Stockbridge Select Board Revives Public Comment Segment After Outcry

The Stockbridge Select Board has reinstated a public comment segment during its meetings after a hiatus since April 2023. This decision, made on September 18, 2023, responds to community pressure following the resignation of Highway Superintendent Hugh Page on July 2, 2023. Residents expressed a strong desire to voice their opinions, particularly concerning an executive session notice related to Page’s departure.

During the subsequent meeting on July 10, a significant number of residents attended, eager to discuss the issue. However, the agenda did not include a public comment section, leading to frustration among those present. The board’s recent decision aims to address this concern and enhance community engagement.

New Protocol for Public Comments

Under the new guidelines, each individual wishing to speak will be allotted two minutes for comments on non-agenda items, with a total public comment segment capped at ten minutes. For issues listed on the agenda, speakers will have three minutes each. Jamie Minacci, Chair of the Select Board, clarified that public comment is meant for expressing opinions rather than engaging in a dialogue or question-and-answer session.

The implementation of public comments is not unique to Stockbridge; similar practices exist in neighboring towns, often referred to as “Citizen Speak” time. Minacci emphasized the board’s commitment to allowing community input on agenda items. Board member Ernest “Chuck” Cardillo echoed this sentiment, highlighting the importance of incorporating public feedback before decisions are made. Fellow board member Jorja Marsden also supported the initiative, noting that it is vital for the board to hear from residents.

While the public comment section aims to enhance transparency, some residents expressed concerns about disclosing their personal addresses during the segment. Michael Canales, the Town Administrator, explained that while verification occurs during town meetings, Select Board meetings lack a similar process. This raises the possibility of non-residents participating without verification.

Community Response and Future Plans

Longtime resident Anita Schwerner, who chairs the Stockbridge Democratic Town Committee, advocated for the return of the public comment segment. She emphasized the importance of allowing residents to address their representatives on matters of concern. Schwerner previously reached out to town officials in July, advocating for this change. Following the passage of the new protocol, she expressed satisfaction and indicated that the increased turnout at the September 18 meeting demonstrated a strong community interest in the public comment segment.

Schwerner stated, “Replying by email or putting your comments in an email is just not satisfying. Freedom of speech is really important to our democracy.” This sentiment underscores the significance of community engagement in local governance.

In addition to the reinstatement of public comments, the Select Board also approved a proposal from Preservation Incorporated to move forward with the design and installation of a local memorial for the American Revolution. The firm, led by Chief Preservation Architect William C. S. Remsen and Ian K. M. Stewart, is tasked with enhancing existing war memorials to honor the contributions of colonists and indigenous people during the Revolutionary War. The total project cost will not exceed $30,000, with a completion date targeted for Memorial Day 2026. Input from town officials, representatives of the Stockbridge-Munsee tribe, and members of the Historical Commission will guide the design process.

The reinstatement of the public comment segment and the approval of the memorial project reflect Stockbridge’s commitment to fostering community dialogue and preserving its historical heritage.