Thursday, November 12, 2026

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JOHN BREASTED: The Great Barrington Selectboard’s credibility gap

Transparency does not require officials to reveal legal strategy. It does require them to tell voters when the town has been sued.

A response to Philip Orenstein’s letter opposing Great Barrington’s proposed real estate transfer fee

If Mr. Orenstein’s thesis is correct, home purchasing decisions are driven by tax considerations, but available real estate data suggests otherwise.

Real estate transfer fee is not a good fit for Great Barrington

Regardless of whatever data we look at, this new tax will only add to our reputation as a high-tax town and push new tax growth to other towns.

I WITNESS: When no one is wrong

I like my neighbors, and I would prefer not to antagonize them any more than I already have by writing my opinions on local matters here. There is one local issue, however, that has held my interest and attention for quite some time.

We are literally being sold down the river by the Rest of River committee

The ROR committee is complicit in abetting this convoluted cleanup plan. Everyone should be completely informed on how this very long cleanup timeframe will affect their lives and the health and economic impact to themselves and their communities.

Citizens for PCB Removal disappointed by decision of U.S. Court of Appeals for the First Circuit

It is well known that judges are chosen these days based more on political positions than legal accomplishment. The luck of the draw was that the HRI/HEAL appeal was in front of a judiciary with a record of past decisions clearly supporting industry rather than citizens.

In response to Thomas Bosworth’s August 23 Letter to the Editor

The highly credentialed expert’s report setting forth, in the expert’s opinion, that the Upland Disposal Facility is a “very poor choice” for a landfill may have persuaded you, but it is fair to note that the report did not persuade each of the courts that reviewed it.

The Lee PCB dump is wrong. Plain and simple.

I represent people. Human beings. The people of Lee and Lenox Dale have spoken loud and clear. And they are right. Instead of condescendingly dismissing their concerns, I suggest Mr. Most actually listen. My grandfather was born in a shack on the Housatonic River just feet away from where GE is trying to build their latest toxic monstrosity. There are real people involved here. This is wrong. Plain and simple.

‘After the Bite’ never jumps the shark

This new HBO documentary issues a stark warning.

PETER MOST: Let the river flow

Despite misgivings, I support the Rest of River Cleanup Plan and believe it is time for Lee to lay down its swords (attorneys). I conclude—and there is no polite way to say this—that it is time for Lee to throw in the towel.

Please support Great Barrington’s proposed real estate transfer fee

Great Barrington’s proactive support of affordable housing makes it possible for people of modest means to have new homes and ensures that the people who drive our economy and support our community can live close to where they work.

CONNECTIONS: The first incidence(s) of murder in Stockbridge

Here endeth the tale of the very first murder in Stockbridge, except there may be a hitch.

If Housatonic Water Works is unwilling to make improvements to meet legal standards at their cost, the town should take over the water system

We should not have to bring the Housatonic Water Works Company to court to resolve this issue, although we will do so if necessary.

I WITNESS: Goldilocks and the three bears

One day, while driving his golf cart through the forest, Goldilocks came upon a cottage belonging to three bears.

Praise for Great Barrington’s many efforts on addressing affordable housing shortages

The town of Great Barrington and the Affordable Housing Trust Fund will continue to seek ways to support our community with affordable rentals, assistance with first-time home purchases, and help for transitional housing.

The blueprint for the future monetary system

History has confirmed: Freedom and liberty come at a high price as we approach the 250th anniversary of the founding of our nation.

SHEELA CLARY: My kind of dream house

These kids have not given up on anything, or anyone. They have not gotten the memo that resignation and discord are the order of the day. They are fresh-eyed, full of faith, fun-loving. Ready.