To the editor:
A recent letter to The Berkshire Edge chastised Great Barrington for not being more supportive of Simon‘s Rock. Other than attending theater on the campus, perhaps utilizing the swimming pool and taking classes, what would a local resident do to support the college? Tuition, contributions from alumni, and state and federal grants are what typically support a college or university, not contributions from local residents.
Perhaps the letter writer’s anger, and disappointment, should be directed at Bard. I wonder if Bard investigated teaming up with a college or university, of which there are many between interstate 91 and Boston, that would joint venture the campus, allowing the Simon’s Rock students to remain (e.g., UMass at Simon’s Rock). (Are you listening Peter?)
No one in Great Barrington is celebrating the loss of Simon‘s Rock. From what I know, Peter Most’s group would like to find a way to utilize the campus in a way that continues to benefit the community. In this regard, I assume they will be hoping for an aggressively low price, and if their plan is to initially keep the campus “as is,” Bard should welcome their interest, and below is why they should cooperate.
If an experienced developer with deep pockets and vision is interested in acquiring the Simon’s Rock campus, that can be an expensive two- to three-year process without surety that a sale will reach fruition. The number of housing units required for the purchase may not be acceptable to Great Barrington. Scaling the number of units down may cause the buyer to re-trade the price. And if one resident objects to the plan, which is their right, that can delay this further.
A long, drawn-out process requires Bard to be responsible for the upkeep of the Simon’s Rock property by mowing the lawn, keeping the roads clear in case of an emergency, and making sure the structures are maintained while paying for utilities and insurance. There is also a concern for unoccupied buildings having a roof leak that could go unnoticed and cause mold.
Taking the above into consideration, Peter Most’s group may be able to structure a deal that can close in one year or less, avoiding a great deal of cost and risk for Bard. Therefore, Most’s group should be able to negotiate very attractive terms, but despite his name, he should not be paying the most.
Frank Gunsberg
Great Barrington
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