In a recent government meeting, officials discussed pressing issues surrounding housing affordability and the need for an updated master plan for Great Barrington. The conversation highlighted the stark reality that to afford a median two-bedroom rental in Berkshire County, residents would need to earn approximately $27.90 per hour, a challenging figure in a service-driven economy where many workers earn significantly less.

Participants expressed concern over the lack of guaranteed minimum wages for hospitality workers, who often rely on tips, complicating their financial stability. This situation contributes to a growing rent burden among residents, as the availability of affordable housing continues to dwindle.

The meeting also set the stage for a joint session with the select board scheduled for September 23. The focus will be on demographic information and community engagement strategies, aiming to identify key priorities for the town's future. Officials emphasized the importance of coming prepared with answers regarding budget implications and timelines for potential updates to the master plan, which has not been revised since 2013.

As part of the outreach strategy, the planning board plans to solicit input from various boards and committees to gather insights on community changes over the past decade. This collaborative effort aims to ensure that the updated master plan reflects the evolving needs of the community, particularly in light of challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic and shifts in local demographics.

The meeting concluded with discussions on improving communication between the planning board and the building department to ensure that zoning changes are effectively implemented. Officials underscored the importance of maintaining the integrity of approved site plans while allowing for necessary flexibility in development processes.

Overall, the meeting underscored a commitment to addressing housing challenges and engaging the community in shaping the future of Great Barrington.