Great Barrington Selectboard to Interview Candidate for Town Manager

The Great Barrington Selectboard is set to interview William Riccio, the sole candidate for the town manager position, on July 22, 2025, at 17:00 local time in Town Hall. This meeting marks a significant step in the town’s search for a new leader following the vacancy that arose at the end of 2024.

Riccio currently serves as the Director of Public Services for Newport, Rhode Island, a role he has held since November 2007. His extensive experience in public service positions him as a strong candidate for the management role in Great Barrington. His educational background includes a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from Worcester Polytechnic Institute, which he earned in 1988, and a Master of Science degree in Civil and Environmental Engineering from the University of Rhode Island, received in 1996.

In addition to his degrees, Riccio has participated in advanced leadership training. He completed the Harvard Kennedy School’s Senior Executive Program for State and Local Governments in 2009 and the school’s Leadership in the 21st Century program in 2016. These experiences further enhance his qualifications for the town manager position, as they emphasize his commitment to effective governance and community service.

The town manager role has been unoccupied since Mark Pruhenski departed to take on the town manager position in Middlebury, Vermont. The Selectboard’s decision to interview Riccio is a pivotal moment in the town’s efforts to secure a capable leader who can guide Great Barrington into the future.

Residents and stakeholders are encouraged to attend the interview session to gain insights into Riccio’s vision for the town and how his experience may benefit the community. This meeting will not only provide an opportunity to meet the candidate but will also allow for community engagement in the selection process, which is crucial for the town’s development.

As Great Barrington prepares for this important interview, the Selectboard remains committed to finding a qualified individual who can address the needs and aspirations of the community effectively.