Editorial

Editorial: Here to Help

Stockbridge Updates responds to every request and question we receive. This month they included a report of dissatisfaction with the post office and a request to intercede. SU write the USPS District Office and copies of our letter and the requests we received are in Reader to Reader. Neighbors concerned about paving our roads stopped by and called. They were concerned it would destroy the historic character of our roads and have unintended consequences like facilitating speeding. We asked our Town Administrator. See his response in SU‘s From the Desk of. 

I was asked to help the efforts of two sisters in their nineties to honor the memory and the accomplishments of their father. It was an honor to help write the application for inclusion of their 1915 family home on the National Register of Historic Places. We will post the application in SU next issue so we can learn about our historic buildings. If readers are interested, we can post more descriptions of our historic buildings in future issues. 

Finally, the Warrant will be attached to the May 15 issue. Please read the warrant, ask questions, and be prepared for our Town Meeting. It is the people’s meeting. You are the deciders. They can’t spend it if you don’t approve it; it’s not a local law, until you say so. 

Four years and 100 issues of this hyper-local newspaper, my whole goal was to prepare you for Town Meeting. Keep you up to date about the issues. I thought about those mailers sent out just before elections that explain the articles to be voted on. They are worded in such a confusing way that you can’t be sure what a no vote means. The mailer explains it. So…

Now you have Stockbridge Updates, read up, and go for it. You pass the laws you are asked to obey — you pass the taxes you are asked to pay. Bravo democracy! See you May 20.

by Carole Owens , Executive Editor

News

SU FYI

1. The Warrant will be attached to the May 15, 2024 issue.

2. The Children’s Chimes will ring out on Memorial Day, May 27, 2024. Following the parade, the gun salute, and the ceremony, the children will have a chance to play if they line up/sign up at the tower organized by Tim Minkler. Playing will go from 1:45-2:45, then again from 5:30-6. Thank you to Dr. Andrea Goodman — our new Stockbridge Children’s Chimes Coordinator. It will be wonderful to hear the music again.

News

Events

1. Berkshire Natural Resources — Saturday, May 4, self-guided — explore the beautiful sights and sounds of Parsons Marsh in the height of spring on this family-friendly self-guided walk. Signs will guide you along the 1/3-mile accessible trail, winding through meadows and wetlands, prompting you to look at your surroundings from a naturalist’s perspective. You will learn about the delicate wildflowers, fascinating pollinators, lively amphibians, and musical bird songs that make this time of year so special. For DAY-OF event issues (i.e. last-minute cancellation or lost) please call the Community Events cell phone at (413) 717-1262.

2. Norman Rockwell Museum, The Art and Humor of Mad Magazine, THE BASH! Saturday night June 8th, 6pm to 10:30pm, “What Me Worry?” RSVP by May 30, 2024. Questions: call 413-931-2265

3. Stockbridge Library Fundraiser, Berkshire Chamber Singers, May 4 7pm, at the Stockbridge Congregational Church, $50

News

Get to Know the Candidates

Town Meeting May 20

Town Elections May 21

Offices for election:

3 Year Term

• Moderator
• Select Board
• Board of Assessors
• Board of Health
• Sewer & Water Commissioner
• Parks & Recreation
• Tree Warden *

5 Year Term

• Planning Board
• Housing Authority

Candidates who have taken out and returned papers:

• Chuck Cardillo: Select Board Member
• Lisa Sauer: Select Board Member
• Eric Egan: Planning Board
• Gary Johnston: Moderator
• Carole Owens: Moderator
• Katie Szwyd: Parks and Recreation
• Nick Fredsall Parks & Recreation
• Anne Rabinowitz: Housing Authority
• Don Schneyer: Water and Sewer
• Dr. Charles Kenny: Board of Health
• Gary Pitney: Board of Assessors

*Tree Warden — The Select Board is considering an article on the Warrant to change Town Clerk and Tree Warden from elected to appointed positions. If the article passes at Town Meeting, then votes cast for this position will not be counted. However, it is unclear as of posting this issue if there is any candidate who returned papers. I hope both Lisa Bozzuto and Hugh Page are on the ballot and introduce themselves in SU.

Stockbridge Updates will spotlight all the candidates and invites all those running to send Stockbridge Updates the answers to The Candidates’ Q&A:

• What prompted you to run?
• If elected, what would be your primary focus?
• What would you like voters to know about you?

In addition, SU will offer space for The Candidates’ Opening statements and for the election season, there is no word limit anywhere in SU between now and Election Day.

There are three contested races, (Select Board, Moderator, and Parks and Rec) but even if you are running unopposed, send your answers and your statement to SU — introduce yourself to the voters. An informed electorate is the bedrock of democracy.

Gary Johnston

WHY AM I RUNNING FOR RE-ELECTION AS STOCKBRIDGE TOWN MODERATOR?

I guess the best answer is to go back to 1977 when I first ran for the office of Stockbridge of Town Moderator. My predecessor, long time Stockbridge moderator Robert (Bob) Minkler, encouraged me to run and then endorsed my candidacy as he knew of my extensive background in parliamentary procedure. That began as a Williams High School Future Farmers of America (FFA) student and competitor in statewide parliamentary competitions. My involvement with the FFA continued after high school when as a freshman at UMass, I was elected president of the state association. In 1966, as president of the Massachusetts FFA, I served as a delegate at the national convention held in Kansas City, Missouri. While at the convention I championed the proposed change that would allow women to become members for the first time ever. Sadly, by a narrow vote, that opportunity was lost; however, I like to think we set the foundation for what took place the very next year when women were welcomed into the ranks of FFA. Additionally, I continued to share my passion for properly conducting meetings as a teacher at Monument Mountain Regional High School. 

I’ve always been interested in local town government and was inspired to seek out leadership positions when attending Boys State at the University of Massachusetts as a junior in high school. I had been trained and had extensive experience in running meetings from an early age. I wanted to contribute to the town in a manner that would be useful and coincide with my busy schedule running a local business with my Dad after I left teaching. 

Over the many years I have served the town as moderator, I have received numerous accolades both publically and privately. An appreciation of these many kind and encouraging comments has led me to continue seeking the office of moderator.

WHAT WOULD MY PRIMARY FOCUS BE?

I would not be inclined to suggest many changes. The moderator’s duties are very clearly delineated as to responsibilities of the office. This can be found in the booklet “Town Meeting Time”. In fact, this is an “official handbook of parliamentary law” developed especially for Massachusetts moderators. Initially published in 1962 and revised in 1983 and again in 2001, this guide has been prepared and amended under the auspices of the Massachusetts Moderators Association. Since “Town Meeting Time” is based on case law, it would seem foolish for any local town moderator to attempt to institute any changes to the responsibilities of the office. In fact, the authors repeatedly warned moderators to be very careful to stay within the guidelines of “Town Meeting Time”. Any errors that occur while during a town meeting can be a cause for the Attorney General of the Commonwealth to overturn any decisions that resulted. So my primary focus continues to be to run a clear, concise and fair town meeting. My opponent has reported that she has consulted with several other town moderators and has learned of some “tricks” to use as moderator. In my 46 years of running our town meetings, I assure you that I have never resorted to using any “tricks” in my efforts to complete the legal business of our town.

WHAT I WOULD LIKE VOTERS TO KNOW ABOUT ME

First and foremost, after 46 years in the office I fully understand the duties of moderator. The most important mindset that is needed to be an effective moderator is exactly that: moderation. To do the job properly, a moderator must set aside his or her own passions, politics and biases. Over the years I have purposely avoided attending most of the “baby town meetings” or any other public hearings where I might be tempted to form preconceived ideas regarding the issues on the town warrant. I also make a point of never attending finance committee meetings. Once I have made the appointment after careful research of the applicants’ resumes, I have complete faith that the committee can function professionally and effectively on their own. In fact, it is a town meeting rule that if the moderator wishes to address any issue in a debate form, he/she must step aside and pass the gavel on to another member of the meeting. Furthermore, when standing in front of the townspeople at the annual meeting, I have always made a special effort to call on every single person who wishes to address the assembly. I usually try to move on to a new speaker before returning to one who has already spoken. The exception would be when there is a direct question to a previous speaker or certain expertise is needed. 

Many townspeople have offered to allow me to place lawn signs with my name on their property. While I appreciate these kind offers, I have turned away from lawn signs because I believe they diminish the beauty of our wonderful town and; after 46 years as moderator, the vast majority of voters know who I am and what I am running for. Additionally, one of the greatest aids to recently come about is the use of voting clickers that turn every vote into a secret ballot, protecting the privacy of every voter. Lawn signs are counterproductive to this effort. 

I sense that my opponent has a misconception about the duties of the town moderator. Thus far, her rhetoric and that of her supporters seem to indicate that her intentions are better suited to run for an office other than the apolitical position of moderator.

I want to thank all those who have voted for me in the past and who went out of their way to compliment me on a job well done. As always, I encourage all town voters to exercise their right to vote and humbly ask for your support again this year.

News

Select Board (SB) Meeting, April 4, 2024, hybrid.

Town Manager Michael Canales reported on the Children’s Chime Tower:

The mechanism for playing the music is fully repaired. Now the music can play “from apple blossom to frost on the pumpkin” as David Dudley Field envisioned when he donated the Tower. 

The 170-year-old clock works are broken. Canales asked SB if he should pursue repairing the clock — an historic restoration – or replace the clock works with a modern electrical system that will allow the Town to program which hours the clock should strike.

Jamie Minacci and Chuck Cardillo did not support the clock striking the hours 24/7. Minacci suggested it only ring the hours between 8am and 5pm. The second option — a modern programable system – was approved. It may not have to go before Town Meeting if the money can be found in current budget.

There was opposition from abutters to the music playing every day 5-5:30pm, from “apple blossom to apple drop” that is Memorial Day to Labor Day as originally envisioned.

Since it is the Children’s Chime Tower, Minacci suggested the music be played on Saturday afternoon when the children are out of school. Bruce Blair reminded her that school is out every day during the summer. One attendee said perhaps the volume of the music can be turned down. Another remembered playing the chimes as a child and the thrill it was. Berkshire County conductor and music educator, Dr. Andrea Goodman, who will serve as the Stockbridge Children’s Chimes Coordinator, will meet with abutters and address their concerns.

Canales suggested that Tree Warden and Town Clerk be changed from elected to appointed positions: vote delayed until next meeting.

SB member Patrick White requested they discuss the budget. One item in the budget was discussed- Other Post Employment benefits (OPEB). OPEB is money set aside (by law) to fund a municipality’s obligations (see Editor’s note). There is $3.8 million in the fund now put aside by Stockbridge. The interest was $300,000 last year. Any Mass municipality, including Stockbridge, is permitted by law to draw once its OPEB obligation is over 80% funded. $3.8million is over 80%.

White wanted to discuss the budget with an eye to reducing tax rate — “every $90,000 reduces rate 1%” White asked if the SB should draw from OPEB in order to meet an employee benefit obligation and thereby reduce the tax rate and save the taxpayers money? The money paid in was all taxpayer money.

Cardillo and Minacci were opposed. Cardillo felt SB should wait for the joint meeting and do what the Finance Committee instructs. Minacci suggested waiting until it is 100% funded and then using the interest “to fix bridges” and meet other town obligations. 

White also asked if SB could vote to reduce the Reserve Fund from $150,000 to $100,000 and save 1/2 point on tax rate in that way. He said every $90,000 saved, saves a point on the tax rate. Adding Stockbridge had never used the entire $150,000 in one year. Minacci said it was “okay the way it was.”

Editor’s note: According to Mass.gov, “The OPEB fund is a trust fund, that is managed by a trustee or board of trustees. The assets of the trust are held solely to meet the current and future liabilities of the governmental unit for group health insurance benefits for retirees and their dependents.” The OPEB Fund is not like “free cash” or a municipal savings account or reserve fund. Once a municipality deposits in the OPEB fund, it cannot access it or use it except as indicated by law.

According to Mass Association of Finance Committees, “A local Finance Committee, by tradition and statute, is a select group of citizens that advise each Town Meeting on the probity, practicality, and value of matters before the Meeting.” Because it is a committee of Town Meeting, not the SB, that is why traditionally, the Town Moderator appoints the members.

News

Finance Committee 4/10/2024, Hybrid.

The Reserve Fund was discussed. It was lower than $100,000 prior to 2015 and then raised. Now it stands at $150,000 annually. Should the amount be reduced to reduce tax rate? Patrick White said please remember every $90,000 saved in budget is 1% off the tax rate. No action — Chair “ultimately it is the decision of the SB and Finance will take a position after SB.”

Highway Department trucks are old but replacements cost hundreds of thousands of dollars. FC Chair asked, is there any way to repair the trucks?

Hugh Page, Supervisor of Highway Department, replied, yes. It was a choice. Should his men be repairing equipment or plowing roads? Remember the repairs cost in man-hours and parts.

News

Planning Board (PB), April 16,2024, Hybrid

The Affordable Housing Trust (AHT) presented the results of the Housing Production Plan (HPP) to the PB. Jan Ackerman, Vice Chair AHF, reported the HPP reports 1. Current local data 2. Local needs 3. Strategies 4. A general 5-year plan (not specific projects but general ideas).

Data – Stockbridge has an overall population decline and an increase in age of population. The 35-50 age range decreased in turn decreasing the number of school aged children.

Needs — Improve the condition of current housing stock and increase moderately-priced housing.

Strategies — In order to improve the conditions of current stock and increase moderately priced housing stock, AHT will accumulate more money. How? AHT can apply for grants and awards. AHT will reach out and educate the public. Last year, Town Meeting passed the Residential Inclusionary Bylaw that requires developers to pay for affordable housing or create affordable housing as they build more costly homes. 

5-year Plan — five houses per year over 5 years — increased stock 25 houses. This is required by the Commonwealth and is aspirational for Stockbridge.

End of Ackerman report and Kate Fletcher, Chair of PB opened for discussion.

The topics of discussion were Accessory Dwelling Units (ADU) which the Commonwealth will shortly regulate, jobs to support and encourage families to move here, and what might happen at DeSisto and Elm Court. Fletcher asked Ranee Warner, as a friend of Linda Law’s, owner of Elm Court, what the plan may be on that property and if it had changed. Warner said indeed she was a friend but in no way associated with Law’s business and had no idea.

Fletcher also reported that the lowest tax rate in Berkshire towns occurred in the towns with the lowest density and everyone should consider that.

News

The Green Committee (GC), April 18, 2024, Hybrid

Chair Laura Dubester opened the meeting to Michael Canales who listed some of the accomplishments of GC in carbon reduction. Replaced streetlights with LED bulbs, installed four charging units at Town Offices for electric cars, purchased one hybrid police car, and kept recycling free to residents even as cost to Town rises to encourage the behavior. Stockbridge is on its way to being a climate leader.

Chris Mason presented another program mandated by the Commonwealth to become a Climate Leader — The State Performance Code.

HERS — it is a mandatory rating system to demonstrate compliance with energy codes. The Building Inspector is the HERS rater.

There is the building plan rating, the in-progress inspection, and final inspection to rate compliance.

There are three energy codes: Base code, Stretch Code, and Special Code. Stockbridge is currently on Stretch Code — the requirements for Stretch Code will soon be increased.

Bottom line — the code controls insulation and leakage. The more insulated the house and the tighter versus leakier, the better. One member mentioned that if too tight not safe and Mason said they are inventing fans to bring in outside air.

This impacts new housing starts, but there may be money available to improve current housing stock, for example, Community Block Grants, Justice40, and other federal grants.

News

Select Board (SB), April 18, 2024, Hybrid

Once Upon A Table outside dining approved.

Boston Symphany Orchestra (BSO) offered “alcohol service at seats” at 3 events last year and want to expand to 14 events this year. All popular concert series events and no matter where the seats are (presumably in Shed or on lawn). Approved

BSO wishes to extend the closing time from 11pm to 1am for weddings on May 25, August 24, December 7. After 11pm there will be a silent disco. Approved

AHT presentation of HPP by Jan Ackerman:

1638 houses — 80% built before 1980 and 45% before WWII.

Of the 1638 houses, 811, or 49.5%, are occupied by full-time residents.

Stockbridge exceeds the 10% required affordable housing (Heaton Court, Pinewoods, and Riverbrook)

Fewer people 30 — 50 years. The median age in Stockbridge is 60 years old

Median income $46,000

Annual growth 3%

Goal — 25 new homes in 5 years and more money to repair older homes.

Cardillo believes 2-4-acre zoning prohibits affordable housing; Ackerman explained 40b allows builders of affordable housing to circumvent local zoning so there was little need for zoning changes.

Minacci went through page by page pointing out blank spaces and spelling mistakes.

Public input focused on character of village, for example, it is a village of single-family homes — multi-family units would be inconsistent.

Folks wanted everyone to keep in mind the cost of infrastructure necessary to support new builds.

PB Chair wanted to know if extant buildings like old firehouses could be used.

Someone offered that they favored ADUs and was reminded the state is proposing an ADU bylaw and if passed, it will override any local bylaw so best to wait and see.

Other items on the agenda were paving the roads including Old Meetinghouse Road.

Allen Wilken — who lives on Old Meeting House Road — opposed paving as it would destroy the historic character of a very old town road. Hugh Page explained they are trying to pave the road to strengthen the structure and finish it with historically correct materials. Wilken approved of the finish or topcoat but was not sure it had to be asphalt-paved underneath.

White introduced the “Emerald Necklace” a system of sidewalks around Tanglewood creating a safe walking trail from Lenox to Stockbridge. It was approved by Lenox SB.

Fletcher opposed it as she doesn’t like sidewalks. Minacci stated her anger at “not being told” and hearing about this proposal for first time at SB meeting.

Editor’s note: The Open Meeting Law in Mass, “requires that most meetings of public bodies be held in public.” It forbids deliberation by a quorum outside of a public meeting. Stockbridge has a three-member SB, therefore, no two can meet and discuss. What two of the SB members do is check in routinely with Town Administrator to ask about items on the upcoming agenda. In that way, members of a three-member SB “are told” about items before the meeting. Another way for it to be legal for at least two to meet and discuss, is for Stockbridge to enlarge the SB from 3 — 5 members as Great Barrington did. There is no other legal solution. Everyone is told in public session by law.

News

Our Post Office — the Conversation Continues

Dear Carole,

Thank you for publishing “Our Post Office.” This PO # situation has gotten out of hand. If someone would start a petition I would sign it. I might even be willing to picket our Post Office (if I thought it would help and wouldn’t lead to retaliation). 

Two years ago after my dad died, there were a bunch of legal and military documents, as well as, insurance and inheritance payments, that never reached me, or had to be resent multiple times, because I had no control over the fact that certain senders used my LEGAL ADDRESS but had not included a PO box number. It led to nearly as much grief as my dear dad’s passing, and certainly more wasted phone and email time, for both my sister and myself. 

And recently, when I wanted to send post card invitations to two of my own Stockbridge neighbors, our post office would not give me their box numbers. “Privacy,” they said. 

So I asked, in the interest of privacy, if THEY would look up and (without me seeing) add the box number to the cards for me, and then drop them in the mail. Still nothing doing. Apparently, doing a resident this small kindness, wasn’t in their job description. I was literally told “not my job.”

When I asked if I just mailed the post cards with just a street address, what were the chances they would get to the addressees, I was told it was unlikely. Where would they go? “Back to the sender,” was the answer. And when I pointed out that post cards have no return address, I was told they would simply be sent back to Hartford, Ct. – presumably to die a slow death. 

Arrrrrrgh. 

Thank you for listening and for doing what you can to shame our post office into delivering our mail. 

Barbara Woike

Hello Barbara,

So sorry for the trouble you experienced. SU will write to the officials in the district post office again. When we did that before, a representative came out, sat down with the employees at our office, and things improved. Then, Peter reported, it worsened again. Let’s hope writing works again. Will keep you posted. Following is what I wrote and the attachments, FYI. 

Dear …

In 2023, on behalf of several patrons of the Stockbridge post office, you received a complaint from me. They contacted me and asked me to write as I have the hyperlocal newspaper Stockbridge Updates, and I also write for The Berkshire Edge and The Berkshire Eagle. 

I thank you for your response. You traveled here, met with post office staff, and were very effective. Mail delivery improved immediately, and I thank you as we all do. 

Sadly, now I was asked to write again. Following are two letters (names removed) and three anecdotes. The last are similar in nature.

Let me say I will back these patrons up if they want a protest in front of the post office and I will invite wider press and media. 

Seriously all anyone is asking for is mail delivery. There is no snow nor rain nor gloom of night walking from the window to a post office box. There is nothing keeping these fellows from their appointed rounds — they know us and our box numbers. Do please help.

Thank you, Carole Owens,

Anecdote #1 — I went to the window with a stamped letter addressed with the correct box number and asked the postal worker to put it into the box. I was told it had to go to Springfield and then come back.

I went to the Lenox post office with a letter and the correct box number and asked if they would send it to Springfield. The employee laughed and put it in the proper box.

Anecdote #2 – A gentleman sent a check to a company in Stockbridge. It sat around the Stockbridge PO for some time and then was returned to the sender. We do not have the envelope.

Anecdote # 3 – A letter was mailed certified to Tennessee ($4.35) on October 11, 2023. It was returned to sender in Stockbridge March 26, 2024, for incorrect address. When asked at the window what was wrong with the address, the postal worker looked up the address and pronounced it correctly. The worker offered to take it and deliver it now (5 months later). We do have the envelope.

Three letters:

1. – Dear Carole, 

Thank you for publishing “Our Post Office.” This PO # situation has gotten out of hand. If someone would start a petition I would sign it. I might even be willing to picket our Post Office (if I thought it would help and wouldn’t lead to retaliation). After my dad died, there were a bunch of legal and military documents, as well as, insurance and inheritance payments, that never reached me, or had to be resent multiple times, because I had no control over the fact that certain senders used my LEGAL ADDRESS but had not included a PO box number. It led to nearly as much grief as my dear dad’s passing, and certainly more wasted phone and email time, for both my sister and myself. 

And recently, when I wanted to send post card invitations to two of my own Stockbridge neighbors, our post office would not give me their box numbers. “Privacy,” they said. So I asked, in the interest of privacy, if THEY would look up and (without me seeing) add the box number to the cards for me, and then drop them in the mail. Still nothing doing. Apparently, doing a resident this small kindness, wasn’t in their job description. I was literally told “not my job.” When I asked if I just mailed the post cards with just a street address, what were the chances they would get to the addressees, I was told it was unlikely. Where would they go? “Back to the sender,” was the answer. And when I pointed out that post cards have no return address, I was told they would simply be sent back to Hartford, Ct. – presumably to die a slow death. Arrrrrrgh. Thank you for listening and for doing what you can to shame our post office into delivering our mail. 

2. – Dear Carole:

You probably know that the Post Office is again stamping mail that post office box numbers must be used, and perhaps is again returning mail or packages not so addressed. Stockbridge Updates succeeded in getting this practice stopped when it happened a while ago, and I hope will try to do so again.

This is particularly difficult for packages, since FedEx and UPS will not accept packages including a PO box address, and both frequently “dump” ground transportation items into the mail.

In the past, we were advised that the must-have-box-number policy could be avoided by including the box number in a different way in one’s address — for example, “7 Aspen Street #1234.” We’ve done that, yet today got an envelope so addressed and nonetheless stamped with “The address on this piece is incomplete or incorrect. Please contact sender to correct with address that includes PO Box.”

It was a relief when, earlier, after SU‘s intervention, this practice did stop for a while. That preserved a desirable community meeting place for the town. But now it has resumed. Is there anything SU (Stockbridge Updates) can do to cause it to halt again? 

3. — Dear Carole,

The check that I sent you was returned to me last week. Apparently, I put the wrong PO box on it and it spent all this time at the Stockbridge Post Office. It had the correct zip code so it seems that the rocket scientists at the PO could not make the connection to you. Tom Carey is turning over in his grave. Another check is on the way, hopefully with a better result. Ed

I will post any response.

Carole

Conversations

SU Interview: Officers Messina 

Stockbridge now has a father and son team of police officers.

Perspective

From Anita Schwerner, Chair, Stockbridge Democratic Town Committee

The Democratic Town Committee held a caucus on April 13 to hear from and endorse candidates for town offices. Thank you to all the candidates who participated in the caucus and are running to serve as part of our town government. The following candidates were endorsed: 

Carole Owens for Moderator

Chuck Cardillo for Select Board

Eric Egan for Planning Board

Don Schneyer for Sewer and Water Commissioner

Kate Szwyd for Parks & Recreation

Dr. Charles Kenny for Board of Health

Gary Pitney for Board of Assessors 

Anne Rabinowitz for Housing Authority. 

Town moderator and Select Board are the two contested races. 

Election Day is May 21 but the mail-in and absentee ballots are already in the mail. Please take time to learn about the candidates and then vote to support your choices. Your vote is important.

Perspective

From the Desk of Michael Canales: Paving in Stockbridge 

This spring we have several roads being paved and wish to explain the process being used on those roads that are currently chip sealed. The process for those roads is referred to as chip seal paving. Chip seal paving is a versatile surface treatment that can be applied to an asphalt base.

Chip seal paving stands out as an excellent surface treatment option for Stockbridge roads, offering a host of benefits that contribute to the longevity and efficiency of our infrastructure. This versatile method, involving the application of small chips or gravel held together by a binder, presents a cost-effective solution with numerous advantages.

First and foremost, chip seal paving acts as a protective layer, shielding asphalt surfaces from the detrimental effects of weathering and wear. By extending the lifespan of paved surfaces, it ensures durability and resilience in the face of diverse environmental conditions.

One of the key advantages of chip seal paving is its ability to enhance traction and reduce splashes from rainwater, thereby improving safety for motorists and pedestrians alike. Additionally, its visually appealing appearance adds to the aesthetic rustic charm of Stockbridge.

The ease of installation and minimal maintenance requirements associated with chip seal paving make it an attractive option for our roadway needs. Its efficient application process minimizes disruptions while maximizing the longevity of our roads, ultimately leading to cost savings over time.

In addressing the specific challenges faced by our roads, such as alligator cracking and potholes, we have developed a hybrid approach tailored to reinforce weaker bases. This method involves laying down a 1.5-inch base of asphalt followed by the application of a chip coat after the asphalt cures, combining structural reinforcement with the protective qualities of chip seal paving.

In summary, chip seal paving emerges as an asset for Stockbridge, offering a sustainable, durable, and cost-effective solution for maintaining our roads. Through strategic implementation and ongoing commitment, we aim to ensure the continued safety and efficiency of the road network for years to come while maintaining the rustic characteristics of the roads.

Perspective

Our Post Office — the Conversation Continues

Dear Carole,

Thank you for publishing “Our Post Office.” This PO # situation has gotten out of hand. If someone would start a petition I would sign it. I might even be willing to picket our Post Office (if I thought it would help and wouldn’t lead to retaliation). 

Two years ago after my dad died, there were a bunch of legal and military documents, as well as, insurance and inheritance payments, that never reached me, or had to be resent multiple times, because I had no control over the fact that certain senders used my LEGAL ADDRESS but had not included a PO box number. It led to nearly as much grief as my dear dad’s passing, and certainly more wasted phone and email time, for both my sister and myself. 

And recently, when I wanted to send post card invitations to two of my own Stockbridge neighbors, our post office would not give me their box numbers. “Privacy,” they said. 

So I asked, in the interest of privacy, if THEY would look up and (without me seeing) add the box number to the cards for me, and then drop them in the mail. Still nothing doing. Apparently, doing a resident this small kindness, wasn’t in their job description. I was literally told “not my job.”

When I asked if I just mailed the post cards with just a street address, what were the chances they would get to the addressees, I was told it was unlikely. Where would they go? “Back to the sender,” was the answer. And when I pointed out that post cards have no return address, I was told they would simply be sent back to Hartford, Ct. – presumably to die a slow death. 

Arrrrrrgh. 

Thank you for listening and for doing what you can to shame our post office into delivering our mail. 

Hello,

So sorry for the trouble you experienced. SU will write to the officials in the district post office again. When we did that before, a representative came out, sat down with the employees at our office, and things improved. Then, Peter reported, it worsened again. Let’s hope writing works again. Will keep you posted. Following is what I wrote and the attachments, FYI. 

Dear …

In 2023, on behalf of several patrons of the Stockbridge post office, you received a complaint from me. They contacted me and asked me to write as I have the hyperlocal newspaper Stockbridge Updates, and I also write for The Berkshire Edge and The Berkshire Eagle. 

I thank you for your response. You traveled here, met with post office staff, and were very effective. Mail delivery improved immediately, and I thank you as we all do. 

Sadly, now I was asked to write again. Following are two letters (names removed) and three anecdotes. The last are similar in nature.

Let me say I will back these patrons up if they want a protest in front of the post office and I will invite wider press and media. 

Seriously all anyone is asking for is mail delivery. There is no snow nor rain nor gloom of night walking from the window to a post office box. There is nothing keeping these fellows from their appointed rounds — they know us and our box numbers. Do please help.

Thank you, Carole Owens,

Anecdote #1 — I went to the window with a stamped letter addressed with the correct box number and asked the postal worker to put it into the box. I was told it had to go to Springfield and then come back.

I went to the Lenox post office with a letter and the correct box number and asked if they would send it to Springfield. The employee laughed and put it in the proper box.

Anecdote #2 – A gentleman sent a check to a company in Stockbridge. It sat around the Stockbridge PO for some time and then was returned to the sender. We do not have the envelope.

Anecdote # 3 – A letter was mailed certified to Tennessee ($4.35) on October 11, 2023. It was returned to sender in Stockbridge March 26, 2024, for incorrect address. When asked at the window what was wrong with the address, the postal worker looked up the address and pronounced it correctly. The worker offered to take it and deliver it now (5 months later). We do have the envelope.

Three letters:

1. – Dear Carole, 

Thank you for publishing “Our Post Office.” This PO # situation has gotten out of hand. If someone would start a petition I would sign it. I might even be willing to picket our Post Office (if I thought it would help and wouldn’t lead to retaliation). After my dad died, there were a bunch of legal and military documents, as well as, insurance and inheritance payments, that never reached me, or had to be resent multiple times, because I had no control over the fact that certain senders used my LEGAL ADDRESS but had not included a PO box number. It led to nearly as much grief as my dear dad’s passing, and certainly more wasted phone and email time, for both my sister and myself. 

And recently, when I wanted to send post card invitations to two of my own Stockbridge neighbors, our post office would not give me their box numbers. “Privacy,” they said. So I asked, in the interest of privacy, if THEY would look up and (without me seeing) add the box number to the cards for me, and then drop them in the mail. Still nothing doing. Apparently, doing a resident this small kindness, wasn’t in their job description. I was literally told “not my job.” When I asked if I just mailed the post cards with just a street address, what were the chances they would get to the addressees, I was told it was unlikely. Where would they go? “Back to the sender,” was the answer. And when I pointed out that post cards have no return address, I was told they would simply be sent back to Hartford, Ct. – presumably to die a slow death. Arrrrrrgh. Thank you for listening and for doing what you can to shame our post office into delivering our mail. 

2. – Dear Carole:

You probably know that the Post Office is again stamping mail that post office box numbers must be used, and perhaps is again returning mail or packages not so addressed. Stockbridge Updates succeeded in getting this practice stopped when it happened a while ago, and I hope will try to do so again.

This is particularly difficult for packages, since FedEx and UPS will not accept packages including a PO box address, and both frequently “dump” ground transportation items into the mail.

In the past, we were advised that the must-have-box-number policy could be avoided by including the box number in a different way in one’s address — for example, “7 Aspen Street #1234.” We’ve done that, yet today got an envelope so addressed and nonetheless stamped with “The address on this piece is incomplete or incorrect. Please contact sender to correct with address that includes PO Box.”

It was a relief when, earlier, after SU‘s intervention, this practice did stop for a while. That preserved a desirable community meeting place for the town. But now it has resumed. Is there anything SU (Stockbridge Updates) can do to cause it to halt again? 

3. — Dear Carole,

The check that I sent you was returned to me last week. Apparently, I put the wrong PO box on it and it spent all this time at the Stockbridge Post Office. It had the correct zip code so it seems that the rocket scientists at the PO could not make the connection to you. Tom Carey is turning over in his grave. Another check is on the way, hopefully with a better result. Ed

I will post any response.

Carole

The Last Word

Reader to Reader

To the editor:

I am writing to provide additional information as to why Mr. Gary Johnston has earned reelection.

Johnston has appointed Finance Committee members regardless of political affiliation and has looked for candidates who have a background in finance, municipal finance, business ownership, accounting, insurance and prior governmental experience. Johnston understands the need for competence and non-partisan leadership. The Finance Committee members in the last ten years have provided budget oversight, capital planning and an emphasis on funding to overcome years of deferred maintenance of plant and equipment. 

It was the Finance Committee appointed by Johnston that led the effort to fully fund a $4,000,000 liability for healthcare benefits [OPEB] for Stockbridge town retirees. It was the Finance Committee appointed by him which created a stabilization fund to protect the town from adverse financial effects of the pandemic shutdown. 

This is a multi-year record of accomplishment which equals or surpasses every town in Berkshire County. The record includes an increase in the Stockbridge’s bond rating to the highest level attainable by a town virtually dependent on real estate taxes. This increase in rating has saved the town hundreds of thousands of dollars in interest costs. There are only three towns in Berkshire County with this accomplishment. 

We have Gary to thank for these achievements.

Please vote to reelect Gary Johnston as Stockbridge Town moderator again this year.

Thank you, John Morse
Member of the Stockbridge Finance Committee from 2003 to 2011.

To the Editor:

If you want lower taxes, do it one percentage at a time. There are no quick fixes. You have to work hard, study hard, and find the little things where a point can be shaved off of the tax rate. In Stockbridge, every point translates to between $20 and $300 per taxpayer per year, depending on the value of your property.

Let me address points raised by John Morse in The Berkshire Edge on April 17. Mr. Morse referenced the fund to pay the cost of future retirement benefits, OPEB (Other Post-Employment Benefits). Our town OPEB fund stands at $3.8 million, which earned over $300,000 in interest this past year. It is funded at over 80%, which by law allows us to use a portion to pay for current OPEB liabilities. This would reduce the property tax levy. 

Funding OPEB didn’t come for free. We did that with your property taxes. Our current OPEB liability for fiscal year 2025 stands at around $140,000. If we paid this out of the $300,000+ in interest we earned last year on this fund, we wouldn’t have decreased the fund’s principal, and taxpayers would have saved 1.5% this year. I supported this. The Finance Committee Chair and my colleagues on the Select Board did not.

Mr. Morse and a few members of the Finance Committee have made the claim that accessing the town’s OPEB reserves might impact the town’s future cost of borrowing by impacting Stockbridge’s credit rating. I point out that Lenox and Stockbridge enjoy the same credit rating. Lenox, like most towns, has not funded its OPEB liability. Stockbridge has.

Second, even if this claim were true, and it is not, the difference in the cost of borrowing from a municipal credit score of AA vs. AA+ is 5 basis points, or 5/100ths of 1%. Per $1 million of borrowing, this amounts to a difference in annual costs of around $300 to the entire municipal budget, or roughly 20 cents per taxpayer per year. 

It’s questionable whether the cost to fund OPEB, which in aggregate amounted to $2,500 per taxpayer to date, was the highest best use of each individual taxpayer’s money.

I would also like to point out that the Berkshire Hills Regional School District has an unfunded OPEB liability of over $60 million. Of that amount, Stockbridge’s share is roughly 25%, or $15 million. This sounds scary. However, did you know that the vast majority of municipalities do not set aside these funds; they fund OPEB out of the current year’s operating budget.

Rather than taking the time to debate these issues, folks seem to come into budget meetings with their minds made up. This discussion a few weeks ago was less than 3 minutes in length. Reasonable folks disagreed. We could have put an item on the Town Meeting warrant and let the voters decide, after hearing both sides. That would have given the Finance Committee the chance to do its job, which is to advise the voters at Town Meeting, especially if there is an issue open to debate. I remind everyone that the voters are the decision makers, not the Select Board or the Finance Committee.

As for deferred maintenance, I recognize Mr. Morse left the Finance Committee 13 years ago. Our Town Administrator and I both started our respective jobs in 2020. I credit the Town Administrator for changing the culture of deferred maintenance. I credit the Select Board of 2020, which was comprised of Roxanne McCaffrey, Chuck Cardillo, and me, for taking his advice and changing course on this rather disastrous policy. It was a policy that cost the town dearly in bridges that needed to be replaced and yet could have been repaired for 1/10th the cost several years earlier. It was a policy that resulted in a tremendous amount of time spent by highway department employees repairing rickety old equipment rather than replacing it on a fleet schedule, thus giving them more time to do their actual jobs of plowing and road maintenance.

Finally, Mr. Morse points to the COVID stabilization fund. I note to Mr. Morse that in addition to creating the fund, the town also reduced the revenue projection for occupancy and meals taxes that year. This resulted in double-taxing our taxpayers for this COVID contingency, adding approximately 4% to the town’s budget that fiscal year. Mistakes happen. This was one of them.

Finally, I’d like to address the question of the reserve fund for FY2025. The initial draft budget had it set at $150,000, an amount we never used. I proposed reducing it to $100,000, which would the reduce tax burden by approximately 1/2%. While initially opposed by both the Finance Committee Chair and my colleagues, the Select Board ultimately took the Town Administrator’s recommendation when he endorsed my proposal.

We all learn from each other, from past mistakes, and from best practices of surrounding towns. Let’s be cautious about giving credit where it is due and avoid rewriting history to make a politically expedient argument.

Patrick White<
Stockbridge Select Board member

To the Editor

I am writing in support of Gary Johnston for Town Moderator. It is not well known that the Moderator appoints the members of the town’s Finance Committee. As a member of the Finance Committee for the past two years, I have been impressed with ever one of his appointments. Although I’m sure they come from different political perspectives, their collegiality, their historical knowledge of Stockbridge finances, and their financial expertise and even their diversity all reflect well on Gary’s careful thoughtfulness in the selections he’s made over the years. 

Gary understands the apolitical role of the town Moderator. He understands that his role is to follow the order of voting on town warrants that is given to him by the Select Board and the Town Administrator as those have been reviewed by the Finance Committee. 

Gary understands the job and has done it exceptionally well over the years, and that’s why I support his continuing as Town Moderator. 

Edward Lane
Current Member of the Finance Committee

To the Editor:

In response to Ed Lane’s letter, a good example of political dabbling was the many positions the Finance Committee has taken in recent years. The definition of apolitical would be providing balanced information on Warrant articles to Town Meeting, not taking positions. Taking positions is the very definition political. 

Nonetheless, the Finance Committee took positions on the Residential Tax Exemption, on a detailed review of the Town’s General Bylaws in their entirety, and proposed a policy for “Stockbridge Revitalization.”

According to the agenda, before the Rest of River (ROR) Committee was abolished, Finance Chairman Bikofsky called for motions to enter Executive Sessions to discuss the future strategy as respects Rest of the River (ROR). The Finance Committee may share some responsibility with the Town Representative to ROR for Stockbridge receiving just $1,500,000 when Lee And Lenox each received $25,000,000 though all three share the polluted river and the inconvenience of 13 years of truck-traffic during the cleanup. These are far beyond “apolitical” actions and questionable for an appointed committee, not a committee elected by the people. Finance Committee is meant to give information to the people as they decide. It is not meant to usurp the power of the people by deciding.

Michael Roisman

To the Editor:

I could say that I am voting for Carole Owens to be Town Moderator because of her long list of qualifications, including her vast experience running meetings for the League of Women Voters or….

I could say I’m voting for her because of her extensive involvement in charitable organizations or….

I could say I support her because she attends or listens to the proceedings of Town Commissions and Committees, and summarizes these meetings in Stockbridge Updates, so that residents could be kept informed of current events and issues.

These would all be good reasons to vote for Carole Owens.

But in truth, the real reason she has my support is because of the obvious love and passion she feels for this Town and for her insight into how Town history is relevant for issues facing the public today. She values fairness, inclusion and respect and I’m confident she will demonstrate these values if elected as Moderator.

Lisa Bozzuto

To the Editor: 

My husband and I moved to Stockbridge over two years ago and have been following the local political scene since then. The one person who has kept us most informed has been Carole Owens through her Stockbridge Updates posts. Her summaries are rigorous and impartial, and her values are clear; a commitment to small town participatory democracy where community members from all levels can be heard and considered. To move from scribe of proceedings to participant in them I think would be of great value to Stockbridge: someone who is deeply versed in the proceedings and fully committed to giving all a voice. Carole Owens as Moderator is a perfect fit!

Jane Weiss

Letter to the Editor

I have known Carole Owens for only three years. A blink of time on the calendar of Stockbridge history. No one has made the values of this town more vivid or meaningful to me in that short sprint of time. Her regular columns in the Eagle and Edge would have been enough to define what it means to be a thoughtful citizen in a small town, but her work on Stockbridge Update is a work of civic commitment that few people share. If politics is the art of the possible, then Stockbridge Update is the most honest and clear-sighted palette for painting a documentary picture in real time. It’s a record of how a small town centered on a two-hundred-eighty-five-year-old system of participatory governance actually works. She covers, whether in person or online, virtually every meeting of every aspect of every board or commission or planning event that is held. If intimate knowledge of the inner workings of the town while offering a platform for debate that respects all points of view isn’t the best evidence that she will make an admirable Town Moderator, it’s hard to say what is. 

Barry Hoffman

Dear Editor,

In 2020, as the Covid pandemic tightened its grip, we washed our hands multiple times a day, wore masks frequently, limited contact with friends, and avoided public gatherings like Town and Board meetings. That summer Carole Owens launched Stockbridge Updates, a free semimonthly newsletter to help us stay connected. 

After 94 issues, her goals remain the same: enable the people of Stockbridge to better understand how our town government works, show why their participation is critical for democracy’s success, and provide everyone — without regard to political affiliation — a place to freely express their thoughts and concerns. Bottom line? She started Updates to strengthen community spirit and advocate for open dialogue.

Owens’ love of Stockbridge is well known through her many books and articles about the Berkshires and our town’s “cottages.” Now Carole is running for Stockbridge Moderator where her in-depth knowledge of town government, coupled with her sense of fairness, will help ensure Town Meetings are conducted impartially. And she wants to bring greater diversity to our Finance Board by bringing in new voices with a broader variety of perspectives. 

Her passion to honor our past, her engagement with the issues of today, and her commitment to a sustainable future are why I support her candidacy. Please consider Carole Owens for Moderator.

Barney Edmonds, Stockbridge
Former Planning Board member and long-time Commissioner on the Stockbridge Housing Authority

To the Editor,

It has become apparent that the most important factor in the upcoming election for the position of Stockbridge Town Moderator is the power of the moderator to appoint the Finance Board. Since 1977 members of that board have been accountable to one person only, Gary Johnston. This is a board in a bubble. In its insularity, it advised a policy of systematic neglect for town infrastructure and years later awoke to the problems that created and proposed a belated and unnecessarily expensive remediation policy. Unfortunately, policies and budgeting priorities originating in the Finance Board have routinely been adopted by a passive and compliant Select Board. 

The Finance Board is supposed to be advisory to the town; advice given when asked for. Its “advice” has become virtually determinative through its self-assertion and the absence of effective resistance, symbolized by its seating – as though it is something more than it is – on the dais at the Annual Town Meeting. We can’t currently vote for Finance Board members (we should fix that) but we can vote for Moderator. I support Carole Owens for that position. She has said that she intends to bring change to the Finance Board, orderly change, accomplished by replacing board members upon expiration of their staggered terms. 

Ms. Owens brings so much more to the table, including a deep knowledge of the history of this town and this state, experience leading numerous organizations and a passion for preserving the things that have managed to survive that make Stockbridge such a wonderful place to live. That said, the breath of fresh air in the moderatorship she would represent is more than enough to recommend her.

Brent Wiggans

To the Editor: 

I guess I shouldn’t be surprised that politics brings out strongly held positions, even in our small town. But I have been surprised that people are characterized for anything other than their positions on the issues and opportunities ahead. Let’s pay tribute and thanks to anyone willing to take their time to look after our civic/municipal needs.

As to the position of town moderator, we have an opportunity for healthy assessment of the position and a civil debate on the merits of various positions. The current moderator has been in place for decades, and as in the case of any long-tenured position, fresh perspectives on historic performance and future needs should happen from time to time. Suggestions that anyone is acting out of spurious motives are just plain silly. 

I would suggest that Stockbridge residents look at the issues, the facts, the statements, and the records of both candidates rather than leaning on potentially spurious arguments from individuals who might have a ‘dog in the fight’.

I will be voting for Carole Owens for the moderator’s position. Carole’s well-known service to the community, her experience, her love of Stockbridge and its history, and a contagious positivity makes this an easy choice. I would strongly encourage my friends and neighbors to do the same. Best wishes and good luck to both candidates.

Bruce Brodie

Please print this in your reader to reader section.

I am responding to several writer’s claims that my previous letter supporting Gary Johnston for Town Moderator in Stockbridge, citing the appropriate sections in the Massachusetts statute governing the duties of the Moderator were incorrect.

Nowhere do they convey the right of the Moderator to dictate to the Finance Committee that they will become “more active” in managing the economic affairs of a town. The Finance Committee is not the equivalent of a Ways and Means Committee. 

The Finance Committee is a recommending body, who can only make official recommendations when financial articles are presented to them by the Selectboard.

One writer claimed that he took liberties when he was town moderator in another town. Gary Johnston in over 45 years has not once directed the members of the Finance Committee to do anything outside the purview of their responsibilities. Not a single time has he attempted to influence the people he appointed in any manner whatsoever.

The town moderator has the right to change the order for consideration of the various articles to be voted upon, but usually will only do so if the Selectboard OR the voters present request it.

Again, this year, Gary Johnston is running to continue his excellent leadership as Stockbridge moderator, and I hope everyone will join me in voting for continued excellent performance.

Thank you,

Jim Balfanz

Please note – I write this as a private citizen and not as a member of any town committee.

Editor’s note: We print everyone’s claims, opinions, and points of view. You send ’em, we post ’em. That is the purpose of a letter section.

To the Editor:

There are many reasons to support Carole Owens for Stockbridge Town Moderator, and I want to name a few that stand out for me. The first is Carole’s extraordinary demonstration of dedication to transparency in government. She’s shown this through the time and effort she puts into covering town events and reporting on them in the Stockbridge Updates. Before Carole started publishing the Updates, Stockbridge was largely a local news desert. Now it’s blessed with better coverage of local government and events than many larger towns across the country. These days, it sometimes seems that everyone is trying to monetize everything, but the Updates brings Carole no financial benefits. She does it as a service because she loves the town and believes in government in the sunlight.

Carole has repeatedly shown that she’s smart, thoughtful, and has a grasp on the big picture. Her proposal to move controversial items to the front of the Town Meeting agenda is a case in point. If you want to put something over on people, move it toward the end of the meeting when they’re tired, impatient, and ready to go home. They’re most alert and thoughtful at the beginning of a meeting, and that’s the time to take on the more challenging items. Research tells us this is true — question anyone who argues otherwise.

Finally, as a leadership scholar I’ve studied and observed many examples over the years of incumbents who stayed too long in their posts: times had changed, they hadn’t, and their organizations got stuck in patterns that better worked in the past than the present. Stockbridge and the world are very different places than 40 years ago. Gary Johnston may know that and may have new ideas and methods, but there’s no way of knowing because he’s been mostly invisible in recent years. Carole, on the other hand, has been consistently visible. She’s transparent, available, and forward-looking. Take a look at her Owens for Moderator website and you’ll see what I mean. http://www.owensmoderator.com

It was love at first sight when I first met Stockbridge more than 35 years ago, and I am a proud second homeowner who cares deeply about the town and its future. If I could vote, in this election I would not hesitate for a moment before voting for Carole Owens. She’ll be a great Town Moderator.

Joan Gallos