Planning Board approves Short Term Rental zoning bylaw for Town Meeting vote. The Planning Board voted to approve a zoning bylaw that would legalize short-term rentals in Alford, currently prohibited, and sent it to Town Meeting for voter consideration. Planning Board member Alexandra Glover
Alford Select Board approves $4,500 cemetery fence replacement. At its January 9 meeting, the Select Board unanimously authorized up to $4,500 to replace the fence at East Road Cemetery based on quotes currently being gathered. The board also unanimously approved regular wages for John Moreau, the
Alford Select Board reviews Parsonage renovation design and explores ARPA funding for technology. The board met with project consultant Marilyn Dempsey to discuss interior renovation plans, addressing questions about solar panel installation and porch stability. Dempsey noted the front porch door
The Alford Select Board ordered a cease-and-desist to Berkshire People's Gym for zoning violations. Building inspector and code enforcement officer Matt Kollmer was directed to issue the cease-and-desist order to the fitness facility at 274 East Road, which operated without proper zoning approval.
Alford board addresses well contamination and property dispute. Testing of five town wells through a state environmental initiative found elevated PFAS levels in three samples, with Board of Health staff coordinating remediation with the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection. The
Alford Select Board unanimously approves curbside mattress recycling service from Tuff Stuff. The program allows residents to request free pick-up, with Tuff Stuff transporting materials to its facility serving Pittsfield and Dalton and charging residents directly, bringing the town into state
Select Board unanimously approves state salt bid at $74.29 per ton over county alternative. Board member Peggy Rae Henden-Wilson moved to accept the lower state price; Peter Puciloski seconded. Highway Superintendent TJ Horrigan and a staff member will attend salt calibration training October 25.
Alford Select Board establishes FY2023 tax rate, approves three supplemental appropriations totaling $35,400. Chair Charles Ketchen moved approval of $10,400 for highway CDL training, $10,000 for Veteran's Benefits, and $15,000 for the 8 Town Regional School District Planning Board; Peter Puciloski
Select Board meets on water quality, highway paving, vaccine clinic. Board of Health Coordinator Jayne Smith reported water testing for Alford Brook and Green River within normal limits except at a beaver dam site on Wilson Road; the Health Collaborative plans a flu vaccine and COVID booster clinic
Alford Select Board unanimously appoints Election Constable for September primary. The board named Tim Ortwein to the role for the September 6th election at an August 8th meeting. Board of Health Officer Jayne Smith reported Berkshire County remains in green status for Covid protocols and public