Berkshire Hills School District approves $22M budget amid enrollment concerns

In the heart of Great Barrington, the annual town meeting unfolded with a blend of community engagement and pressing fiscal discussions. On May 3, 2025, residents gathered to deliberate on crucial budgetary matters, particularly focusing on the wastewater operating budget and the Berkshire Hills Regional School District assessment.

The meeting commenced with a unanimous vote on the wastewater enterprise fund, which allocated $1,150,000 for various capital projects and equipment for the wastewater department. This included retaining engineering services and rehabilitating sewers, with funding sourced from retained earnings in the sewer enterprise fund. The swift approval reflected a community consensus on the importance of maintaining essential infrastructure.

As the meeting progressed, the spotlight shifted to the school district's budget, where Superintendent Peter Dillon presented a detailed overview of the proposed $22,209,548 assessment for the upcoming fiscal year. He highlighted the district's commitment to providing quality education amidst challenges such as declining enrollment and rising operational costs. Dillon noted the successful college placements of students and the introduction of new vocational programs, emphasizing the district's efforts to adapt and thrive.

However, the discussion sparked a lively debate among residents. Concerns were raised about the rising costs per student, particularly in light of decreasing enrollment numbers. One resident pointed out that Great Barrington pays significantly more per student compared to neighboring districts, questioning the sustainability of such expenditures. Another echoed these sentiments, advocating for a reevaluation of the school choice policy, which allows students from other towns to attend local schools, arguing it places an undue financial burden on Great Barrington taxpayers.

In response, supporters of the current system defended the school choice program, asserting that it provides necessary revenue that helps offset local taxes. They argued that cutting school choice could lead to increased tax bills without reducing expenses, as fixed costs remain unchanged regardless of student enrollment.

As the meeting drew to a close, the community's commitment to education and infrastructure was evident. The discussions not only highlighted the financial challenges facing the town but also underscored the importance of investing in the future of Great Barrington. With a unanimous vote on the school district assessment, the town signaled its support for maintaining quality education, even as it navigates the complexities of budgetary constraints and demographic shifts. The meeting left residents pondering the balance between fiscal responsibility and the need for robust educational opportunities, setting the stage for ongoing dialogue in the months to come.