The Great Barrington Selectboard made significant strides in community engagement and local business support during their hybrid remote meeting on April 28, 2025. The board approved a one-day entertainment and liquor license for the Haley Performing Arts Center's gala, scheduled for July 13, 2025. This event, featuring performer Andrew Reynolds, aims to attract around 350 attendees and will include a catered dinner and a paddle raise to support the arts center.

In addition to the gala, the board also greenlit applications for farm winery licenses for two local cider producers, Berkshire Ciderfly and Insight Works LLC. Both businesses will participate in the Great Barrington Farmers Market, running from May 10 to November 15, 2025. They will offer cider sales and sampling, continuing their successful presence at the market from previous years.

The meeting also addressed real estate signage licenses for multiple local real estate firms, which were unanimously approved, reflecting ongoing support for local businesses in the area. Furthermore, the board reviewed and updated policies and procedures related to Blackboard, with a focus on incorporating social media guidelines, acknowledging its growing importance in community communication.

These decisions underscore the Selectboard's commitment to fostering local culture and supporting small businesses, setting a positive tone for community engagement in the coming months.