Great Barrington Select Board addresses waterworks acquisition concerns after town meeting

During the recent hybrid remote meeting of the Great Barrington Selectboard on April 28, 2025, key discussions centered around the community's response to the proposed acquisition of Housatonic Water Works and the importance of community engagement in local initiatives.

The meeting opened with a member of the Selectboard expressing gratitude to residents who participated in the special town meeting held on April 17. This member emphasized the nuanced voting outcomes, noting that many who voted against the acquisition did so not out of opposition to the idea itself, but rather due to concerns about the plan's presentation. The Selectboard member reassured the community that the board is actively working with legal counsel to navigate the acquisition process, underscoring their commitment to transparency and diligence in addressing residents' concerns.

In addition to discussions about the waterworks acquisition, the meeting highlighted a successful community cleanup event in Housatonic. The Selectboard member praised the turnout and community spirit demonstrated during the cleanup, despite the ongoing litter issues. This event not only fostered community bonding but also raised awareness about environmental stewardship, encouraging residents to maintain cleaner roadsides throughout the year.

The meeting also included routine administrative tasks, such as the approval of previous meeting minutes, which passed unanimously. The town manager reported no significant updates, reiterating the board's ongoing discussions regarding the waterworks acquisition.

Overall, the meeting reflected the Selectboard's efforts to engage with the community on important issues while fostering a sense of collective responsibility for local environmental challenges. As the board continues its work on the waterworks acquisition, residents can expect further updates and opportunities for involvement in the decision-making process.