Stockbridge Select Board Reinstates Public Comment After Resident Push

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, follows significant resident demand for a platform to voice concerns, particularly after the resignation of Highway Superintendent Hugh Page on July 2.

Residents expressed their frustrations during the July 10 Select Board meeting, where many attended to discuss an executive session notice related to Page’s resignation. Despite the turnout, the agenda did not provide for public comments, prompting further calls for a structured opportunity for residents to speak.

New Protocol for Public Engagement

Under the newly established protocol, individuals can comment for up to two minutes on topics not listed on the agenda, with a total public comment segment capped at 10 minutes. For matters already included in the meeting agenda, the time limit is extended to three minutes per speaker. While these limits can be adjusted, individuals are required to provide their names and addresses, with both renters and homeowners permitted to participate.

Select Board Chair Jamie Minacci emphasized that public comment is not a forum for discussion or questions. “Public comment is not a discussion, it is not a question-and-answer period,” she clarified. Different towns adopt varying names for this segment, with some referring to it as “Citizen Speak” time.

Board member Ernest “Chuck” Cardillo highlighted the importance of public input, advocating for residents to be involved in decisions before votes are cast. Fellow board member Jorja Marsden echoed his sentiments, underscoring the need for the board to listen to community opinions while noting that officials cannot respond directly to comments made during this segment.

Concerns Over Privacy and Resident Engagement

Some residents raised concerns about disclosing their personal addresses during public comments. Town Administrator Michael Canales explained that while verification occurs at town meetings, Select Board sessions do not have the same protocol, which allows anyone to claim residency.

Longtime resident Anita Schwerner, who chairs the Stockbridge Democratic Town Committee, was a vocal advocate for the public comment section. She stated, “Especially at this time in my country, we should ensure the right of people to address our representatives to speak about issues of concern or importance.” Schwerner had previously emailed town officials in July requesting the reinstatement of the public comment segment, expressing her satisfaction following the board’s decision.

The turnout at the September 18 meeting demonstrated a strong community interest in reinstating public engagement, which is a common practice among neighboring towns. Schwerner remarked, “Replying by email, or putting your comments in an email, it’s just not satisfying. Freedom of speech is really important to our democracy.”

In addition to the public comment reinstatement, the Select Board approved a proposal from Preservation Incorporated for the design and installation of a memorial dedicated to the American Revolution. The $30,000 project aims to enhance the existing war memorials in Stockbridge, commemorating contributions from both colonists and indigenous people. The project is expected to be completed by Memorial Day 2026, with design input from town officials, representatives from the Stockbridge-Munsee tribe, and members of the Historical Commission.

This dual focus on community engagement and historical preservation underscores Stockbridge’s commitment to both its residents and its rich heritage.