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West Stockbridge authorizes BRPC to seek up to $620,000 in housing-rehab funds; transportation driver included
Summary
The Select Board voted Feb. 2 to allow the Berkshire Regional Planning Commission to apply for FY26 Community Development Block Grant funding that could provide up to $620,000 for home rehabilitation in West Stockbridge and support a dedicated Tri-Connector driver for town residents.
The West Stockbridge Select Board voted Feb. 2 to authorize the Berkshire Regional Planning Commission (BRPC) to submit a FY26 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) application that could bring up to $620,000 for home rehabilitation and include a transportation component for town residents.
Brett Roberts, representing BRPC, told the Board the program would allow West Stockbridge homeowners to apply for up to $63,000 per household to cover rehabilitation work such as new windows or a roof. Roberts said countywide senior-rehabilitation funds could be used in conjunction with this grant for qualifying homeowners. He noted that once a homeowner receives funding, they must keep the house or sell it only to a family member for 15 years after the work is completed, after which the loan is forgiven. If a homeowner sells the property before the 15-year term ends, Roberts said the Town would receive the sale proceeds and could apply them toward another resident's home.
Tate Coleman, Tri-Connector Director, described the grant's transportation component as having two parts: a prepayment of fees for eligible riders and funds to hire a dedicated driver for West Stockbridge. Coleman said a dedicated driver would allow more open appointments for town residents and could better serve workers in addition to seniors and people with disabilities, who are currently prioritized by the Tri-Town connector.
Select Board member Toby Casey asked what would happen if the Town did not use all awarded funds. Roberts confirmed that funds awarded to the Town would remain available to West Stockbridge residents and that the Town could seek a grant extension if funds were not fully expended.
Kathleen Keresey moved, and Toby Casey seconded, a motion to approve a contract for BRPC to submit the application on behalf of the Town. "All were in favor," minutes record; the motion passed.
Next steps: BRPC will submit the FY26 CDBG application on West Stockbridge’s behalf. If the grant is awarded, the program’s eligibility rules — including the 15-year occupancy/resale provision — will apply to participating homeowners.
