Great Barrington — The town announced the formation of a new Childcare Committee, following approval by the Selectboard at their meeting on Monday, November 18, 2024. This committee will examine and discuss the state of childcare options and accessibility in Great Barrington and will provide recommendations to the Selectboard and town staff on issues related to childcare.
The committee will consist of seven at-large members who are residents of Great Barrington. Preference will be given to parents and residents with relevant professional experience. Members will be appointed by the Selectboard and will serve staggered terms of one, two, or three years. After the initial appointments, all subsequent terms will be for three years.
Key membership policies include:
- Members may be removed by the Selectboard by majority vote.
- Members are expected to attend all regularly scheduled meetings; three unexcused absences in a calendar year may result in removal.
- Resignations must be submitted in writing to the committee chair, town manager, and town clerk.
- Members must receive committee approval before making statements or participating in activities on behalf of the committee.
The committee will elect a chairperson and a clerk from among its members. The chairperson will be responsible for developing meeting agendas and presiding over meetings, adhering to Roberts Rules of Order. The clerk will maintain records of meetings, attendance, and correspondence and will ensure compliance with the Massachusetts Open Meeting Law by posting meeting notices 48 hours in advance and filing minutes with the town clerk.
The committee will establish its meeting schedule, including time and location, during its inaugural meeting. All meetings will be conducted in compliance with the Massachusetts Open Meeting Law.
The town encourages interested residents to apply for membership on the Childcare Committee. This is an opportunity to contribute to an important discussion about the future of childcare in Great Barrington and to help shape policies that support families and children in our community.
For more information or to apply, contact jrisen@townofgb.org.
