Editorial

Developing DeSisto 

The Peer Review of the development plan for 35-37 Interlaken (formerly the Desisto School) was submitted to the Town of Stockbridge, April 4, 2025.

The necessity for a Peer Review (PR) was determined by the Special Permitting Body (the Stockbridge Select Board) based on the size, scale, and complexity of the proposed project, or because of the uses or potential impacts. Select Board member Chuck Cardillo moved the question: the 314-acre property, owned by the 35-37 Interlaken Realty Trust, Patrick Sheehan, Trustee, qualified for a peer review. It passed unanimously.

A Peer Review is conducted by a consultant whom the applicant pays, but the consultant acts on behalf of the Special Permitting Body. Beals Associates, Boston, reviewed the 300-page application for compliance with the Town’s by-laws and provided commentary and suggestions. The introductory comments include this: “The purpose articulated in Subsection 6.6.1 encourages the preservation, restoration or improvement of the original features and character of the principal buildings, associated outbuildings, open spaces, views, landscape features, gardens and recreational facilities…We believe this is the critical lens through which the Select Board should analyze this proposal.”

Beals concludes the opening remarks, “The proposed project has a number of components that respond to this purpose…the current proposed project represents an effort to address the Town’s concerns with reduction in site density and limits on clearing…However, we believe more can be done.”

Under “Primary Issues,” the Peer Reviewers pointed out that the height of some of the proposed buildings exceeded the 35-foot limit allowed by current bylaws and proposed additions to the principal building not allowed. However, Beals noted the SB “has the discretion to grant relief for these additions as extensions of the nonconforming structure.”

Beals also pointed out that the bylaw allows hotel use but not multi-family residential use. Later in the document, Beals suggests protection of the view shed through application of the Scenic Mountain Act and placing a conservation restriction on the upland area as well as observing all conservation restrictions with respect to wetlands.

The development plan proposes 132 residential hotel units and nine hotel suites; 24 single-family homes (cluster-style); an 800-car parking lot, and a 17-acre garden. If approved, it would be the largest development project in Stockbridge history.

The document clearly articulates the applicable rules for and the rights of both the permitting authority and the property owners. Those rules and rights provide guidelines and opportunities for negotiation. May both sides go forth and do good for our community.

Carole Owens
Executive Editor

Editor’s note: Down memory lane – 1. I had the honor of being involved in production of the first Cottage Era Bylaw with authors Mary Flynn and Jeff Parsons. It was never implemented. It was challenged by the Marians of the Immaculate Conception and successfully defeated. I am so happy that the spirit and intention of the first bylaw is echoed by the Peer Review: “[Preservation is] the critical lens through which the Select Board should analyze this proposal.”

2. Mary Flynn experienced few political defeats, but there was one important one She wanted a conservation restriction placed on Yokun Mountain at the rear of the DeSisto property. It is very gratifying that the Peer Review recommended it and no there is an opportunity to realize Mary’s dream.

by Carole Owens, Executive Editor

Events

Events

1. Continuation of the Public Hearing on the development of 35-37 Interlaken (formerly the DeSisto School) is scheduled for April 17, 6pm, Town Offices. Please watch for schedule changes as the applicant has the right to postpone, and in light of the Perr Review, they may wish more time. 
   1. In celebration of its newly installed solar panels, Berkshire Botanical Garden (BBG) has partnered with the Berkshire International Film Festival (BIFF) to present the 2025 Solar Film Forum on Sunday, April 13, at BBG.
      
      The festival will kick off at 11 a.m. with a selection of short documentary films centered on agrivoltaics, including “Pastures and Panels,” “Harvesting the Sun,” and “Sunshine Synergy: Agrivoltaics with BlueWave.” Attendees will enjoy a complimentary lunch followed by the screening of “Common Ground,” a documentary that emphasizes regenerative farming practices. The screening will be followed by a panel discussion exploring the relationship between agrivoltaics and regenerative farming in promoting sustainable agricultural methods. The day will include a biodynamic wine and cheese reception at 3:30 p.m. sponsored by Dare Bottleshop & Provisions. Visit BerkshireBotanical.org/FilmFestival for more information.
      BBG will Celebrate Earth Day in Stockbridge with a Free Tree Giveaway on Friday April 25, at 11am. BBG’s Ron Kujawski will be on site to answer questions about selection and planting. White Oak, Eastern Pine, Silky Dogwood, and Sugar Maple trees, all native to our region, will be available for you to take home and plant.
   1. Berkshire Natural Resources Council (BNRC) presents the iNaturalist City Nature Challenge at The Boulders, Pittsfield, Tuesday, April 22, 4:00 pm – 5:30 pm. Learn how to use the iNaturalist app on your phone and practice on the variety of beautiful spring wildflowers found at The Boulders reserve, all while participating in a global bioblitz! You’ll come away from this program as a community scientist ready to participate.
      For more information about this and many more springtime programs go to www.bnrc.org
   1. Norman Rockwell Museum presents a Portraiture Workshop: Capturing a Likeness
      May 10 @ 11:00 am EDT – 12:30 pm EDT
      $20 plus admission; $20 for Members.
      Join in an artist-led workshop about portraiture with Anita Kunz, whose work is on view in Original Sisters: Portraits of Courage and Tenacity. Learn how to draw a portrait by using a photograph as source material. Participants will be introduced to Kunz’s step-by-step process of careful observation and visual analysis. All drawing skill levels are welcome; art technical guidance will be provided.
      Participants should bring a photograph or other source material that they want to use as the basis of their drawing. Drawing materials will be provided. Class size is limited; please register in advance.
      ANITA KUNZ is an artist and illustrator living in Toronto. Her art has been published widely and shown in galleries and museums all over the world. She has also been featured regularly in Time, Rolling Stone, Vanity Fair, The New Yorker, GQ, The New York Times, Sports Illustrated, Newsweek, The Atlantic, and The New York Times Magazine, and she has done work for Sony Music. Kunz has also illustrated more than fifty book covers. From 1988 to 1990 she was one of two artists chosen by Rolling Stone to produce a monthly illustrated history of rock ‘n’ roll endpaper. In 2017, she was inducted into the Society of Illustrators’ Museum of American Illustration Hall of Fame.
   1. Stockbridge Library in cooperation with the Stockbridge Agricultural and Forestry Commission will hold an Earth Day/Arbor Day Children’s Craft event at the Town Library on April 22, 2025, from 11am-12:30pm.
      Save the Date – Tuesday June 10, 2025: Stockbridge Library Fund Raiser – Golf and Racket Challenge – New Format – Afternoon play followed by Cocktail Party

Our Candidates 2025

Jamie Minacci:

My candidacy for re-election on Stockbridge Select Board

My first three years on the Stockbridge Select Board have gone quickly. There has been a tremendous amount of time spent learning about governance, the mechanisms of decision making, as well as the content of the various topics, projects and our current legislative decisions. Still, our Select Board has gotten a great deal of work done.

In addition, I have chaired the Stockbridge Bowl Stewardship Commission concerned with very important issues such as dredging and controlling Cyanobacteria Blooms. I have served on the Conservation Commission protecting our wetlands.

I want to express my appreciation and gratitude for the citizens of the Town of Stockbridge who believed in my ability to roll up my sleeves and work for the residents. It has been an honor and privilege to work with my colleagues on the Select Board and the capable, hard working Town Hall employees.

I look forward to the next three more years to work for our Town on its many ongoing and important projects. I believe my work ethic, dedication and professionalism provide the necessary skills to continue working for our community. I would like to see our projects through to completion and contribute to a stronger future together.

I would like to ask for your vote on Tuesday, May 20th. Thank you very much for your support. I would also thank Carole Owens for her dedication to her reporting in Stockbridge Updates.

Warmly,

Jamie Minacci
Select Board ChairEditor’s note: Even those who are not challenged and challenger Lisa Sauer please submit to SU so voters will get to know you. positions, and what encouraged you to run. One of the joys of small-town living is knowing our representatives so introduce yourselves. Thank you

Contributors

Master Planning?

By Bruce Blair

Some time ago, I spoke with a Select Board member who insisted that a Master Plan for Stockbridge was unnecessary. I referred to the “current” Master Plan as the “Dead Sea Scrolls of planning.” “Don’t need one,” was the reply. Really?

Do residents want a select-few to control the agenda on major questions about our future? Is annual voting enough of a say? Of course, resort developers have landowner rights. And maybe incremental building of workforce homes is a plus. But consider the impact of scale, Stockbridge as a crowded resort town. Why do you live here?

Consider a Master Plan (MP), a comprehensive advisory document, not just a boilerplate plan from a regional grant-driven agency. An MP actively gathers all stakeholders and listens to them. A good MP is a living, organic vision. Time consuming, inclusive, an event, not just a chore. Boards are looking at grants and building without one, and that leaves too many of us disconnected.

Staying informed is not always easy. You need to attend every town committee and board meeting by Zoom or in person. Videos of elected and appointed officials’ meetings can take days, weeks to be made available. Meeting minutes are rarely timely and complete. Same old story. You don’t know what you don’t know. Even long-time residents experience this. For some newcomers, I have modified the old saying – you left there to come here, but now plans for here could leave it looking like there. By the time you realize here is now there, it’s too late!

My thoughts on the reality of Stockbridge have not changed. Saving Stockbridge is critical to the regional tourist economy. More houses and resorts won’t lower taxes. (See Lenox, MA). Some of our scenic views may be affected by buildings and lighting from the new projects underway. Seeing this may be the first time you realize what’s happening.

I know the arguments for developing the town. But we meet requirements for affordable housing. Building more without more living wage jobs? Ignoring new affordable housing in neighboring towns as they catch up to us? What impacts do resorts and exclusive home enclaves bring? This and more may bring you to the question….

WHY do people love it here? Ask everyone. Read the list of top-ten reasons to open every town board meeting. There you have it. The Master Plan begins.

Berkshire Hills Regional School District Appraisal

By Jan Wojcik

As the school and town budget season approaches us in these challenging times it is worth a review of the numerical and financial implications that we must surmount.

The current fiscal challenges of Great Barrington have reared their ugly heads once again and there is no easy solution. Some of the challenges have arisen due to lack of investment in the infrastructure of the town, which is a common issue in towns with burdensome school budgets and some due to a decreasing tax base. A large challenge remains the funding of the Berkshire Hills Regional School District (BHRSD). The budget grows each year while the number of residents and students decrease.

Recent Great Barrington Selectboard/Finance Committee combined meetings have revolved around where to cut the budget by eliminating certain services and decreasing support to certain functions that have been supported in the past.

A comparison of the budgets of the Amherst Regional School District (ARSD) where our daughters attended, and BHRSD showed this:

Total School district budget

ARSD 36,891,938.00             BHRSD 37,454,810.00

Allocations to the individual town

ARSD 19,596,989.00             BHRSD 22,396,892.00 (GB)

Number of students (Middle/High)

ARSD 1,182                          BHRSD 757

Interesting points:

ARSD has a lower dropout rate, better AP performance, higher SAT scores while spending less per teacher than BHRSD.

The cost of BHRSD is paid by fewer taxpayers. The population of GB is 7,194 and of the BHRSD is 10, 473. The population of Amherst is 40,277 and of the ARSD is 45,124.

I appreciate that school districts are not a true apple to apple comparison but the gist of the argument remains that we are in a bind with the shrinking population and rising costs. Amherst has a larger and wealthier population that also has to worry about their school budget but the cost is spread out among a much larger group of taxpayers. The only solution is to change the sacrosanct BHRSD budget and change the management of BHRSD. The increasing budget of the BHRSD is unsustainable — a non-starter.

Editor’s note: It is possible that the new school approval process will be changed. Evidently there is a choice. Rather than requiring that each town approve the plan for the new school, votes in the three towns – Great Barrington, West Stockbridge and Stockbridge – can be added together and the motion to approve the budget for the new school passes if the positive votes across the three towns added together are greater than the “no” votes. If it is assumed that Great Barrington will vote “no,” this is a possible route to get to “yes.”

Berkshire Botanical Garden Announces Completion of New Solar Project

By Felix Carroll

Berkshire Botanical Garden has taken a significant step toward sustainability with the installation of a state-of-the-art solar panel array. The new system, which includes 102 solar panels on the roof of BBG’s Education Building, will go online in the coming weeks.

“Berkshire Botanical Garden has been a valuable environmental resource in our region since our founding in 1934,” said BBG Executive Director Mike Beck. “As an organization that shares information about sustainability, it is vitally important that our operating systems are as environmentally sound as possible, to set an example for our visitors and the larger community.”

The $121,000 project was paid for through a generous $45,132 matching grant from Tern Foundation’s TernSOLAR Challenge Grant Program. BBG raised $45,132 from individual donations. The remainder of the project costs will be offset through a 30 percent IRS credit.

Tern Foundation’s TernSOLAR challenge grant program is designed to expand renewable energy use in Massachusetts communities, making solar technology more accessible to nonprofit organizations. Grants are offered to dynamic nonprofits whose leaders engage creatively with their communities and also consider future generations and the natural environment in their strategic priorities and sustainability planning. Since 2010 Tern Foundation has funded over 30 solar projects and associated environmental education initiatives.

A utility interconnection agreement with utility provider National Grid will allow any excess electrical production to offset electrical use throughout BBG’s grounds and buildings. Once the panels go online, they will generate power to offset more than 67 percent of BBG’s current electricity use, in a carbon neutral way. BBG will realize about $13,000 in annual savings, at current electricity prices.

Beck said the presence of an on-site photovoltaic array can serve as a powerful tool for educating and inspiring BBG’s 40,000 annual visitors about the benefits of carbon-neutral, renewable energy. The solar panel array’s location is at the hub of much of BBG’s adult and youth educational programming, including the Horticulture Certificate Program, the spring and summer Farm in the Garden youth day camps, the annual Mother’s Day weekend plant sale, the mid-summer Grow Show, the fall Harvest Festival, and December’s Holiday Marketplace. 

News

Notes from the Stockbridge Cultural Council (SCC) submitted by Anne Ferril, Co-Chair

Good morning! I’ve completed the list of the FY 2025 awards and want to add that the SCC is looking for a volunteer Co-Treasurer. The Co-Treasurers file the reimbursement requests of the grantees after the events have occurred and create the annual report. The position is not demanding but requires someone who is conscientious and eager support the work of the Council. Contact aferril@stockbridge-ma.gov

The SCC grants funds from the Town of Stockbridge and regrants funds from the Massachusetts Cultural Council to individuals and organizations for projects in the arts, science, and humanities. Decisions about which projects to support are made at the community level by a board of municipally appointed volunteers. The current members of the SCC are Anne Ferril(Co-Chair), Audrey Sachnow (Co-Chair), Joan Burkhard (Treasurer), John Perkel, Chelly Sterman, Naomi Spatz, Wendy Strothman. If you have questions or ideas for the Council, please email them to aferril@stockbridge-ma.gov. or asachnow@stockbridge-ma.gov

The SCC will seek 2026 grant applications again starting September 1, with application deadline of October 16. The SCC encourages applications from individuals or organizations seeking to enhance the cultural offerings in Stockbridge and surrounding areas. For further information, please visit massculturalcouncil.org/local-council/stockbridge/.

Anne Ferrill, Co-Chair Stockbridge Cultural Council

Would you please publish this in the next Stockbridge Updates. Thank you for all your help,

Best regards
 

2025 GRANTS – The SCC awarded 28 grants ranging from $350 to $1,000. Recipients were cultural programs in Stockbridge and the surrounding area. The SCC received 51 applications, The applications represented a range of projects including music, dance, theater, and the humanities. The Council awarded a total of $13,100. Funding was provided by the Massachusetts Cultural Council and the Town of Stockbridge.

This year, in appreciation and recognition of the $10,000 contributed by the Town of Stockbridge, the SCC once again focused its attention and funds on Stockbridge-based applicants and events. The Council is grateful for this significant Town support.

Grants were approved for the following Stockbridge-based applicants and projects:

• Mohican Art Exhibit at Stockbridge Library
• Celebrating Stockbridge/ Hill Town LGBTQ Pride Queer History & Culture
• Stockbridge Library Association/ Stockbridge Ice Festival
• Shakespeare & Company, Inc./ 2025 Fall Festival of Shakespeare
• Terry Wise/ Mohican Artist Exhibit at Stockbridge Library
• Cantilena Chamber Choir Corporation/ Stockbridge Children’s Chime Tower Historic Visit
• Stockbridge Library Association/ Remembering Stockbridge, Interlaken, and Glendale: Oral History Project
• The Stockbridge Sinfonia, Inc./ The Stockbridge Sinfonia Summer Concert Series
• Stockbridge Housing Authority / Stockbridge Resident Services Coordinator Media Arts Classes
• Town of Stockbridge / Council on Aging Arts and Lecture Series
• Q-MoB Inc / Celebrating Stockbridge/Hill Town LGBTQ Pride Queer History & Culture
• Olga Dunn Dance Company, Inc./ Nutcracker Seedling & More
• In addition, the Stockbridge Cultural Council provided funding for the following projects that it believes benefit the Stockbridge and Berkshires cultural community:
• Berkshire Concert Choir, Inc. Hope Unfolding
• Flying Cloud Institute, Inc. MakerSpaces: Making the Future Brighter!
• Birch Festival Inc. The Birch Festival: Celebrating Shostakovich
• Berkshire Children’s Chorus, Inc. We are the Music Makers: Celebrating 35 of years of Berkshire Children’s Chorus!
• Vocalis Youth Choir, Inc. Youth Choir Scholarship Program
• Canine Link Inc. Tuition Assistance for Therapy Dog Certification
• Triplex Cinema, Inc. “Selma”
• Berkshire Music School, Inc. Rhythms of Brazil: A Journey Through Traditional Musical Instruments
• Festival Latino of the Berkshires, Inc.
• Berkshire Theatre Group, Inc./BTG PLAYS! School Residency @ MBRES
• Berkshire Bach Society, Inc./ Berkshire Bach’s Annual Messiah Sing-Along
• Berkshire County Historical Society, Inc. / Inspired by Melville
• Anderson, Scott Edward/ Berkshire Nature Talk Series
• Arts in Recovery for Youth / AIRY Expansion Project
• Berkshire Lyric Theatre, Inc./ Educational Programs and Concerts
• MUSIC Dance.edu/ Hip Hop Chair Dance for Seniors! – a dance series

Notes from the Select Board (SB), April 3, 2025, Hybrid Meeting

Self-contained breathing equipment (SCBA) is surplus and Town Administrator asked the SB if they would approve turning itk over to West Stockbridge. Passed unanimously 

The Interlaken Family Trust is selling property on which the Town holds a Right of First Refusal. The Trust asked if the 120 days allowed the Town to decide whether to exercise that right can be shortened or waived so the sale can go through. The outstanding tax bill to reimburse the Town for the five years the property was exempted from paying taxes due to a conservation restriction was $6025. No motion made Inter-municipal Agreement between Great Barrington, West Stockbridge, and Stockbridge with Stockbridge as lead community was approved. 

Review of Operational Budget

Clickers used at Town Meetings to count votes $1000

Meal and Room tax for this quarter up 112%; however, tax hike is still 3.6%

Amount set aside for legal services reduced from $100,000 to $25,000

 Review of Capital Budget

Police Cruiser expense – included rather than delayed

Undo the vote reducing the stipend for the Assessors and adding $500 per every elected Board member. Motion to undo passed

$15,000 to evaluate repair of the “envelope” (exterior of Town Offices approved)

Move money from Free Cash to Stabilization Fund as follows: of the $1.8million, leave $800,000 in Free Cash and move $1million into the Stabilization Fund. Approved There was discussion re: dock at the boat launch. $25,000 was appropriated for repairs but unspent. Now the repairs are critical. The hold up has been the Commonwealth unwilling or unable to move forward. Since the lake is delineated “a great pond”, the Commonwealth has control. 

Schedule: final budget April 18 – Public Hearing 35-37 Interlaken April 17. 

Warrant: voted to change the order of the Warrant items as follows: by law, the first 6 cannot be moved. Move 7 – 12 to the end. Move up items 13 – 18 because they are deemed to be more controversial and to generate more comments. Then the other items to follow Passed unanimously 

If a Town meets the Commonwealth criteria to be a Seasonal Community, then the designation has to be approved by Town Meeting. Patrick White wanted it placed on the Warrant, however, Jamie Minacci and Chuck Cardillo were opposed because the regulations guiding what the designation will require and what it will grant have not been finalized. The schedule is for the regulation to be complete by August. Vote to postpone consideration until after the regulations are published passed 2 – 1.

Editor’s note: 1. Inter-municipal agreements between two or more towns can be executed with approval of the board of selectmen only. The subject of the agreement can involve any activities or undertakings that town departments are normally authorized by law to perform. The maximum length of an agreement is 25 years. Once lawfully executed, the agreement is binding on the towns notwithstanding any bylaw or charter provision to the contrary. This is a method used to regionalize services. 2. Following the Peer Review, the applicant has the ability to postpone the Public Hearing

Notes from the Tri-Town Health meeting, April 9, 2025, Hybrid meeting

A presentation urging Tri-Town Health to evaluate and approve the “Nicotine-Free Act”. It makes it illegal to sell tobacco products to anyone born during or after 2024. The proposal will be discussed at the next meeting.

Tri-Town Health invited Berkshire Regional Planning Council (BRPC) to discuss the Emergency Preparedness Plan(s) so all could better understand them. James J. Wilusz, Director of Public Health/Registered Sanitarian, wanted to be able to read and review plans in other Berkshire towns or other departments (police, fire, etc.) to coordinate. Chair Dr. Charkes Kenny wanted to understand if there were any other plans. He said it was his understanding that BRPC had received state grants for the last 5 years to prepare Emergency Preparedness Plans – how much money did BRPC receive and how was it spent? Also, Kenny was very concerned that BRPC meetings were not recorded to view later or on Zoom so more could attend. Other members had more specific questions about preparing for certain emergencies. Since there did not appear to be any answers during the meeting,

Stockbridge Updates has invited BRPC to write a statement for the next issue simply telling us:

• Do plan(s) exist? Where can we read them?
• How much money did BPRC receive to create them?
• Will BRPC ever open the meetings?
• If not, why not? Isn’t BPRC governed by Open Meeting Laws?

News

SU FYI

1. The Marians of the Immaculate Conception on Prospect Hill Road are building a large residence very close to where the Mission House was built, and where it stood for just under 200 years. The Trustees of Reservations explains, “The Mission House was built c. 1742 by Rev. John Sergeant, as part of his mission work. Originally located on Prospect Hill, this National Historic Landmark was carefully disassembled, moved, and restored by Mabel Choate at its present location on Main Street between 1926 and 1930.” A marker was placed when it was moved.

1855 Map of Mission House on Prospect Hill Road from the Stockbridge Library Museum and Archives

• The new building on the Marian’s property is estimated to cost $34,000,000 and planned to house 40 priests.
  Following is a first-hand account of the connection to Town sewer by the Marians from Bob Jones, current Lee Select Board member and former Tavitian Property Manager.
  
  “I am responding to the SU inquiry about the sewer line that serves the Marian Fathers residence on Prospect Hill Road in Stockbridge. I have considerable knowledge of the history of that line.
  I began work as Property Manager for Aso Tavitian in September of 2001. I remember my first day in particular. While touring his guest house at Yale Court, Aso and I discovered that the Marians sewer line had broken. We notified them of the problem, and they managed the repair. Their sewer line, at the time, was constructed of “Orangeburg” pipe, a clay composite susceptible to breakage.
  Occurrences of this sort happened quite a few times over the next few years. Mr. Tavitian made the decision to replace the sewer line from his guest house on Yale Court to Route 102 (Church St.). He was a generous, forward thinking man, and suggested we use a 6″ modern line to not only accommodate his guest house, but also be able to provide a modern, efficient system that the Marians could hook up to when they upgraded their line and his Property Managers’s house (my residence) on Prospect Hill Rd. It was conceivably possible that other residences on Prospect Hill Road could hook up to the system (and share the expenses), if the larger 6″ pipe was used on the new line.
  When we went to get our permits for the upgrade, we were told by the Select Board that they would not allow a 6″ line, only a 4″ line. The reason expressed by then Select Board Member Steve Shatz was – if the Marians no longer occupied that property, it might open the door for a “casino” or some other commercial venture in the future – given the enhanced capacity of the sewer line. We were limited to a 4″ line. That was what we installed and what serves the aforementioned properties today.
  I should mention that Mr. Tavitian made an accommodation for Naumkeag to hook up as well, should they ever need it.
  I hope this information is helpful. Given the recent news that the Marians may be expanding, I trust that this information may be helpful in determining if the 4″ pipe is adequate.
  Regards, Bob Jones”
  Editor’s Note: If the new building and all the other buildings on the property are not adequately served by a 4″ line and the Marians increase to a 6″ line, then other houses on Prospect Hill Road may be able to connect to the Town sewer. That may be cheaper than replacing a septic system should anyone’s septic fail. (FYI, I live on Prospect Hill Road and potentially could benefit from installation of a 6″ pipe.)

Trustees of Reservations date this photograph in the 19th century long before the house was moved circa 1927. “We’ve found some other photos of the house when it was in much worse condition and overgrown, so we think this was taken much earlier – late 1800s.” Brian Cruey, Regional Vice President Western Hills and the Berkshires.

• Linde Center, April 4, 2025, Boston Symphony Orchestra (BSO) – Tanglewood Learning Institute (TLI) presented Alfredo Rodriguez. The program was excellent and had the audience on its feet. It is widely rumored that BSO – TLI plans a 12-month schedule at The Linde Center in Stockbridge. The plan has the Tanglewood schedule extended on either end – spring and fall – transitioning indoors over the winter.
  • Andrea Goodman reports: Chime Tower Closed for Renovations
    The Town of Stockbridge is continuing to renovate the tower (in front of the old Town Hall) for the beginning of summer 2025. Workmen are completing the last steps in the restoration of the Children’s Chime Tower for which Stockbridge received a grant.
    Located in front of the old Town Hall and First Congregational Church in Stockbridge, this tall carillon (bell tower), was gifted to the town by David Dudley Field in memory of his grandchildren. His one condition was that the chimes were to be rung every day at 5:30 p.m. between, “apple blossom time and the first frost on the pumpkin”. His intention was that “it will be a memorial of those who are enshrined in my heart, while the ringing of the chimes at sunset I trust will give pleasure to all whose good fortune is to live in this peaceful valley.”
    The Town sponsors the traditional playing of the newly restored Children’s Chimes Bell Tower every day from May 25 to Labor Day at 5:30 p.m. until 6 p.m. The playing will halt due to the restoration and resume at some point later this summer or next summer. Stay tuned!

Editor’s note: In a brief conversation with Town Administrator, Michael Canales, SU learned there is a ray of hope. Canales shared that the work was proceeding more rapidly than expected and there is a possibility that music at the Chime Tower could resume in August 2025.

Statehouse Updates

The Seasonal Communities Designation

By Christine Rasmussen
 

I appreciate the opportunity to revisit the Seasonal Communities designation of the Affordable Homes Act. After decades, introducing and reporting on legislation, I know how complicated it can be. I will briefly explain (and clarify) some of the issues people have asked me about. 

• Acquiring and developing housing units with a preference for municipal employees and teachers could be a valuable perk that Stockbridge presently can’t use because Chapter 40 B requires that less than 10 percent of the housing must be affordable to qualify. 
  • Establishing a Year-Round Housing Trust Fund for “missing middle” housing, individually or with other seasonal communities, is supported 
  • Acquiring and developing year-round housing for individuals who produce or support artistic and literary activities. 
  • Increasing the property tax exemption for certain homeowners’ primary residences from 35% to 50%.

Seasonal Communities are required to create year-round housing by: 

• Adopting bylaws to allow undersized lots that adhere to regulations for year-round housing or minimum six-month rentals.
  • Adopting bylaws for tiny homes, which are detached structures containing dwelling units of 400 square feet or less in floor area, excluding lofts. Tiny houses must meet state and local building code requirements, and all movable tiny houses must be registered with the Registry of Motor Vehicles.
    ​​​

Final Comments:

Towns may apply to the Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities for a waiver from any requirements. The legislation also allows towns to create housing trusts to raise money and build housing meant for middle-income earners, commonly called the “missing middle. “
 

Editor’s note:

1. Preferential housing is illegal. You cannot exclude or include people by type. In Stockbridge, there is a 3000 person waiting list for Heaton Court because anyone can apply even if they live out of state. Chapter 40B allows preferential housing based on income BUT there are conditions. 40B is only applicable when a municipality has less than the required 10 percent affordable housing. Stockbridge has met the 10% requirement and even exceeded it by a fraction. We cannot use 40B.

2. The Massachusetts Senate set aside part of the $5.16Billion allocated in the Affordable Homes Act for municipalities designated Seasonal Communities. It was removed before the Affordable Homes Act passed. Regulatory process may restore some or all of it or may not.

3. Only 25 towns (of 351) meet the criteria to be designated Seasonal Communities. If a municipality meets the criteria Town Meeting can vote to accept the designation.

4. Any Municipality can apply for a waiver of any requirement or withdraw from the designation otherwise each must change its local bylaws to comply with the law – the Affordable Homes Act which is now law. If there is more information, with Christine’s help, SU will bring it to you.

Reader to Reader

To the Editor:

In the past, our Town meetings were posted on CTSBTV in a timely fashion. I could “attend” at a time convenient to me. Even if I attended a meeting in person, I could revisit it to clarify an issue. I am deaf, and I appreciate being able to turn up the volume. I appreciate having the Town meetings available, and I know many of my friends do too.

Recently fewer Town meetings are posted in a timely manner. For example, it took days and days to view a Zoom of the Public Hearing about the proposal submitted by 35-37 Interlaken Realty Trust – a very important issue.

I am asking on my own behalf and many others, that meetings are sent to CTSB and get posted as close to real time as possible.

Thank you, Denny Alsop

Responses to the Stockbridge Updates News Report about the April 5 Hands Off Rally
 

Hi Carole,

I totally agree – the Hands Off Rally really did make a difference! We had 150 people in little West Stockbridge! Soaked but laughing and joyful to be together and doing something! And we’re going to do it again on April 19th.

Thanks for all you do,

Ruth

Editor’s note: Ruth Tremblay Hanley is ISP & Human Rights Manager, Riverbrook Residence, Inc.

Carole,

This is great! We are in NYC. It was inspiring and energizing to be with hundreds of thousands — millions across the country in 1200 towns and cities! The madness must be stopped.

Caren Lobo

From Lisa Sauer re: News report Hand’s Off

❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

To the Editor:

So proud of our Berkshire communities

Marvin Schwartzbard

To Stockbridge Updates from the Dalton Dems–and Other Interested Voters:

As Berkshire Eagle columnist Carole Owens reported from her rally in Stockbridge, “I stood in the rain and a woman said, “I am glad I’m here even though I don’t believe it will do any good.” I looked around and thought–it already has. You know why? Two hundred people were smiling. That’s a win. When was the last time you saw a Democrat smile? No since a pre-election Harris rally. Today Trump lost.”

Let’s translate that powerful sense of community into concrete action. There’s a lot each of us can do–and we’ll need to keep this momentum going in order to effect change.

In solidarity, Michele Marantz, Chair of the Dalton Democratic Town Committee

Carole

I was wondering who this woman was, and now I know.

Feel free to use or pass this on to her.

Barbara Woike

Carole,

How much does an ambulance cost? Are these numbers right? I just googled used ambulances, and you can buy them for under 40k. What am I missing?

Jon Budish

Jon,

On your behalf I asked our Town Administrator. Here is his response.

Carole

Hi Carole

Thanks for the inquiry regarding ambulance pricing. I appreciate the opportunity to clarify how the town is planning to operate our proposed ambulance fleet and why the cost may appear higher than a simple online search might suggest.

It is true that used ambulances can sometimes be found online for under $40,000. However, the vehicles available at that price point are typically older models, often with high mileage and significant wear and tear. These may be suitable for private use or as specialty vehicles, but they are not appropriate for frontline emergency response in a municipal system where reliability and safety are paramount.

Our department’s plan is not to purchase a used ambulance for frontline service. Instead, we are committed to maintaining a professional, dependable fleet. To ensure that, our standard is to keep our primary, front-line ambulance less than five years old. This is critical not only for mechanical reliability but also to ensure compliance with evolving safety standards and compatibility with current medical equipment and technologies.

We are planning to maintain a backup ambulance that is between 6 and 10 years old, which serves as a reserve unit when the frontline vehicle is out of service for maintenance or during high call volume. This vehicle has already been acquired from the Town of Lee as part of a grant reimbursement and will be used strategically to support ongoing operations without compromising service.

The approach we are taking—investing in a modern frontline ambulance while keeping a reliable backup—is a deliberate strategy. It ensures that we are prepared to respond quickly and effectively in emergencies, reduces long-term maintenance costs, and helps us avoid relying on outdated or unreliable equipment. The last thing we want is to be forced to respond to a life-threatening situation with a vehicle we cannot count on.

We hope this helps clarify the reasoning behind our ambulance replacement policy and the costs associated with it. Ensuring the safety and reliability of our emergency medical services is not only a priority but a responsibility we take seriously.

Michael J. Canales

Dear Professor Owens–

My name is Warren Hoskins. I’m the new chairperson of the National Council of Gray Panthers Networks. I understand from Randy Block, the former chair, that you are interested in exploring how to start a new Network in your area.

Please call me or email me to set up a time to call, and we can discuss how this could be accomplished. I have some materials in writing and some experience now with sharing information for starting up new Networks.

I understand you’ve done research into the Gray Panthers. I would love to see any articles. Perhaps we could help bring your writing to a wider appreciative audience. I have been reading up on Maggie Kuhn recently.

Peacefully, Warren

General Reminder:

Hi all, Just a general reminder that submissions (even mine) are limited to 400 words or less. There is a margin granted out of affection of up to 50 words. There is also the option of dividing a long submission into two parts. Thanks for remembering! Carole