Perspective

"We See You"

In March, Governor Maura Healy said, “We want to send a clear message to every single person who calls rural Massachusetts home — we see you; we value you, and we’re going to work every day to ensure you have the representation and support you deserve,” 

Healy and Lt. Governor Kim Driscoll were shining light on small towns and rural communities in the state. Fifty-nine percent of the Commonwealth’s land area in nearly half of all municipalities (170 out of 351) for the first time in history will have a staff person who will serve as a dedicated advocate, ombudsman, deciding state policies for a large part of the state outside of the I–495 corridor. 

In selecting well-respected state senator Anne Gobi as Director of the new office, it is envisioned our hard-working representatives Senator Paul Mark and Rep Smitty Pignatelli will have new partners in addressing the critical issues that are unique to rural areas. 

This initiative ties into the work begun in 2015 when a Rural Policy Advisory Committee was created by the legislature to create a Rural Policy Plan. Tom Matusko, Executive Director of Berkshire Regional Planning Council (BRPC), served on the committee and kept delegates and alternates informed about their work, welcoming our input. The plan highlighted issues important to Stockbridge including changing the formula for state aid to education, adjusting funding for roads and bridges to recognize the importance of a rural road network for access to employment and health care, funding for water and sewer upgrades, and support for shared services. 

After that work, it was heartwarming to read that the new administration already proposed major funding boosts for Food Security Infrastructure Grants, rural school aid, PILOTs, and regional transit authorities in the proposed state budget. In addition, funding for the Director of Rural Affairs will enable her to conduct a review of all state grant opportunities to ensure that barriers for rural and small towns are mitigated, host dedicated office hours for towns to receive technical assistance and maintain and update the Community Compact Connector Calendar providing one a place to find all state grants and better coordinate their application efforts. 

Now as budget negotiations continue, we look forward to seeing the success of this initiative. 

Stay tuned. 

Editor’s note: Rasmussen is the Select Board’s Stockbridge Delegate to BRPC

by Christine Rasmussen

Perspective

8 Town Regional School District Planning Board Update

by Lucy Prashker, Chair of the 8 Town Regional School District Planning Board and Jake Eberwein, RSDPB Project Manager

Merger Model under Consideration: Merge the Berkshire Hills and Southern Berkshire Regional School Districts into a single preK-12 district, maintaining the existing elementary and middle schools as they are, but creating a new merged 9-12 high school to be built on the Great Barrington campus. 

Board approves finance subcommittee recommendation on assessment methodologies: On June 6, 2023, the 8 Town Board approved the assessment methodologies for the operating and capital costs of a merged district.

A presentation on the operating and capital cost assessment methodologies, including projections on total assessments (which include the estimated cost of the new high school and all legacy debt) is available HERE, with a video recording HERE. 

Educational Quality subcommittee votes to recommend merger: On June 14, 2023, a majority of the educational quality subcommittee voted to recommend merger to the full board based on the subcommittee’s development of a list of the potential benefits of a larger student body and pooling of district resources. That list included — larger, more diverse student body allowing for more opportunity for social connections, additional resources to support diverse student learners, more academic choices for students, including more electives, AP classes, and early college courses, and more opportunities to achieve optimized class size, more extracurricular activities, including more and better access (including district-funded transportation) to sports, clubs, and civic engagement opportunities, significantly expanded vocational-technical offerings, including innovative pathways and up to six-Chapter 74 career vocational-technical (CVTE) programs, and larger, more diverse professional staff, increased salaries for SBRSD teachers, expansion of early college and Advanced Placement opportunities, and expanded early childhood opportunities.

Updated Timeline: Our targeted date for a board vote on the proposed merger, including a proposed regional agreement, is now late June/early July. If the board votes to recommend a merger, we expect to be able to put that recommendation before the voters at special town meetings this fall.

News

ConCom, June 27, 2023, Hybrid

At the last meeting, ConCom discussed the creosote-laden railroad ties with the Railroad attorney. With the support of consultant David Cameron, ConCom will issue an Enforcement Order demanding compliance from the Railroad in cleaning up the ties. ConCom will also reach out to the Fire Chief to determine if the ties are a fire hazard.

With respect to the 22 acres given to the inhabitants of Stockbridge by David Rothstein, ConCom discussed creating public access to t Lily Pond and the pluses and minuses of asking that Lily Pond be designated a “Great Pond by the Commonwealth. Would that offer more protection or are Town Bylaws sufficient? 

Editor’s note: Resolving the history of the gift of 22 acres from David Rothstein “To the inhabitants of Stockbridge”. With thanks to our Registrar of Deeds who guided my work. In summary: Olga Weiss bought 68.2 acres, once called “the farm at Wheatleigh”, from Stephanie Barber. Barber kept the house and immediate grounds. Weiss partnered with her cousin David Rothstein. First, they tried a pop music venue, Music Inn, and then David, an architect, created White Pines. He built on 46.2 acres and donated the remaining 22 to “The Inhabitants of Stockbridge”. 

Perspective

Down Memory Lane

By Carole Owens

Here we go again — planning.

January 19, 2016, The Berkshire Eagle reported, “Confronted by a shifting landscape, officials have scheduled a pair of community visioning meetings to help navigate the series of changes the town will face in the coming months and years.”

“Led by consultants from Boston, the workshops will focus on how the Town is changing: declining population, rising costs, exploring shared services with Lee and Lenox…Currently, about three out of five homes in town are owned by seasonal residents…about 70 percent of local tax revenues…17 percent of homes included children, while 41 percent included seniors.”

2023 — Through the Housing Production Plan, we are addressing declining primary population and concomitant decline in school enrollment, increased second homeowner population and concomitant rising prices.

In 2016, SB member Steve Shatz said: “What I’d like to see come out is an intelligent discussion about the future structure of the town and our ability to continue to provide the services people have come to expect and those we will need as we get older.”

2023 — Stockbridge is exploring shared services with Lee Fire Department, to continue to provide requisites services to the community we will need as our population grows older.

In June 1996, we issued our Master Plan report based on consultant’s input along with the outcome of public workshops, and input at steering committee meetings. The report lays the groundwork for development and implementation.

In 2016, a spokesman said, “Before there can be a meaningful plan to move forward with community preservation and development, residents must agree on a picture of what they want their community to be like.”

2023 — Led by a consultant, AHT will schedule workshops with the public. A needs assessment will be followed by a survey, workshops, and public input to form a vision of what we want Stockbridge to be. The final report will be ready by late fall or early winter 2023.

One way to look at this is to respect planning. Another way is to wonder why the variables are always the same. A third way is: Life is what happens when you are making other plans.

by Carole Owens

Perspective

Down Memory Lane

Here we go again — planning.

January 19, 2016, The Berkshire Eagle reported, “Confronted by a shifting landscape, officials have scheduled a pair of community visioning meetings to help navigate the series of changes the town will face in the coming months and years.”

“Led by consultants from Boston, the workshops will focus on how the Town is changing: declining population, rising costs, exploring shared services with Lee and Lenox…Currently, about three out of five homes in town are owned by seasonal residents…about 70 percent of local tax revenues…17 percent of homes included children, while 41 percent included seniors.”

2023 — Through the Housing Production Plan, we are addressing declining primary population and concomitant decline in school enrollment, increased second homeowner population and concomitant rising prices. 

In 2016, SB member Steve Shatz said: “What I’d like to see come out is an intelligent discussion about the future structure of the town and our ability to continue to provide the services people have come to expect and those we will need as we get older.” 

2023 — Stockbridge is exploring shared services with Lee Fire Department, to continue to provide requisites services to the community we will need as our population grows older.

In June 1996, we issued our Master Plan report based on consultant’s input along with the outcome of public workshops, and input at steering committee meetings. The report lays the groundwork for development and implementation. 

In 2016, a spokesman said, “Before there can be a meaningful plan to move forward with community preservation and development, residents must agree on a picture of what they want their community to be like.”

2023 — Led by a consultant, AHT will schedule workshops with the public. A needs assessment will be followed by a survey, workshops, and public input to form a vision of what we want Stockbridge to be. The final report will be ready by late fall or early winter 2023.

One way to look at this is to respect planning. Another way is to wonder why the variables are always the same. A third way is: Life is what happens when you are making other plans.

by Carole Owens

Editorial

Editorial: How About If We Don't Do That?

On the Stockbridge Community Board, one image followed the other. The first was an idyllic picture of Stockbridge Bowl. The second was text which ended, “if you are experiencing financial challenges related to keeping your home, heating your home, or paying for the water you use in your home, please reach out.” That, in two clicks, is the strange truth about Stockbridge — need lives next door to wealth and beauty. We must recognize, acknowledge, and serve both. 

All around the Berkshires, we see overbuilding killing Berkshire charm. Berkshire charm was never gratuitous but was always central to our economy, so…how about if we don’t do that?

A deer risked life and limb to dart across a busy street. A flash of red against the darkening sky as a red fox flew by in pursuit of food. We are taking their habitat and leaving them nothing, so…how about if we don’t do that?

We need families that have been here three hundred years to be able to stay here three hundred more. If we buy up every less expensive home to turn it into a B&B or tear it down to build a mansion, nothing will be left for ordinary man or wild beast, so…how about if we don’t do that?

We need it all — the wealth, beauty, open space, low density, and affordable housing — not one at the expense of the other. Since all development is a tradeoff, that is a high wire act for the steady, sure-footed, and serious-minded. It is not for the glib, impatient, or selfish.

In other destinations, so much luxury housing was built that there was no place for those who cut the lawns, cleaned the houses, fought crime and fire, tended, and taught the children. In season, those towns allowed tent cities to house the workers…how about if we don’t do that?

Helping those who earn less to stay in their homes and rent in our town, even if it costs others more, is not unfair…how about if we don’t call it that? How about if we call it neighbors helping neighbors. How about if we call it community?

My Granny said, “If you bend a little it will help a lot because the trees all know what the man forgot.” 

Let’s have a community where we can all mix and mingle. It is a high wire act — not for the faint hearted — but it is doable if that is what we concentrate on doing. 

by Carole Owens, Executive Editor

News

Events

1. Library Book Sale

Dear Carole, Will you please promote our annual book sale again in your newsletter? Here is the pertinent info: 

Stockbridge Library, Museum & Archives Annual Book Sale

Friday, July 7th 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. ($10 early bird fee 9am – noon)

Saturday, July 8th 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Sunday, July 9th 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.

There will be thousands of used books, audio books, and CDs, and we accept cash, check, and credit card. All proceeds support the library! Thank you!! Kelly Anne Secretary Stockbridge Library, Museum & Archives Board of Trustees

2. Berkshire Botanical Garden 

Music Monday Series

July 3 — August 29, July 3 – August 29, 5:30 — 7:30 pm Tickets are $10/members and $15/nonmembers — 

Performers July

3 — Ciarra Fragale (folksy soul singer/songwriter).

10 — Misty Blues (jazz-blues-funk-cajun).

17 — The O-Tones (swing, soul and blues).

24 — Brother Sal Blues Band (blues).

31 — Johnny Irion (folk-rock).

August

7 — Zikina (East African folk music with flavors of reggae, rock and Caribbean dance beats). 

14 — Sol y Canto (Latin roots).

21 — Union Jack (featuring the sounds of the 1960s British invasion).

28 — Wanda Houston Band (40s, 50s and 60s R&B and jazz). 

Berkshire Botanical Garden Fete — July 8, 5 — 8pm Starting with a country-themed menu designed exclusively for your pleasure by gourmet caterer Mezze. Enjoy a delicious selection of hot and cold passed hors-d’oeuvres, vegetarian options and a country BBQ brisket station. Plenty of good grub!

Specialty drinks include a custom-poured Cowboy Collins and Prickly Pear Margaritas, in addition to the full, open bar.

Party pleasures include a boot-stomping country fiddle band, square dancing (with instruction for city slickers), cowboy hat decorating station, a paddle raise, and other fun stuff a-plenty!

So put on your best country duds — gingham and calico, blue jeans and boots — and head to the BBG Corral! Your participation supports the Garden and all we do, so register now and invite a friend or two. They’ll thank you for a rousing good, country-themed time!

Order tickets here.

3. Norman Rockwell: The Business of Illustrating the American Dream

Explores how Rockwell navigated relationships with publishers, advertising clients, and other business entities to create work that shaped and reflected American culture and influenced notions of the American Dream. Based on extensive research in the Norman Rockwell Museum archives by guest curator Deborah Hoover, the exhibition shines new light on the interplay of artistry, advertising, consumerism, business relationships, and ambitious cultural and democratic agendas that informed Rockwell’s work.

This exhibition features original paintings and drawings, as well as illuminating selections from Rockwell’s rarely exhibited business correspondence relating to his commissions. It is on view beginning June 23.

News

New Feature!!!

Editor’s note: In the nineteenth century every Berkshire newspaper was anchored locally — the Pittsfield Sun, The Stockbridge Evening Star, the Great Barrington Currier, the Valley Gleaner (Lee) and more — but in their pages, each had columns for other towns. If your town has a story to tell, a problem or a solution to share, let us know. So feel free to send SU your news periodically, and we will run a Dateline: Sheffield, Dateline Monterey, Dateline: Lee etc.

Dateline: Lee

From the Town of Lee — For Immediate Release

Records Request Reveals That BRPC Director Purposely Tried to Exclude and Mislead Lee’s Rest of River Committee Member

Email records from BRPC Director Tom Matuszko shows a message to Attorney Matt Pawa stating “If you did want to discuss strategy with the Committee it might be better to do so closer to the May 4th date in case our Lee Committee member opponent gives those discussion comments to HRI’s attorney (alternatively, and having watched way too much TV, you could provide misleading information to throw their attorneys off track.)”

In addition, when asked repeatedly by newly appointed Rest of River (RoR) member Josh Bloom, Mr. Matuszko is on record during a public meeting stating that he could not recall if any such conversations took place with Atty. Pawa prior to RoR meetings.

The Town of Lee and its residents have expressed numerous concerns over the Rest of River Committee’s actions that have taken place over the past few months. In particular, the Rest of River Committee’s vote to send counsel to the First Circuit Court to support GE’s toxic waste dump in the Town of Lee and Pawa’s statement at the First Circuit Court hearing where he stated that all 5 communities (including Lee) supported the controversial plan. 

The Town of Lee filed a dispute on the vote to pay Attorney Pawa $15,000 to support GE’s toxic waste dump in Lee. However, some Rest of River towns used delay tactics (such as filing objections to the selected mediator) to essentially deny Lee’s request for mediation on the controversial vote.

Other related issues include an open meeting law violation that was up held by the Massachusetts Attorney General for an inaccurate and substandard agenda posting for the vote. 

Furthermore, Mr. Matuszko refused to add public comment to meeting agendas following the controversial vote and subsequent open meeting law violations. Lee member Bob Jones made a plea to the other committee members from Lenox, Stockbridge, Great Barrington, and Sheffield several times to allow public comment, but no other members would even second his motion. 

The Lee Select Board also reached out to the Lenox, Stockbridge, Great Barrington, and Sheffield Select Boards to discuss the matter and all 4 boards refused to engage in a meeting. 

All three Lee Select Board members voiced concern and consternation regarding these recent events.

The Back Story

By Bob Jones

It has been a long and strange journey. Born at Fairview Hospital in Great Barrington, I grew up and have lived in towns in the Housatonic River corridor my entire life. In my early years, the river was an open sewer, serving homes and businesses. Wisdom and technology prevailed, waste treatment plants came into being, and our friend, the river has done a remarkable job of cleaning itself over recent decades. That’s part of the story. 

The other part does not have such a happy ending. Using PCB’s in their production of transformers, GE corporation, for decades, poured massive amounts of PCB’s (polychlorinated biphenyls) into our river, along our roadsides, into ponds and landfills up and down the county and beyond. Originally produced by Monsanto (now the producer of the “weed killer” Roundup), production of PCB’s was stopped in 1977 because of evidence they build up in the environment and can cause harmful health effects. There are volumes of information supporting this conclusion. 

In 2010, the task of addressing the problem was undertaken by the EPA and GE, including local towns in the process. Sheffield, Great Barrington, Stockbridge, Lenox, and Lee were asked to form a “Rest of the River” Committee so that the towns might have a place at the table to voice concerns and craft an agreement that would be fair and beneficial to all. The structure for RoR called for all five towns to be represented by one attorney. As an aside, you can’t do a real estate closing in Massachusetts with one attorney… Go figure. Each town would designate a “representative” (or, two, but with only one vote per town) to the committee. This representative would confer with the Select Board, making decisions on behalf of the citizenry. Each town contributed tax dollars to a legal fund. 

The resulting agreement in 2016 called for the removal of contaminated soil from the river, to be transported out of the Berkshires to licensed storage facilities elsewhere. It was not a perfect solution, but one that most environmental groups agreed to. 

Almost immediately, GE appealed to the courts. Given that Pittsfield (home to GE’s facility) had agreed to the dumping of PCB’s in their borders, they set a precedent. Toxic waste dumps are acceptable in the Berkshires. Here’s where the real fun begins…To be continued

Editor’s note: Jones is Chair of the Lee Select Board

News

Notes from the Affordable Housing Trust (AHT), June 19, 2023, Hybrid

Jed Bramwell brings ten years of experience in the Department of Neighborhood Development (Boston office), and experience developing housing in the private sector, to the table — recommended as Advisory Group member. Dr. Bruce Auerbach will be proposed to the Select Board as a new member to AHT.

Mark Mills arranged a public program on Habitat for Humanity to be held in the library on June 29th from 6:30pm — 7:30pm. 

The Chair suggested AHT build a new playground at Pine Woods. Chair suggested $10,000. Patrick White said perhaps AHT could use the unspent portion of the HPP money from American Rescue Program Act (ARPA). That could be as much as $30,000. Michael Canales was once Parks and Rec Director in North County and could be relied upon for guidance.

Funds for a Housing Production Plan (HPP) were approved by the Select Board and HPP is moving forward under the auspices of AHT. 

Janet Ackerman and Mccaela Donovan are working with consultant Karen Sunnarborg on step one of the HPP which is the Housing Needs Assessment. A survey and perhaps a Community Housing Workshop will follow — both to elicit ideas from the public. 

As a part of the Housing needs assessment, White pointed out that right now Stockbridge meets the Commonwealth’s requirement for affordable housing (10% of all housing). However, that is because the state only counts primary houses — estimated at 700. The real number of houses in Stockbridge, including the second homes, is closer to 1700. Therefore, Stockbridge would need 170 affordable houses to satisfy the state requirement if we counted all houses. 

Editor’s note: 1. $50,000 was approved for a consultant to AHT paid out of the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) fund. Consultant Karen Sunnarborg ‘s fee was $20,000 leaving a balance of $30,000 to be returned to ARPA or remain with AHT for the playground. SB will decide. 2. Stockbridge met the Commonwealth requirement for affordable housing — 10% of primary houses. If, in addition, we accept a new goal of 10% of all Stockbridge houses, that would be 170 units rather than 70. In that case, we are committing to building/providing many more units. Stockbridge will be able to house more Town workers, firemen, policemen, and teachers. On the other hand, all development is a tradeoff and care should be taken to maintain the beauty and low density that makes Stockbridge so desirable. 3. Chapter 40B is a state statute which enables local Zoning Boards of Appeals to approve affordable housing developments under flexible rules if at least 20-25% of the units have long-term affordability restrictions.

News

Notes from the Conservation Commission, June 13, 2023, Hybrid 

Lisa Buzzuto, Vice Chair, called the meeting to order. There were four Requests for Determination of Applicability (RDAs). Three were approved: Mullen property on East Street, Mahkeenac Shores lake community, and Hatch property at 6 Old Colonial Road. The fourth was from the railroad, and it was continued.

Parker Rodriguez, attorney for the Housatonic RR, was adamant that he wanted approval to move forward. It was withheld because, for years, ConCom requested removal of the old ties, some treated with creosote, left by the side of the tracks within feet of the river. When it rains, it leaches into the resource area and the river. Further they had used herbicide for weed control along the tracks. The mix of creosote and herbicide was more dangerous.

Rodriguez asked what authority ConCom had. Their authority is granted to ConCom under the WPA — protection of waterways.

Rodriguez said it was unrealistic to pick up all the discarded ties — there were 100s of them. 

Consultant David Cameron said ConCom had several methods of enforcement including issuing an Order of Enforcement — issuing fines for noncompliance — continue matter to further discuss compliance. ConCom adopted the latter. The vote was 6 to 1. Chair Ron Brouker was absent, and Jamie Minacci voted no.

Editor’s note: Under the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act, there are three steps to approval of a project. 1. Request an RDA to help an applicant find out if the Wetlands Protection Act applies to their project. 2. If yes, submit a Notice of Intent (NOI) describing the work to be done and seek approval. 3. Request an Order of Conditions (OOC) at completion of work.

News

Notes from the Council on Aging, June 14, 2023, Hybrid

Chair Chris McCarthy called the meeting to order. The first item on the agenda was replacing a member who had not attended a meeting in a full year. Surprisingly, Director Roxanne McCaffrey drove the member to be replaced to the meeting. It set up an embarrassing situation for everyone — the former member, the proposed member, and members of the Council. It was resolved elegantly by the Chair who proposed simply adding an additional member to the Council. Both women — the member and her proposed replacement, will serve. 

Jack Gremli then reminded the Council they had been offering a fee of $50 for instructors who want to present a program at the Center — minimum class size required — and asked for an official vote. This too was argued by the director but passed unanimously. 

News

Notes from the Select Board, June 22, 2023, Hybrid 

Chuck Cardillo, Chair, called the meeting to order. A special permit was granted for 9 Birch Lane. Attorney Lori Robbins, for 9 Birch, noted that while it will be a tear down and a new house will be built on a nonconforming lot, in this case, the new house will be smaller. Approved.

A software program will be selected to track Short Tern Rentals (STR) in Stockbridge. It will gather information on the number of STRs, and the owners. It will determine if there are any violations, and aid enforcement.

Folks were present who were abutters of 7 Hawthorne — a rental. They reminded SB that were many violations over the years: noise complaints, advertisements for an allowable number of renters that was more than the septic would allow, dumpsters in the front yard, and spilled trash. They expressed their displeasure. Town Administrator, Michael Canales, shared that the owner was brought into compliance over time. He also shared that the owner now intends to sell and has removed ads and stopped renting. 

Patrick White said $50,000 was appropriated to AHT for a consultant/Housing Production Plan but the consultant only charged $20,000. He asked that the unexpended $30,000 be left with AHT. Canales said it could be left with AHT but only for a specific purpose. White mentioned the playground at Pine Woods — approved.

All ARPA money must be spent by December 31, 2023 — use or lose.

Michael Canales was appointed to the Rest of River committee (RoR) as an alternate.

The Select Board/Second homeowners meeting will be held on Thursday night July 27, 6:30pm as the Chair recommended. The Chair will limit the agenda to Second Homeowner concerns. The Chair will invite other Department heads to be present.

Annual appointments approved. Also Minacci will replace White on Stockbridge Bowl Stewardship Commission

White suggested there be a Second Homeowners Advisory Committee — SB will consider it and discuss at Second Homeowner’s meeting.

The Last Word

Reader to Reader

Hi Carole:

The Select Board appoints approximately 110 individuals to serve on Stockbridge committees for varying terms. At the last SB meeting, we voted in the slate of annual appointments. Unlike our elected positions, to run for which one must be a full-time resident, appointees can be part-time residents or residents of neighboring communities. We welcome all who want to serve on an appointed committee.

Towards the end, I asked whether we should consider a new committee comprised of second homeowners that I envision would add another five to seven volunteers to join the incredible slate we already have. I sent this letter as a follow-up to the presidents of all of the predominantly second-homeowner home associations in town.

* * * * *

At the June 22, 2023, Select Board Meeting, I proposed a Second Homeowner Advisory Board that would be appointed by the Select Board based on recommendations/nominations from the public and from our predominantly seasonal-resident communities.

The Town is exploring ways to address a number of challenges we face, and this advisory panel would be charged with providing insight into Town priorities through the lens of part-time residents’ needs and concerns. I envision a situation where our communities might nominate and recommend a representative for appointment, and this group would then set its meeting frequency, agenda, and from time to time prepare and disseminate recommendations to the Select Board for the Town to consider.

We will be discussing this idea at the July 27, 2023, Select Board/Second Homeowner Meeting at 6:30 pm. I’d welcome any feedback you might have on the idea or some variation thereof. I would also appreciate any discussion with your neighbors you might have, and feel free to share this email with Town stakeholders.

Patrick White
Stockbridge Board of Selectmen

To the Editor,

Ignoring for the moment the fact that we all have easy current access to our Town Administrator and Selectmen, we should bear in mind that the author of this idea was fixed last summer on segregating our second home population into a separate and higher tax payment than our fellow Stockbridge community members and taxpayers.

His best possible motivation notwithstanding, this recommendation can be easily seen as a strategic step towards that and should just be quietly tabled now. I agree with Joe’s vision of divisive inefficient chaos that could ensue were this to be too quickly embraced. Our leaders, in particular, should be wary of being seduced by this.

Eli Einbinder

Editor’s note: Joe is Joseph Newburg. “The author of this idea” is Patrick White. Thank you, Mr. Einbinder, for sending your comments to Stockbridge Updates to be shared more broadly. We invite Mr. Newburg to send his comments to SU. In the interest of one community, SU strongly supports open forums and email groups that are open to everyone, not closed, so all can share and participate. Let’s talk to each other.

To Stockbridge Updates, FYI

Hi Smitty [Pignatelli], 

Mary and I hope you are well and enjoying the beginning of summer.

The reason for my note is I am about to launch a campaign here in Stockbridge to erect signs at our town lines that say, “TRUCKERS! NOISE SENSITIVE COMMUNITY TURN OFF JAKE BRAKES.” The town erecting them is my issue along with the Select Board and I see no need for your involvement there. 

However, as you may or may not know, about 60-75% of the 1st and 2nd homes in town hear the Turnpike 24/7. On the Turnpike, we have what I call the ‘Valley of the Jakes’. Essentially it is an area between the western border of town going eastbound, and westbound a bit west of the Turnpike Service Area in Lee. Late at night, in addition to the never-ending sound of tires, it is loud and inconsiderate. Why? 

Jake Brakes use exhaust to slow their trucks to save fuel. As a result, their mufflers blast loudly. 

You may ask, “What about safety?” The reason I call it ‘The Valley” is because after descending the two hills there is a long uphill with no corners. Safety here is not an issue.

Mary and I have driven extensively across the US and see these yellow signs on the Interstates. They are quite common and no surprise to truckers. They assure them safety is not a concern.

So, my question is: How do we get them erected on the Turnpike? It sure would quiet things down a bit in our town.

Please advise how I should proceed. Thank you in advance.

Very best regards,

John Hart

Dear John,

Thank you. You are always looking out for our Town, and we all thank you for your tireless efforts. Once you succeed, please help me. My dream is less substantive, more fanciful, but I have always wanted at least one set of Burma Shave signs in Stockbridge — just for fun!

Carole

News

SU FYI

Lily Pond Gift

1. A special thank you to Patricia M. (Patsy) Harris Berkshire Middle District Registrar of Deeds, for guiding my research into the David Rothstein gift to “The Inhabitants of Stockbridge”. She mentioned how proud she is that the records, hundreds of years of documents, dating back to 1761, are digitized. “So that everyone may view them online from their own homes and offices.” Harris said and added, “As you know, these records are so important in preserving our history, and it is imperative that they remain accurate, reliable, safe, secure and unchallenged for our future. That’s my priority every day.” Thank you, Patsy — this community is fortunate to have you and the fruits of your labor. 

There seemed to be some confusion about the gift from David Rothstein to the Town mentioned in the last issue. So, here is the documentation. Please notice that there is a difference between 68.2 acres and the gift of 22 acres. The 68.2 is the whole White Pines property. After Rothstein developed 46.2 acres, he gave the remaining 22 acres to us. Thank you, David, hope you get that placque; I believe the Select Board is on it.

KNOW ALL MEN BY THESE PRESENTS,

That I, DAVID S. ROTHSTEIN, of Stockbridge in the County of Berkshire and Commonwealth of Massachusetts, for no consideration paid, this being a gift and not a sale, grant to THE INHABITANTS OF THE TOWN OF STOCKBRIDGE through its Conservation Commission in accordance with Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 40, Section 8c, with QUITCLAIM COVENANTS, all of that parcel of land titled “Land of Mahkeenac Lake Development Company, Portion of that described in Book 557, Page 167, containing 68.2 acres, as shown on a plan entitled “Land in Stockbridge, Mass., surveyed for Walter Wilson/Gordon E. Ainsworth & Associates, Inc. Scale 1″ – 150′, January 4, 1972”, which is recorded along with a mortgage granted to Walter Wilson, said mortgage being recorded at the Berkshire Middle District Registry of Deeds in Book 935 at Page 832&c…

Community Housing Workshop: July 17th

2. Stockbridge Affordable Housing Trust to conduct a Community Housing Workshop on Monday, July 17th at 6:00 pm at Town Hall

The Town of Stockbridge is in the process of preparing a Housing Production Plan (HPP) that will provide up-to-date information on local housing issues, identify priority housing needs, and propose strategies to address those needs.

The Housing Trust will present the major findings from the first component of the HPP, the Housing Needs Assessment. This Assessment provides updated information on demographic and economic shifts, as well as housing market changes that have notable implications on community housing needs and demand. Demographic trends over the past eleven years show an increase in the number of older residents and a decrease in younger people. The median age of residents increased from 40.8 to 60.1 years between 2010 and 2021, based on U.S. Census data. During the same period, the number of middle-income households has declined, while lower income (under $25,000) and higher income (over $150,000) households have increased. Median household income has declined, from $55,096 in 2010 to $46,458 in 2021.

Rising housing prices make it more difficult for residents, those raised in the community, or those wanting to live in Stockbridge to find, or retain affordable living options. For example, the median single-family home price in 2022 was $575,000, requiring an estimated income of $148,000. As the Housing Needs Assessment documents, there are segments of the community spending 30% or even 50% of their income on housing costs.

The Stockbridge Affordable Housing Trust will present the draft Housing Needs Assessment on Monday, July 17th at 6:00 pm. Most important, the meeting will include a special program to gather the perspectives of attendees on the Town ‘s future housing agenda.

The meeting will be held in Town Offices at 50 Main Street, and all are welcome to attend. For more information or to submit comments about the project, please contact Janet Ackerman via email at JAckerman@stockbridge-ma.gov. To review the draft Housing Needs Assessment and Workshop presentation, visit the Town’s Affordable Housing Trust website at www.stockbridge-ma.gov after July 10th.

Kudos to COA Volunteers

3. Kudos to Chris McCarthy and Jack Grimli. Consider this: two volunteers saw a need, rolled up their sleeves, reopened, and enlivened our Senior Center. In a Town whose median age is 61, a senior center did seem a sensible goal. Just for the love of it; just for the goodwill, with the help of Theresa Zanetti, the other members of the Council on Aging, and a few pals—they made a warm fun place to go. Thank you.

Housatonic Water Works: Rate Increase

4. Press Release June 23, 2023, Housatonic Water Works Company Files Rate Request Based on Needed Infrastructure Improvements 

Housatonic Water Works Company filed an application with the Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities (DPU), on June 23, 2023, requesting a 112.7% overall revenue increase. The revenue requirement reflects an $808,808 increase over existing water rates. 

The Company plans to spend $4.5 million to upgrade its treatment and distribution systems, improving both drinking water quality and fire protection service. 

Investing in the future 

“Providing safe, reliable drinking water to our customers and community is essential to health, quality of life, the environment and our local economy,” said Company treasurer, James Mercer. Under the current management over $3 million in improvements have been made. Since the last rate case filing in 2015, the Company has replaced over 760 water meters and 2,458 feet of aging water mains, and associated valves, and hydrants on Front, Division, North, Park, and Wyantenuck Streets. 

Billing impact 

Filing the case with the DPU is the first step in a lengthy process, a rigorous financial review, and opportunities for public comment. 

The proposed across-the-board increase will result in a monthly minimum service charge of $98.38 and a $23.24 charge per thousand gallons for all water usage over the 2,500-gallon monthly allowance. 

The annual cost of water service for the average residential customer would increase from $746.40 to $1,641.48. Complete details are included in the rate case filing which is available on our website: housatonicwater.com.Editor’s note: Last year our Select Board approved assistance for heating costs. Recently, SB approved assistance for water costs. Both are available through the Berkshire Community Action Council (BCAC). Please if you need help get help.

SNAP Match Programs at Regional Farmers Markets

5. Berkshire Agricultural Ventures Awards $140,000 to Expand SNAP Match Programs at Regional Farmers Markets, increasing access to fresh, local, nutrient-dense food

Perspective

This Land is Our Land??

Up along the ridge line trails, across wetlands, vernal pools, fields, woods, from ancient pines, along the polluted river, the troubled lake, or sailing the thermals high above, thousands of eyes are upon us. To the wildlife of Stockbridge, land is not money. “By right” means nothing in the great scheme of things. Wildlife got here before us, knowing that the land belongs to everyone and no one. Nobody outlives the land. 

But money and power shape the land. Let’s build housing developments, businesses, we need people, jobs. This will lower taxes! We have heard this for years, a claim for Stockbridge that sounds more like a reason to move out than stay. We already have low taxes, and once we stop being Stockbridge, the whole region will suffer. Yea, that’s right, exceptionalism. Based on character, history, natural features, attractions — and preservation. Look around. 

Are we all aware of wildlife zones, wetlands, threats to the reservoir, runoff on the lake, etc.? We have permitted some extraordinary new buildings, not quite comprehending the impact of scale they bring. Two outspoken, well-informed members of our Conservation Commission resigned this spring over our inability to regulate and enforce — tools the town needs to retain our core identity. 

But wait! Now you too can “see” some of what the thousands of eyes on us, the wildlife of Stockbridge, see! Check out critical habitat areas, overlapping areas for imperiled species, and core habitat area connectors — the highways wildlife use to move and survive in critical zones. Check out the land west of the Bowl. Hey, looks like there might already be plenty of full and part-time residents there. Who knew!! Includes soothing photos, here: 

https://www.naturesnetwork.org

(Thanks to Planning Board Chair Kate Fletcher for awareness of this website). 

And learn about NE wildlands conservation from the latest study, extensively documented by top professionals, with no consulting fees, here: 

https://databasin.org

There’s more!! This handy info can be a source of data for Conservation and Planning boards, policy makers. It could even help us revise our very own Dead Sea Scrolls. That’s right -the town’s Master Plan, written in the last century, maybe on a typewriter. Let’s head back to the future and talk about where we are going now…Act now… you’ll be glad you did!

by Bruce Blair

Perspective

Volunteers in Medicine

By Matt Mandell

Founded in 2003, Volunteers in Medicine Berkshires, known as VIM, is a Great Barrington-based organization that provides free comprehensive healthcare to serve a growing need to Berkshire residents, several from Stockbridge, mobilizing doctors, dentists, nurses, and other health care professionals who donate their time and expertise. Some are retired, others are not. VIM treats social and economic pains along with the physical. It provides primary care, dentistry, women’s health, ophthalmology, optometry, behavioral therapy, and more—all under one roof. VIM also works with community partners (schools, local governments, housing agencies, and more) to create more equitable systems for their patients. VIM now has 60 clinicians and 100 non-clinical volunteers, as well as a paid staff of 16.

The patient population ranges from newly arrived asylum seekers who need lifesaving care, to veterans who need dental work, to undocumented essential workers who have lived in the Berkshires for decades. Nearly all of the patients are employed, some holding up to 3 jobs.

Over the past 20 years, VIM has treated thousands of patients. It usually has an active patient roster of 1,300. There were 400 new patients in 2022 and 200 new patients in just the first three months of 2023.

This June, at the Berkshire Museum, VIM launched Care Works: The VIM Impact Campaign, announcing the plan to open a second VIM Care Center in Pittsfield, renovate and expand the Great Barrington Care Center, and create a fund to ensure VIM’s impact for years to come.

Recent articles in The Berkshire Eagle and The Berkshire Edge described the reception as “joyous” and “radiating joy and excitement.” In an emotional speech, Ilana Steinhauer, VIM’s Executive Director, told the story of Ermelinda, who fled Ecuador with her teenage son to escape gang violence. She suffered a head injury that detached two retinas while she was detained in a border facility in the U.S. and received no medical care before she was deported. Her son was eventually murdered, and her eyesight faded.

Ermelinda fled again last year and this time successfully landed in the Berkshires with her niece. VIM arranged for four eye surgeries, in addition to legal and other assistance, and Ermelinda now has a strong case for asylum. After the last surgery, Ermelinda came into the care center to put on a pair of glasses, and she could see the faces around her for the first time in years. “She saw light,” Steinhauer said, “she saw hope and she saw a future.”

Portions of this article are excerpted from articles in The Berkshire Eagle (June 3, 2023) and The Berkshire Edge (June 5, 2023)

Editor’s note: Matt Mandel, MD, is a co-founder and board member of VIM Berkshires. He received the American Medical Association Volunteer Physician of the Year award in 2013 and is one of the three VIM Berkshire physicians who have received the Massachusetts Medical Society Senior Volunteer Physician Award. For many years, he was an anesthesiologist in Holyoke, Massachusetts. He and his wife, Catherine, have been permanent residents of Stockbridge since 1999 and were part-timers since 1981.

by Matt Mandell