Key Notes from the EMS meeting, September 6, 2023, Hybrid

Earlier meetings were joint with Lee discussing a way forward that may be a regional approach (like Tri-Town Health or the 3Town Berkshire Hills Regional School District).

This meeting was the 5 Stockbridge representatives only to discuss their reactions to the discussion and the consultant's report so far. The 5 are: Select Board Chair Chuck Cardillo, Town Administrator Michael Canales, Fire Chief Vincent Garofoli, James MacDonald, Stockbridge Fire Department, and George Manley, Stockbridge resident and local entrepreneur.

The median age in Stockbridge is now 61. As the Stockbridge population ages, the need for emergency medical services (EMS) increases, and the number of volunteer firefighters and emergency response personnel decreases. Given the statistics, there was support from all to at least pursue discussions with Lee.

One the other hand, Canales said, a preliminary result from the consultant identified a weakness in Stockbridge services. To achieve that, Stockbridge needs an ambulance in Interlaken. The optimum response time is within six miles. To achieve that Stockbridge needs the ambulance in Interlaken. If Lee Town Meeting voted for a firehouse on Main Street, for example, or if Lenox moved its current firehouse, then merging would be out of the question because Interlaken (and beyond) would be areas of Stockbridge beyond 6 miles.

MacDonald seemed more supportive of building up the Stockbridge Fire/EMS Department. He felt the current department was excellent, and if we build on that, invest money in it rather than in merging with Lee, it will be a better department. Canales offered the Tri-Town health example, but MacDonald felt if you maintain control, It might run better and also be a cost saving.

The conversation then moved to housing. Members felt additional work force housing would attract younger residents who might then work for or volunteer in the Fire Department.

Manley wanted more publicity for their efforts. He felt townsfolk would be very interested and should be kept well-informed. Chief Garofoli said he has an meeting with Stockbridge Updates next we and discuss a possible "From the Desk of the Fire Chief".

Editor's note: 1. Stockbridge Update will be delighted to publish any news from our Fire Department and Chief Garofoli. 2. Every discussion about affordable housing needs suggests we change our two- and four-acre zoning. Even setting aside concerns expressed about density the character of Stockbridge, a zoning change is unnecessary. It is not necessary to change local zoning in Stockbridge or anywhere in Massachusetts to build affordable housing bcause Mass General Law 40B is in place. 40B allows exemptions from zoning to build affordable and subsidized housing. 40B reads: Chapter 40B is a state statute, which enables local Zoning Boards of Appeals to approve affordable housing developments under flexible rules if at least 20-25% of the units have long-term affordability restrictions.

Photo: Blue Moon Images/Dana Goedewaagen