The Stockbridge Bowl Stewardship Commission (SBSC) theoretically represents the Town and all its residents’ interest in conserving Stockbridge Bowl. The lake is owned by the Commonwealth and enjoyed by many from Stockbridge and beyond. The Chair of this group is Jamie Minacci, also on the Conservation Committee.

At a recent meeting, Minacci asked the members present how they might prioritize the methods under consideration for controlling weeds in the lake. In the discussion, we learned that a closed meeting with the state DEP had occurred that included Roxanne McCaffrey, Select Board (SB) and SBSC, Pat Kennelly, Stockbridge Bowl Association (SBA) president, and others — but not Minacci. This meeting concerned the application of a chemical weed killer to the lake, mechanical weed harvesting, and dredging to remove silt — the very methods Minacci wanted SBSC to prioritize.

McCaffrey reminded Minacci that the Commission was merely advisory, that the conditions of the settlement resulting from SBA’s lawsuit against the town gave the SBA control. It was unclear: over the lake? Over attendance at the meeting?

Minacci’s view of the Commission is more inclusive and in this she was backed up by member Charlie Kenny, who felt that the Commission existed to represent all of us in town and should be accorded the appropriate stature. Michael Nathan, SBA representative to SBSC, also agreed that Minacci should be included in such meetings going forward.

Kennelly moved to a different subject, “to correct a narrative” about whether the methods under discussion can/cannot all be done at once. It seemed apparent that Kennelly and McCaffrey engage in regular discussions on these matters. Understandably, SBA is under no obligation to inform the public, but what about SB member McCaffrey?

Kenny also pointed out that if the Commission is advisory to the Select Board, it is better if it is represented at key meetings. It is less than ideal, and dilutes the purpose of an advisory body, if McCaffrey advises the Commission that then advises the SB of which McCaffrey is chair.

Minacci has clearly realized the broader implications of public engagement and the importance of transparency.

I think the 7 million owners of the lake (the population of Massachusetts) and all the residents of Stockbridge (the village in which the entire lake is located) would appreciate Minacci’s position. Time will tell.