- The Stockbridge Festival Chorus will perform Mozart’s Requiem and Stone’s In The Darkest Hour on April 2, 2025, 3pm at the First Congregational Church Main Street Stockbridge. Admission $20 – local community choir members $10 and children free. For more information contact Tracy Wilson, tracywilson290.tw@gmail.com or call the First Congregational Church of Stockbridge at 413-298-3137.
- Norman Rockwell Museum is delighted to present I SPY! Walter Wick’s Hidden Wonders, a major exhibition launching this summer that celebrates the visionary work of beloved photographic illustrator and author Walter Wick. Renowned worldwide for his iconic I SPY series; Wick’s award-winning books have captivated generations of audiences. “Walter Wick’s work exemplifies the universal appeal and magic of creating imaginary worlds,” said Laurie Norton Moffatt, Director/CEO of the Norman Rockwell Museum. “Through his lens, everyday objects become portals to imagined landscapes, inviting viewers of all ages into intricate visual stories that transcend age and time. This exhibition of photographic illustration broadens our tradition of presenting the many genres of illustration art, providing a welcoming and fun gathering space for generations of visitors.” The exhibition will be on view from June 7 through October 26, 2025. Center
- Discover how to: Reduce osteoarthritis pain, Increase bone density through exercise. Prevent dementia by building new neurons, Improve balance Kathi’s book typically sells for $20, but thanks to the COA’s sponsorship, you can purchase it at the event for just $10. Space is limited! Call Katie at the COA at 413-298-4170 ext. 8 to reserve your spot.
- The Stockbridge Democratic Town Committee will hold 2 caucuses on SATURDAY APRIL 12 beginning at 10am in the Select Board Room Town Offices. There are two agenda items: elect delegates and alternates to MA State Convention, Sept. 13, 2025 and endorse candidates for town offices
- Art on Main Gallery presents “Flora Fauna Stone”, an exhibition, Thursday through Sunday, 11am – 4pm, April 3 – April 27 with a grand opening April 5 from 2pm – 4pm
From the Desk of Town Administrator Michael Canales
Annual Town Meeting Notes –
Town of Stockbridge to Consider Adoption of “Prudent Investment Rule” for Municipal Trust Funds at Annual Town Meeting
At the upcoming Annual Town Meeting, voters will consider a warrant article proposing the adoption of new state standards for managing and investing municipal trust funds. This follows recent amendments enacted by the Fiscal Year 2024 Massachusetts state budget, Chapter 28 of the Acts of 2023, specifically altering General Laws Chapter 44, Section 54.
The new legislation provides municipalities with an option to adopt the “Prudent Investment Rule,” detailed in Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 203C. This introduces a more strategic and flexible approach to fund management, allowing investments in a wider range of securities. While some options may carry higher levels of risk compared to current restrictions, the rule emphasizes responsible decision-making to balance risk and reward, aiming to safeguard resources while promoting long-term growth and improved returns.
Presently, Massachusetts law restricts investment primarily to conservative financial instruments and securities deemed suitable for savings banks. The proposed changes, subject to voter approval, would permit the town treasurer to manage these funds under the Prudent Investment Rule, balancing risk and reward with the goal of safeguarding and enhancing the town’s trust fund resources.
This initiative is part of Stockbridge’s ongoing efforts to modernize financial management practices, aiming for improved fiscal health and stability in municipal finances. The Town invites all residents to attend the Annual Town meeting, in Stockbridge on Monday, May 19, 2025 at 6:30pm, to vote on this important measure.
Warrant Article to Fund New Ambulance Marks First Step in Joint Fire/EMS Initiative
A warrant article to fund the purchase of an ambulance will appear on the upcoming Annual Town Meeting warrant. This marks the beginning of a broader plan to create a joint Fire and Emergency Medical Services (EMS) program with the Town of West Stockbridge.
The proposed article seeks approval to use $288,000 in free cash from Stockbridge, while West Stockbridge will contribute an additional $191,000 toward the total cost of the vehicle. This shared investment represents a significant step toward regional cooperation in emergency services, with the joint program anticipated to begin in Fiscal Year 2028.
Unlike many municipalities, Stockbridge has historically contracted for ambulance service and has never owned its own vehicle. This purchase signals a shift toward local control and long-term planning for shared, sustainable EMS coverage.
In parallel, Stockbridge and West Stockbridge are working to integrate fire services, with a coordinated staffing model under consideration. The ambulance purchase is the first tangible action in a phased approach to developing fully integrated public safety services, addressing both Fire and EMS, between the two towns.
The initiative reflects a growing need to address rising emergency service costs and ongoing staffing challenges that impact small towns across the region. By combining resources, the two communities aim to improve service reliability, reduce duplication, and increase operational efficiency. Residents in both Stockbridge and West Stockbridge will have the opportunity to vote on the proposal at their respective Annual Town Meetings. If approved, the ambulance will position both towns for a stronger, more resilient emergency response system in the years ahead. The town invites all residents to attend the Annual Town Meeting, in Stockbridge on Monday, May 19, 2025 at 6:30 o’clock, to vote on this important measure.
