URGENT UPDATE: In a revealing interview, local leader Steve Bannon discusses pressing issues facing Great Barrington, including housing affordability and school funding. With a tenure spanning over two decades on the Berkshire Hills Regional School Committee and the Great Barrington Selectboard, Bannon highlights the urgent need for solutions in a community grappling with rising costs and infrastructure challenges.
Bannon, who has worked as a pharmacist at Fairview Hospital for 17 years, emphasizes the importance of addressing housing shortages and maintaining community vibrancy. “We have a lot of problems,” he admits, pointing to the pressing need for affordable housing solutions. “But still, you look at Main Street and the people who have moved here. Great Barrington’s still a vibrant town, and I think that’s terrific.”
The conversation comes as the town faces a significant challenge: escalating rents and a lack of affordable options are pushing long-time residents away. “One of the things we talked about last night was a residential tax exemption and the split tax rate,” Bannon explains. “People think of it as part-time people paying more. Well, that’s not true. There’s a breakeven point around $800,000.”
As Bannon gears up for potential re-election, he reflects on his public service journey, stating, “As long as I enjoy it, I will keep doing it.” His passion stems from an enduring commitment to the community, where he hopes to foster discussions around improving local infrastructure, including roads and bridges, which he identifies as critical issues.
“Employment, housing, and infrastructure,” he lists as top priorities. Bannon notes that without proper maintenance, the town’s roads—approximately 90 miles worth—risk deterioration. He stresses the need for creative solutions and grant opportunities to keep these crucial elements intact.
Bannon’s recent tenure on the Selectboard has not been without controversy. He recalls the community’s contentious discussions surrounding the ‘Gender Queer’ issue, describing the public meetings as “the most painful” he’s experienced in nearly three decades. “I like to think we’ve learned some lessons, and we all grew a little bit from that,” he states, emphasizing the importance of transparency in governance.
On the topic of the new high school project, which received overwhelming support with a 78 percent approval rate, Bannon expresses cautious optimism. “People who’ve been in private schools, or have homeschooled, might consider moving here,” he says, projecting confidence that the new facility will enhance the town’s appeal.
As Great Barrington continues to evolve, Bannon remains committed to ensuring the town meets the needs of all residents. “We have to figure out a way to slow down the rising costs,” he warns, highlighting the interconnected nature of local taxes and housing prices.
The stakes are high as this community faces a crossroads. With public meetings on the horizon and ongoing discussions about economic viability, Bannon’s insights are crucial as residents navigate the complexities of small-town governance. As he notes, “It’s a really tough time to be a public servant,” reminding us that the challenges are not just administrative; they impact real lives.
Stay tuned for more updates as Great Barrington seeks to chart a sustainable path forward amid these pressing challenges.
