Peter J. Most is a member of the California, New York, and Massachusetts bars, practicing complex business litigation. He has been living with his family in Great Barrington since 2018, practicing law remotely.
Throwing all caution to the wind, here are some observations on Great Barrington’s 2023 Annual Town Meeting. (I mean to offend no one, but if I have, let’s wait at least 50 years to discuss if I’m right.)
Tenants should not have fewer rights than homeowners, a point I had not considered in my previous article on the Short-Term Rental bylaw. It is notable, however, that Mr. Hankin did not address the argument that Article 39 should not be passed due to the loophole it creates.
Articles 39-41 answer the age-old question, “What can one do to make a STR bylaw meaningless while appearing to put constraints on short-term rentals?”
This saga has reached a decision point. Housatonic Water Works lacks the wherewithal and will to implement necessary modifications. The village, the town, and the Commonwealth require immediate change. We need a way forward. Here is a plan in a few easy steps.
The valuation report is helpful in at least this regard – it is a starting place to consider what HWW could be worth if it achieved its sole purpose, delivering clean water to Housatonic customers.
