The Town of Great Barrington Selectboard held a hybrid remote meeting on April 28, 2025, addressing several key agenda items, including updates to town policies and the search for a new town manager.

The meeting commenced with a discussion on the revision of the town's procedural policies, which had not been updated since 2019. Board members expressed appreciation for the staff's efforts in clarifying the language and ensuring consistency throughout the document. A significant point of contention arose regarding the terminology used in the citizen speak procedures. Board members debated whether to define the speaking rights as applicable to "citizens" or "residents," with suggestions to include "property owners" and "business owners" to ensure inclusivity. Ultimately, the board agreed to amend the language to encompass all town residents, property owners, and business owners, allowing for a broader participation in discussions.

Following the procedural updates, the board shifted focus to the reopening of the search for a new town manager. The screening committee, which originally consisted of seven members, required two new appointments due to the departure of two members. The board proposed to nominate Doug Phillips and Peter Fish, both of whom have prior experience in town governance. However, this nomination sparked a debate among board members and community members regarding the need for a balanced committee that includes diverse perspectives beyond former selectboard members.

Several board members voiced concerns about the potential lack of representation from the broader community, suggesting that the committee should include individuals with varied experiences and backgrounds. The discussion highlighted the importance of ensuring that the selection process for the town manager reflects the interests of all community stakeholders.

As the meeting progressed, board members continued to deliberate on the nominations, weighing the value of experience against the need for diversity in the selection committee. The conversation underscored the critical nature of the town manager position and the desire for a thorough and inclusive search process.

In conclusion, the meeting addressed essential updates to town policies and initiated the process for selecting a new town manager, with ongoing discussions about the composition of the screening committee. The board's commitment to inclusivity and representation in governance remains a focal point as they move forward with these significant decisions.