules and Regulations for Special Permit Public Hearings (adopted 5/14/24)
• Issued public hearing notice for Two Harris St. LLC special permit amendment (July 15, 2025, 7:15 pm)

Community Preservation Committee

The Community Preservation Committee will meet to approve previous minutes and discuss the upcoming town meeting. The agenda contains no specific project proposals or funding decisions.

• Discussion regarding the upcoming town meeting

The committee approved the June 5 minutes with a 4‑0 vote (Earl abstained). It decided to revise the June advertisement and submit it for the August issue of the Local Yokel, and to post the ad on the town’s community page and other sites. For the August 21 informational meeting, a PowerPoint program and handouts were approved. The meeting was adjourned by unanimous vote.

• Approved June 5 minutes (vote 4-0, Earl abstained)
• Revised June ad to be submitted for August Local Yokel issue
• Ad to be placed on town community page and other sites
• Approved PowerPoint program and handouts for August 21 informational meeting
• Proposed next CPC meeting for August 14, 2025 at 5 p.m.
• Motion to adjourn passed unanimously

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will meet to approve motor vehicle abatements from June. The meeting also includes a section for other business.

• Approval of June Motor Vehicle Abatements

Vision Committee

The Vision Committee will meet via Zoom to review past minutes and discuss town welcome signs and marketing guides. Members will also discuss the possibility of an intergenerational park at the New Town Hall location and EV Level 2 charging stations.

• Costs for "Welcome to West Stockbridge" signs
• Intergenerational park possibility at New Town Hall location
• Update on EV Level 2 charging stations
• Comprehensive marketing guide for residents and visitors
• Discussion of potential new committee members

The Vision Committee voted unanimously to adjourn the meeting at 9:05 AM. It also agreed to skip acceptance of the previous meeting's minutes until the next meeting. No other formal actions were recorded.

• Adjourn meeting at 9:05 AM (unanimous)
• Skip acceptance of previous meeting minutes (deferred to next meeting)

Board of Assessors

The West Stockbridge Board of Assessors approved the June motor vehicle abatement applications. No vote tally was recorded. The meeting was adjourned at 5:30 p.m.

• Approved June motor vehicle abatement applications

West Stockbridge Public Library

The Library Board of Trustees will meet to review the Librarian's report and handle new business. The meeting includes the review and acceptance of the January 2025 minutes.

• Review and acceptance of January 2025 meeting minutes
• Librarian’s Report

Select Board

The Select Board will meet to appoint three key town leadership positions. The board will also receive updates on highway operations and electric vehicle charging stations.

• Appointment of Town Administrator and Director of Public Works as of July 1, 2025
• Appointment of Police Chief as of July 8, 2025
• Tom Ball Reserve Trail Request from Deanna Smith, BNRC
• Vision Committee update on EV Charging Stations
• Highway Department update from Curt Wilton

The Board approved the minutes from the June 23, 2025 meeting. They authorized temporary hourly wage increases for three Highway Department employees. They approved the Vision Committee’s plan to apply for a National Grid grant for three Level 2 electric vehicle charging stations. They appointed Marie Ryan as Town Administrator, Curt Wilton as Director of Public Works, and Nicole Miller as Police Chief, with the specified effective dates.

• Approved June 23, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved temporary wage increases: John Lyford +$3.31/hr, Tim Magner +$1.31/hr, Frank Alfonso +$1.00/hr (unanimous)
• Approved Vision Committee to submit National Grid grant application for three Level 2 EV charging stations (unanimous)
• Appointed Marie Ryan as Town Administrator effective July 1, 2025 (unanimous)
• Appointed Curt Wilton as Director of Public Works effective July 1, 2025 (unanimous)
• Appointed Nicole Miller as Police Chief effective July 8, 2025 (unanimous)

Select Board

The Select Board is holding a special executive session to discuss collective bargaining strategy. The discussion concerns contracts for the Town Administrator and the Director of Public Works.

• Collective bargaining strategy for Town Administrator contract
• Collective bargaining strategy for Director of Public Works contract

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will hold public hearings regarding vegetation and road work. The body is also reviewing enforcement orders and ongoing project repairs.

• Annual Aquatic Plant Management Program in Shaker Mill Pond at Albany Road
• CSX Transportation Inc. request for vegetation management using herbicides
• MassDOT Highway Division resurfacing work on Interstate 90
• Footbridge repairs at 10 Water Street
• WPA violation review for 55 Lenox Rd

The West Stockbridge Conservation Commission approved the MassDOT Highway Division request for Interstate 90 resurfacing (approved with a Neg 2) and approved the meeting minutes. It also decided to pay for a legal advertisement and schedule a public hearing to reissue the Order of Conditions for the Pratt footbridge project in August. Additional follow‑up actions were planned for several enforcement orders and property matters, with no items denied.

• Approved MassDOT Highway Division RDA for I‑90 resurfacing (approved with a Neg 2)
• Approved the meeting minutes
• Decided to pay for legal ad posting and hold a public hearing to reissue the Order of Conditions for the Pratt footbridge project (agenda for August)
• Planned to reissue enforcement order for Mill Pond Park plantings (Kathy to follow up)
• Planned to reissue enforcement order for tree removal at 8 Cone Hill Road (contact NHESP)
• Planned to send a letter to homeowner at 55 Lenox Road regarding replanting
• Planned to contact homeowner at Rothenberg, 27 Austerlitz about wetland specialist hiring
• Planned to request an RDA and schedule a site visit for trimming limbs at 4 Albany (Shannon to respond)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will meet to approve previous minutes and confirm a new associate member. The board will also review the filing process and schedule future meetings.

• Confirmation of new planning board associate member
• Review of planning board filing process
• Approval of June 4 Executive Session and June 17 meeting minutes

The Planning Board approved two sets of meeting minutes, accepted Sarah Thorne's resignation, appointed Mark Scoco as a new associate member, and scheduled the public hearing for Wiseacre Farm's special‑permit renewal. The board also voted to close the regular meeting early at 7:30 p.m.

• Approved 6/4/25 Executive Session minutes (3-0)
• Approved 6/17/25 meeting minutes (3-0)
• Accepted resignation of associate member Sarah Thorne (5-0)
• Appointed Mark Scoco as associate member for one‑year term (5-0)
• Set 7/29/25 as date and time for Wiseacre Farm special‑permit hearing (5-0)
• Closed regular meeting at 7:30 p.m. (5-0)

West Stockbridge Public Library

The Library Board of Trustees will meet to review the January 2025 minutes and hear the Librarian’s Report. The agenda consists of procedural items and new business.

• Review and acceptance of January 2025 meeting minutes
• Librarian’s Report

Affordable Housing Trust

The Affordable Housing Trust will meet to onboard new members and review previous meeting minutes. The body will also receive an update regarding the BRPC consultancy.

• Onboarding of newly appointed members
• BRPC consultancy update

Select Board

The Select Board will meet in a special executive session to discuss collective bargaining strategy regarding the Police Chief contract. The board intends to enter executive session and will not return to open session.

• Executive session to discuss Police Chief Contract collective bargaining strategy

Cemetery Commission

The Cemetery Commission is meeting at Rock-Dale Cemetery to review the current budget and remaining FY25 funds. The body will also discuss goals and expectations for FY26.

• Review and vote on May 30, 2025 meeting minutes
• Review of current budget status and remaining FY25 funds
• Discussion of FY26 goals and expectations

Select Board

The Select Board will meet to review updates from the Town Administrator, the Fire Department, and the Library. The meeting also includes a period for resident comments.

• Fire Department update from Chief Garofoli
• Library update from Librarian Rachel Alter
• Approval of minutes from June 9, 10, and 11, 2025

The Select Board unanimously approved the minutes from the June 9‑11 meetings. The Board agreed to place a discussion on electric‑vehicle charging stations on the agenda for the next meeting. It recommended that the Special Town Meeting be moved to September instead of August. The meeting was adjourned at 6:36 PM with unanimous approval.

• Approved June 9‑11 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Added EV charging stations discussion to next meeting agenda (board agreement)
• Recommended Special Town Meeting be scheduled for September (board recommendation)
• Adjourned meeting at 6:36 PM (unanimous)

Parks and Recreation

The West Stockbridge Parks & Recreation Committee will meet to schedule tennis court repairs and finalize spending for the end of the fiscal year.

• Scheduling of tennis court repairs
• Finalization of end of fiscal year spending

The committee reported that leftover funds from the current fiscal year will be used for tennis court repairs. Committee member Lauren Hyde confirmed she is working with Paretti to finalize the repairs, which are on schedule. No other actions were taken.

• Allocated leftover fiscal year funds to tennis court repairs

Dog Park Committee

The committee approved the previous meeting's minutes with no changes. They confirmed receipt of the Stanton Foundation check and issuance of the contractor bond, clearing the way for construction to begin, and set a project kickoff for Monday, June 24, 2025. Members assigned tasks such as Jackie drafting the July newsletter and agreed to hold a joint Committee‑plus‑Friends meeting in July. No other formal votes were recorded.

• Approved prior meeting minutes (no changes)
• Scheduled project kickoff for June 24, 2025
• Agreed to hold a joint Committee + Friends group meeting in July
• Assigned Jackie to draft the mid‑July newsletter

Planning Board

The Planning Board will meet to confirm the process for the remand of a settlement agreement regarding Two Harris St LCC/Truc Nguyen. The board will also address administrative scheduling and meeting minutes.

• Process for the remand of Two Harris St LCC/Truc Nguyen settlement agreement

The board approved the June 4 meeting minutes by a 3‑0 vote. It scheduled a special permit hearing for the Two Harris St settlement agreement on July 15, 2025 at 7:15 p.m. by a 3‑0 vote. The regular meeting was adjourned at 7:36 p.m. by a 3‑0 vote. The board also confirmed July 1, July 15, and July 29 as upcoming meeting dates.

• Approved 6/4/25 meeting minutes (3-0)
• Scheduled Two Harris St special permit hearing for 7/15/25 at 7:15 p.m. (3-0)
• Closed regular meeting at 7:36 p.m. (3-0)
• Confirmed July 1, July 15, and July 29 meeting dates

Parks and Recreation

The committee will discuss the outcomes of Memorial Day 2025 and plan for the 2025 Zucchini Festival. Members will also receive updates regarding Card Pond management and facilities.

• Review of Memorial Day 2025
• Card Pond pavilion status
• Atlantic Geese Management Services at Card Pond
• Zucchini Festival 2025 sponsorship and race contributions
• Card Pond opening party scheduling

The committee approved the minutes from the previous meeting. Members voted to use sand under the new pavilion at Card Pond. Lauren Hyde agreed to lead the tennis‑court repair project with Peretti. A Card Pond party is scheduled for July 11, and the group will seek a yearly maintenance cost estimate.

• Approved previous meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Chosen sand as the under‑pavilion material at Card Pond
• Lauren Hyde agreed to manage tennis‑court repairs with Peretti

Select Board

The Select Board is holding a special meeting to conduct interviews for the Police Chief position. Following the interviews, the board will discuss and vote on a hiring decision.

• Interviews with David Kachajian, Daniel Hamill, Ellis Richardson, and Nicole Miller
• Vote on the hiring of a new Police Chief

The Select Board interviewed four applicants for Police Chief. After discussing certification requirements, the Board voted to appoint Nicole Miller as Police Chief. All voting members supported the appointment.

• Appointed Nicole Miller as Police Chief (unanimous)

Select Board

The Select Board is meeting for a special executive session to discuss legal strategy. The session is focused on litigation involving Wiseacre Farm.

• Executive session to discuss litigation strategy regarding Wiseacre Farm

Vision Committee

The Vision Committee will meet via Zoom to discuss community projects and outreach. The agenda includes updates on town signage, resident guides, and EV charging stations.

• Costs for 'Welcome to West Stockbridge' signs
• Comprehensive marketing guide for residents and visitors
• Intergenerational park possibility at New Town Hall location
• Update on EV Level 2 charging stations
• Discussion of potential new committee members

The committee voted unanimously to accept the previous meeting's minutes. It then voted unanimously to adjourn the meeting at 9:16 AM. No other actions were decided.

• Adopted previous meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 9:16 AM (unanimous)

Select Board

The Select Board will meet to discuss the appointment of an interim police chief and fiscal year 2026 board and committee appointments. The board will also consider a one-day liquor license for the Farmer’s Market at TurnPark.

• Interim Police Chief discussion
• One Day Liquor License for Farmer’s Market at TurnPark
• Fiscal year 2026 Annual Boards & Committees Appointments
• Berkshire Regional Transit Board Representative appointment
• Setting the date for the Zucchini Festival

The Select Board approved the minutes from the May 13, 2025 meeting. It set the Zucchini Festival date for Saturday, August 9, 2025, and approved a one‑day liquor license for the Farmer’s Market on June 14, 2025. The Board also approved the full list of Fiscal Year 2026 board and committee appointments. Finally, the Board confirmed continued representation on the Berkshire Regional Transit Authority Advisory Board and adjourned the meeting.

• Approved May 13, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved Zucchini Festival date for August 9, 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved one‑day liquor license for Farmer’s Market on June 14, 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved FY2026 board and committee appointments (unanimous)
• Confirmed Kathleen Keresey and Andy Potter to continue on Berkshire Regional Transit Authority Advisory Board (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 6:39 PM (unanimous)

Community Preservation Committee

The Community Preservation Committee will meet to review a draft for a new application and discuss advertising for the committee.

• Review of new application draft
• Discussion of CPC advertising

The committee approved updates to its application form and guidelines and authorized spending to create a fillable version. It also approved up to $500 for advertising an informational meeting scheduled for August 21. The minutes from the May 15 meeting were approved, and a $200 budget allocation was approved for the fillable form. Andy Potter was invited to the next meeting.

• Approved May 15, 2025 minutes (vote 4-0, one abstention)
• Approved updated application form and guidelines (vote 5-0)
• Approved up to $200 CPC budget to create a fillable form (vote 5-0 unanimous)
• Approved up to $500 CPC budget for advertising the informational meeting (vote 5-0 unanimous)
• Invited Andy Potter to attend the next meeting (decision, no vote recorded)
• Motion to adjourn passed unanimously (vote 5-0)

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission is holding public hearings on the use of herbicides and algaecides in Card Pond and Shaker Mill Pond. The body is also reviewing a request from CSX Transportation Inc. regarding railroad vegetation management. Additionally, the commission is addressing several enforcement orders and potential Wetlands Protection Act violations.

• Notice of Intent for aquatic plant management in Card Pond (0 Great Barrington Road)
• Notice of Intent for aquatic plant management in Shaker Mill Pond (Albany Road)
• Request for Determination by CSX Transportation Inc. for railroad vegetation management
• Enforcement orders for Mill Pond Park and 27 Austerlitz Road
• Possible WPA violation review for 55 Lenox Road

The commission approved the meeting minutes. It approved the Notice of Intent for an annual aquatic plant management program at Card Pond, adding standard conditions for review and reporting. The commission changed regular meeting times to the first Wednesday of each month at 6 p.m. A Certificate of Compliance was issued for 278 Great Barrington Road (MassDEP #331-0004).

• Approved meeting minutes
• Approved Card Pond aquatic plant management program with standard conditions
• Changed regular meeting day to the first Wednesday at 6 p.m.
• Issued Certificate of Compliance for 278 Great Barrington Road (MassDEP #331-0004)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold an executive session to discuss legal strategy regarding two Land Court cases. The remainder of the meeting consists of procedural items, including the approval of previous meeting minutes.

• Executive session regarding Truc Orient Express, et al. v. Two Harris St., LLC, et al. (Land Court Case Nos. 22 MISC 000672 and 24 MISC 000605)
• Approval of minutes from 5/6/25 and 5/20/25 meetings

The Planning Board approved the minutes from the May 6 and May 20 meetings, each by a 5‑0 vote. The board then agreed by consensus on future meeting dates of June 17, July 1, July 15, July 29, and August 12. Finally, the board adjourned the regular meeting with a 5‑0 vote.

• Approved May 6, 2025 minutes (5‑0)
• Approved May 20, 2025 minutes (5‑0)
• Scheduled future meetings for June 17, July 1, July 15, July 29, August 12 (consensus)
• Closed regular meeting (5‑0)

Select Board

The Select Board will meet in a special executive session to discuss collective bargaining strategy. The session focuses on the Police Chief contract.

• Executive session regarding Police Chief Contract

Cemetery Commission

The Cemetery Commission will meet to reorganize the commission and approve previous minutes. Members will also discuss current activity in the cemeteries.

• Reorganization of the Commission
• Discussion on current activity in the cemeteries

Dog Park Committee

The Dog Park Advisory Committee will meet to approve previous minutes and receive an update on dog park construction. The committee will also hear a report from FOWSDP regarding a farmer's market event and digital presence.

• Update on dog park construction
• FOWSDP report on first farmer's market event
• Discussion of FOWSDP logo, emails, and website

The Dog Park Advisory Committee approved a temporary subcommittee to oversee construction and approved using CPA grant money to pay a $108 state filing fee for the park’s special permit. It also approved adding brick‑campaign details to the website, renaming the Facebook page, and allowing checks made out to “West Stockbridge Dog Park” pending bank endorsement. The group decided to delay bench‑sponsorship promotion until after the park opens.

• Approved formation of temporary subcommittee for construction oversight (members: Sharon Vidal, Jackie Murray)
• Approved covering $108 state filing fee with CPA grant funds
• Approved adding brick campaign information to the website and updating donation language
• Approved renaming the Facebook page to reflect the broader community group
• Approved allowing checks payable to “West Stockbridge Dog Park” if properly endorsed
• Approved delaying promotion of bench sponsorships until after park opening

Conservation Commission

The West Stockbridge Conservation Commission will meet to discuss two annual aquatic plant management programs using herbicides and algaecides in Card Pond and Shaker Mill Pond. The meeting will also address enforcement orders for projects at 8 Cone Hill Road and 55 Lenox Road, including tree removal and potential wetland violations.

• Notice of Intent for aquatic plant management in Card Pond using EPA/MA-registered herbicides
• Notice of Intent for aquatic plant management in Shaker Mill Pond using EPA/MA-registered herbicides
• Enforcement Order for excavating near river at Mill Pond Park
• Enforcement Order for tree removal at 8 Cone Hill Road
• Possible wetland violation at 55 Lenox Road

The commission approved the meeting minutes. Several Notice of Intent items for Card Pond, Shaker Mill Pond, and a CSX vegetation request were postponed to June 4. The commission voted to extend hybrid/Zoom meetings until June 2027 and to move regular meetings to the first Wednesday of each month at 6 p.m. No action was taken regarding the Baldwin fire.

• Approved meeting minutes (no vote tally recorded)
• Postponed Card Pond aquatic plant management NOI to June 4
• Postponed Shaker Mill Pond aquatic plant management NOI to June 4
• Postponed CSX Transportation vegetation management request to June 4
• Extended hybrid/Zoom meetings until June 2027
• Changed regular meeting day to first Wednesday of each month at 6 p.m.
• Decided no action on Baldwin fire notification

Planning Board

The West Stockbridge Planning Board will meet on May 20, 2025, at 7:00 PM to approve prior meeting minutes, confirm future meeting dates, and discuss zoning processes. The board will also hold a public hearing at 7:15 PM for a special permit requested by Insight Solar to install a small-scale ground-mounted photovoltaic system on a property at 103 East Alford Road.

• Public hearing for special permit for small-scale ground-mounted photovoltaic system by Insight Solar at 103 East Alford Road
• Review and confirmation of upcoming planning board meeting dates
• Discussion on zoning process

The board approved the May 1 meeting minutes unanimously (5‑0). It changed the June 3 meeting to June 4 by consensus and set future dates. By a 5‑0 vote, the board granted a special permit for a small‑scale ground‑mounted solar array at 103 East Alford Rd, with the condition of compliance with building code. All motions to close the hearing and the meeting passed unanimously (5‑0).

• Approved May 1 minutes (5‑0)
• Changed June 3 meeting to June 4 (consensus)
• Granted special permit for solar array at 103 East Alford Rd (5‑0)
• Adopted condition that applicant comply with building code (5‑0)
• Closed public hearing (5‑0)
• Made affirmative finding that application met requirements (5‑0)
• Closed regular meeting (5‑0)

Parks and Recreation

The committee will hold annual elections for Chairperson and Clerk. Members will discuss updates for Card Pond, including lifeguard staffing and facility status. The meeting includes time for member and citizen comments.

• Annual vote for Chairperson and Clerk
• Finalization of Memorial Day 2025 plans
• Card Pond pavilion status
• Atlantic Geese Management Services update
• Card Pond 2025 lifeguard and opening party scheduling

The committee approved the prior meeting’s minutes and elected Cait Graham as chair and Joseph Roy as clerk. It also finalized the town’s Memorial Day celebration plans. Additional items discussed included pavilion footings, a Card Pond dock extension, and the lack of lifeguard applicants, with DPW providing grounds‑keeping support.

• Approved previous meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved appointment of Cait Graham as chair (unanimous)
• Approved appointment of Joseph Roy as clerk (unanimous)
• Finalized Memorial Day celebration plans
• Scheduled pavilion footings to begin Friday
• Planned Card Pond dock extension for later summer

Community Preservation Committee

The West Stockbridge Community Preservation Committee will meet on May 15, 2025, to approve prior meeting minutes and to review and vote on current CPC applications. The agenda also includes any other business not reasonably anticipated within 48 hours. No specific application details or dollar amounts are listed in the agenda.

• Review and vote on current Community Preservation Act applications (specifics not provided in agenda)

The committee approved the February 13, 2025 minutes with a 5‑0 vote and the March 6, 2025 minutes with a 5‑0 vote. A motion to adjourn the meeting was passed unanimously. The committee also noted the creation of a new CPC email account for communications.

• Approved February 13, 2025 minutes (5-0)
• Approved March 6, 2025 minutes (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Vision Committee

The Vision Committee approved approximately $7,000 for Welcome to West Stockbridge signs. The proposal to join a shared resource for a building inspector was not approved, so the current inspector remains. The meeting was adjourned at 9:16 AM by unanimous vote.

• Approved approx $7,000 for Welcome to West Stockbridge signs (vote not specified)
• Rejected proposal to join shared building inspector resource (vote not specified)
• Adjourned meeting at 9:16 AM (unanimous)

Select Board

This meeting includes approval of prior meeting minutes, a town administrator update, and a vote on reorganization of the Select Board. Public comment is also scheduled. The agenda is largely procedural with one action item.

• Approve minutes from April 28, May 8 Executive Session, and May 8 Special Meeting
• Vote on reorganization of the Board

The Select Board approved minutes from prior meetings and unanimously appointed Andy Krouss as chair. The town administrator reported nine applications for the police chief position, with a screening committee set to meet May 21. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved April 28, 2025 and May 8 Executive Session and Special Meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Appointed Andy Krouss as Select Board chair (unanimous)

Select Board

The Select Board will hold a special executive session via Zoom to discuss litigation strategy regarding Wiseacre Farm, pursuant to G.L. c.30A, §21(a)(3). The board will not return to open session after the executive session. No other business will be conducted.

• Executive session to discuss litigation strategy for Wiseacre Farm

The Select Board held a public hearing on the Baldwin Farm Bistro liquor license. The board approved the license, limiting service to beer and wine, requiring alcohol purchases to be accompanied by a food purchase, and setting operating hours from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. (or until closing, whichever occurs sooner). All members voted in favor.

• Approved Baldwin Farm Bistro liquor license with conditions (unanimous)
• Condition added: alcohol service stops at 9 PM or closing, whichever is earlier
• Condition added: license limited to beer and wine only
• Condition added: alcohol may be purchased only with a food purchase
• Condition added: operations permitted from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. until January 2025

Select Board

The Select Board will hold a continued public hearing on the liquor license application for Baldwin Farm Bistro. The meeting also includes citizen speak time for residents.

• Continuation of public hearing for Baldwin Farm Bistro liquor license

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will hold public hearings on two Notices of Intent for annual aquatic plant management programs in Card Pond and Shaker Mill Pond using registered herbicides and algaecides. The commission will also discuss enforcement orders for tree removal and excavation near the river, and consider administrative items including a new member appointment and a resignation.

• Public hearing: Notice of Intent for annual Aquatic Plant Management Program in Card Pond using USEPA/MA registered herbicides & algaecides
• Public hearing: Notice of Intent for annual Aquatic Plant Management Program in Shaker Mill Pond using USEPA/MA registered herbicides & algaecides
• Continued: Pratt, 10 Water Street, MassDEP #331-0118 footbridge repairs
• Enforcement Order: Mill Pond Park, excavating near the river
• Enforcement Order: 8 Cone Hill Road, tree removal

Affordable Housing Trust

The Affordable Housing Trust will meet virtually to review previous minutes and receive a consultancy update. The body will also hold a discussion regarding its mission and vision.

• Consultancy Update
• Mission/Vision Discussion

Planning Board

The Planning Board will open a public hearing at 7:15 p.m. to consider two zoning amendments: one revising Accessory Dwelling Unit regulations, and another increasing Zoning Board of Appeals associate members from two to three. The board will also confirm future meeting dates and address any late-arising business.

• Public hearing at 7:15 p.m. on amendment to ADU zoning regulations
• Public hearing on amendment to increase ZBA associate members from 2 to 3
• Review and confirmation of upcoming planning board meeting dates
• Discussion of other business not anticipated within 48 hours

The Planning Board voted 5‑0 to recommend that the town allow a third associate member on the Zoning Board of Appeals. It also voted 5‑0 to refer the draft ADU regulations (draft #14) to the select board with a recommendation to place them on a town‑meeting warrant. The board then closed the public hearing and the regular meeting by unanimous motions.

• Approved recommendation to increase ZBA associate members from 2 to 3 (5‑0)
• Referred ADU draft #14 to select board with recommendation for town‑meeting warrant (5‑0)
• Closed public hearing at 8:20 p.m. (5‑0)
• Closed regular meeting at 8:25 p.m. (5‑0)

Board of Assessors

This is a routine procedural meeting. The Board will vote on motor vehicle excise abatements for March and April, authorize Chapter Land Release tax liens, and certify motor vehicle excise tax uncollectibles from 2015-2019.

• Approve motor vehicle abatements for March and April
• Approve Chapter Land Release tax liens
• Approve motor vehicle excise tax uncollectibles for 2015-2019

The West Stockbridge Board of Assessors approved the April and May Motor Vehicle Excise Tax Abatement Applications. It also approved the release of Chapter Land Tax Liens. Additionally, the Board approved the Motor Vehicle Excise Tax Uncollectibles for the years 2015‑2019.

• Approved April Motor Vehicle Excise Tax Abatement Applications
• Approved May Motor Vehicle Excise Tax Abatement Applications
• Approved release of Chapter Land Tax Liens
• Approved Motor Vehicle Excise Tax Uncollectibles for 2015‑2019

Select Board

Voters will elect officials and decide whether to make the town clerk an appointed position. At the Annual Town Meeting, residents will vote on a $6,340,000+ FY26 budget, salary increases for elected officials, and a special act to create two associate planning board members. Other articles authorize routine town operations, including property sales and borrowing.

• Ballot question: Shall the town clerk become an appointed position?
• FY26 general fund budget totaling approximately $6.34 million across articles 12–20
• Proposed salaries for elected officials: Select Board chair to $3,200, Town Collector to $23,000, Moderator to $500
• Special act to create two associate members for the Planning Board when acting as special permit granting authority
• Public safety budget increases to $1,176,080 from $859,906, including $190,500 for Richmond Ambulance

Town Clerk

The town authorized the Select Board and other officers to act as agents, sell obsolete property under $500, accept cemetery perpetual care funds, appoint moderators and non‑elected officers, and auction tax‑sale property. It approved borrowing authority and the ability to seek grants, and it approved the Treasurer’s authority to issue short‑term notes. The town fixed officer salaries, adopted FY 2026 budgets for general government, public safety, education, and public works, and tabled the proposed amendment to add two associate members to the Planning Board.

• Approved authorization for Select Board to sue and settle on behalf of the town (Article 1)
• Approved authorization to sell obsolete town property valued under $500 (Article 2)
• Approved acceptance of Cemetery Perpetual Care funds for FY 2025 (Article 3)
• Approved authorization for the Moderator to appoint agents or committees (Article 4)
• Approved authorization for Select Board to appoint all non‑elected town officers (Article 5)
• Approved Treasurer’s authority to auction tax‑sale property (Article 6)
• Approved borrowing authority and issuance of short‑term notes (Articles 7 & 8)
• Tabled amendment to Article 10 that would allow two associate Planning Board members and then tabled Article 10 itself

Planning Board

The West Stockbridge Planning Board will hold its regular meeting, primarily focused on continuing a public hearing for a special permit at 72 West Alford Rd. (known as the 'Pony Club' property). The board will also approve minutes from its April 15 meeting and confirm future meeting dates. No final decisions are scheduled; this is a continuation of a prior hearing.

• Continuation of public hearing for a special permit at 72 West Alford Rd. ("Pony Club")

The board unanimously approved the special permit for the Pony Club at 72 West Alford Rd, adopting the final conditions and affirmative findings. Motions to approve the conditions, findings, and the permit all carried 5‑0. Earlier, the board also approved the April 15 and April 19 meeting minutes.

• Approved 4/15/25 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Approved 4/19/25 site‑visit minutes (3-0)
• Approved final conditions for 72 West Alford Rd special permit (5-0)
• Approved affirmative findings for zoning bylaw 6.3.4.a‑e (5-0)
• Approved the special permit for 72 West Alford Rd (5-0)
• Closed the public hearing (5-0)

Parks and Recreation

The committee will review the 2025 Easter Egg Hunt and finalize plans for Memorial Day 2025. Members will also discuss several updates regarding Card Pond, including lifeguard staffing and the opening party.

• Memorial Day 2025 planning
• Card Pond pavilion status
• Atlantic Geese Management Services
• Card Pond muck mats and Solitude
• 2025 lifeguard staffing

The Parks & Recreation Committee approved the previous meeting minutes unanimously. Members reviewed the recent Easter Egg Hunt and reported it went well with no suggested changes. They outlined plans for Memorial Day, assigning several members to contact performers, readers, and organizations. The committee noted there is currently no lifeguard and asked for volunteers.

• Approved previous meeting minutes (unanimous)

Select Board

The Select Board will vote on Phase 4 and 5 of the Housatonic Water Co. Agreement and continue a public hearing for the Baldwin Farm Bistro liquor license. Other items include an annual entertainment license for the Farmers Market and a discussion on a shared conservation agent.

• Vote on Phase 4 & 5 of the Housatonic Water Co. Agreement
• Continuation of public hearing for Baldwin Farm Bistro liquor license
• Annual Entertainment License for Farmers Market – Lily Davenport
• Shared Conservation Agent Discussion with Conservation Commission Chair David Evans
• Approve minutes from executive sessions on April 9 and April 14, 2025

The Select Board approved the minutes from the April 9 and 14 meetings and approved an annual entertainment license for the Farmers’ Market. It voted unanimously not to support Phases 4 and 5 of the Housatonic Water Company agreement. The Board agreed to research a shared Conservation Commission Agent and continued the public hearing on the Baldwin Farm Bistro liquor license pending further information. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved April 9 & 14 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved Annual Entertainment License for Farmers’ Market (unanimous)
• Voted not to support Housatonic Water Co. Phase 4 & 5 (unanimous)
• Agreed to research shared Conservation Commission Agent (unanimous)
• Continued public hearing on Baldwin Farm Bistro liquor license (pending)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Dog Park Committee

The West Stockbridge Dog Park Committee will meet to provide an update on the selection of a park construction company. The body will also discuss fundraising merchandise and Farmer's Market representation dates.

• Update on selection of park construction company
• FOWSDP logo selection and fundraising merchandise (bandannas, bricks)
• Farmer's Market representation dates from 5/22 to 8/14
• Discussion on developing a volunteer group

The committee approved the previous meeting’s minutes unanimously. The town awarded the dog‑park construction contract to Clark and Sons at $232,000, the lowest bid. The group agreed to raise the water‑line issue with the town, follow up on agenda placement, and coordinate joint groundbreaking planning with the Friends. Fundraising steps were approved, including a QR‑code flyer for commemorative bricks and staffing both the Farmers Market and Zucchini Festival with volunteers.

• Approved prior meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Awarded construction contract to Clark and Sons for $232,000
• Agreed to raise water‑line work issue with town before parking lot repaving
• Agreed to follow up with town on committee’s agenda listing
• Decided to produce QR‑code flyer for commemorative brick donations
• Decided to staff both Farmers Market and Zucchini Festival with volunteers
• Agreed that groundbreaking planning will be joint effort of committee and Friends
• Scheduled next meeting for May 24, 2025 at 10 a.m.

Planning Board

The Planning Board will conduct a site visit at 72 West Alford Rd. for a special permit application by Berkshire Pony Club to operate an equine facility and riding stable. The board will meet at the existing tennis court to inspect the property before any discussion or decision.

• Site visit for Berkshire Pony Club special permit application for equine facility and riding stable at 72 West Alford Rd.

The West Stockbridge Planning Board members walked the proposed equine facility and riding stable site at 9:00 a.m. with the applicant's attorney. The site visit concluded at approximately 9:30 a.m. No formal decisions, approvals, or votes were recorded during this meeting.

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing to discuss a request from Tom and Karen Beebe. The applicants are seeking a Special Permit and relief from town setback requirements to build a 10x20 ft. shed.

• Special Permit request for a 10x20 ft. shed at 32 Iron Mine Rd.
• Request for relief from setback requirement Sect. 5.6

Planning Board

The Planning Board will conduct a public hearing regarding a special permit for 72 West Alford Rd. (Pony Club). The board will also confirm a future hearing date for a solar project.

• Public hearing for 72 West Alford Rd. ("Pony Club") special permit
• Confirmation of 5/20/25 hearing date for 103 East Alford Rd. ground-mounted solar special permit

The Planning Board approved the March 18 minutes and cancelled the April 22 meeting. It set several future dates, including a May 6 hearing on ADU zoning, a May 20 hearing on a solar permit, and a June 3 regular meeting. The board voted 5‑0 to continue the 72 West Alford Rd. special‑permit hearing until May 1, 2025, at 7:15 p.m., and agreed to a site visit on April 19.

• Approved 3/18/25 minutes (vote 4‑0)
• Cancelled scheduled 4/22/25 meeting
• Set ADU zoning and ZBA associate members hearing for 5/6/25
• Scheduled 103 East Alford Rd. solar permit hearing for 5/20/25
• Scheduled regular meeting for 6/3/25
• Continued 72 West Alford Rd. special‑permit hearing to 5/1/25, 7:15 p.m. (vote 5‑0)
• Agreed by consensus to conduct site visit on 4/19/25 at 9 a.m.
• Adjourned regular meeting at 9 p.m. (vote 5‑0)

Select Board

The Select Board will hold a public hearing and vote on an on-premises all-alcohol liquor license for Baldwin Farm Bistro. The meeting also includes approval of prior meeting minutes, citizen speak time, and a town administrator update.

• Public hearing and vote on On-Premises All Alcohol Liquor License for Baldwin Farm Bistro
• Approval of minutes from March 13 and 31, 2025
• Citizen speak time for resident comments
• Town Administrator Update

The Board unanimously approved the minutes from the March 13 Executive Session and the March 31 meeting. They voted to continue the public hearing on Baldwin Farm’s all‑alcohol‑on‑premises liquor license to the April 28 meeting. The Board also agreed to invite the Planning Board Chair, Zoning Board of Appeals Chair, Building Inspector and Town Counsel to that meeting to discuss the Building Inspector’s job description and oversight. Additionally, the Board approved preparing a written explanation of the Building Inspector line‑item increase for voters.

• Approved March 13 Executive Session and March 31 minutes (unanimous)
• Continued Baldwin Farm liquor‑license hearing to April 28 (board agreed)
• Agreed to invite Planning Board Chair, Zoning Board of Appeals Chair, Building Inspector and Town Counsel to April 28 meeting
• Agreed to prepare a written explanation of the Building Inspector line‑item increase for voters

Parks and Recreation

This is a notice of a free community Easter egg hunt event, not a regular meeting with decisions. The event is split by age groups (ages 5 & under at 2pm, ages 6 & over at 2:15pm) at the playground behind the Town Offices.

• No rezonings, contracts, ordinances, fee changes, or public hearings are listed.

Finance Committee

The West Stockbridge Finance Committee is reviewing the draft FY2026 budget, which proposes $7,415,526 in total appropriations, up from $6,992,306 in FY2025. The document includes departmental line items, special articles for capital projects, and enterprise fund estimates. No votes have been taken; this is a discussion on the proposed spending plan.

• Police Department appropriations proposed at $701,178, up from $621,131 in FY2025
• Richmond Ambulance service line increases to $190,500 from $90,500
• Debt service total rises to $356,096, including $315,470 for the Multi-Purpose Loan
• Special articles include $65,000 for a new Town Hall boiler, $15,000 for fire sprinkler system, and $180,000 for a shared new ambulance
• Proposed transfers of $85,050 from Free Cash to stabilization funds

The Finance Committee voted to recommend approval of the FY26 town budget as a whole. The committee did not recommend the budget line for the shared building inspection services contract. No other items were voted on for recommendation.

• Recommend FY26 budget approval (excluding shared inspection line)
• Do not recommend shared building inspection services budget line

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee and Select Board are holding a joint public hearing to discuss the proposed FY26 budget. Following the hearing, they will vote on approval of the budget for inclusion in the warrant.

• Public hearing and discussion of the FY26 budget
• Vote on approval of the FY26 budget for the warrant

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will hold a public hearing on a Request for Determination for a new pavilion at Card Pond. They will continue hearings on footbridge repairs and brush removal from shoreline. Enforcement orders are on the agenda for excavation near the river at Mill Pond Park and tree removal at 8 Cone Hill Road. Administrative business includes extending hybrid meetings and organizing files.

• Public hearing: Town of West Stockbridge RDA for pavilion at Card Pond, 0 Great Barrington Road
• Continued hearing: Pratt footbridge repairs at 10 Water Street, MassDEP #331-0118
• Continued hearing: Wilton and Knight RDA for brush and weed removal at 25 Smith Road
• Enforcement order: Mill Pond Park for excavating near the river
• Enforcement order: 8 Cone Hill Road for tree removal (no NHESP permit)

The Conservation Commission approved the request for determination to build a pavilion at Card Pond, with work slated to start in 4 to 6 weeks. It also decided to issue an Enforcement Order for 27 Austerlitz Road after a site visit confirmed no Wetlands Protection Act violation. The RDA for brush removal at 25 Smith Road was withdrawn by the applicant, and the commission extended hybrid/Zoom meetings through June 2027 while moving regular meetings to the first Wednesday at 6 p.m.

• Approved Card Pond pavilion RDA; construction to begin in 4‑6 weeks
• Issued Enforcement Order for 27 Austerlitz Road (Ann Rothenberg case)
• RDA for brush removal at 25 Smith Road withdrawn by applicant
• Continued discussion of Pratt, 10 Water Street (MassDEP #331‑0118) to next meeting
• No change to Enforcement Order for tree removal at 8 Cone Hill Rd
• Extended hybrid/Zoom meetings until June 2027
• Changed regular meeting time to first Wednesday at 6 p.m.

Select Board

The Select Board will meet in a special executive session to discuss litigation strategy. The session is closed to the public to avoid detrimental effects on the town's litigating position.

• Litigation strategy regarding Housatonic Water Company
• Litigation strategy regarding Wiseacre Farm

Affordable Housing Trust

The West Stockbridge Affordable Housing Trust will meet virtually to review and approve previous meeting minutes, receive a consultancy update, and discuss the trust's mission and vision. Public comment periods are included.

• Review and act on previous meeting minutes
• Consultancy update
• Mission/Vision discussion

Vision Committee

The West Stockbridge Vision Committee will review and act on past meeting minutes, discuss the cost and design of 'Welcome to West Stockbridge' signs, and follow up on a comprehensive marketing guide for residents and visitors. Items also include updates on the Planning Board, the upcoming Annual Town Meeting, and public transportation in West Stockbridge.

• Review and act on past meeting minutes
• Discussion of 'Welcome to West Stockbridge' signs and associated costs
• Follow-up on a comprehensive marketing guide for residents and visitors
• Follow-up on a new residents guide
• Updates on Planning Board activity and the upcoming Annual Town Meeting

Select Board

The Select Board will hold a special executive session via Zoom to discuss collective bargaining strategy for the Town Administrator contract. The meeting will consist of a roll call vote to enter executive session and then adjourn without returning to open session.

• Roll call vote to enter executive session under M.G.L. c. 30A §21(a)(3) to discuss strategy for collective bargaining on the Town Administrator contract

Parks and Recreation

The West Stockbridge Parks and Recreation Committee will review and approve previous meeting minutes, receive an update on the Pavilion, and finalize plans for the Easter Egg Hunt. They will also begin discussions for Memorial Day 2025 and discuss Card Pond operations, including lifeguard staffing, opening day, and beach improvements. The agenda includes time for committee members and citizens to speak, followed by scheduling the next meeting.

• Finalize plans for Easter Egg Hunt 2025
• Start discussion for Memorial Day 2025
• Discuss Card Pond lifeguard, opening day, and beach improvements
• Update on Pavilion Status
• Review and approve previous meeting minutes

The committee approved the minutes from the previous meeting unanimously. Members reviewed the pavilion location and installation at Card Pond and assigned follow‑up tasks for paperwork and updated pricing. Plans for the Easter Egg Hunt and Memorial Day ceremony were discussed, with members tasked to handle signage, advertising, and coordination with local groups.

• Approved previous meeting minutes (unanimous)

Board of Health

The West Stockbridge Board of Health will convene to review and act on previous meeting minutes, hold a public hearing regarding sanitary code violations at 31 Gwenn Lane, and allow public comment. The meeting is procedural with one substantive item.

• Public hearing on sanitary code violations at 31 Gwenn Lane
• Review and action on previous meeting minutes
• Public speak period

Sewer and Water

The Sewer & Water Commissioners will receive updates on wastewater treatment plant projects including roof, generator, and engineering work. They will also discuss and potentially take action on the Swamp Road water main replacement engineering. The meeting includes public input and other business.

• Wastewater Treatment Plant projects update: roof, generator, engineering
• Swamp Rd water main replacement engineering discussion/action

The commission approved the Foresight Engineering proposal for HVAC and emergency generator repairs at the wastewater treatment plant, pending verification of funding, with a 3‑0 vote and one abstention. It also approved the Swamp Road water main replacement contract, voting 3‑0 with the same abstention. A roof and gutter repair quote was discussed but no action was taken. The meeting was adjourned unanimously.

• Approved HVAC & generator repair proposal (3-0, EM abstained)
• Approved Swamp Road water main replacement contract (3-0, EM abstained)
• Motion to adjourn passed (4-0)

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will meet to approve motor vehicle abatements and statutory exemption applications for 2025. The board will also review the Motor Vehicle Commitment 2-2025.

• February and March Motor Vehicle Abatements
• 2025 Statutory Exemption Applications
• Motor Vehicle Commitment 2-2025

The West Stockbridge Board of Assessors approved the February and March Motor Vehicle Excise Tax Abatement Applications. It also approved the FY 2025 Statutory Exemption Applications and the Motor Vehicle Commitment 2‑2025. Additionally, the board approved all FY 2025 Real Estate and Personal Property abatements recommended by Harald Scheid.

• Approved February and March Motor Vehicle Excise Tax Abatement Applications
• Approved FY 2025 Statutory Exemption Applications
• Approved Motor Vehicle Commitment 2-2025
• Approved all FY 2025 Real Estate and Personal Property abatements recommended by Harald Scheid

Select Board

The West Stockbridge Select Board meeting agenda contains only an announcement of a community information session about the Monument Mountain High School Building Project hosted by the MMRHS Building Committee. The session includes a high school tour at 5:30 pm followed by an information session at 6:00 pm, covering a schematic design update and next steps. No votes or decisions are scheduled.

• Community Information Session & High School Tour for Monument Mountain High School Building Project on April 1, 2025

Select Board

The Select Board will discuss the process for a new Police Chief search, including a review led by Marie. The board is also scheduled to enter executive session via roll call vote to discuss collective bargaining strategy for the Director of Public Works and Town Administrator. Routine items include approval of minutes from previous meetings and citizen speak time.

• Approve minutes from March 13 executive session and March 17 regular meeting
• Review process for new Police Chief search – Marie
• Roll call vote to enter executive session for collective bargaining (DPW and Town Administrator)
• Citizen Speak Time for residents (3 minutes each)
• Town Administrator Update

The Select Board unanimously approved the March 17, 2025 meeting minutes. The board agreed to proceed with the hiring process for a new police chief, including posting the advertisement by May 15. The board voted to enter an executive session to discuss collective bargaining strategy.

• Approved March 17, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved proceeding with police chief hiring process and posting ad by May 15
• Approved entering executive session to discuss collective bargaining (3‑0)

West Stockbridge Public Library

The West Stockbridge Public Library Board of Trustees will convene for its regular meeting to review and possibly amend the minutes of the last meeting, receive the librarian’s report, and conduct other routine business. No substantive decisions are scheduled.

Conservation Commission

The West Stockbridge Conservation Commission will hold a regular meeting to continue a public hearing for the Pratt property at 10 Water Street and discuss a revised RDA for Wilton and Knight on Smith Road. The commission will also consider enforcement orders for excavation near the river at Mill Pond Park and tree removal at 8 Cone Hill Road. Communications and administrative items including new member recruitment are also on the agenda.

• Public hearing continued for Pratt, 10 Water Street (MassDEP #331-0118)
• Wilton and Knight, Smith Road – RDA revision requested in November
• Mill Pond Park – Enforcement order for excavating near the river
• 8 Cone Hill Rd – Enforcement order for tree removal (no NHESP permit, no MassDEP file)
• Communications: Mark Stinson re: trees at 55 Lenox Road and pickleball court at 16 Glendale Road; Rothenberg re: possible WPA violation at 27 Austerlitz Road

The commission accepted the resignation of Chair Kathy Korte and appointed member David Evans as the new chair. A site visit was scheduled for the WSCC to evaluate culvert drainage issues, with DPW’s Curt Wilton attending. Two project items – the Pratt 10 Water Street permit and the Smith Road RDA revision – were continued to the next meeting.

• David Evans nominated and accepted as Commission Chair
• Site visit scheduled by WSCC to assess culvert drainage, DPW’s Curt Wilton to attend
• Pratt project (10 Water Street, MassDEP #331-0118) continued to next meeting
• Smith Road RDA revision to be resubmitted to MassDEP, continued to next meeting

Select Board

The town will hold its Annual Town Caucus to address upcoming vacancies for elected offices. The meeting will cover terms for various town boards and commissions.

• Election of Moderator (1-year term)
• Election of Select Board (3-year term)
• Election of Town Clerk and Tax Collector (3-year terms)
• Election of Board of Assessors and Finance Committee (3-year terms)
• Election of Planning Board (5-year term)

Town Clerk

The town will hold its Annual Town Caucus to address elected office terms. The meeting will identify incumbents whose terms are up for several town positions.

• Moderator term (1-year)
• Select Board term (3-years)
• Town Clerk term (3-years)
• Tax Collector term (3-years)
• Planning Board term (5-years)

Planning Board

The Planning Board approved minutes from 3/3/25 and scheduled public hearings for the 72 West Alford Rd. special permit (moved to 4/15) and an ADU zoning change (5/6). The board discussed potential delays to the short-term rental zoning change pending further review. No substantive decisions were made beyond scheduling and procedural items.

• Approved 3/3/25 meeting minutes (4-0)
• Scheduled public hearing for 72 West Alford Rd. special permit for 4/15/25 (4-0)
• Scheduled public hearing for ADU zoning change for 5/6/25 (4-0)
• Tentatively scheduled meeting for 4/22/25

Select Board

The Select Board will consider appointing Jackie Murray and Melanie Thibeault to the Dog Park Committee and receive an update from the Vision Committee. The meeting also includes approval of prior minutes, a Town Administrator update, and a roll call vote to enter executive session for collective bargaining strategy involving the Director of Public Works and Town Administrator.

• Appoint Jackie Murray and Melanie Thibeault to Dog Park Committee
• Vision Committee update from Joe Roy
• Roll call vote to enter executive session for collective bargaining (Director of Public Works and Town Administrator)
• Approve minutes from March 3, 2025

The Select Board approved the appointments of Jackie Murray and Melanie Thibeault to the Dog Park Committee. The board also agreed to let the Vision Committee gather information on Level 2.5 EV charging stations after federal funding for Level 3 stations was cut. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting included updates and ended with an executive session.

• Approved March 3, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved Jackie Murray and Melanie Thibeault to Dog Park Committee (unanimous)
• Agreed to let Vision Committee gather info on Level 2.5 EV charging stations
• Entered executive session for collective bargaining strategy (3-0)

Planning Board

The West Stockbridge Planning Board will review and approve minutes from March 3, confirm future meeting dates, and discuss scheduling public hearings for a special permit at 72 West Alford Road (Pony Club) and an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) zoning change proposal. The board will also address a request from the ZBA to change the number of zoning board associates and discuss other current planning board work.

• Schedule public hearing for 72 West Alford Road ("Pony Club") special permit
• Schedule public hearing for accessory dwelling unit (ADU) zoning change proposal
• Request by ZBA to change number of zoning board associates
• Approve minutes from March 3, 2025 planning board meeting
• Review and confirm upcoming planning board meeting dates

Parks and Recreation

The West Stockbridge Parks & Recreation Committee will vote on a proposal for Atlantic Goose Management services for town waterways for Spring/Summer 2025. The committee will also review and approve minutes from previous meetings and allow member and citizen speaking time.

• Vote to approve proposal for Atlantic Goose Management services for town waterways (Spring/Summer 2025)
• Review and approve minutes from 1-16-25 and 2-28-25 meetings

The West Stockbridge Parks and Recreation Committee approved a $1,800 proposal from Atlantic Goose Management to address goose issues at town waterways, using leftover funds from last year's lifeguard savings. The committee also approved the minutes from the January 16 and February 28 meetings. The next meeting is scheduled for April 4, 2025.

• Approved minutes from 1-16-25 and 2-28-25 (all in favor)
• Approved $1,800 Atlantic Goose Management proposal, funded by leftover lifeguard savings (all in favor)

Select Board

The Select Board will meet in a special executive session via Zoom to discuss legal strategy for two pending litigations: Housatonic Water Company and Wiseacre Farm. There will be no open session after the roll call vote to enter executive session.

• Executive session to discuss litigation strategy regarding Housatonic Water Company
• Executive session to discuss litigation strategy regarding Wiseacre Farm

Vision Committee

The West Stockbridge Vision Committee will review past meeting minutes and discuss several ongoing initiatives, including costs for 'Welcome to West Stockbridge' signs, a beautification budget request from the Finance Committee, and a report from the Planning Board on Accessory Dwelling Units and Short Term Rentals. The committee will also explore ways to help new residents and businesses find services, review other town websites for a new residents guide, and discuss potential new members. No binding votes or dollar amounts are indicated on the agenda.

• Report on Planning Board work for Accessory Dwelling Units & Short Term Rentals
• Continue 'Beautification' budget [Lisa Parker] – Finance Committee request
• How to help new residents & businesses find direction for services
• Review Shrewsbury & Deerfield Town websites for new residents guide
• Discuss further uses of signs featuring residents, visitors & events

The Vision Committee unanimously adopted previous meeting minutes and approved a motion for Steve to draft a visitor and resident guide for West Stockbridge, inspired by Gatlinburg, TN. The committee also discussed Welcome signs, a $16,000 beautification budget, and membership changes, but no other formal votes were taken.

• Adopted previous meeting minutes with amendments (unanimous)
• Approved Steve to draft a visitor and resident guide (unanimous)

Community Preservation Committee

The West Stockbridge Community Preservation Committee will meet to approve prior meeting minutes and, most notably, to review and discuss all pending CPC applications. The agenda also includes a placeholder for any other business that arises within 48 hours of the meeting. No specific applications or dollar amounts are listed in the agenda.

• Approve minutes from previous meeting
• Review and discuss all CPC applications

The West Stockbridge Community Preservation Committee reviewed three FY 2025-26 proposals. It voted 6-0 to deny funding for the 3 Hotel Street exterior rehabilitation and the Congregational Church access ramp. It voted 6-0 to recommend the Historical Society bathroom renovation for the Town Meeting warrant, contingent on matching funds from the Mass. Historical Commission.

• Denied funding for 3 Hotel Street exterior rehabilitation (6-0)
• Denied funding for Congregational Church access ramp (6-0)
• Recommended Historical Society bathroom renovation for Town Meeting warrant (6-0)

Affordable Housing Trust

This is a procedural meeting of the West Stockbridge Affordable Housing Trust. The board will review previous minutes, receive a consultancy update, and discuss the trust's mission and vision. No votes on specific projects or funding are listed.

• Consultancy update on affordable housing work
• Mission/vision discussion for the trust
• Approval of previous meeting minutes

The West Stockbridge Affordable Housing Trust postponed approval of previous meeting minutes until the next meeting. They discussed the Berkshire Regional Planning Commission's housing assessment update and agreed to suggest changing the April 10th community engagement venue to the West Stockbridge Historical Society. The trust also agreed to schedule regular meetings for the first Tuesday of each month at 9am.

• Postponed approval of 2-4-25 and 12-19-24 meeting minutes until next meeting
• Agreed to suggest changing April 10th community engagement venue to West Stockbridge Historical Society
• Agreed to schedule regular WSAHT meetings for the first Tuesday of every month at 9am
• Approved adjournment motion (4-0, omitting designee member Steve Mack)

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will meet to approve routine motor vehicle abatements for January and February, as well as 2025 statutory exemption applications. The agenda also includes other unspecified business. This is a procedural meeting with no major policy decisions or financial details provided.

• Approve January and February motor vehicle abatements
• Approve 2025 statutory exemption applications

The Board of Assessors met and approved the January and February Motor Vehicle Excise Tax Abatement Applications and the FY 2025 Statutory Exemption Applications. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting adjourned at 5:45pm.

• Approved January and February Motor Vehicle Excise Tax Abatement Applications
• Approved FY 2025 Statutory Exemption Applications

Planning Board

This meeting of the West Stockbridge Planning Board is largely procedural: members will approve minutes from two prior meetings, confirm upcoming meeting dates, and discuss the zoning change process and other pending work. No public hearings or financial actions are scheduled.

• Approve minutes from 2/18/25 and 2/26/25 meetings
• Confirm upcoming planning board meeting dates
• Recap the zoning change process
• Discuss upcoming planning board work

The West Stockbridge Planning Board approved minutes from two prior meetings and confirmed upcoming meeting dates. The board is awaiting a revised special permit application for 72 West Alford Rd and has sent short-term rental zoning recommendations to the select board. No substantive decisions were made beyond routine approvals and scheduling.

• Approved 2/18/25 meeting minutes (4-0)
• Approved 2/26/25 meeting minutes (4-0)
• Confirmed upcoming meetings for 3/18 and 4/7
• Noted pending revised application for 72 West Alford Rd special permit
• Sent STR zoning regs to select board with recommendation for town meeting warrant
• Sent ADU and ZBA alternate changes to select board for referral back for public hearing

Select Board

The Select Board will hear updates from the Fire and Police Departments, and vote on referring three items to the Planning Board for a public hearing: a Short Term Rental Bylaw, an Accessory Dwelling Unit Bylaw, and increasing Planning Board associate members from one to two. The board will then enter executive session to discuss collective bargaining strategy for the Director of Public Works, Police Chief, and Town Administrator contract renewals.

• Vote to refer Short Term Rental Bylaw to Planning Board for public hearing
• Vote to refer Accessory Dwelling Unit Bylaw to Planning Board for public hearing
• Vote to increase Planning Board associate members from 1 to 2
• Executive session for collective bargaining on DPW Director, Police Chief, and Town Administrator contract renewals

The Select Board approved the Planning Board's request to hold a public hearing on a draft Accessory Dwelling Unit bylaw and to place a petition for special legislation on a warrant. The board also agreed to a press release joining Stockbridge in seeking enforcement against Housatonic Water Works for failing to meet a construction deadline. Police Chief Marc Portieri submitted his resignation, effective July 7, 2025.

• Approved minutes from Feb 18 and Feb 26 executive session (3-0)
• Supported Planning Board's ADU bylaw public hearing and special legislation petition (3-0)
• Approved press release joining Stockbridge in Housatonic Water Works enforcement motion
• Entered executive session for collective bargaining strategy (3-0)

Dog Park Committee

The West Stockbridge Dog Park Committee is reviewing a memorandum of understanding with the town and discussing next steps following the Stanton Foundation's approval of the dog park plan. The committee will also cover the bidding process, volunteer solicitation, and fundraising plans including a logo contest and farmer's market events.

• Review of MOU with the Town
• Discussion of Stanton Foundation's approval of the dog park plan and next steps
• Meeting with Marie to go over the bidding process
• Results of volunteer mailing and next steps in volunteer solicitation
• FOWSDP update: logo contest, new mailing address, fundraising at Farmer's Market and ground breaking

The committee unanimously approved the meeting minutes and discussed next steps for the dog park, including finalizing a memorandum of understanding, preparing a request for proposals for contractors, and meeting with town officials. No formal votes were taken on substantive items; decisions were limited to approving minutes and agreeing to discuss the MOU and bidding process further.

• Approved meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Agreed to request a spot on the select board agenda to discuss the MOU
• Agreed to include Berkshire Design Group in the March 10 meeting with Marie Ryan on bidding
• Agreed to discuss the MOU's handling of unforeseen site issues
• Agreed to hold a future volunteer information session

Parks and Recreation

The West Stockbridge Parks and Recreation Committee will review previous meeting minutes, receive updates on Atlantic Goose Management, SOLitude, and Card Pond Pavilion, and discuss a Community Preservation Committee (CPC) application for a handicap swing. The committee will also begin planning the town's Easter egg hunt and provide time for member and citizen comments.

• CPC application for handicap swing
• Update on Atlantic Goose Management
• Update on Card Pond Pavilion
• Start planning town Easter egg hunt
• Public speaking time for residents

The West Stockbridge Parks and Recreation Committee met on February 28, 2025, and discussed several items. The pavilion has been ordered, with installation date pending. The committee also planned an Easter egg hunt for April 13, 2025, and discussed using lifeguard money for goose management and potential handicap swings for the school park.

• Ordered pavilion; installation date TBD
• Scheduled Easter egg hunt for April 13, 2025, 2-3pm at Town Hall Playground
• Assigned CG to order supplies for Easter egg hunt
• Assigned MR to get golden eggs and prizes
• Discussed using lifeguard money for Atlantic Goose Management quote
• Discussed handicap swings for school park; deferred to 2026 due to missed CPA deadline

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will continue its review of the Fiscal Year 2026 budget. No specific budget figures or line items are listed on the agenda beyond the ongoing review.

• Continuation of the FY26 budget review

Planning Board

The Planning Board will discuss the town's proposal to change building inspection services, followed by other business not anticipated within 48 hours. The meeting is solely for discussion; no votes or decisions are on the agenda.

• Discuss town's proposal to change building inspection services

The Planning Board voted 4-0 to authorize its chair to send a letter to the select board requesting that the select board rescind its vote to hire shared building inspection services and reconsider ending West Stockbridge's own building inspector arrangement. The board discussed concerns about the shared services and preferred a local inspector. The meeting was a re-do because the prior notice was posted with the wrong time.

• Authorized chair to write letter requesting select board rescind shared building inspection vote (4-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 6:10 p.m. (4-0)

Select Board

The Select Board will hold a special executive session via Zoom, not returning to open session. The board will discuss litigation strategy regarding Housatonic Water Company and Wiseacre Farm under state law. No public business is scheduled.

• Executive session to discuss litigation strategy with Housatonic Water Company
• Executive session to discuss litigation strategy with Wiseacre Farm

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will meet to discuss and review the FY26 Budget. This is the primary item of business for the meeting.

• Discussion and review of FY26 Budget

The Finance Committee reviewed the FY26 budget and recommended deferring several capital items and reducing various departmental expenses to lower Free Cash usage from $548,600 to $361,000. Deferrals include the panic alarm, new server, Fire Department SCBA replacement, and overhead doors. The committee also recommended specific reductions in Police, Highway, and Board of Health budgets, and proposed adding a $10,000 strategic consulting line item. No final votes were taken; these are recommendations for the Select Board.

• Recommended deferring $6,000 panic alarm replacement
• Recommended deferring $15,000 new server purchase
• Recommended deferring $160,000 Fire Department SCBA replacement
• Recommended deferring $6,100 Fire Department overhead doors
• Recommended reducing Police vehicle maintenance from $14,000 to $13,000
• Recommended reducing Highway road construction from $61,800 to $61,000
• Recommended reducing Board of Health salary from $24,500 to $22,000
• Recommended adding $10,000 strategic consulting line item to General Government

Planning Board

The West Stockbridge Planning Board will hold a meeting via Zoom on February 21, 2025, to discuss the town’s proposal to change building inspection services. No votes or decisions are scheduled; the board may also take up other business that arises.

• Discussion of the town’s proposal to change building inspection services

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold a continued public hearing on proposed bylaw changes to regulate short-term rentals. They will also discuss a proposed hiking trail along the Tom Ball ridgeline with the Berkshire Natural Resources Council and review a Form A application for Silver Mine LLC. Other items include approving prior meeting minutes and setting future meeting dates.

• Continuation of public hearing on proposed zoning bylaw changes for short-term rentals
• Discussion of proposed hiking trail along Tom Ball ridgeline with Berkshire Natural Resources Council
• Form A application by James Seidl for Mark Scoco (Silver Mine LLC)
• Approval of minutes from February 4, 2025 meeting

The West Stockbridge Planning Board voted 5-0 to submit a revised short-term rental zoning bylaw (Draft #12, v2) to the select board for referral back for a public hearing. The board also approved a letter of recommendation for a BNRC hiking trail and endorsed a Form A plan for a parcel transfer. The STR bylaw includes limits on rental days, residency requirements, and a special permit for tenant subletting.

• Approved submitting STR zoning bylaw Draft #12 v2 to select board (5-0)
• Approved letter of recommendation for BNRC trail to select board (5-0)
• Endorsed Form A plan for Silver Mine LLC parcel transfer to Edwards family (5-0)
• Approved minutes of 2/4/25 meeting (5-0)
• Closed STR public hearing (5-0)
• Closed regular meeting (5-0)

Select Board

The Select Board will consider appointing Nicole Miller as a full-time police officer, vote on joining shared inspectional services, and receive an update on Wiseacre Farm. The meeting also includes approval of prior minutes and public comment.

• Appointment of Nicole Miller as Full-Time Police Officer
• Vote to join Shared Inspectional Services
• Update and review of Wiseacre Farm

The Select Board approved the appointment of Part-Time Officer Nicole Miller to Full-Time Officer following the resignation of Officer James Ryan. The Board also voted to join a shared inspectional services program with Lee, Lenox, Stockbridge, and Great Barrington. Discussion on Wiseacre Farm's odor and noise mitigation was continued to a future meeting.

• Appointed Nicole Miller to Full-Time Police Officer (unanimous)
• Approved joining shared inspectional services with Lee, Lenox, Stockbridge, and Great Barrington (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of February 3, 2025 (unanimous)

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will meet to review and discuss the proposed FY26 budget. No specific budget details or proposals are listed on the agenda. The meeting is open to the public and will be held in person.

• Review and Discuss FY26 Budget

The Finance Committee reviewed the FY26 proposed budgets for Fire, DPW, Town Building, and Police departments, with no changes made to any proposed budget. The Fire Department will expand with two new full-time firemen, and West Stockbridge will pay 40% of the Chief and Deputy salary costs. The Signage budget of $7,000 was moved to Free Cash as a capital item. The next meeting was rescheduled to Friday, 2/21 at 12 Noon.

• No changes made to Fire Department proposed budget
• No changes made to DPW proposed budget
• Moved $7,000 Signage budget to Free Cash as capital item
• No changes made to Police Department proposed budget
• Next Finance Meeting changed to Friday 2/21 at 12 Noon

Community Preservation Committee

The West Stockbridge Community Preservation Committee is holding an open informational meeting to provide updates on the Community Preservation Act (CPA) and discuss funding opportunities. The agenda includes approving previous minutes and general discussion, with no specific votes or proposals listed.

• Approve minutes from previous meeting
• Open informational meeting on CPA updates and funding
• Any other business not reasonably anticipated within 48 hours

The West Stockbridge Community Preservation Committee met for an informational session on the application review process. The committee approved the January 23, 2025 minutes and scheduled its next meeting for March 6, 2025, both by 4-0 votes. No funding decisions were made; the committee discussed the application process with a resident interested in beautification projects and noted a March 7 deadline for submitting funding decisions.

• Approved minutes of 1/23/25 (4-0)
• Scheduled next meeting for March 6, 2025 at 5 p.m. (4-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 5:50 p.m.

Vision Committee

The West Stockbridge Vision Committee will review past meeting minutes and discuss several ongoing topics. Notable discussions include possible municipal funding for local elections, costs for 'Welcome to West Stockbridge' signs, the beautification budget, and a report from the Planning Board on accessory dwelling units and short-term rentals. The committee will also explore ways to help new residents and businesses find services and consider new member recruitment.

• Further discussion on possible municipal funding for local elections
• Report on costs for 'Welcome to West Stockbridge' signs
• Review of the Beautification budget
• Report from Planning Board on ADUs and short-term rentals
• Discussion of signs around town featuring residents, visitors & events

The West Stockbridge Vision Committee met on February 11, 2025, and unanimously approved the previous meeting minutes with amendments. The meeting included discussions on a state-denied sign replacement request, the Finance Committee's budget review, and planning board work on ADUs and short-term rentals. No formal decisions were made on these topics; they were tabled or left for future consideration.

• Adopted previous meeting minutes with amendments (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 9:05 AM (unanimous)

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will consider approving motor vehicle abatements for December and January, as well as 2025 statutory exemption applications. The meeting also includes an other business segment. All items are routine administrative matters.

• Approve December & January Motor Vehicle Abatements
• Approve 2025 Statutory Exemption Applications

Select Board

The Select Board is meeting in a special executive session via Zoom to discuss litigation strategy. The board will not return to open session. Discussions cover the Housatonic Water Company and a lawsuit involving The Residence on Mill Pond, LLC against the town's Mobile Home Park Rent Control Board.

• Executive session under G.L. c.30A, §21(a)(3) to discuss Housatonic Water Company litigation
• Executive session for case The Residence on Mill Pond, LLC v. Town of West Stockbridge Mobile Home Park Rent Control Board (Norfolk Superior Court No. 2482CV00509)
• Meeting is closed to the public with no return to open session
• Vote to enter executive session via remote videoconferencing

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will hold an open meeting to review the proposed Fiscal Year 2026 budget for all town departments except the Department of Public Works. This is a preliminary review before the budget advances to the Select Board and Town Meeting. No votes or specific dollar amounts are listed in the agenda.

• Review of FY26 budget for all departments except Department of Public Works

The Finance Committee reviewed the FY26 budget, approving reductions to the Police Department ($11,807) and Town Buildings ($4,000), and adjusted several line items. They also agreed to keep the $15,000 server warrant in the budget but delay spending pending further investigation. The next meeting will be a public hearing once salary contracts are finalized.

• Reduced Police Department budget by $11,807 (one FTE to 0.75)
• Reduced Town Buildings Plants & Gardens by $4,000
• Moved $7,000 Signage line item to Free Cash
• Reduced Treasurer's salary by $922 to $28,000
• Removed Building Inspector salary ($20,375) for shared inspection service
• Increased Capital Stabilization Fund by $15,000 to $50,000
• Kept $15,000 server warrant in budget, spending delayed pending review

Sewer and Water

The Sewer & Water Commission will meet to discuss a possible sewer rate adjustment with the Town Collector and Town Accountant, and to consider adopting demands on overdue sewer and water accounts. They will also review prior meeting minutes and receive an update on the Swamp Rd Stannard pump house.

• Discuss sewer rate adjustment with Town Collector and Town Accountant
• Discuss/act on adopting demands on overdue sewer and water accounts
• Update on Swamp Rd Stannard pump house
• Review/act on previous meeting minutes
• Public comment on any agenda item

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will hold a public hearing regarding a special permit for 72 Alford Rd, in coordination with the Planning Board. The commission will also review project updates, including Smith Road (on hold until spring), Mill Pond Park replanting, and several properties with no updates. A communication from Dominic Meringolo of Solitude regarding a proposal for Shaker and Card Ponds will be discussed, along with administrative items such as a new member, legal ads, and the MACC conference.

• Public hearing on 72 Alford Rd special permit
• Smith Road project on hold until spring
• Mill Pond Park replanting reminder
• Dominic Meringolo proposal for Shaker and Card Ponds
• Discussion of new member, legal ads, and laptop for Shannon

The West Stockbridge Conservation Commission met on February 6, 2025, and continued several items to the next meeting on March 20. These include the Pratt bridge repair at 10 Water Street, the Wilton RDA on Smith Road, an enforcement order for Mill Pond Park, and an NOI for 8 Cone Hill Road. The commission also approved a filing fee increase to $250 and discussed administrative matters.

• Continued Pratt bridge repair hearing to March 20
• Continued Wilton RDA to March 20
• Continued Mill Pond Park enforcement order to March 20
• Continued 8 Cone Hill Road NOI to March 20
• Approved filing fee increase to $250
• Determined no jurisdiction for 72 Alford Road horse paddock special permit

Affordable Housing Trust

The Affordable Housing Trust will review previous minutes, launch a consultancy engagement, and hold a mission/vision discussion. No votes on funding or specific projects are on the agenda; the meeting is primarily organizational and planning-oriented.

• Consultancy Kickoff — start of work with an outside consultant
• Mission/Vision Discussion — shaping the trust's guiding principles
• Review and approval of previous meeting minutes

The West Stockbridge Affordable Housing Trust met and heard a proposal from the Berkshire Regional Planning Commission (BPRC) for a housing needs assessment and action plan. The trust discussed the proposed timeline, which includes focus groups, a survey, and a public meeting, with a final report expected by the end of the year. The trust postponed approval of the December 19, 2024 meeting minutes until the next meeting. No formal votes were taken on the BPRC proposal.

• Postponed approval of 12/19/24 meeting minutes until 3/5/25 (3-0)
• Heard BPRC proposal for housing needs assessment and action plan
• Discussed potential addition of a Housing Production Plan
• Adjourned meeting at 9:35am (3-0)

Planning Board

The West Stockbridge Planning Board will continue a public hearing on proposed zoning bylaw amendments to regulate short-term rentals. The board will also discuss the status of an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) draft and approve minutes from previous meetings. This meeting is in person only at Town Hall.

• Continuation of public hearing for zoning bylaw changes to add short-term rental regulations (7:15 p.m.)
• Discussion of the status of the ADU draft
• Approval of minutes from January 22, 2025 regular meeting and Executive Session
• Review and confirmation of upcoming planning board meeting dates

The Planning Board voted 5-0 to submit the revised Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) zoning draft, as amended by Town Counsel, to the Select Board for referral back for a public hearing. The board also continued the short-term rental (STR) public hearing to 2/18, agreeing to increase proposed day limits and to add a provision for long-term residents, though exact wording was not finalized. No final decisions were made on the STR regulations.

• Approved minutes of 1/22/25 (4-0, Ryan abstained)
• Approved executive session minutes of 1/22/25 (4-0, Ryan abstained)
• Confirmed upcoming meeting dates: 2/18, 3/3, 3/18, 4/7
• Postponed 72 West Alford Rd (Berkshire Pony Club) special permit hearing
• Voted 5-0 to submit ADU draft #13 to Select Board for referral to public hearing
• Continued STR public hearing to 2/18 (5-0)
• Agreed by consensus to add item 4 under 4.11.3.8.2 for long-term residents (wording not finalized)

Planning Board

The Planning Board is considering amendments to the Zoning Bylaws to regulate short-term rentals (STRs). The proposal establishes definitions, rental day limits, and eligibility requirements for owners and tenants.

• Proposed rental limits of 40-80 days or 80-120 days cumulatively per year depending on the zone
• Requirement for non-resident owners to be West Stockbridge residents for at least 5 years to operate an STR
• Requirement for a local manager to respond to problems within 2 hours and emergencies within 30 minutes
• Prohibition of signs, events, commercial uses, and hourly rentals at STR properties
• Mandatory registration of all STRs with the Town

Select Board

The Select Board will hold a hybrid meeting including approval of minutes, citizen speak, town administrator update, and discussions on a planned bike ride, library update, and DPW update. The main action item is a roll call vote to enter executive session to discuss collective bargaining strategy for the Director of Public Works contract renewal.

• Approval of minutes from January 21, 2025
• Berkshire Velo bike ride on April 19 – request from Phil Gentile
• Library update from Librarian Rachel Alter
• Department of Public Works update from Director Curt Wilton
• Roll call vote to enter executive session for collective bargaining on DPW contract renewal

The Select Board approved a motion to allow Berkshire Velo to use the Wastewater Treatment Plant for parking on April 19th for their annual bike event. The board also approved the minutes from the January 21, 2025 meeting. No other formal decisions were made; other items were informational updates.

• Approved use of Wastewater Treatment Plant for parking on April 19 for Berkshire Velo bike event (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from January 21, 2025 meeting (unanimous)

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will reorganize for the new year, approve future budget meeting dates, and review the draft FY26 budget. The agenda is largely procedural, with the budget review being the main substantive item. No specific dollar amounts or line items are listed in the agenda.

• Reorganization of the Committee
• Approve future scheduled FY26 budget meetings for February
• Review Draft FY26 Budget

Select Board

The West Stockbridge Select Board will vote to enter executive session to discuss strategy for collective bargaining regarding contract renewals for the Director of Public Works, Police Chief, and Town Administrator. No other substantive business is listed for the open meeting session.

• Roll call vote to enter executive session for collective bargaining strategy
• Contract renewal negotiations for Director of Public Works, Police Chief, and Town Administrator

Community Preservation Committee

The Community Preservation Committee will meet to discuss the boat ramp project and review CPA advertising and application changes. The body will also address the Chair's meeting with the CPC.

• Discussion of boat ramp project
• Review of CPA advertising
• Review of application changes

The Community Preservation Committee approved minutes from the previous meeting and scheduled a public hearing for February 13 at 5 p.m. to inform residents about the CPC program and application process. The committee also agreed to keep the current application for 2025, with a newer version to be drafted later, and discussed adopting an email process similar to the Conservation Commission.

• Approved minutes of 1/7/25 (5-0)
• Scheduled public hearing for Feb. 13 at 5 p.m. (4-0)
• Agreed to use current application for 2025
• Discussed adopting Conservation Commission email process

Sewer and Water

The Sewer & Water Commission will review and act on proposed operating and capital budgets for fiscal year 2026. The body will also discuss shared services with the Town of Stockbridge and receive project updates from the Chief Licensed Operator.

• Proposed FY ‘26 operating and capital budgets
• Shared services with Town of Stockbridge
• Operations and project updates from Chief Licensed Operator

The Board of Sewer and Water Commissioners approved the 2026 Water and Sewer operating budgets as amended to include a 5% salary increase for the Town Collector, which had not been adjusted in three years. The vote was 4-0. The board also discussed several ongoing issues, including a potential sewer plant gear failure, an underfunded sewer enterprise fund, and unpaid bills, but took no formal action on these items.

• Approved 2026 Water and Sewer operating budgets with 5% salary increase for Town Collector (4-0)
• Agreed to have electric meter disconnected for abandoned pump on Swamp Rd, with further investigation to follow
• Set next meeting for February 6, 2025 at 4:30 PM
• Adjourned meeting (4-0)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will discuss draft zoning changes for short-term rentals and accessory dwelling units. The board also intends to schedule a special permit hearing for 72 Alford Rd.

• Scheduling of Special Permit hearing for 72 Alford Rd (Berkshire Pony Club)
• Discussion of short-term rental (STR) draft zoning changes
• Discussion of accessory dwelling unit (ADU) draft zoning changes
• Re-election of Sarah Thorne as alternate planning board member

The West Stockbridge Planning Board voted 4-0 to send a revised accessory dwelling unit (ADU) zoning draft to the Select Board, requesting it be referred back for a public hearing. The board also scheduled a public hearing for Blueberry Hill Properties LLC/72 West Alford Rd. on 2/18 (later revised), reappointed Sarah Thorne as alternate member, and discussed short-term rental zoning changes without action.

• Approved minutes of 1/6/25 (4-0)
• Scheduled 2/18 public hearing for Blueberry Hill Properties LLC/72 West Alford Rd. (4-0; later revised, date TBD)
• Appointed Sarah Thorne as alternate planning board member for 1/22/25-1/22/26 (4-0)
• Voted to send revised ADU draft to Select Board for referral back for public hearing (4-0)

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors approved several routine tax-related items, including motor vehicle excise tax abatement applications for December and January, statutory exemption applications for FY 2025, Chapter Land applications for FY 2026, and motor vehicle excise tax commitments for 1-2025 and 7-2024. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved December and January Motor Vehicle Excise Tax Abatement Applications
• Approved FY 2025 Statutory Exemption Applications
• Approved FY 2026 Chapter Land Applications
• Approved Motor Vehicle Excise Tax Commitments for 1-2025 and 7-2024

Select Board

The Select Board will consider appointing a new police officer and a shared EMS and Fire Department agreement with Stockbridge. The board will also vote on the Great Barrington Fire Department Interconnection Project.

• Appointment of Nicole Miller as police officer
• Vote on shared EMS and Fire Department with Stockbridge
• Vote on Great Barrington Fire Department Interconnection Project (DPU No. 23-65)

The Select Board voted unanimously to move forward with a shared EMS and Fire Department with Stockbridge, which will require two financial items on the Annual Town Meeting warrant: $180,000 for a new ambulance and an increase in the Fire Chief and Fire Deputy salary line to $102,000. The Board also appointed Nicole Miller as a part-time police officer, approved a Housatonic Water Company project to connect to Great Barrington Fire District water lines, and approved prior meeting minutes.

• Approved shared EMS and Fire Department with Stockbridge (unanimous)
• Appointed Nicole Miller as part-time police officer (unanimous)
• Approved Housatonic Water Company project to hook up to Great Barrington Fire District water line (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from August 28, 2024, December 16 & 18, 2024, and January 8 and 13, 2025 (unanimous)

West Stockbridge Public Library

The Library Board of Trustees will meet to review the librarian's report and address new business. The agenda consists of standard procedural items.

The West Stockbridge Public Library Board of Trustees met on January 17, 2025, and heard the librarian's report. They discussed applying for an AARP grant for a drive-in movie screen, noted the success of the Winter Sparkle event, and reviewed library statistics. No formal votes were taken; the board decided to postpone discussion of the Friends of the Library (FOL) memorandum of understanding (MOU) to the next meeting.

• Tabled review of FOL MOU to next meeting
• Discussed applying for AARP grant for drive-in movie screen (no vote)
• Noted Winter Sparkle event success (no action)

Parks and Recreation

The committee will review minutes, discuss the Sparkles party, and address Atlantic goose management. Other items include scheduling a storage room cleanup and setting the next meeting.

• Review and approve previous meeting minutes
• Review how the Sparkles party went and suggestions for next year
• Discuss Atlantic goose management (JR)
• Schedule storage room cleanup date
• Set next meeting date

The committee reviewed the Sparkles event, agreeing it went well but should be shorter next year. They discussed contacting Atlantic Goose Management for a quote on goose control for 2025 and following up on Solitude for 2026. They approved previous meeting minutes and plan to submit a CPC application for a handicap swing.

• Approved previous meeting minutes (all in favor)
• Agreed to shorten Sparkles to 5:30-7pm next year
• Joe Roy to contact Atlantic Goose Management for a quote for 2025
• Joe Roy to call Solitude for 2026 season
• Cait Graham to make CPC application for handicap swing
• Tennis court repairs to be followed up in Spring

Board of Health

The West Stockbridge Board of Health will convene to review and act on previous meeting minutes, discuss the FY2026 budget, and consider updates on properties including 3 Maple St. and 17 Jennifer Lane. A public hearing for 40 Albany Rd. is scheduled for 5:30 p.m. The meeting will also address Transfer Station matters, including a recycling grant and disposal fees.

• Review and act on previous meeting minutes
• FY2026 Budget discussion
• Public Hearing for 40 Albany Rd. at 5:30 p.m.
• Transfer Station: Recycling Grant and Disposal Fees
• Status updates on 3 Maple St. and 17 Jennifer Lane

Vision Committee

The Vision Committee will review past minutes and follow up on the Municipal Digital Equity Partnership. Members will discuss potential town funding for local elections and progress on 'Welcome to West Stockbridge' signs. A report on the Planning Board's short-term rental hearing will be presented, along with ideas to assist new residents and businesses.

• Follow-up on Municipal Digital Equity Partnership
• Possible municipal funding for local elections
• Discussion of 'Welcome to West Stockbridge' signs and costs
• Report on Planning Board hearing for Short Term Rentals
• Possible uses of signs featuring residents, visitors, events

Select Board

This is a special meeting of the West Stockbridge Select Board convened solely to vote on entering executive session. The Board will not return to open session. The closed session will address collective bargaining with MassCOP Local 499, strategy on Housatonic Water Works litigation (DPU No. 23-65), and contract renewals for the Director of Public Works, Police Chief, and Town Administrator.

• Roll call vote to enter executive session for collective bargaining with MassCOP Local 499
• Executive session to discuss strategy regarding Housatonic Water Works litigation (DPU No. 23-65)
• Executive session to discuss collective bargaining strategy for Director of Public Works, Police Chief, and Town Administrator contract renewals
• Meeting will not return to open session after executive session

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will hold a meeting to approve routine motor vehicle abatements for December and January, as well as motor vehicle excise tax commitments for parts of 2024 and 2025. They will also consider approval of 2025 statutory exemption applications. The agenda also includes other business.

• Approve December & January Motor Vehicle Abatements
• Approve Motor Vehicle Excise Tax Commitment 7-2024
• Approve Motor Vehicle Excise Tax Commitment 1-2025
• Approve 2025 Statutory Exemption Applications

Dog Park Committee

This is a routine procedural meeting of the West Stockbridge Dog Park Committee. The committee will approve minutes, receive updates on a recent Select Board meeting and the Friends of WSDP group, and discuss mailings for volunteers. No substantive decisions or financial items are on the agenda.

• Approval of minutes from December 21, 2024
• Update on Select Board Zoom meeting from January 8, 2025
• Friends of WSDP update including website information
• Discussion on mailings for volunteers/members
• Citizen Speak period

The committee discussed the select board's approval of the dog park design with minor changes, allowing them to meet the Stanton Foundation deadline. They also discussed the foundation's closure after 2025 and its impact on maintenance grants, and planned next steps including a memorandum of understanding and fundraising efforts. No formal votes were taken on these items.

• Approved prior meeting minutes unanimously, with Jackie Murray abstaining
• Discussed select board approval of dog park design with minimal changes
• Discussed approaching Stanton Foundation for advance maintenance funds
• Planned to develop memorandum of understanding with Marie Ryan
• Discussed fundraising brick walkway option with Berkshire Design Group
• Confirmed web address friendsofwsdogpark.org for Friends group
• Discussed recruiting additional committee members with design or web skills

Select Board

The West Stockbridge Select Board is holding a special Zoom-only meeting on January 8, 2025. The only substantive item is a dog park update presented by Michael Bolognino. The meeting also includes a citizen speak period and adjournment.

• Dog park update by Michael Bolognino

The Select Board unanimously approved the final design for the Dog Park behind the tennis courts on Town Hall property, following the Planning Board's special permit. The board also agreed to have the Town Administrator explore joining a shared inspectional services program with neighboring towns.

• Approved final Dog Park design (3-0)
• Agreed to continue exploring shared inspectional services with Lee, Lenox, Great Barrington, and Monterey

Community Preservation Committee

The West Stockbridge Community Preservation Committee will meet in person on January 7, 2025. They will discuss the boat ramp project, review CPA advertising and application changes, and handle routine business like approving minutes and scheduling the next meeting.

• Discuss boat ramp project
• Review CPA advertising
• Review application changes
• Discuss Chair’s meeting with CPC

The West Stockbridge Community Preservation Committee approved the minutes from the previous meeting and extended the application submission deadline to February 28, 2025. The committee discussed potential projects, reviewed application forms, and considered requiring a Certificate of Completion with a 5% retainer for future projects. No project applications were submitted or approved at this meeting.

• Approved minutes of 11/26/24 as amended (5-0)
• Extended application deadline to February 28, 2025 (5-0)
• Agreed to review current and other towns' applications before next meeting
• Scheduled informational meeting on CPC for town departments

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold a public hearing to consider a select board petition to add zoning regulations for short-term rentals. The proposed amendment would allow short-term rentals that meet all requirements of the proposed bylaw.

• Select board petition to amend zoning regulations for short-term rentals

Planning Board

The Planning Board is holding a public hearing to discuss amending zoning bylaws regarding short-term rentals (STRs). The proposal establishes rental day limits, registration requirements, and operational restrictions for residential units.

• Proposed limit of 40 cumulative rental days per year for certain districts
• Proposed special permit requirement for rentals between 41 and 80 days
• Proposed prohibition of rentals exceeding 80 days per year in most districts
• Requirement for a local manager to respond to problems within 2 hours and emergencies within 30 minutes
• Prohibition of signs, events, commercial uses, and hourly rentals for STRs

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold a public hearing at 7:15 p.m. on proposed changes to the zoning bylaw to add regulations for short-term rentals. The board will also approve minutes from the previous meeting, confirm future meeting dates, and discuss appointing a Complete Streets Committee representative. Additionally, they will consider a Form A request from Taconic Land Consultants for properties at 21 and 25 Red Rock Road.

• Public hearing on proposed zoning bylaw changes for short-term rentals
• Request for Form A from Taconic Land Consultants for 21 and 25 Red Rock Rd.
• Approval of minutes from 12/18/24 meeting
• Appointment of Complete Streets Committee representative
• Review and confirmation of upcoming planning board meeting dates

The Planning Board held a public hearing on proposed zoning changes to regulate short-term rentals (STRs) but took no final action, voting to continue the hearing to February 4, 2025. The draft would require registration, allow up to 40 rental days without a special permit, 40-80 days with a permit, and prohibit rentals over 80 days, with owner-occupancy requirements. Public comments raised concerns about day limits, owner-occupancy, and sprinkler costs. The board also approved minutes and endorsed a Form A plan for 21 & 25 Red Rock Rd.

• Approved minutes of 12/18/24 (5-0)
• Endorsed Form A plan for 21 & 25 Red Rock Rd. (5-0)
• Continued short-term rental public hearing to 2/4/25 (5-0)
• Confirmed upcoming meeting dates: 1/22, 2/4, 2/18