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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Photo: Joan Gallos