On the agenda: Egremont meeting — Data center (Mar 19)

MALCOLM FICK, Chair
BUCK DONOVAN, Vice-Chair
SAM HAUPT, Treasurer
SHEILA IRVIN, Clerk
THOMAS MATUSZKO,
Executive Director

MEETING NOTICE – REVISED 3/18/26
There will be a meeting of the
BERKSHIRE REGIONAL PLANNING COMMISSION
on Thursday, March 19, 2026 at 7:00 p.m.
This will be a virtual meeting as allowed by An Act Relative to Extending Certain
COVID-19 Measures Adopted during the State of Emergency, extending certain
provisions of the Open Meeting Law, G.L. c.30A sec.20 until June 30, 2027
The Meeting can be accessed at:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/3926128831?omn=81018970168

Meeting ID: 392 612 8831
The Meeting Notice, Agenda, and meeting materials are on BRPC’s website:
www.berkshireplanning.org.
Click the calendar of events, then the meeting name, and follow the link to materials.

Agenda
I.

II.

Opening

(All times approximate)
(7:00-7:05)

a) Call to Order and Open Meeting Law Statement
b) Roll Call of Commission Members Attending the Meeting
c) Vote to Approve Minutes of the January 15, 2026 Full Commission Meeting

Comments from Berkshire Regional Planning Commission Delegates
and Alternates
(7:05-7:10)
BRPC Delegates & Alternates may offer comments on any item not on the agenda.
Discussion or action will be referred to a future meeting and not discussed at this
meeting.

III.

Comments from the Public

(7:10-7:15)

Members of the public may offer comments regarding topics on the agenda or other
matters they wish to bring to the Commission’s attention. Comments are to be
directed to the Commission. Commenters must state their names and the city or
town they are from. Any discussion or action will be referred to a future meeting and
not discussed at this meeting.

IV.

Discussion and Vote to Select Laura Brennan as the Incoming
Executive Director of the Berkshire Regional Planning
Commission
(7:15-7:45)
The BRPC Executive Director Search Committee has conducted an extensive process
to present two candidates to the Commission for consideration as the next BRPC
Executive Director. Subsequent to the Search Committee’s recommendation, one of
the candidates withdrew their candidacy. Commission Delegates or Alternate
Delegates will be asked to vote on Laura Brennan as the next BRPC Executive
Director.

1 Fenn St., Suite 201, Pittsfield, MA 01201
berkshireplanning.org

T: (413) 442-1521 · F: (413) 442-1523
TTY: 771 or 1(800) 439-2370

V.

Vote to Establish a Three Person BRPC Negotiating Subcommittee,
consisting Solely of Executive Committee Members, to Negotiate
Terms of Employment, Compensation, and Benefits with the Incoming
Executive Director
(7:45–7:50)
A Negotiating Subcommittee would meet with the selected candidate to discuss terms
of employment, compensation, and benefits before formal hiring.

VI.

Vote to Ratify the Commission Chair Malcolm Fick’s, Appointments of
Malcolm Fick, Buck Donovan, and Sam Haupt to the BRPC Negotiating
Subcommittee
(7:50-7:55)
The BRPC Bylaws require the Commission to ratify the Commission Chair’s
appointments to committees.

VII.

Vote to Authorize the Commission Chair to Make a Formal Offer of
Employment to the Incoming Executive Director, subject to Prior
Approval by the BRPC Executive Committee and negotiation of a
mutually acceptable employment agreement
(7:55-8:00)
As the final step in the Executive Director hiring process, the Executive Committee
would be asked to approve a formal offer of employment and authorize the
Commission Chair to present that offer to the selected candidate.

VIII.

Presentation & Discussion of Executive Committee Actions (8:00-8:05)
Executive Committee actions taken on the Commission’s behalf during the February 5,
2026, and March 5, 2026, meetings are presented for information and discussion.

IX.

Vote to Amend the BRPC Bylaws

(8:05-8:20)

As described in an accompanying summary sheet, several clarifying items to the BRPC
Bylaws need approval.

X.

Open Discussion by Commission Members about Current Items of
Interest in their City or Town
(8:20–8:25)
As time allows, Delegates and Alternates are encouraged to discuss key items of
interest in their City or Town, such as town meeting updates, development proposals,
changes in municipal leadership, proposed development projects, etc.

XI.
XII.

Report and Discussion of the Executive Director’s Report
Adjournment

(8:25–8:30)
(8:30)

Other interested citizens and officials are invited to attend.
All times listed are estimates of when specific agenda items may be discussed.
City and Town Clerks: Please post this notice

BRPC has adopted the BRPC website www.berkshireplanning.org
as its official posting method as allowed by
940 CMR29.00 section 29.03 (3) (b) since November 2010.

MALCOLM FICK, Chair
BUCK DONOVAN, Vice-Chair
SHEILA IRVIN, Clerk
SAM HAUPT, Treasurer
THOMAS MATUSZKO,
Executive Director

DRAFT FULL COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES
January 15, 2026

This was a virtual meeting as allowed by An Act Relative to Extending Certain
COVID-19 Measures Adopted during the State of Emergency extending certain
provisions of the Open Meeting Law, G.L. c.30A sec.20 until June 30, 2027
I.
Call to Order
The meeting was called to order at 7:03 pm.
Chair Malcolm Fick stated that, in accordance with the provisions of the
Massachusetts Open Meeting Law: Meetings of the BRPC Commission Committee
are recorded. Others may record meetings after informing the Chair that they wish
to do so, as long as the method of recording does not interfere with the conduct of
the meeting. PCTV recorded the meeting.

II.

Roll Call

The following Commission members were present:
Jay Meczywor-Adams Alternate
Al Blake- Becket Delegate
Ann Krawet- Becket Alternate
Peter Traub-Cheshire Delegate
Mary McGurn-Egremont Delegate
Malcolm Fick-Great Barrington Alternate
Keith Harrison-Hinsdale Delegate
Mark Hawthorne-Lanesborough Alternate
Buck Donovan-Lee Delegate
Mark Smith-Lenox Delegate
Daniel Bross-Lenox Alternate
Laura Mensi-Monterey Delegate
Sheila Irvin-Pittsfield Delegate
Sari Hoy-Sheffield Delegate
Christine Rasmussen-Stockbridge Alternate
Erik Reardon-Williamstown Delegate
Towns with no Delegate or Alternate present:
Alford, Clarksburg, Dalton, Florida, Hancock, Mt. Washington, New Ashford,
New Marlborough, North Adams, Otis, Peru, Richmond, Sandisfield,
Tyringham, Washington, West Stockbridge, Windsor

1

Staff Present:
Thomas Matuszko, Marianne Sniezek, Caitlin Davis, Laura Kittross, Clete Kus,
Jaymie Zapata, Lydia Shulman
Others Present:
Corrin Meise-Munns, MILUS
Eric Anderson, Town Manager, Dalton
Carol Hardy Fanta, Tyringham Planning Board
PCTV

III. Vote to Approve Minutes of the November 20, 2025,
Commission Meeting

Mary McGurn motioned to approve the November 20, 2025, draft meeting
minutes. Buck Donovan seconded the motion. There was no discussion on the
motion.
A roll call vote approved it: Jay Meczywor, Peter Traub, Mary McGurn, Malcolm
Fick, Keith Harrison, Buck Donovan, Laura Mensi, Sheila Irvin, Sari Hoy, and Erik
Reardon.
Mark Hawthorne and Mark Smith abstained. Christine Rasmussen and Al Blake
did not vote.

IV. Comments from Berkshire Regional Planning Commission
Delegates and Alternate Delegates

BRPC Delegates & Alternates were offered the opportunity to comment on any item
not on the agenda. Discussion or action are referred to a future meeting and not
discussed at this meeting. There were no comments from the delegates or
alternates.

V. Comments from the Public

Members of the public were offered the opportunity to comment regarding topics
on the agenda or other matters they wish to bring to the Commission’s attention.
Comments are directed to the Commission. Commenters state their names and
the city or town they are from. Any discussion or action is referred to a future
meeting and not discussed at this meeting. There were no comments from the
public.

VI. Presentation & Discussion about the Massachusetts Integrated
Land Use Strategy (MILUS)

In a brief presentation, Corrin Meise-Munns, Land Use Planning Manager with the
Massachusetts Executive Office of Energy & Environmental Affairs (EEA) provided
an overview of the Massachusetts Integrated Land Use Strategy (MILUS), MILUS
Overview including its organizational structure, overall goals, anticipated outcomes,
and opportunities for participation. The presentation focused on clarifying questions
and high-level observations, during which EEA noted any overarching concerns or
suggestions related to the project’s scope or process. As the MILUS workgroups
were just getting underway, EEA would not yet have preliminary analysis or

findings to share, and this presentation was intended to be introductory rather than
substantive.”
The presentation included the following highlights:
• Problems and Opportunities- Why is land use planning important?;
coordinating land use planning to meet Commonwealth’s goals. Some
Commonwealth plans may compete with one another
• Existing state initiatives would be incorporated starting with sub goals that
each plan has implemented and build on existing tools
• MILUS has looked to other statewide land use plans , such as CT, NJ, and RI,
to learn from their challenges
• Project Deliverables: Strategy and Map- preferred land uses and GIS
planning tool as a guide
• Integrated consideration examples included: Environmental Justice and
Equity; Transportation; Climate and Environmental Hazards; Decarbonization
• Work groups and focus groups for industry professionals
• MILUS Use cases examples included: Senior Policy makers, state agency
program managers, transportation planners, municipalities and local
planners, real estate developers
• Anticipated concerns and challenges, such as coordination across multiple
agencies and incorporating existing agency initiatives
• Outcomes and benefits
• Project timeline- hope to wrap up by Labor Day; current timeline is in Q1
Mark Smith asked if there was a color coding standardization across the maps of
the other states. If not, why? Corrin was not aware of planning coordination on this.
Not sure what this will mean in the future. Different states have different laws, and
this could cause issues. MILUS might not continue with a color coding model.
Tom asked where the comprehensive plans factored in for priority areas. The
response was that MILUS did not prioritize showing at a parcel level. Focus would
be on establishing priority areas from surveys, specifically elicited from municipal
representatives. There would be questions on conservation and housing that
communities have faced. RPAs were working with data teams at the municipal
level.

VII. Vote to the Berkshire Regional Planning Commission Fiscal Year
2027 Assessment as Recommended by the Executive Committee at
its December 4, 2025 meeting to include a 2.5% increase over Fiscal
Year 2026
By law, BRPC needs to notify municipalities of their assessments no later than
February each year so that they may be included in city/town budgets. With
municipal budget preparation starting earlier and earlier, the BRPC Executive
Committee voted to recommend the FY27 assessment increase by 2.5% over the
FY26 assessment.
Mary McGurn motioned to approve the fiscal year 2027 Assessment as
recommended by the Executive Committee. Al Blake seconded the motion.

There was no discussion on the motion.
A roll call vote approved it: Jay Meczywor, Al Blake, Peter Traub, Mary McGurn,
Malcolm Fick, Keith Harrison, Mark Hawthorne, Buck Donovan, Mark Smith,
Laura Mensi, Sheila Irvin, Sari Hoy, Christine Rasmussen, and Erik Reardon.

VIII. Presentation and Discussion about the BRPC Public Health
Services and Public Health Planning Programs

Laura Kittross described changes to the BRPC Public Health program and provided a
brief overview of the work of the BRPC Public Health Services and Planning
programs.
Retiring BRPC Public Health Program Manager Laura Kittross presented an overview
of BRPC’s Public Health Program. She reviewed the planning and services side of
Public Health and the staff’s role for each program. The Public Health programs
included nursing, education, wellness events, Covid and flu vaccines, inspections,
substance use, and more. This served as a guide for what the Public Health
program’s priorities were throughout the year.
The Services program has two broad areas, Berkshire Public Health Alliance and
Berkshire Hampden Training Hub. The Alliance has twenty-three member
municipalities and nineteen of those member municipalities receive public health
nursing services from BRPC. Eleven communities receive inspectional services,
including public health environmental inspections.
The Training Hub provides workforce requirements for inspectors and other public
health services. FY25 numbers reported 1600 permits were issued along with 2500
inspections and 2700 vaccinations given.
The new Program Managers, Lydia Shulman (Services) and Jaymie Zapata
(Planning) were introduced.
Tom thanked Laura for all her hard work and dedication at BRPC during her tenure
here. Laura is currently working in an advisory role for BRPC.
Al Blake asked about how the Berkshires were getting inundated with solar and
battery storage implementations and applications. Does the Board of Health have a
unique role in assessing those and putting a stop to those? Laura was not aware of
a role but heard about this at the state level. Laura could mention this issue at a
Board of Health Meeting. The Mass Association of Health Boards, which provides
legal advice to boards of health, was mentioned as a good group to be in touch with
on this issue. Lydia was attending an upcoming Board of Health meeting and would
like to get more information on this for the meeting. Jaymie also suggested
checking in with FRCOG because they had a presentation back in the fall about
battery and fire storage. Laura would provide a copy of that presentation to Al
Blake.

IX. Presentation & Discussion of Executive Committee Actions

Executive Committee actions taken on the Commission’s behalf during the
December 4, 2025, and January 8, 2026, meetings were presented for information
and discussion. There were no comments or discussion of the Executive Committee
Actions.

X. Open Discussion by Commission Members about Current Items of
Interest in their City or Town
Sari Hoy from Sheffield asked if there was a way to deny a potential bylaw of data
centers being created by the town’s Planning Board. Is saying no an option? Tom
suggested reaching out to CJ Hoss as the best BRPC staff contact for this. Mark
Smith commented that something similar was happening in Lenox. Data centers
may be a topic added for a future meeting.

XI. Report and Discussion of the Executive Director’s Report

Tom reported on new items not in the report:
• Housing choice-new rural housing choice; will go on BRPC website; more
information coming
• Berkshire Gas price increases- DPU hearings to be held in Berkshire County
• Seasonal Communities- informational sessions first week of February; send
Tom questions if you are part of a seasonal community. Tom would circulate
those questions to the EOHLC.
Tom gave an update on the Executive Director search. The search committee met
January 14th and determined which candidates to bring in for first round interviews.
Tom encouraged alternates and delegates to attend in person interviews once
confirmed to meet and vote on candidates.
Sari Hoy asked if there were restrictions that would apply to people who were
against the tiny homes and if allowed, were there limitations. Mary McGurn
commented that you could say no to movable tiny homes.

XII. Adjournment

Sheila Irvin made a motion to adjourn. Al Blake seconded the motion.
A roll call approved the motion without discussion: Jay Meczywor, Al Blake,
Peter Traub, Mary McGurn, Malcolm Fick, Keith Harrison, Mark Hawthorne, Buck
Donovan, Mark Smith, Laura Mensi, Sheila Irvin, Sari Hoy, Christine Rasmussen,
and Erik Reardon.
The meeting adjourned at 8:40 pm.

MALCOLM FICK, Chair
BUCK DONOVAN, Vice-Chair
SHEILA IRVIN, Clerk
SAM HAUPT, Treasurer
THOMAS MATUSZKO,
Executive Director

Memorandum
TO:

BRPC Delegates and Alternates

FROM: Thomas Matuszko, BRPC Executive Director
SUBJ:

Report of Search Committee Activities

DATE:

March 18, 2026

This memorandum contains a chronology and report of activities of the Berkshire Regional Planning Commission
Executive Director Search Committee activities related to hiring and Executive Director to replace the current
retiring Executive Director Thomas Matuszko.

-

-

-

-

At the October 2, 2025 BRPC Executive Committee meeting Thomas Matuszko announced his
intention to retire.
At its November 11, 2025 meeting, the Executive Committee approved the Executive Director
Position Description to be used in the advertisement material for a new Executive Director and a
recommended process for the Commission to use. That process recommended the search be
conducted in-house with a seven member Search Committee.
At its November 20, 2026 Commission meeting, the Commission established the Search
Committee, and approved appointments of Buck Donovan, Chair, Malcolm Fick, Sheila Irvin, Kyle
Hanlon, John Duval, Marybeth Mitts, and Laura Kittross as Search Committee members.
The Search Committee met ten times from December 2, 2025 to March 11, 2026. Minutes of
those meetings are posted on the BRPC website, Agendas and Minutes - 2025 - Berkshire
Regional Planning Commission and Agendas and Minutes - Berkshire Regional Planning
Commission
At its December 2, 2025 meeting, the Search Committee reviewed the proposed Search Process,
approved the material to be used in the advertisement of the position and approved locations
to post advertisements. The advertisement was posted on twenty-three sites, including
Berkshire County, Massachusetts, and national sites. Most sites were posted prior to December
16, 2026. While the position was advertised as open until filled, application reviews were
identified to start beginning January 10, 2026.
At its December 16, 2025 meeting, the Search Committee approved the Applicant Eligibility
Criteria and discussed the criteria to evaluate applicants for consideration for interview.
At its December 22, 2025 meeting, the Search Committee approved the evaluation criteria. The
eighteen evaluation criteria included Education, Experience – Directly Related, Experience –
Other Public, Experience – Non-Profit, Experience – Location, Experience – Committee/Board
Leadership, Experience – Collaboration / Coalition Building, Experience – Tenure, Professional
Certification, Knowledge – Planning, Knowledge – Management, Knowledge – Regulatory
Framework, Knowledge – Grant Writing and Management, Exposure to Agency / Organization
Management – Budget Size, Exposure toe Agency / Organization Personnel Size, Direct
Supervision Experience, Philosophy Statement – Style, and Philosophy Statement – Approach.

1 Fenn St., Suite 201, Pittsfield, MA 01201
berkshireplanning.org

T: (413) 442-1521 · F: (413) 442-1523
TTY: 771 or 1(800) 439-2370

-

-

-

-

Applications were rated as Strong, Acceptable, Limited, and None. Some criteria were weighted
more important than others.
BRPC received nine applications. The Search Committee evaluated the eight applications that
were deemed eligible.
At its January 14, 2026 meeting, the Search Committee discussed the first round interview
questions and agreed that first round interviews would be conducted virtually and be conducted
in Executive Session to maintain the confidentiality of the applicants. The Search Committee, in
Executive Session, agreed on three applicants for first round interviews.
At its January 23, 2026 meeting, in Executive Session, the Search Committee agreed to invite
two more applicants to first round interviews.
At its January 31, 2026 meeting, the Search Committee, in Executive Session, interviewed
(virtually) three applicants.
At its February 7, 2026 meeting, the Search Committee, in Executive Session, interviewed
(virtually) two applicants.
At its February 11, 2026 meeting the Search Committee discussed the hiring process after first
round interviews were completed. References of the applicants selected for second round
interviews would be checked prior to the interview. Interviews would be in person for 45
minutes per applicant at a hybrid meeting at the BRPC office. Interviews would be recorded,
those recordings posted on the BRPC YouTube site. Search Committee members would each
provide questions to the Chair and Executive Director who would compile them. In Executive
Session, the Search Committee recommended three applicants for second round interviews.
At its March 7, 2026 meeting, the Search Committee interviewed two candidates for the
position of Executive Director, following the process agreed to at the February 11th meeting. The
third applicant withdrew his application prior to the meeting being scheduled. Prior to the
meeting, the Committee Chair checked references for the applicants.
At its March 11, 2026 meeting, the Search Committee recommended two applicants be
considered for a vote by the Commission as the next Executive Director. The Search Committee
also recommended Laura Brennan as the preferred candidate.
On March 18, 2026 the other candidate withdrew their candidacy.

MALCOLM FICK, Chair
BUCK DONOVAN, Vice-Chair
SHEILA IRVIN, Clerk
SAM HAUPT, Treasurer
THOMAS MATUSZKO,
Executive Director

Berkshire Regional Planning Commission
Executive Director Search
Applicant Material – Laura Brennan
The following items are included in support of Laura
Brennan’s application as Executive Director of the
Berkshire Regional Planning Commission
I.
II.
III.
IV.
V.

Cover Letter
Resume
Statement of Management Philosophy
Summary of Reference Conversations
Supplemental Material / Statement Following
Interview
VI. Letters of Recommendation / Evaluation
o Jessica Atwood
o Senator Mark
o Mayor Marchetti
o Mayor Macksey
o Kristen Elechko
o Thomas Matuszko Evaluation
VII. Link to Interview Recording
https://youtu.be/n76sq1ibc5g

1 Fenn St., Suite 201, Pittsfield, MA 01201
berkshireplanning.org

T: (413) 442-1521 · F: (413) 442-1523
TTY: 771 or 1(800) 439-2370

Laura Brennan
__________________________________________________________________________________
December 22, 2025
Berkshire Regional Planning Commission
Attn: Executive Director Search Committee
1 Fenn Street, Suite 201
Pittsfield, MA 01201
Dear search committee members,
Section 16 of MGL Chapter 40B provides a succinct description of the characteristics expected when
selecting an executive director, who “shall be qualified by education, training and experience in
economic development, regional and program planning, and community relations.” I am proud to
embody each of these and look forward to a discussion to explore them with you.
The executive director position description further articulates a wide range of responsibilities. These
include knowledge of planning and governance trends, discernment of how these may affect Berkshire
County, fidelity to the mission, vision, and values of BRPC while setting policy and developing strategies,
clear-spoken composure as a representative of the agency, diplomacy with partner organizations and
governmental agencies, as well as confidence in guiding a large and diverse staff. Thanks to the
experience afforded by my role as Assistant Director, I am uniquely suited to assuming these
responsibilities in a seamless transition.
Ample experience and sincere enthusiasm for the work of Berkshire Regional Planning Commission lead
me to request your consideration of my resume and related materials for this role. I have successfully
stewarded increasing responsibility within the regional planning agency for the last eight years, with
several years of directly relevant experience just prior to that while employed at the state-designated
Regional Economic Development Organization (REDO) and Regional Tourism Council (RTC) for Berkshire
County,1Berkshire.
I have secured a graduate certificate in Local Government Leadership and Management through
Suffolk University in partnership with the Massachusetts Municipal Association (MMA), offering further
insight into the needs and priorities of the municipalities we serve as well as the financial and
performance management mechanisms applicable to public entities. This certificate sets the stage for
me to continue pursuing a master’s degree in public administration at Suffolk University or a similar
program offering hybrid or fully remote classes.
I have extensive experience identifying, securing, and administering grants from both governmental
and private sources. I participate in several regional and statewide committees, offering valuable
exposure and insight into state agencies and the Massachusetts Association of Regional Planning
Agencies (MARPA) operations and priorities. I am also well practiced at serving as a contact for
members of the press and communicating frequently with members and staff of our state and federal
delegations.
I am inspired by the many, varied, and meaningful ways Berkshire Regional Planning Commission serves
the Berkshires and am enthusiastic about leading the agency as it continues to grow and evolve.
Sincerely,

Laura Brennan

Laura Brennan
www.linkedin.com/in/laura-brennan-275bb16/

__________________________________________________________________________________
My background includes extensive program and project management, fundraising & development,
marketing & communications, and operations. Throughout my career, I have been recognized for
improving program quality and procedural consistency. In each organization, I have been entrusted
with increasing levels of responsibility and have navigated these steps successfully and with dedication.

Relevant Professional Experience:
Berkshire Regional Planning Commission
Assistant Director & Economic Development Program Manager

July 2023 - Current

In addition to the responsibilities listed below, responsible for a broad range of agency
communications, messaging, and visual identity and branding, including the BRPC website, public
relations/press releases, social media accounts, branded documents and reports, and other
collateral including the FY25 Annual Report. Supervise staff compiling monthly e-newsletters and led
teams producing agency events such as 5th Thursday and the Annual Meeting. Support the executive
director in representing the agency on several regional and statewide committees. Provide staff
support to the Commission Development Committee and the CEDS Committee.
Continued strong leadership of the Economic Development program, including: co-creation of
www.berkshiresoutside.org, a comprehensive, user-friendly online resource presenting hundreds of
outdoor recreation access points throughout the Berkshires; oversight of the Berkshire Funding Focus
initiative, with responsibility for fundraising and committee coordination, and frequent participation in
complex group grant applications. Recently secured grants to conduct a county-wide buildout
analysis and priority redevelopment sites strategy.
Economic Development Program Manager

April 2021 – June 2023

Established a new program area devoted to economic development planning, overseeing a growing
departmental staff and several interns. In addition to the responsibilities listed below, managed a 2.5year CARES Act federal award for building economic resiliency and delivering economic recovery
services to the region’s municipalities, businesses, and non-profits. Secured Economic Development
District (EDD) status for Berkshire County, a long sought-after designation recognizing regional
coordination and collaboration and providing partial salary support for multiple BRPC staff. Provided
staff support to the Regional Issues Committee and the CEDS Committee.
Senior Planner, Economic Development

November 2017 – March 2021

Within the Community and Economic Development program area, served as the lead staff person for
economic development planning which included working with individual municipalities on specific
local goals and initiatives through a Shared Economic Development Planning service, as well as
coordinating the Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) for Berkshire County
according to the requirements of the federal Economic Development Administration (EDA). Provided
staff support to the CEDS Committee.

1Berkshire Strategic Alliance
Director of Client Services, 1Berkshire (after merger)

2016 – 2017

Orchestrated the development of a comprehensive Client Services program to serve all former
constituents of the merged Berkshire Visitors Bureau, Berkshire Chamber of Commerce, and
Berkshire Creative. Marketed 1Berkshire opportunities and programs within the region, assisting
with the merger alignment process and in-region communication strategies. Oversaw
educational and leadership development programs and signature events, regular networking
and member recognition opportunities.

Director of Member Services, Berkshire Visitors Bureau (prior to merger)

2013 - 2016

Responsible for recruitment and retention of member businesses, maximizing the use of benefits
by full membership roster. Oversight of customer service to participating businesses, delivery of
member programs and initiatives including annual meetings, two annual online auctions,
visitation programs, social media coaching, and professional development series. Participation
in strategic planning and budget development.

Hancock Shaker Village
Director of Operations and Marketing

2011 - 2013

In addition to the responsibilities listed below, responsible for the day-to-day oversight of the
museum campus, coordinating all senior staff efforts to deliver public programming and directly
overseeing the retail division. Also served as Acting Director late 2012 to early 2013.
Director of Marketing

2006 - 2011

Responsible for all external communications, including supervising an advertising agency and public
relations consultant, maintaining multiple websites, and designing collateral. Led staff producing all
special events, including multi-day festivals, traveling educational seminar program, workshops, and
other special events. Also responsible for all school and commercial group tour business development.
Member and Visitor Services Coordinator

2006

Reporting to the Directors of Development and Marketing, maintained membership and donor
database, promoted membership to on-site visitors and through on-site and direct mail
solicitations, assisted with major events across departments.

Education:
Suffolk University – Sawyer Business School; Boston, MA/Massachusetts Municipal Assoc.
Public Administration Program
Graduate Certificate in Local Government Leadership & Management, 2025
Earned an overall 98.83% average
Franklin and Marshall College; Lancaster, PA
Bachelor of Arts, 2000
Major - History (concentration in US History); Minor - Religious Studies
Awards: Dean’s List, Hackman Fellowship

Current* and Previous Board/Committee Service and Community Involvement:
1Berkshire Foundation Board of Directors
ArtWeek Berkshires co-chair*
Berkshire Grit Alliance steering committee*
Berkshire Initiative for Growth (BIG)
Berkshire United Way
Development Committee
Berkshire United Way volunteer*
Berkshire Visitors Bureau board member
Berkshire Young Professionals
Berkshire Leadership Program graduate, 2008

Habitat for Humanity volunteer
Mill Town Foundation board member*
Nonprofit Business Network Board,
Berkshire Chamber of Commerce
Networking & Recognition Committee,
Berkshire Chamber of Commerce
Pittsfield Tourism Commission member
Red Tee Tournament volunteer*

Recent Conference Presentations:
Presenter/Panelist at One Cape Regional Conference, 2025
Co-presenter at Southern New England APA Conference, 2024
Guest Speaker at joint Southern Berkshire Chamber/Downtown Pittsfield, Inc. meeting, 2024
Panelist & Planning Committee member at 1Berkshire Small Business Expo, 2023

Laura Brennan
Management Philosophy

“The way I would measure leadership is this: of the people that are working with me, how many
wake up in the morning thinking that the company is theirs?” This quote from David M. Kelley
resonates with me because I can find within it the three qualities I believe are most critical for
effective management: a) an ongoing passion for improvement, b) sincerity and trustworthiness,
and c) a strong connection to the shared values of the organization.
First, presuming this is spoken from the perspective of an owner or director, they imply that
management bears responsibility for the creation of an atmosphere in which everyone feels
both a sense of pride in and a sense of responsibility for the overall success of the organization.
These three qualities also build upon each other. A passion for improvement will stave off
complacency and demonstrate that standards are high. Framed positively, it can inspire and
motivate team members. Such actions should be paired with sincere verbal interactions that
build trust. As trust increases, the alignment of internal goals and expectations, as well as
outward messaging and brand building, becomes smoother and easier. All of this sets the stage
for the third factor: embodying the shared values of the organization.
Kelley’s words reinforce an approach I have endeavored to embrace since first hearing it from
management consultants while working at Hancock Shaker Village. John and Anita Durel of
Durel Consulting Partners shared what they referred to as the “Strategic Job Description.”
Although it is likely derived from an established text, I am not aware of the original source.
The core message was this:
• Your first responsibility (no matter your position) is to pursue the organization’s goals.
• Your second responsibility is to ensure the success of your coworkers.
• Your third and final responsibility is to perform the tasks of your own job.
This concept was reasonably easy to embrace, at least philosophically, within the realm of a
mission-driven non-profit organization. None of us was there for high pay or a light workload, and
a passion for the organization’s purpose was what drew us and kept us coming back.
After leaving the nonprofit world, adhering to the Strategic Job Description has required more
intention and thought. The billable hours business model of regional planning agencies might be
seen to encourage the exact opposite: focus on your specific assignments; if you have extra
capacity, support your peers; aim to do it all in service of the organizational mission.
Thankfully, with support from our executive director and willing partners in our management
team, I have been able to operate with an agency-wide mindset and be a part of several
initiatives that have improved our communication, strengthened our brand, added efficiencies
to our systems, solidified our policies and procedures, and increased the range of ways we
support and serve the region. Despite the constraints we face, I am confident that our team will
embrace bigger picture thinking that will enable forward momentum even as details threaten to
bog down progress. This openness and enthusiasm for innovation will grow our collective
adoption of the “Strategic Job Description” and allow BRPC to thrive.

Applicant name:Laura Brennan_____________________________
Reference Contact Name: __Jay Green _______________________________
Reference Relationship:Town Manager of Lenox, former client, Classmate________
Date: 3-2-26_____________
Describe BRPC and the Position:
(BRPC) is the regional planning agency for Berkshire County, the westernmost county in the
Commonwealth of Massachusetts. BRPC is a public sub-state district. The BRPC functions as
a municipal consulting firm assisting the thirty-two member Berkshire municipalities with a
diverse set of topics including community and economic development, community planning,
data and information services, emergency preparedness planning, environmental and
energy planning, regional services, public health planning and services, and transportation
planning.
BRPC’s approved FY26 annual budget is $6.99 million, of which 1.6% comes from member
contributions and 98.4% from grants and contracts. Currently there are over 160 active
grants and contracts. Current staffing consists of forty one FTEs and eleven PTEs. The
Executive Director manages eight program managers directly.
The Executive Director works with a wide variety of citizens, municipal, business, non-profit,
legislative, and other leaders to assertively advocate Berkshire County’s needs and
opportunities while providing management and leadership to a diversely focused
professional staff. The Executive Director works with a commission composed of appointees
from thirty-two member municipalities and an executive committee.
Questions
1. What is/was your relationship with the applicant? How long did you supervise/know
the applicant? Many different agencies over many years +8. Greylock Glenn, Suffolk college
program
2. What were applicant’s job title, duties, or work responsibilities as you know them
professionally? Liaison between agencies. Assist clients, other agencies
3. Please describe the applicant’s leadership style, including leading an organization,
leading a board, and providing strategic leadership for a larger area? Incredibly resposible.
Listens well, very thoughtful, asks the best questions. Soft but firm
4. Please describe the applicant’s management style, including financial management.
Always organized, creates the budgets and always on budget
5. Please describe the applicant’s public relations roles and skills.Really shines at this.
Thoughtful and always relates
6. Please describe the applicant’s approach to securing funding to sustain the
organization. Knows where to find funding and resouces. Organized
7. Please identify the applicant’s professional / personal strengths.
She is always well researched and humble. Can identify good staff and can read people well
8. Given the opportunity, would you rehire / hire the applicant Yes
9. Please provide any additional insight or comments to add why you think this
applicant would thrive in the position? She is extremely loyal. Can bridge gaps.

Applicant name:Laura Brennan_______________________________
Reference Contact Name: Ben Sosne_________________________________
Reference Relationship:BIC contact__________________________________
Date: 2-3-26____________
Describe BRPC and the Position:
(BRPC) is the regional planning agency for Berkshire County, the westernmost county in the
Commonwealth of Massachusetts. BRPC is a public sub-state district. The BRPC functions as
a municipal consulting firm assisting the thirty-two member Berkshire municipalities with a
diverse set of topics including community and economic development, community planning,
data and information services, emergency preparedness planning, environmental and
energy planning, regional services, public health planning and services, and transportation
planning.
BRPC’s approved FY26 annual budget is $6.99 million, of which 1.6% comes from member
contributions and 98.4% from grants and contracts. Currently there are over 160 active
grants and contracts. Current staffing consists of forty one FTEs and eleven PTEs. The
Executive Director manages eight program managers directly.
The Executive Director works with a wide variety of citizens, municipal, business, non-profit,
legislative, and other leaders to assertively advocate Berkshire County’s needs and
opportunities while providing management and leadership to a diversely focused
professional staff. The Executive Director works with a commission composed of appointees
from thirty-two member municipalities and an executive committee.
Questions
1. What is/was your relationship with the applicant? How long did you supervise/know
the applicant? Berkshire Inovation Close contact 6yrs
2. What were applicant’s job title, duties, or work responsibilities as you know them
professionally? Worked on economic development. Created great relationship with USEDA to
secure funding
3. Please describe the applicant’s leadership style, including leading an organization,
leading a board, and providing strategic leadership for a larger area? Very capable patient
listener and finds commonality. Moves a project forward
4. Please describe the applicant’s management style, including financial management.
Worked with BIC on federal funding, very tedious process. Orgnized and got the details
done
5. Please describe the applicant’s public relations roles and skills. Universally accepted and
effective collaborator. Brings people together
6. Please describe the applicant’s approach to securing funding to sustain the
organization. Very thorough and methodical. Knows the system and opportunities
7. Please identify the applicant’s professional / personal strengths. Kindness and supportive.
Brings a level of clarity. Is honest with projects
8. Given the opportunity, would you rehire / hire the applicant In a second
9. Please provide any additional insight or comments to add why you think this
applicant would thrive in the position? Has both IQ and EQ. A great talent and enthusiastic
about her proffession. Belives it is hard to envision a better candidate

Applicant name: Laura Brennan ____________________________________
Reference Contact Name: Brooke Healy _________________________________
Reference Relationship:Municipality ________________________________
Date: 2-27-26_______________
Describe BRPC and the Position:
(BRPC) is the regional planning agency for Berkshire County, the westernmost county in the
Commonwealth of Massachusetts. BRPC is a public sub-state district. The BRPC functions as
a municipal consulting firm assisting the thirty-two member Berkshire municipalities with a
diverse set of topics including community and economic development, community planning,
data and information services, emergency preparedness planning, environmental and
energy planning, regional services, public health planning and services, and transportation
planning.
BRPC’s approved FY26 annual budget is $6.99 million, of which 1.6% comes from member
contributions and 98.4% from grants and contracts. Currently there are over 160 active
grants and contracts. Current staffing consists of forty one FTEs and eleven PTEs. The
Executive Director manages eight program managers directly.
The Executive Director works with a wide variety of citizens, municipal, business, non-profit,
legislative, and other leaders to assertively advocate Berkshire County’s needs and
opportunities while providing management and leadership to a diversely focused
professional staff. The Executive Director works with a commission composed of appointees
from thirty-two member municipalities and an executive committee.
Questions
1. What is/was your relationship with the applicant? How long did you supervise/know
the applicant? Town Of Lee Planner, all areas of development 3 yrs
2. What were applicant’s job title, duties, or work responsibilities as you know them
professionally? Worked with her at BRPC eco development, CDC partnerships. She is very
supportive and a major driver
3. Please describe the applicant’s leadership style, including leading an organization,
leading a board, and providing strategic leadership for a larger area? Worked as master plan
facilitator. Created a positive productive forumand is able to steer people.
4. Please describe the applicant’s management style, including financial management.
Has given great advice and mentor. Knows where to get the grants and do budgets
5. Please describe the applicant’s public relations roles and skills. Gets people together.
Creates a productive discussion
6. Please describe the applicant’s approach to securing funding to sustain the
organization. Knows whats available and how to get it. Gets out ahead of everyone. Never
last minute
7. Please identify the applicant’s professional / personal strengths. Honest,Kind and assists
everyone. Great economic development, very professional. Always come out of a meeting
feeling better
8. Given the opportunity, would you rehire / hire the applicant
Absolutely
9. Please provide any additional insight or comments to add why you think this
applicant would thrive in the position? Laura can fill the role and make it her own

Laura Brennan
Closing Statement
Members of the BRPC Executive Director Search Committee,
First, my sincere thanks for the opportunity to be considered as the next Executive Director of
Berkshire Regional Planning Commission. I deeply appreciate your investment of time and
energy into this process. I am honored to be a final candidate and remain eager to assume the
responsibilities of this role. We covered a lot of ground on Saturday, and I’m grateful to address
items deserving more discussion.
In 2017, I arrived at a very different – much smaller, more siloed - BRPC. If anyone predicted
before 2020 how we would evolve, it would have been in a purely hypothetical exercise. Over
the subsequent several years, we doubled in size, expanded into a broader range of work, and
built stronger relationships with the municipalities, non-profits, and business community of the
Berkshires. I’m deeply proud of my colleagues’ critical local role during a global health crisis. I’m
also proud of our work helping communities recover economically and become more resilient
through new alliances, placemaking, and inclusive planning approaches.
This period of intense change significantly shifted who we are as an agency. More recently, we
migrated to a more sophisticated accounting system, adopted a versatile, cloud-based
network, revised several of our policies and procedures, and are ensuring our internal and
external communications are fully compliant with ADA standards. Rather than using external
factors as an excuse to cling to familiar systems, we have pursued continuous improvement. This
has certainly been challenging, but also rewarding. We have grown as a team while navigating
the day-to-day impacts of these changes.
Early in my tenure, Tom Matuszko shared a quote from sociologist Max Weber that I agree
applies just as readily to planning, and indeed all public service, as it did to the political realm
Weber assessed for students at Munich University in 1918: “It is the strong and slow boring of hard
boards. It takes both passion and perspective.” The full text of the speech contrasts mere
employment with vocation and calls for leaders and heroes (in the most sober sense of the
word) to arm ourselves with a steadfastness of heart.
We have all been reflecting on threats to BRPC in this volatile time. There is much outside of our
control, deeply concerning external factors already affecting our current and future work.
Another, very real danger would be to lose ground on the versatility, innovation, and
collaboration we’ve been fostering in the last near decade of BRPC’s existence. We have grown
our capacity, our reputation, and our relationships. Momentum is strong, and keeping in
conversations that build regional unity will be critical as we move forward.
As the next Executive Director of BRPC, I offer a well-informed perspective on the region’s
challenges and potential. I recognize the need for patience – and persistence - on long-term
but impactful projects. I am well practiced in the diplomacy the role requires. I also embody true
passion for the Berkshires. I have built trust throughout the community over two decades of
enthusiastic involvement in volunteer and professional roles. This strong foundation will serve us all
as we work together for the benefit of all Berkshire County residents and organizations.

January 21, 2026
BRPC Executive Director Search Committee
Berkshire Regional Planning Commission
1 Fenn Street, Suite 201
Pittsfield, MA 01201
Dear Members of the Executive Director Search Committee,
I am writing to you today in strong support of Laura Brennan’s candidacy for Executive Director of the
Berkshire Regional Planning Commission.
Over the years, both during my tenure in the House of Representatives and now as State Senator
representing all of Berkshire County, my office has had the pleasure of working with Ms. Brennan in her
capacity as BRPC’s Assistant Director and Economic Development Program Manager. Throughout that
time, she has distinguished herself as a trusted regional leader with an exceptional command of planning,
economic development, municipal partnership, and public communication.
At a moment when the work of government is more important than ever, with rising costs, uncertain
federal support, and demographic challenges impacting rural communities, there has never been a more
crucial time for the Berkshires to come together as a region. BRPC plays a central role in that effort:
advancing long-term planning, supporting municipalities, and helping Berkshire County compete for
resources and investment. For these reasons, I believe that Ms. Brennan’s expertise, institutional
knowledge, and long-standing relationships will be essential to BRPC’s continued success and to the
strength of our region.
Ms. Brennan brings nearly a decade of direct BRPC experience, including eight years of stewarding
increasing responsibility within the agency and leading key economic development initiatives.
She has successfully managed complex programs that deliver real results for municipalities, businesses,
and residents—including administration of a multi-year CARES Act federal award supporting economic
resiliency and recovery services across the region, and helping secure Economic Development District
(EDD) status for Berkshire County—an important milestone that strengthens regional coordination and
expands access to federal support.
In addition to her economic development leadership, Ms. Brennan has played a vital role in strengthening
BRPC’s communications, public presence, and agency operations. As Assistant Director, she has helped

guide BRPC’s messaging and branding through the website, press releases, social media, and annual
reporting, and has supervised staff producing public-facing communications such as monthly newsletters
and high-profile agency events.
That combination of strategic leadership and operational competence is exactly what this role requires.
Ms. Brennan also demonstrates a deep understanding of municipal governance and regional needs. She
recently completed a Graduate Certificate in Local Government Leadership & Management through
Suffolk University’s public administration program in partnership with the Massachusetts Municipal
Association, an achievement that further reflects her commitment to public service and to the
communities BRPC supports.
Just as importantly, Ms. Brennan is widely respected across Berkshire County for her professionalism,
diplomacy, and steady leadership—qualities that matter greatly for a position that demands collaboration
across municipalities, state agencies, and stakeholder groups. She is well-practiced in representing BRPC
publicly, engaging with the press, and communicating effectively with our state and federal delegations.
For all of these reasons, I urge the Executive Director Search Committee to give Ms. Brennan your
strongest consideration. She offers the rare combination of experience, proven management ability,
regional credibility, and deep institutional knowledge that will allow BRPC to maintain momentum and
continue meeting the demands of the moment without interruption.
Thank you for your time and for your thoughtful work on behalf of Berkshire County. If I can be of any
further assistance as you complete this process, please do not hesitate to contact my office.

Paul W. Mark, State Senator
Berkshire, Hampden, Franklin & Hampshire District

CITY OF NORTH ADAMS, MASSACHUSETTS
Office of the Mayor
Jennifer A. Macksey
February 7, 2026
Dear Search Committee Members,
I am pleased to offer my strongest recommendation for Laura Brennan for the position of
Executive Director of the Berkshire Regional Planning Commission (BRPC). Laura brings an
exceptional combination of leadership, strategic insight, and deep commitment to Berkshire
County, making her uniquely qualified to guide the agency forward during this important
transition.
The Executive Director role requires a professional with a strong understanding of planning and
governance trends, the ability to represent BRPC with clarity and diplomacy, and steadfast
dedication to the agency’s mission and values. Through her years of service and experience as
Assistant Director, Laura has consistently demonstrated these qualities while effectively
collaborating with municipal partners, government agencies, and the public.
Laura’s professional training—including a graduate certificate in Local Government Leadership
and Management through Suffolk University and the Massachusetts Municipal Association—
reflects her strong understanding of municipal priorities and public-sector management. She also
has extensive experience securing and administering grants, participating in statewide planning
networks, and communicating effectively with the press and state and federal delegations.
Laura inspires confidence through her thoughtful leadership, collaborative approach, and steady
guidance. I recommend her without reservation and am confident she will continue to strengthen
BRPC’s vital work across Berkshire County.
Thank you for your consideration, and please feel free to contact me with any questions.
Sincerely,

Jennifer A. Macksey

Jennifer A. Macksey
Mayor

Thomas Matuszko
From:
Sent:
To:
Subject:

Elechko, Kristen (GOV) <[email protected]>
Monday, March 9, 2026 9:34 PM
Executive Director Search
Recommendation for Laura Brennan

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Hello BRPC Execu ve Director Search Commi ee,
I am pleased to write in strong support of Laura Brennan as the next Execu ve Director of the Berkshire
Regional Planning Commission (BRPC). Laura is an excep onal leader whose commitment to strategic vision,
regional collabora on, and though ul planning has already had a profound impact on the Berkshires and the
communi es BRPC serves.
In my role as Western Massachuse s Director for the Governor’s Office in the Healey-Driscoll Administra on, I
have seen firsthand how cri cal strong leadership at regional planning agencies can be. The most effec ve
Execu ve Directors influence policy at the statewide level while also suppor ng municipali es with
implementa on. They accomplish this by building and maintaining rela onships at every level of government
and within the communi es they serve. The strongest leaders in these roles also serve as trusted sources of
subject-ma er exper se on some of the Commonwealth’s most complex and pressing challenges.
Laura has already proven herself to be an excep onal leader in many of these ways. She consistently provides
a steady, though ul, and trusted voice within the region. Equally impressive is her dedica on to strengthening
the Berkshires as a whole. Laura has worked relessly to support ini a ves that expand economic
opportunity, improve infrastructure, and promote sustainable growth, while preserving the character and
natural assets that make the Berkshires such a special place.
In my experience, Laura is widely respected among municipal officials, regional nonprofit organiza ons,
businesses, and state leaders for her professionalism, integrity, and deep understanding of the region’s needs.
I have no doubt that if she is selected as the next leader of BRPC, she will con nue to elevate the work of the
commission and strengthen the partnerships that are essen al to the region’s success.
Over the past several years, many Western Massachuse s ins tu onal leaders have transi oned out of their
roles. While leadership transi ons can bring new opportuni es, the region has also experienced a loss of
ins tu onal knowledge and depth of experience. Laura’s appointment as the next Execu ve Director of BRPC
would provide an important source of con nuity, stability, and leadership at a cri cal me for the region.
For all of these reasons, I strongly and enthusias cally recommend Laura Brennan for the posi on of Execu ve
Director of the Berkshire Regional Planning Commission. I am confident that her leadership, experience, and
1

deep commitment to the Berkshires will serve the region well. Please feel free to contact me if I can provide
any addi onal informa on regarding Laura’s qualifica ons or my support for her candidacy.
With apprecia on,
Kristen
Kristen Elechko (she/her/hers)
Western Massachuse s Director
Office of Governor Maura T. Healey
[email protected]
Cell: 857-327-3214

2

1 Fenn Street, Suite 201
Pittsfield, MA 01201
T: (413) 442-1521 · F: (413) 442-1523
TTY: 771 or (800) 439-2370
berkshireplanning.org
Memorandum
TO:

BRPC Executive Director Search Committee Members

FROM:

Thomas Matuszko, Executive Director

DATE:

March 9, 2026

SUBJ:

Executive Director Applicant Laura Brennan

As part of the interview process, the Search Committee asked that applicants provide a
reference from a recent or current supervisor. I am Laura’s immediate BRPC supervisor.
This memorandum describes my evaluation of Laura Brennan as an applicant for the
Berkshire Regional Planning Commission Executive Director position. Since her promotion as
Assistant Director, I have generally had weekly meetings with her.
My comments, shown in italics, are structured to evaluate how she would respond to the
requirements of the advertised position description, shown in the rest of the text.

Berkshire Regional Planning Commission (BRPC)
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Position Summary:
The Executive Director serves as the public “face and voice” of the BRPC. The Executive
Director is charged with successfully implementing the organization’s Mission Statement,
Vision, and Values, and working with a wide variety of citizens, municipal, business, non-profit,
legislative, and other leaders to assertively advocate Berkshire County’s needs and opportunities
while providing management and leadership to a diversely focused professional staff. The
Executive Director works with a commission composed of appointees from thirty-two member
municipalities and an executive committee.
Comment
Laura is extremely well connected and well regarded with a wide variety of entities throughout
Berkshire County. This has been evidenced numerous times, including during COVID
working with organizations such as the Berkshire United Way to help supply entities providing
food and more recently working with a variety of entities to understand the potential economic
disruption from current federal policies. Most recently she is one of the key players to
organize the municipal networking group. One of the greatest strengths that Laura would
bring to the position is her ability to immediately and meaningfully engage with a large variety
of stakeholders to advance the cause of BRPC, and importantly, for the betterment of the
county.

Representative Responsibilities:
The Commission
•

Maintains a working knowledge of trends and significant development in the field of
municipal and regional planning, and municipal governance, and how those trends may
impact the region.
Comment
Laura has a solid understanding of municipal governance, and has recently
completed the Massachusetts Municipal Association-Suffolk Certificate in Local
Government Leadership and Management, which is a graduate-level program

designed for municipal employees to advance their careers, covering topics like
budgeting, human resources, and strategic leadership. Laura is BRPC’s lead staff
person to interact with the Executive Office of Energy and Environment Affairs
Massachusetts Integrated Land Use Strategy and is on the Economic Development
Working Group. This will increase her regional planning capabilities. Based on her
current job responsibilities, Laura has had limited direct exposure to municipal
planning.

•

Maintains and enhances BRPC’s reputation as a trusted resource of unbiased,
professional information and assistance; build upon its role as a key regional player.
Comment
For many years, Laura has been BRPC’s lead staff person related to comprehensive
economic development planning, leading the Comprehensive Economic
Development Strategy effort. In this role she has analyzed and interpreted economic
data and statistics and has strong ability in this area. Alse related to this role she has
assisted several regional economic development assets, such as Greylock Center
and the Berkshire Innovation Center obtain significant grants.

•

Supports Commission members and the Executive Committee in discharging their duties
to determine, establish and implement policy on matters appropriate to the BRPC and the
region.
Comment
Laura participates in BRPC Executive Committee and Commission meetings. The
Executive Director regularly consults with Laura on various policy related matters. He
values her opinion. At times, she appropriately differs with the Executive Director and
is not reluctant to do so. She provides a measured approach to evaluating and
commenting on policy with the interests of the Commission and the region given the
primary consideration.

•

Provides leadership in proposing solutions and options for the Commission to consider
when setting policy for the organization and assists the Commission in developing and
implementing those policies.
Comment
Laura is the lead person at BRPC related to economic development policies through
her work with the Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy committee.

•

Works with the Commission and member communities to formulate, refine and
implement strategic plans to review and grow the scope of BRPC services in alignment
and support of community and regional needs.
Comment
Laura has a strong understanding of the challenges municipalities, especially the
smaller municipalities, face providing services and understands the need for
municipalities to work more closely together to provide services. For several years,
Laura worked as the shared economic planner for numerous towns. In this capacity
she essentially served as a municipal economic planner, while remaining an
employee of BRPC. She has conducted extensive outreach to municipalities for
priority projects to include in the Comprehensive Economic Development Plan.

•

Assures BRPC compliance with federal and state laws and regulations.
Comment
Laura has shown a full understanding of and maintains strict compliance with federal
and state grant requirements. During COVID, Laura obtained and successfully

managed a very large, complex federal grant. More recently Laura initiated
understanding compliance with newly implemented digital accessibility requirements.

•

Develops and maintains sound fiscal practices to ensure BRPC’s financial stability.
Comment
Laura manages the Economic Development Program budget. She monitors and
forecasts appropriately for that program, adjusting if necessary, so there are no
unanticipated budgetary surprises. Aside from her Program Area responsibilities, she
has had limited participation in the agency budget.

• Responsible for managing BRPC’s affiliated non-profit, Berkshires Tomorrow, Inc. See
http://berkshireplanning.org/about/berkshires-tomorrow-inc/.
Comment
Laura has been one of the most successful BRPC staff to use Berkshires Tomorrow.
She initiated an exploration to expand the use of Berkshires Tomorrow, first by
understanding its structure and limitations. She is currently seeking grant funds to
obtain an outside evaluation to expand its capabilities and impact.

•

Reports directly to the Commission and the Executive Committee.
Comment
Not applicable. Laura reports directly to the Executive Director.

External Organizations
•

Acts as a primary representative for BRPC with the public, media, and elected and
appointed officials; works closely with the region’s state and federal delegation to follow
legislative trends and opportunities; works closely with state administrative officials.
Comment
This is an area of Laura’s greatest strengths. She is BRPC’s lead person when it
comes to external communication with the press. She initiated a process for regular
press communication. As BRPC has grown, she has initiated measures to
standardize our communication approach to present a unified message about BRPC.
She has formed strong working relationships with the State Senator’s office, the
federal Senator’s office, and the Governor’s Western Mass representative.
She has a strong working relationship with her federal contact with the Economic
Development Agency.
She is currently participating on the economic development working group related to
the statewide Massachusetts Integrated Land Use Strategy.

•

Advocates for the adopted policies, plans, and policy positions of the BRPC and on
behalf of the region and its communities.
Comment
Laura has steadily worked toward implementing the CEDS priorities and was key to the
Berkshire Innovation Center receiving an EDA award. She has also been actively
engaged with Greylock Center.

•

Works closely with diverse constituencies related to the work of BRPC.
Comment
Throughout her time at BRPC Laura has reached out to and connected with key
stakeholders that previously BRPC had only limited contact. The Berkshire Funding

Focus, where Laura was the key staff person included non-profit organizations,
educational groups, social service agencies, and private foundations working
together to, at the time of initiation, temper the economic blow from COVID. Currently
Laura is an active participant in the Berkshire Grit Alliance, working to understand the
financial implications for the Berkshire population from federal policies.

•

Serves on local, regional, and statewide committees and boards representing BRPC,
Berkshire County, and/or western Massachusetts as assigned by gubernatorial
appointment, Commission recommendation, or professional judgment.

Comment
By design, the current Executive Director serves on statewide committees. Laura has
represented BRPC on those committees, such as the Rural Policy Advisory
Commission, in the absence of the Executive Director. She has regularly participated
in monthly Massachusetts Association of Regional Planning Agencies (MARPA)
meetings as well as statewide meetings of the regional planning agencies economic
development practitioners. More locally Laura is an active participant on the regular
meetings of economic development practitioners.

The Professional Staff
•

Provides overall management of a diverse professional staff to achieve BRPC’s mission
and implement activities of the Commission.
Comment
Laura appropriately manages her Economic Development Program staff, having regular
check-in meetings with them. The Executive Director is not aware of any issues her staff
have with Laura as their supervisor.

•

Provides leadership and guidance to the staff, including development of personnel
policies and procedures; overall monitoring of work and identification of potential issues;
manages the hiring process; ensures professional development of staff; counsels and
disciplines staff; assures BRPC compliance with personnel laws and regulations.
Comment
Laura has been the agency lead in promoting a comprehensive agency staff handbook.
She has initiated several personnel policies updates / re-writes. She promotes
professional development of her staff. As Executive Director, Laura would need to
become more familiar with all the agency policies as the Executive Director has the direct
responsibly to make sure they are enforced and applied equally with all staff.

•

Currently leads a diverse professional team of forty one FTEs and eleven PTEs, directly
managing seven program managers.
Comment
Laura participates on bi-weekly Program Manager staff meetings. At those meetings she
actively participates and has taken a lead role in several topic areas. In her role as
Assistant Director, I have asked her to participate in meetings with various personnel
issues, and she has provided a reasonable approach to those discussions. Staff seek her
counsel on a wide range of items. She has good working relationships with the current
staff.

•

Maintains a working climate that attracts employees from diverse social and ethnic
backgrounds and keeps and motivates a top quality professional staff.

Qualifications:
Comments
Laura meets the qualifications for the position. She is a strong writer. She has strong presentation
skills. She is well-organized. She is a successful grant writer and administrator. She has built the
BRPC Economic Development Program. She has strong computer skills and provides oversight
of the BRPC and related websites. She regularly initiates new ideas and seeks new opportunities.
She makes extra effort
Laura’s strengths are economic development planning and municipal service delivery. She has
limited experience in the other topic areas. She will need to quickly learn about the other topic
areas and is encouraged to become more familiar with traditional planning. Laura does not have
AICP certification.

Education, Training and Experience:
Ten or more years of directly relevant and broad community or regional planning
experience with increasing supervisory and management experience required.
• Master’s degree, or equivalent, required; degree in planning or public administration
strongly preferred.
• Professional certification in planning (AICP) or other related certifications highly
desired.
• Experience with a similar agency or organization is highly desirable.
• Success in writing, securing, and administering grants is highly desirable.
• Experience in all aspects of program development, management and assessment is highly
desirable.
• Strong understanding of public finance and measures of performance is highly desirable.
Knowledge:
•

Comprehensive planning, transportation planning, economic development planning,
public health, community development, environmental and energy planning, and
municipal service delivery.
• Principles and practices of public finance, budget development and management,
personnel management, and intergovernmental relations.
• Laws, legislative mechanisms, and regulations that affect municipal and regional
government and expertise in municipal and regional agency operations and organization.
• Working proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and knowledge of relevant software
technologies.
Personal Abilities:
•

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•

Is a high energy self-starter who will manage and grow an already aggressive work
program.
Reacts positively to unexpected opportunities and challenges.
Is a strong coalition builder who communicates and works effectively with a variety of
internal and external stakeholders.
Negotiates to achieve consensus amongst differing opinions and competing priorities.
Prioritizes multiple tasks and exercises sound and independent judgment within general
policy guidelines.
Plans, organizes, and directs the preparation of reports.
Analyzes problems, develops options, and formulates recommendations.
Takes responsibility for local projects and their implementation.

•
•
Skills:

Negotiates contracts, agreements, and appropriate working arrangements and achieves
timely results under stressful circumstances.
Possesses a strong commitment to staff development and team building; successful track
record of recruiting, directly and indirectly managing and retaining a diverse team of
professionals.

Outstanding written, communication, networking, and presentation skills.
Organizational and leadership skills.
Experience and proclivity to be an outgoing spokesperson and relationship builder.
Clearly and concisely conveys complex information to employees, officials, and the
public.
Physical Requirements:
•
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Frequent attendance at evening meetings and frequent long working hours.
Viewing computer screens and working with details for extended periods of time.
Operation of standard office equipment.
Movement throughout office and to multiple locations outside the office.
Driving personal vehicle on Commission business in year-round weather conditions and
at night; frequent trips to Boston, Springfield, Greenfield, and other locations that are
generally 150 miles or less in distance.
Overall Performance Evaluation
Laura’s combination of knowledge, skill, capability, and experience easily meets and most
frequently exceeds the requirements of the position. She would be a strong Berkshire Regional
Planning Commission Executive Director.
In the past several years, BRPC has significantly increased its purview, influence, and range of
services. Laura has been a major contributor to that expansion. She brought to the Commission
the understanding that to be effective, BRPC needs to work with a wide variety of stakeholders,
such as the Berkshire United Way, 1Berkshires, and Blackshires. With her background she was
able to reach across areas BRPC had not done so previously. As the new Executive Director, I
could only see that approach increase.
I recommend Laura Brennan as the next Executive Director of the Berkshire Regional Planning
Commission.

MALCOLM FICK, Chair
BUCK DONOVAN, Vice-Chair
SHEILA IRVIN, Clerk
THOMAS MATUSZKO,
Executive Director

MEMORANDUM
TO:
FROM:
DATE:
SUBJ:

Delegates and Alternates, Berkshire Regional Planning Commission
Thomas Matuszko, Executive Director
March 13, 2026
Executive Committee Actions taken on the February 5, 2026 and
March 5, 2026 Meetings

Per the BRPC bylaws, actions taken by the Executive Committee on the Commission's
behalf are reported and presented for discussion at the next Commission meeting.
The Executive Committee took the following actions at the February 5, 2026 and
March 5, 2026 Executive Committee meetings:
Executive Committee Actions on March 5, 2026
Approved the minutes of the February 5, 2026 BRPC Executive Committee
meeting.
Approved the January 29, 2026 – February 25, 2026 Expenditures Report.
Approved Changes to BRPC Salary and Merit Adjustments Policy
The Executive Committee approved changes to BRPC’s Salary and Performance
Review Policy. Proposed changes included making the date to review the cost of
living increase earlier in the year to align with Executive Committee approvals,
providing more flexibility with how the cost of living increase is applied, and
specifying that a salary increase from a promotion may not exceed the top of the
range for the position the person is being promoted into.
Approved the Submission of Four Grant Applications to the Executive Office
of Environmental Affairs Municipal Vulnerability Preparedness (MVP) Grant
Program
The Executive Committee authorized the Executive Director to submit four grant
applications to the Municipal Vulnerability Preparedness (MVP) Program for the
FY27/FY28 Grant Cycle and sign any resulting contracts or agreements.
• Clarksburg Bank Stabilization Project – to address aggressive bank erosion
where the former Briggsville Dam was removed, mitigating property loss for
residents in the Carson Ave. area of Clarksburg
• Ghost Dams Inventory Mapping – to address numerous unmapped nonjurisdictional dams throughout the county, many of which are unmaintained and
no longer serve a purpose.
• Housatonic Road Stream Crossing Management Plans –to complete a fully
mapped and assessed inventory of culverts in the Towns of Lee, Cheshire,
Hinsdale, Dalton and possibly Lanesborough.
1 Fenn St., Suite 201, Pittsfield, MA 01201
berkshireplanning.org

T: (413) 442-1521 · F: (413) 442-1523
TTY: 771 or 1(800) 439-2370

Berkshire Climate Career Lab – to create a High School career program to
prepare students interested in climate careers, explore opportunities, and build
skills.
The budgets were still being finalized. Except as noted there is no BRPC match
requirement. The BRPC staff lead is Principal Planner, Courtney Morehouse,
[email protected].
•

Approved the Submission of Two Grant Applications to the MassCEC’s
EmPower Implementation Grant Program
The Executive Committee authorized the Executive Director to submit two grant
applications to the MassCEC EmPower Implementation Grant Program and to sign
any resulting contracts and agreements.
• Housing Energy Efficiency Rehabilitation - $150,000 grant to create a more
cohesive pipeline for residents within the CDBG housing rehab program to
receive funding and support through the MassSave Program and BCAC.
• Air Quality Monitoring - $150,000 grant to fund the extension of BRPC’s current
EPA Air Quality monitoring grant. This grant will ensure that the work done to
purchase and install indoor and outdoor air quality sensors will provide valuable
data for Berkshire County.
There is no BRPC match requirement. Primary staff contact for these grant
applications is Sherdyl Fernandez-Aubert, [email protected]
Approved Funding from The Nature Conservancy for Culvert Development
Work in Berkshire County
Approved the Executive Director to accept $25,000 funding from The Nature
Conservancy to support culvert replacement project development within Berkshire
County. This funding will be used during the period of February 2026 to February
2027 to support municipalities with grant applications, culvert assessment and
prioritization and supporting municipalities in sourcing funding for construction and
project management. The grant award is $25,000. Staff lead is Alison Dixon
[email protected].
Proposed Amendments to the BRPC Bylaws
The Executive Committee recommended the Commission approve the proposed
amendments to the Bylaws.
Executive Committee Actions on February 5, 2026
Approved the minutes of the January 8, 2026 BRPC Executive Committee
meeting.
Approved the December 30, 2025 – January 28, 2026 Expenditures Report.
Ratified the Submission of 4 Grant Applications to the Franklin Regional
Council of Governments related to Crisis & Emergency Risk
Communication(CERC) plans for Berkshire, Franklin, Hampden, and
Hampshire Counties.
The Executive Committee ratified the submission of four grant applications to
Franklin Regional Council of Governments related to Crisis and Emergency Risk
Communication (CERC) Plans for Berkshire, Franklin, Hampden, and Hampshire
Counties and authorized the Executive Director to sign any resulting contracts and
2

agreements. This work would develop, train, and workshop Crisis & Emergency Risk
Communication (CERC) Plans for the four county Public Health Emergency
Preparedness (PHEP) Coalitions in Western MA. The four counties each have a
separate RFP for their CERC Plan, so BRPC may be awarded some, none or all the
applications. The amounts of the applications are Berkshire County, $28,500,
Franklin County, $30,000, Hampden County, $45,500, and Hampshire County
$35,500. No match is required. The staff lead is Public Health Subject Matter Expert
Sandra Martin, [email protected].

3

MALCOLM FICK, Chair
BUCK DONOVAN, Vice-Chair
SHEILA IRVIN, Clerk
SAM HAUPT, Treasurer
THOMAS MATUSZKO,
Executive Director

Memorandum
TO:

BRPC Delegates and Alternate Delegates

FROM: Thomas Matuszko
SUBJ: Proposed Bylaw Amendments
DATE: March 13, 2026
This memorandum contains a summary of the proposed amendments to the BRPC Bylaws.
Section
C.2.
C.2
C.3
D.1
D.1
D.8.1

Change summary
Adjustment for gender neutrality and clarification of alternate appointments
Removes the requirement that an alternate must continue to serve as an alternate if no one
else is appointed alternate.
Specifies what the word vacancy is referring to
Clarifies replacement in the event of an officer vacancy prior to the annual election cycle
Clarifies continuity of officers during the year end transition of officers.
Several clarifications regarding committees, including:

o
o

Appointments and terms of committee chairs and vice chairs and when they can
assume that role;
Committee continuity if there is no Chair, vice-chair either on the committee or at
a committee meeting;

D.8.2

Several clarifications regarding committee appointments, including:

D.9

Administrative edits and clarification re: appointments to special or standing committees not
under the jurisdiction of the Commission.
Clarifies staff presence at Executive Committee meetings
Expands the role of Commission Development Committee to serve as nominating
committee instead of two separate committees
Clarifies the Chairs authority to sign contracts.
Clarifies the Executive Director’s responsibility hiring an Assistant Director

D.10.1
D.10.2
E.1.1
F.4

o
o
o

Appointments made by the Chair;
Non-Commission member appointments
Committee member terms

1 Fenn St., Suite 201, Pittsfield, MA 01201
berkshireplanning.org

T: (413) 442-1521 · F: (413) 442-1523
TTY: 771 or 1(800) 439-2370

BYLAWS
BERKSHIRE REGIONAL PLANNING COMMISSION
Revised January 20, 1972
Second Revision February 21, 1974
Third Revision May 21, 1981
Fourth Revision February 20, 1997
Fifth Revision September 18, 1997
Sixth Revision September 20, 2007
Seventh Revision – May 21, 2009
Eight Revision – November 21, 2013
Ninth Revision – July 16, 2015
Tenth Revision – May 16, 2019
Eleventh Revision – January 19, 2023
Twelfth Revision – January 18, 2024
Thirteenth Revision – November 21, 2024
Proposed Fourteenth Revision – March 2026
A.

Purpose, Powers and Duties of the Berkshire Regional Planning Commission
A.1.

The Berkshire Regional Planning Commission, hereafter referred to as the
Commission, serves the cities and towns of Berkshire County and their common
good through the provision of technical assistance, planning education, maintenance
of a forum for the discussion of regional issues and the delivery of regional planning
services. The Commission enables member cities and towns to jointly plan and
promote, with the greatest efficiency and economy, the coordinated and orderly
development of the area within its jurisdiction and the general welfare and prosperity
of the citizens in accordance with Massachusetts General Laws (MGL) Chapter (c.)
40B, Section (§) 2. In addition, the Commission shall carry out such other functions
and responsibilities specified in federal, state, and local laws, ordinances and
regulations which do not conflict with the provisions of MGL c. 40B.

A.2.

All plans, resolutions and recommendations of the Commission that shall be
adopted, added to, or changed, unless noted elsewhere in these by-laws, must be
adopted or amended, as the case may be, by a majority vote at an official
Commission meeting.

A.3.

The Commission shall make appointments to specified regional committees or
authorities as required or requested by state, federal, regional or local entities.

A.4.

The Commission shall establish rules of procedure for its activities.

A.5.

The Commission may enter into contracts, purchase or lease office space, equipment
or supplies and accept gifts and contributions.

A.6.

The Commission may employ staff, including an Executive Director, and experts to
provide regional planning and other services.

A.7.

The Commission must adopt an annual budget showing all anticipated revenues and
expenses for the coming fiscal year. Upon approval of the Executive Committee, the
Treasurer may borrow in anticipation of revenues.

Approved – November 21, 2024

Page 1 of 8

A.8.

B.

The Commission shall submit an annual report to the cities and towns within
Berkshire County showing the status of its plans and programs.

Jurisdiction and Membership
B.1.

Pursuant to MGL c. 40B, § 3, a planning district has been designated consisting of all
of the cities and towns within Berkshire County. The planning district’s jurisdiction is
all of Berkshire County. Its cities and towns have all been admitted to membership
in the planning district, whose governing body is the Berkshire Regional Planning
Commission. The Commission consists of one member of the planning board of each
member city and town, known as the delegate and an alternate designee, known as
the alternate, to act in the delegate’s absence.

B.2.

The cities and towns admitted to membership in the planning district are:
Adams
Alford
Becket
Cheshire
Clarksburg
Dalton
Egremont
Florida

C.

New Ashford
New Marlborough
North Adams
Otis
Peru
Pittsfield
Richmond
Sandisfield

Savoy
Sheffield
Stockbridge
Tyringham
Washington
W. Stockbridge
Williamstown
Windsor

Election or Appointment of the Commission
C.1

The delegate from each member town or city shall be elected by its planning board
or community development board annually, subsequent to town or city elections.
The election of the delegate shall be certified to the Commission in writing by each
local planning or community development board. If a planning or community
development board fails to elect a delegate in any year, the previously named
delegate shall continue to serve until a successor is elected as long as the delegate
remains a member of the local planning or community development board.

C.2.

Each town or city may also have an alternate, who may or may not be a planning
board member, who shall be a resident of the city or town the designee represents
and shall be appointed annually subsequent to city or town elections. The alternate
shall be certified to the Commission by the Mayor in a city, confirmed by the council,
or in a town by the SelectmenSelect Board, or Town Manager or Administrator when
the town’s charter authorizes such action. or in towns with a manager form of
government by the Town Manager. The alternate may attend meetings of the
Commission and shall assume the rights and duties of the delegate when the
delegate is absent. If a town or city fails to appoint an alternate in any year, the
previously named alternate shall continue to serve until a successor is appointed,
provided they remain a resident of the city or town.

C.3.
D.

Great Barrington
Hancock
Hinsdale
Lanesborough
Lee
Lenox
Monterey
Mount Washington

If a delegate or alternate vacancy occurs during the year, the appointing board or
official shall be notified and requested to fill the vacancy.

Commission Organization
D.1.

At the first meeting after July 1, but to be held no later than August 31st, the
Commission shall elect from among its membership a Chair, Vice Chair, Clerk, and

Approved – November 21, 2024

Page 2 of 8

Commented [TM1]: Adjustment for gender neutrality and
clarification of alternate appointments

Commented [TM2]: Removes the requirement that an alternate
must continue to serve as an alternate if no one else is appointed
alternate.
Commented [TM3]: Clarifies what the vacancy is referring to.

Treasurer. If any of these positions becomes vacant during the year, the Commission
Development Committee shall propose a delegate or alternate replacement to be
voted on at the next Commission meeting. shall elect at its next meeting a delegate
or alternate If elected, that person will to fill the position until the next annual
election. To ensure continuity of operation, the Chair, Vice -Chair, Clerk, and
Treasurer shall be eligible to continue to serve in that capacity, until the first meeting
after July 1, even though they may no longer be the delegate or alternate, or be an
elected member of a planning or community development board or have been
appointed as an alternate by the city or town.
D.2.

All meetings of the Commission and its committees are subject to the Open Meeting
Law: MGL c. 39 § 23A. Regular meetings of the Commission shall be held at least six
times annually. Special meetings may also be held at the call of the Chair or at the
call of a majority of the membership. Notices of all meetings shall be distributed to
all delegates and alternates at least five calendar days prior to all meetings.

D.3.

A quorum of the Commission shall consist of the duly named delegates or alternates
from at least eight member cities and towns. Lack of a quorum shall not prevent the
delegates or alternates at an officially called meeting from coming to order and
discussing or passing a motion to continue said meeting to a later time.

D.4.

The Conflict of Interest Law, MGL c. 268A, prohibits delegates or alternates from
participating in any official action affecting their own financial interests, from using
their position to obtain unwarranted privilege, or from acting in a manner that would
cause a reasonable person to conclude that they can be improperly influenced or that
a person could unduly enjoy their favor in the performance of their duties. During
any Commission discussion, if any delegate or alternate believes the Conflict of
Interest Law applies to them, they are required to disqualify themselves from
participation in the discussion and are required to leave the meeting room when the
issue is under consideration.

D.5.

Each member city and town shall be accorded one vote to be cast by the delegate or,
in the absence of the delegate, by the alternate. Decisions of the Commission shall
be made by majority vote of those member cities and towns present and voting, with
the exception of the adoption of a comprehensive plan of development. Adoption of
a comprehensive plan of development shall be in accordance with MGL c. 40B § 5
and shall be by a majority vote of the delegates or alternates of the cities and towns
which have been admitted to membership in the planning district.

D.6.

By a two-thirds vote of all of its member municipalities, the Commission shall vote
annually to confirm the authorization of the Executive Committee to act in the name
of and on behalf of the Commission. This authorization may be modified or
terminated pursuant to MGL c. 40B § 4a.

D.7.

The Commission shall keep complete and accurate records of all official meetings in
accordance with the Open Meeting Law and Public Records Laws, including meeting
minutes. Copies of any adopted resolutions shall become part of the minutes.
Minutes shall be prepared for review and adoption, or amendment and adoption, by
the Commission at its next regular meeting. The approved minutes shall be kept at
the Commission office and shall be a public record.

D.8.

The Commission may establish special and standing committees, which are
empowered to make recommendations to the Executive Committee and the

Approved – November 21, 2024

Page 3 of 8

Commented [TM4]: Clarification regarding replacement in the
event of an officer vacancy prior to the annual election cycle.
Commented [TM5]: Clarifies continuity of officers during the
year end transition of officers.

Commission. The members of such committees and their duties shall be clearly
defined and recorded in the minutes of the meeting when a committee is authorized.
Each committee shall establish operating practices, keep minutes, and report their
recommendations to the Commission or Executive Committee, as appropriate.
D.8.1

Each committee shall have a chair and may have a vice chair. Except for the Executive
Committee, committee chairs and vice chairs shall be appointed by the Commission
Chair and will be eligible to serve upon appointment, subject to approval bywith such
appointment to be ratified by the Commission at its next meeting, and shall serve for
one year and whose term shallin a term coincidinge with the election of the
Commission Chair. Committee chairs and vice chairs of standing committees listed
in these Bylaws shall be delegates or alternates. Committee chairs and vice chairs of
special committees may be but are not required to be delegates or alternates. If a
committee chair position becomes vacant, the committee vice chair shall assume the
position of committee chair. If no vice chair exists, the Commission Chair or
Executive Director may serve as interim chair until a new chair is appointed by the
Commission Chair and approved by the Commission. Except for the Executive
Committee, if there is no committee chair or vice chair at a committee meeting, the
Commission Chair or Executive Director may serve as interim chair of that committee
for that meeting. In the absence of a Commission Chair or Vice Chair at an Executive
Committee or Commission the Clerk or Treasurer may chair the meeting.

Commented [TM6]: Several clarifications regarding
committees, including:
Appointments and terms of committee chairs and vice-chairs
and when they can assume that role;
Committee continuity if there is no Chair, vice-chair either on
the committee or at a committee meeting;

D.8.2

Except for the Executive Committee, whoseto which at-large members are appointed
solely by the Commission Chair, the Commission Chair, in consultation with the
committee chair, shall appoint members to committees. Committee members shall
serve for one year and whose term shall coincidein terms coinciding with the election
of the Commission Chair. Non-Commission members may be appointed to any
committee, except the Executive Committee, when their participation would enhance
the activities of a particular committee. Such non-Commission members shall be full
voting members of the committee to which they are appointed. Non-commission
members shall not make up a majority of the membership of standing committees,
unless this requirement is exempted by the Commission. The Commission may
exempt the requirement to limit standing committee membership such that
delegates and alternates must make a majority membership. Non-Commission
members may make up a majority membership of special committees. To ensure
continuity of operation, committee members shall be eligible to continue to serve in
that capacity until the first meeting after July 1 when annual Commission elections
occur even though they may no longer be an elected member of a planning or
community development board or have been appointed as an alternate by the city
or town.
The Commission may establish at any time special and standing committees, which
are empowered to make recommendations to the Executive Committee and the
Commission. The members of such committees and their duties shall be clearly
defined and recorded in the minutes of the meeting at which such a committee is
authorized. Each committee shall establish operating practices, keep minutes, and
report their recommendations to the Commission or Executive Committee, as
appropriate. Each committee shall have a chair, who shall be a delegate or alternate,
appointed by the Commission Chair, subject to approval by the Commission, except
that the Commission Chair shall serve as Executive Committee chair. To ensure
continuity of committee operations, except for the Executive Committee, if a
committee chair position becomes vacant, the committee vice-chair shall assume the
position of committee chair. If no vice-chair exists, the Executive Director may serve
as interim chair until a new chair is appointed and approved. The Commission Chair,

Commented [TM7]: Several clarifications regarding committee
appointments, including:
Appointments made by the Chair;
Non-Commission member appointments
Committee member terms

Approved – November 21, 2024

Page 4 of 8

in consultation with the committee chair, shall appoint members of committees.
Non-Commission members may be appointed to any committee, except the
Executive Committee, when their participation would enhance the activities of a
particular committee. Such non-Commission members shall be full voting members
of the committee to which they are named, but they shall not make up a majority of
the membership of any committee. The Commission may exempt this requirement.
To ensure continuity of operation, committee members shall be eligible to continue
to serve in that capacity until the first meeting after July 1 even though they may no
longer be an elected member of a planning or community development board or
have been appointed as an alternate by the city or town.
D.9.

D.10.

The Commission may appoint delegates or alternates delegates, BRPC employees,
or other persons at any time to special or standing boards, committees or,
commissions or the like not under the jurisdiction of the Commission. After the initial
appointment, such appointments may be made annually or as needed by the
Executive Committee and subject to ratification by the full Commission at its next
meeting. The appointed member(s) of such boards, committees or, commissions or
the like and their respective duties shall be clearly defined and recorded in the
minutes of the meetings at which the Executive Committee and Commission approve
such appointments. Each person so appointed shall provide a semi-annual written
or oral report to the Commission on the board’s, committee’s, or, commission’s or
the like’s activities and actions taken. Each person so appointed shall also provide
the Executive Director with a timely resignation notice, when necessary.

Commented [TM8]: Adds the word Board for Commission
appointments

Standing Committees of the Commission
D.10.1 The Executive Committee shall consist of nine (9) members. The members
shall include all elected officers of the Commission, the chairs of all standing
committees, and, in order to have an odd number of members, up to three
(3) member(s) at large. Member(s) at large are appointed annually by the
Commission Chair, subject to the approval of the Commission. A quorum of
the Executive Committee shall consist of a majority of its members. The
Commission Chair shall serve as Executive Committee Chair. The Executive
Director, or in their absence, the Assistant Director, or in the absence of both,
a staff designee, of the CommissionChair, shall be an ex-officio non-voting
member of the Executive Committee.
The Executive Committee shall formulate general programs for the
Commission, in accordance with specific needs, plans and goals of the
Commission. The Executive Committee shall report its actions at the next
Commission meeting for discussion.
The Executive Committee shall meet monthly, or more or less frequently as
necessary, and shall have the authority to act on behalf of the Commission
between scheduled Commission meetings, subject to annual authorization
by a two thirds ballot vote of the Commission. All delegates and alternates
shall be provided with a meeting notice and agenda of Executive Committee
meetings at least five calendar days in advance of the meeting.
The Executive Committee shall have the following powers: disbursement of
Commission funds based upon a warrant approved by the Executive
Committee; borrowing funds in anticipation of revenue; authorizing
signatory authority on checks; hearing and resolving personnel grievances;

Approved – November 21, 2024

Page 5 of 8

Commented [TM9]: Clarifies staff presence at Executive
Committee meetings

establishing personnel policies; authorizing applications for federal, state
and local aid and grants; seeking contributions; entering into contracts;
approving comments on proposals of a regional or inter-community nature;
approving submittal of comments for projects undergoing state or federal
agency review; establishing policy for responding to requests for planning
related technical assistance; authorizing planning services; and approving
submittal of comments on legislation or regulations which affect the region
or member municipalities.
D.10.2. The Commission Development Committee shall consist of at least four (4)
members. It shall consider Commission education, membership, structure,
and process, including periodic evaluation of the performance of the
Commission. Periodically, the Committee shall also review the Commission’s
bylaws to determine whether amendments are needed to enhance the
operations of the Commission.
A nominating subcommittee of the CommitteeThe Commission
Development Committee, comprised only of delegates and alternates and
consisting of at least three members, shall serve as the nominating
committee and shall recommend a slate of officer candidates for the next
fiscal year. Such slate of candidates shall reflect the Commission’s desire to
rotate officers and be representative of all areas of the region. Such slate shall
be provided to delegates and alternates at least 14 days prior to the first
meeting after July 1.
D.10.3. The Environmental Review Committee shall consist of at least five (5)
members. It shall review projects requiring state or federal environmental
permits. It may review requests for funding assistance issued by state or
federal agencies and local land use actions for potential regional impacts and
compliance with adopted regional plans. The Committee shall advise the
Commission or the Executive Committee regarding its recommendations and
requested conditions.
D.10.4. The Finance Committee shall consist of at least four (4) members including
the Commission Treasurer who shall serve as Chairchair. It shall have
oversight over the Commission’s financial operations and shall review the
annual audit. It shall recommend the per capita assessments for member
cities and towns for the next fiscal year and present such recommendation
to the Commission for approval no later than in February and shall
recommend a full budget for the next fiscal year for Commission action prior
to the beginning of the next fiscal year.
D.10.5. The Regional Issues Committee shall consist of at least five (5) members. It
shall identify important regional issues or policies facing Berkshire County
and provide recommendations to the Commission. It may also provide
recommendations on proposed state or federal legislation or regulations and
make recommendations to the Commission concerning requests from
municipalities for policy or guidance on regional issues.

E.

Duties of the Elected Officers of the Commission

Approved – November 21, 2024

Page 6 of 8

Commented [TM10]: Specifies the Commission Development
Committee shall serve as the Nominating Committee instead of two
committees.

E.1.

The duties of the elected officers of the Commission are as follows:

E.1.1.

The Chair shall preside at all meetings of the Commission and shall serve as
Executive Committee Chair. The Chair shall serve as the Commission’s voting
representative to the Berkshire Metropolitan Planning Organization. The
Chair shall appoint members at large to the Executive Committee and
committee chairs. In consultation with the committee chairs, the Chair shall
appoint the members of any special and standing committees. Except for the
Executive Committee, where the Chair is a voting member, the Chair shall be
an ex-officio, non-voting member of all other committees. Unless the
Commission authorizes its Executive Director, or Assistant Director, to
execute contracts and other legal documents or in the absence of an
Executive Director and Assistant Director, the Chair may execute contracts
and other legal documents.

The Chair may execute contracts and other legal documents as authorized by and
on behalf of the Commission, unless the Commission authorizes its Executive
Director to execute said documents on its behalf.

F.

E.1.2.

The Vice Chair shall assume the responsibilities of the Chair in the Chair’s
absence, with the exception of acting as the representative to the Berkshire
Metropolitan Planning Organization, unless otherwise designated. If the
position of Chair becomes vacant, the Vice Chair shall act as the Chair in all
matters until the position is filled as set forth in Section D.1 of these Bylaws.

E.1.3.

The Clerk shall call the roll and record the attendance of delegates and
alternates at Commission meetings. The Clerk shall authenticate, when
necessary, acts, orders, and proceedings of the Commission.

E.1.4.

The Treasurer shall be the Chair of the Finance Committee. The Treasurer’s
duties shall include keeping the Commission’s financial records with
appropriate assistance from the staff and being responsible for all financial
affairs of the Commission in accordance with the requirements of MGL c.
40B. The Treasurer shall make an annual report to the Commission as soon
as possible after the close of the fiscal year and at such other times as the
Commission may request. The Treasurer shall give a bond for the faithful
performance of their duties as surety in such sums and upon such conditions
as the Commission may require with a surety company authorized to transact
business in the Commonwealth. The Commission shall pay for the cost of the
bond.

E.1.5.

The elected officers shall serve ex-officio as members of the board of
directors of the affiliated non-profit corporation.

Employment and Duties of Executive Director and Assistant Director
F.1.

The Commission shall employ an Executive Director. The Executive Director shall
serve as the Chief Administrative Officer of the Commission and is responsible for
the administration and direction of the Commission staff, its activities and work
programs. The Executive Director is accountable to the Executive Committee and
Commission and shall perform their duties under policies established by the
Commission in conformance with applicable laws and statutes.

Approved – November 21, 2024

Page 7 of 8

Commented [TM11]: Clarifies the Chairs authority to sign
contracts.

G.

F.2

The Executive Director is responsible for hiring technical and clerical staff, as
authorized by the Commission, and for related personnel management and
administrative actions. The Executive Director may execute contracts and other legal
documents as authorized by and on behalf of the Commission. A written description
of the responsibilities of the position of the Executive Director shall be prepared by
the Executive Committee. At least every five years the position description shall be
reviewed and as necessary updated jointly by the Executive Committee and the
Executive Director. In consultation with the Executive Director, the duties of the
Executive Director may be modified by the Commission upon a majority vote of
those voting at a regularly scheduled Commission meeting. On an annual basis, the
Executive Director shall prepare a review of their accomplishments for the preceding
year and goals for the upcoming years as part of their performance evaluation by the
Executive Committee.

F.3

The Executive Director shall serve ex officio as a member of the board of directors of
the affiliated non-profit corporation.

F.4

The Executive DirectorCommission may hireemploy an Assistant Director, whose
duties will be developed by the Executive Director. When authorized by the Executive
Director, the Assistant Director shall assume the responsibilities of the Executive
Director. If the Executive Director isn unable to fulfill their duties due to medical
reasons or other reasons as determined by the Commission Chair and approved
subsequently by the Executive Committee, or the Executive Director position
becomes vacant, the Assistant Director shall serve as Interim Director until the
position is filled through the normal hiring practice of posting the position and
reviewing applicants.

Amendments of the Bylaws
G.1.

These bylaws may be amended at any meeting of the Commission by a two-thirds
vote of those voting provided that a copy of the proposed amendment(s), and
meeting notice of such action has been sent to all Commission delegates, alternates,
and chief executive officials of member municipalities at least one week prior to such
meeting.

G.2

In addition to an amendment(s) proposed by the Commission Development
Committee, at a full Commission meeting, any delegate or, in their absence, alternate
may propose an amendment, in writing, be placed on the agenda at the next full
Commission meeting for discussion. Such proposed amendment, provided it
receives endorsement by at least one quarter of those voting at the meeting at which
it is discussed, shall be provided to each delegate, alternate and chief elected officials
of member municipalities at least one week prior to the next full Commission
meeting at which time members may vote on its adoption.

Approved – November 21, 2024

Page 8 of 8

Commented [TM12]: Clarifies the Executive Director’s
responsibility hiring and Assistant Director.

BYLAWS
BERKSHIRE REGIONAL PLANNING COMMISSION
Re vis e d J a n u a ry 20, 1972
S e co n d Re vis io n Fe b ru a ry 21, 1974
Th ird Re vis io n Ma y 21, 1981
Fo u rt h Re vis io n Fe b ru a ry 20, 1997
Fift h Re vis io n S e p t e m b e r 18, 1997
S ixt h Re vis io n S e p t e m b e r 20, 2007
S e ve n t h Re vis io n – Ma y 21, 2009
Eig h t Re vis io n – No ve m b e r 21, 2013
Nin t h Re vis io n – J u ly 16, 2015
Te n t h Re vis io n – Ma y 16, 2019
Ele ve n t h Re vis io n – J a n u a ry 19, 2023
Tw e lft h Re vis io n – J a n u a ry 18, 2024
Th irt e e n t h Re vis io n – No ve m b e r 21, 2024
Pro p o s e d Fo u rt e e n t h Re vis io n – Ma rch 2026

A.

Pu rp o s e , Po w e rs a n d Du t ie s of t h e Berks h ire Re g io n a l Pla n nin g Co m m is s io n
A.1.

Th e Be rks h ire Re g io n a l Pla n n in g Co m m is s io n , h e re a fte r re fe rre d to a s th e
Co m m is s io n , s e rve s th e citie s a n d to w n s o f Be rks h ire Co u n ty a n d th e ir co m m o n
g o o d th ro u g h th e p ro vis io n o f te ch n ica l a s s is ta n ce , p la n n in g e d u ca tio n , m a in te n a n ce
o f a fo ru m fo r th e d is cu s s io n o f re g io n a l is s u e s a n d th e d e live ry o f re g io n a l p la n n in g
s e rvice s . Th e Co m m is s io n e n a b le s m e m b e r citie s a n d to w n s to jo in tly p la n a n d
p ro m o te , w ith th e g re a te s t e fficie n cy a n d e co n o m y, th e co o rd in a te d a n d o rd e rly
d e ve lo p m e n t o f th e a re a w ith in its ju ris d ictio n a n d th e g e n e ra l w e lfa re a n d p ro s p e rity
o f th e citize n s in a cco rd a n ce w ith Ma s s a ch u s e tts Ge n e ra l La w s (MGL) Ch a p te r (c.)
40B, S e ctio n (§) 2. In a d d itio n , th e Co m m is s io n s h a ll ca rry o u t s u ch o th e r fu n ctio n s
a n d re s p o n s ib ilitie s s p e cifie d in fe d e ra l, s ta te , a n d lo ca l la w s , o rd in a n ce s a n d
re g u la tio n s w h ich d o n o t co n flict w ith th e p ro vis io n s o f MGL c. 40B.

A.2.

All p la n s , re s o lu tio n s a n d re co m m e n d a tio n s o f th e Co m m is s io n th a t s h a ll b e
a d o p te d , a d d e d to , o r ch a n g e d , u n le s s n o te d e ls e w h e re in th e s e b y-la w s , m u s t b e
a d o p te d o r a m e n d e d , a s th e ca s e m a y b e , b y a m a jo rity vo te a t a n o fficia l
Co m m is s io n m e e tin g .

A.3.

Th e Co m m is s io n s h a ll m a ke a p p o in tm e n ts to s p e cifie d re g io n a l co m m itte e s o r
a u th o ritie s a s re q u ire d o r re q u e s te d b y s ta te , fe d e ra l, re g io n a l o r lo ca l e n titie s .

A.4.

Th e Co m m is s io n s h a ll e s ta b lis h ru le s o f p ro ce d u re fo r its a ctivitie s .

A.5.

Th e Co m m is s io n m a y e n te r in to co n tra cts , p u rch a s e o r le a s e o ffice s p a ce , e q u ip m e n t
o r s u p p lie s a n d a cce p t g ifts a n d co n trib u tio n s .

A.6.

Th e Co m m is s io n m a y e m p lo y s ta ff, in clu d in g a n Exe cu tive Dire cto r, a n d e xp e rts to
p ro vid e re g io n a l p la n n in g a n d o th e r s e rvice s .

A.7.

Th e Co m m is s io n m u s t a d o p t a n a n n u a l b u d g e t s h o w in g a ll a n ticip a te d re ve n u e s a n d
e xp e n s e s fo r th e co m in g fis ca l ye a r. Up o n a p p ro va l o f th e Exe cu tive Co m m itte e , th e
Tre a s u re r m a y b o rro w in a n ticip a tio n o f re ve n u e s .

A.8.

Th e Co m m is s io n s h a ll s u b m it a n a n n u a l re p o rt to th e citie s a n d to w n s w ith in
Be rks h ire Co u n ty s h o w in g th e s ta tu s o f its p la n s a n d p ro g ra m s .
Page 1 of 7

B.

J u ris dict io n a n d Mem be rs h ip
B.1.

Pu rs u a n t to MGL c. 40B, § 3, a p la n n in g d is trict h a s b e e n d e s ig n a te d co n s is tin g o f a ll
o f th e citie s a n d to w n s w ith in Be rks h ire Co u n ty. Th e p la n n in g d is trict’s ju ris d ictio n is
a ll o f Be rks h ire Co u n ty. Its citie s a n d to w n s h a ve a ll b e e n a d m itte d to m e m b e rs h ip
in th e p la n n in g d is trict, w h o s e g o ve rn in g b o d y is th e Be rks h ire Re g io n a l Pla n n in g
Co m m is s io n . Th e Co m m is s io n co n s is ts o f o n e m e m b e r o f th e p la n n in g b o a rd o f e a ch
m e m b e r city a n d to w n , kn o w n a s th e d e le g a te a n d a n a lte rn a te d e s ig n e e , kn o w n a s
th e a lte rn a te , to a ct in th e d e le g a te ’s a b s e n ce .

B.2.

Th e citie s a n d to w n s a d m itte d to m e m b e rs h ip in th e p la n n in g d is trict a re :
Ad a m s
Alfo rd
Be cke t
Ch e s h ire
Cla rks b u rg
Da lto n
Eg re m o n t
Flo rid a

C.

D.

Gre a t Ba rrin g to n
Ha n co ck
Hin s d a le
La n e s b o ro u g h
Le e
Le n o x
Mo n te re y
Mo u n t Wa s h in g to n

Ne w As h fo rd
Ne w Ma rlb o ro u g h
No rth Ad a m s
Otis
Pe ru
Pitts fie ld
Rich m o n d
S a n d is fie ld

S a vo y
S h e ffie ld
S to ckb rid g e
Tyrin g h a m
Wa s h in g to n
W. S to ckb rid g e
Willia m s to w n
Win d s o r

Ele ct io n o r Ap p oin t m en t o f t h e Com m is s io n
C.1

Th e d e le g a te fro m e a ch m e m b e r to w n o r city s h a ll b e e le cte d b y its p la n n in g b o a rd
o r co m m u n ity d e ve lo p m e n t b o a rd a n n u a lly, s u b s e q u e n t to to w n o r city e le ctio n s .
Th e e le ctio n o f th e d e le g a te s h a ll b e ce rtifie d to th e Co m m is s io n in w ritin g b y e a ch
lo ca l p la n n in g o r co m m u n ity d e ve lo p m e n t b o a rd . If a p la n n in g o r co m m u n ity
d e ve lo p m e n t b o a rd fa ils to e le ct a d e le g a te in a n y ye a r, th e p re vio u s ly n a m e d
d e le g a te s h a ll co n tin u e to s e rve u n til a s u cce s s o r is e le cte d a s lo n g a s th e d e le g a te
re m a in s a m e m b e r o f th e lo ca l p la n n in g o r co m m u n ity d e ve lo p m e n t b o a rd .

C.2.

Ea ch to w n o r city m a y a ls o h a ve a n a lte rn a te , w h o m a y o r m a y n o t b e a p la n n in g
b o a rd m e m b e r, w h o s h a ll b e a re s id e n t o f th e city o r to w n th e d e s ig n e e re p re s e n ts
a n d s h a ll b e a p p o in te d a n n u a lly s u b s e q u e n t to city o r to w n e le ctio n s . Th e a lte rn a te
s h a ll b e ce rtifie d to th e Co m m is s io n b y th e Ma yo r in a city, co n firm e d b y th e co u n cil,
o r in a to w n b y th e S e le ct Bo a rd , o r To w n Ma n a g e r o r Ad m in is tra to r w h e n th e to w n ’s
ch a rte r a u th o rize s s u ch a ctio n . Th e a lte rn a te m a y a tte n d m e e tin g s o f th e
Co m m is s io n a n d s h a ll a s s u m e th e rig h ts a n d d u tie s o f th e d e le g a te w h e n th e
d e le g a te is a b s e n t.

C.3.

If a d e le g a te o r a lte rn a te va ca n cy o ccu rs d u rin g th e ye a r, th e a p p o in tin g b o a rd o r
o fficia l s h a ll b e n o tifie d a n d re q u e s te d to fill th e va ca n cy.

Co m m is s io n Org a niza t io n
D.1.

At th e firs t m e e tin g a fte r J u ly 1, b u t to b e h e ld n o la te r th a n Au g u s t 31 s t , th e
Co m m is s io n s h a ll e le ct fro m a m o n g its m e m b e rs h ip a Ch a ir, Vice Ch a ir, Cle rk, a n d
Tre a s u re r. If a n y o f th e s e p o s itio n s b e co m e s va ca n t d u rin g th e ye a r, th e Co m m is s io n
De ve lo p m e n t Co m m itte e s h a ll p ro p o s e a d e le g a te o r a lte rn a te re p la ce m e n t to b e
vo te d o n a t th e n e xt Co m m is s io n m e e tin g . If e le cte d , th a t p e rs o n w ill fill th e p o s itio n
u n til th e n e xt a n n u a l e le ctio n . To e n s u re co n tin u ity o f o p e ra tio n , th e Ch a ir, Vice
Ch a ir, Cle rk, a n d Tre a s u re r s h a ll b e e lig ib le to co n tin u e to s e rve in th a t ca p a city, u n til
th e firs t m e e tin g a fte r J u ly 1, e ve n th o u g h th e y m a y n o lo n g e r b e th e d e le g a te o r
a lte rn a te , o r b e a n e le cte d m e m b e r o f a p la n n in g o r co m m u n ity d e ve lo p m e n t b o a rd
o r h a ve b e e n a p p o in te d a s a n a lte rn a te b y th e city o r to w n .
Page 2 of 7

D.2.

All m e e tin g s o f th e Co m m is s io n a n d its co m m itte e s a re s u b je ct to th e Op e n Me e tin g
La w : MGL c. 39 § 23A. Re g u la r m e e tin g s o f th e Co m m is s io n s h a ll b e h e ld a t le a s t s ix
tim e s a n n u a lly. S p e cia l m e e tin g s m a y a ls o b e h e ld a t th e ca ll o f th e Ch a ir o r a t th e
ca ll o f a m a jo rity o f th e m e m b e rs h ip . No tice s o f a ll m e e tin g s s h a ll b e d is trib u te d to
a ll d e le g a te s a n d a lte rn a te s a t le a s t five ca le n d a r d a ys p rio r to a ll m e e tin g s .

D.3.

A q u o ru m o f th e Co m m is s io n s h a ll co n s is t o f th e d u ly n a m e d d e le g a te s o r a lte rn a te s
fro m a t le a s t e ig h t m e m b e r citie s a n d to w n s . La ck o f a q u o ru m s h a ll n o t p re ve n t th e
d e le g a te s o r a lte rn a te s a t a n o fficia lly ca lle d m e e tin g fro m co m in g to o rd e r a n d
d is cu s s in g o r p a s s in g a m o tio n to co n tin u e s a id m e e tin g to a la te r tim e .

D.4.

Th e Co n flict o f In te re s t La w , MGL c. 268A, p ro h ib its d e le g a te s o r a lte rn a te s fro m
p a rticip a tin g in a n y o fficia l a ctio n a ffe ctin g th e ir o w n fin a n cia l in te re s ts , fro m u s in g
th e ir p o s itio n to o b ta in u n w a rra n te d p rivile g e , o r fro m a ctin g in a m a n n e r th a t w o u ld
ca u s e a re a s o n a b le p e rs o n to co n clu d e th a t th e y ca n b e im p ro p e rly in flu e n ce d o r th a t
a p e rs o n co u ld u n d u ly e n jo y th e ir fa vo r in th e p e rfo rm a n ce o f th e ir d u tie s . Du rin g
a n y Co m m is s io n d is cu s s io n , if a n y d e le g a te o r a lte rn a te b e lie ve s th e Co n flict o f
In te re s t La w a p p lie s to th e m , th e y a re re q u ire d to d is q u a lify th e m s e lve s fro m
p a rticip a tio n in th e d is cu s s io n a n d a re re q u ire d to le a ve th e m e e tin g ro o m w h e n th e
is s u e is u n d e r co n s id e ra tio n .

D.5.

Ea ch m e m b e r city a n d to w n s h a ll b e a cco rd e d o n e vo te to b e ca s t b y th e d e le g a te o r,
in th e a b s e n ce o f th e d e le g a te , b y th e a lte rn a te . De cis io n s o f th e Co m m is s io n s h a ll
b e m a d e b y m a jo rity vo te o f th o s e m e m b e r citie s a n d to w n s p re s e n t a n d vo tin g , w ith
th e e xce p tio n o f th e a d o p tio n o f a co m p re h e n s ive p la n o f d e ve lo p m e n t. Ad o p tio n o f
a co m p re h e n s ive p la n o f d e ve lo p m e n t s h a ll b e in a cco rd a n ce w ith MGL c. 40B § 5
a n d s h a ll b e b y a m a jo rity vo te o f th e d e le g a te s o r a lte rn a te s o f th e citie s a n d to w n s
w h ich h a ve b e e n a d m itte d to m e m b e rs h ip in th e p la n n in g d is trict.

D.6.

By a tw o -th ird s vo te o f a ll o f its m e m b e r m u n icip a litie s , th e Co m m is s io n s h a ll vo te
a n n u a lly to co n firm th e a u th o riza tio n o f th e Exe cu tive Co m m itte e to a ct in th e n a m e
o f a n d o n b e h a lf o f th e Co m m is s io n . Th is a u th o riza tio n m a y b e m o d ifie d o r
te rm in a te d p u rs u a n t to MGL c. 40B § 4a .

D.7.

Th e Co m m is s io n s h a ll ke e p co m p le te a n d a ccu ra te re co rd s o f a ll o fficia l m e e tin g s in
a cco rd a n ce w ith th e Op e n Me e tin g La w a n d Pu b lic Re co rd s La w s , in clu d in g m e e tin g
m in u te s . Co p ie s o f a n y a d o p te d re s o lu tio n s s h a ll b e co m e p a rt o f th e m in u te s .
Min u te s s h a ll b e p re p a re d fo r re vie w a n d a d o p tio n , o r a m e n d m e n t a n d a d o p tio n , b y
th e Co m m is s io n a t its n e xt re g u la r m e e tin g . Th e a p p ro ve d m in u te s s h a ll b e ke p t a t
th e Co m m is s io n o ffice a n d s h a ll b e a p u b lic re co rd .

D.8.

Th e Co m m is s io n m a y e s ta b lis h s p e cia l a n d s ta n d in g co m m itte e s , w h ich a re
e m p o w e re d to m a ke re co m m e n d a tio n s to th e Exe cu tive Co m m itte e a n d th e
Co m m is s io n . Th e m e m b e rs o f s u ch co m m itte e s a n d th e ir d u tie s s h a ll b e cle a rly
d e fin e d a n d re co rd e d in th e m in u te s o f th e m e e tin g w h e n a co m m itte e is a u th o rize d .
Ea ch co m m itte e s h a ll e s ta b lis h o p e ra tin g p ra ctice s , ke e p m in u te s , a n d re p o rt th e ir
re co m m e n d a tio n s to th e Co m m is s io n o r Exe cu tive Co m m itte e , a s a p p ro p ria te .

D.8.1

Ea ch co m m itte e s h a ll h a ve a ch a ir a n d m a y h a ve a vice ch a ir. Exce p t fo r th e Exe cu tive
Co m m itte e , co m m itte e ch a irs a n d vice ch a irs s h a ll b e a p p o in te d b y th e Co m m is s io n
Ch a ir a n d w ill b e e lig ib le to s e rve u p o n a p p o in tm e n t, w ith s u ch a p p o in tm e n t to b e
ra tifie d b y th e Co m m is s io n a t its n e xt m e e tin g , a n d s h a ll s e rve fo r o n e ye a r in a te rm
co in cid in g w ith th e e le ctio n o f th e Co m m is s io n Ch a ir. Co m m itte e ch a irs a n d vice
ch a irs o f s ta n d in g co m m itte e s lis te d in th e s e Byla w s s h a ll b e d e le g a te s o r a lte rn a te s .
Page 3 of 7

Co m m itte e ch a irs a n d vice ch a irs o f s p e cia l co m m itte e s m a y b e b u t a re n o t re q u ire d
to b e d e le g a te s o r a lte rn a te s . If a co m m itte e ch a ir p o s itio n b e co m e s va ca n t, th e
co m m itte e vice ch a ir s h a ll a s s u m e th e p o s itio n o f co m m itte e ch a ir. If n o vice ch a ir
e xis ts , th e Co m m is s io n Ch a ir o r Exe cu tive Dire cto r m a y s e rve a s in te rim ch a ir u n til
a n e w ch a ir is a p p o in te d b y th e Co m m is s io n Ch a ir a n d a p p ro ve d b y th e Co m m is s io n .
Exce p t fo r th e Exe cu tive Co m m itte e , if th e re is n o co m m itte e ch a ir o r vice ch a ir a t a
co m m itte e m e e tin g , th e Co m m is s io n Ch a ir o r Exe cu tive Dire cto r m a y s e rve a s
in te rim ch a ir o f th a t co m m itte e fo r th a t m e e tin g . In th e a b s e n ce o f a Co m m is s io n
Ch a ir o r Vice Ch a ir a t a n Exe cu tive Co m m itte e o r Co m m is s io n th e Cle rk o r Tre a s u re r
m a y ch a ir th e m e e tin g .
D.8.2

Exce p t fo r th e Exe cu tive Co m m itte e , to w h ich a t-la rg e m e m b e rs a re a p p o in te d s o le ly
b y th e Co m m is s io n Ch a ir, th e Co m m is s io n Ch a ir, in co n s u lta tio n w ith th e co m m itte e
ch a ir, s h a ll a p p o in t m e m b e rs to co m m itte e s . Co m m itte e m e m b e rs s h a ll s e rve fo r
o n e ye a r in te rm s co in cid in g w ith th e e le ctio n o f th e Co m m is s io n Ch a ir. No n Co m m is s io n m e m b e rs m a y b e a p p o in te d to a n y co m m itte e , e xce p t th e Exe cu tive
Co m m itte e , w h e n th e ir p a rticip a tio n w o u ld e n h a n ce th e a ctivitie s o f a p a rticu la r
co m m itte e . S u ch n o n -Co m m is s io n m e m b e rs s h a ll b e fu ll vo tin g m e m b e rs o f th e
co m m itte e to w h ich th e y a re a p p o in te d . No n -co m m is s io n m e m b e rs s h a ll n o t m a ke
u p a m a jo rity o f th e m e m b e rs h ip o f s ta n d in g co m m itte e s , u n le s s th is re q u ire m e n t is
e xe m p te d b y th e Co m m is s io n . Th e Co m m is s io n m a y e xe m p t th e re q u ire m e n t to
lim it s ta n d in g co m m itte e m e m b e rs h ip s u ch th a t d e le g a te s a n d a lte rn a te s m u s t m a ke
a m a jo rity m e m b e rs h ip . No n -Co m m is s io n m e m b e rs m a y m a ke u p a m a jo rity
m e m b e rs h ip o f s p e cia l co m m itte e s . To e n s u re co n tin u ity o f o p e ra tio n , co m m itte e
m e m b e rs s h a ll b e e lig ib le to co n tin u e to s e rve in th a t ca p a city u n til th e firs t m e e tin g
a fte r J u ly 1 w h e n a n n u a l Co m m is s io n e le ctio n s o ccu r e ve n th o u g h th e y m a y n o
lo n g e r b e a n e le cte d m e m b e r o f a p la n n in g o r co m m u n ity d e ve lo p m e n t b o a rd o r
h a ve b e e n a p p o in te d a s a n a lte rn a te b y th e city o r to w n .

D.9.

Th e Co m m is s io n m a y a p p o in t d e le g a te s o r a lte rn a te s , BRPC e m p lo ye e s , o r o th e r
p e rs o n s a t a n y tim e to s p e cia l o r s ta n d in g b o a rd s , co m m itte e s o r co m m is s io n s n o t
u n d e r th e ju ris d ictio n o f th e Co m m is s io n . Afte r th e in itia l a p p o in tm e n t, s u ch
a p p o in tm e n ts m a y b e m a d e a n n u a lly o r a s n e e d e d b y th e Exe cu tive Co m m itte e a n d
s u b je ct to ra tifica tio n b y th e fu ll Co m m is s io n a t its n e xt m e e tin g . Th e a p p o in te d
m e m b e r(s ) o f s u ch b o a rd s , co m m itte e s o r co m m is s io n s a n d th e ir re s p e ctive d u tie s
s h a ll b e cle a rly d e fin e d a n d re co rd e d in th e m in u te s o f th e m e e tin g s a t w h ich th e
Exe cu tive Co m m itte e a n d Co m m is s io n a p p ro ve s u ch a p p o in tm e n ts . Ea ch p e rs o n s o
a p p o in te d s h a ll p ro vid e a s e m i-a n n u a l w ritte n o r o ra l re p o rt to th e Co m m is s io n o n
th e b o a rd ’s , co m m itte e ’s , o r co m m is s io n ’s a ctivitie s a n d a ctio n s ta ke n . Ea ch p e rs o n
s o a p p o in te d s h a ll a ls o p ro vid e th e Exe cu tive Dire cto r w ith a tim e ly re s ig n a tio n
n o tice , w h e n n e ce s s a ry.

D.10.

S ta n d in g Co m m itte e s o f th e Co m m is s io n
D.10.1 Th e Exe cu tive Co m m itte e s h a ll co n s is t o f n in e (9) m e m b e rs . Th e m e m b e rs
s h a ll in clu d e a ll e le cte d o ffice rs o f th e Co m m is s io n , th e ch a irs o f a ll s ta n d in g
co m m itte e s , a n d , in o rd e r to h a ve a n o d d n u m b e r o f m e m b e rs , u p to th re e
(3) m e m b e r(s ) a t la rg e . Me m b e r(s ) a t la rg e a re a p p o in te d a n n u a lly b y th e
Co m m is s io n Ch a ir, s u b je ct to th e a p p ro va l o f th e Co m m is s io n . A q u o ru m o f
th e Exe cu tive Co m m itte e s h a ll co n s is t o f a m a jo rity o f its m e m b e rs . Th e
Co m m is s io n Ch a ir s h a ll s e rve a s Exe cu tive Co m m itte e Ch a ir. Th e Exe cu tive
Dire cto r, o r in th e ir a b s e n ce , th e As s is ta n t Dire cto r, o r in th e a b s e n ce o f b o th ,
a s ta ff d e s ig n e e o f th e Ch a ir, s h a ll b e a n e x-o fficio n o n -vo tin g m e m b e r o f th e
Exe cu tive Co m m itte e .

Page 4 of 7

Th e Exe cu tive Co m m itte e s h a ll fo rm u la te g e n e ra l p ro g ra m s fo r th e
Co m m is s io n , in a cco rd a n ce w ith s p e cific n e e d s , p la n s a n d g o a ls o f th e
Co m m is s io n . Th e Exe cu tive Co m m itte e s h a ll re p o rt its a ctio n s a t th e n e xt
Co m m is s io n m e e tin g fo r d is cu s s io n .
Th e Exe cu tive Co m m itte e s h a ll m e e t m o n th ly, o r m o re o r le s s fre q u e n tly a s
n e ce s s a ry, a n d s h a ll h a ve th e a u th o rity to a ct o n b e h a lf o f th e Co m m is s io n
b e tw e e n s ch e d u le d Co m m is s io n m e e tin g s , s u b je ct to a n n u a l a u th o riza tio n
b y a tw o th ird s b a llo t vo te o f th e Co m m is s io n . All d e le g a te s a n d a lte rn a te s
s h a ll b e p ro vid e d w ith a m e e tin g n o tice a n d a g e n d a o f Exe cu tive Co m m itte e
m e e tin g s a t le a s t five ca le n d a r d a ys in a d va n ce o f th e m e e tin g .
Th e Exe cu tive Co m m itte e s h a ll h a ve th e fo llo w in g p o w e rs : d is b u rs e m e n t o f
Co m m is s io n fu n d s b a s e d u p o n a w a rra n t a p p ro ve d b y th e Exe cu tive
Co m m itte e ; b o rro w in g fu n d s in a n ticip a tio n o f re ve n u e ; a u th o rizin g
s ig n a to ry a u th o rity o n ch e cks ; h e a rin g a n d re s o lvin g p e rs o n n e l g rie va n ce s ;
e s ta b lis h in g p e rs o n n e l p o licie s ; a u th o rizin g a p p lica tio n s fo r fe d e ra l, s ta te
a n d lo ca l a id a n d g ra n ts ; s e e kin g co n trib u tio n s ; e n te rin g in to co n tra cts ;
a p p ro vin g co m m e n ts o n p ro p o s a ls o f a re g io n a l o r in te r-co m m u n ity n a tu re ;
a p p ro vin g s u b m itta l o f co m m e n ts fo r p ro je cts u n d e rg o in g s ta te o r fe d e ra l
a g e n cy re vie w ; e s ta b lis h in g p o licy fo r re s p o n d in g to re q u e s ts fo r p la n n in g
re la te d te ch n ica l a s s is ta n ce ; a u th o rizin g p la n n in g s e rvice s ; a n d a p p ro vin g
s u b m itta l o f co m m e n ts o n le g is la tio n o r re g u la tio n s w h ich a ffe ct th e re g io n
o r m e m b e r m u n icip a litie s .
D.10.2. Th e Co m m is s io n De ve lo p m e n t Co m m itte e s h a ll co n s is t o f a t le a s t fo u r (4)
m e m b e rs . It s h a ll co n s id e r Co m m is s io n e d u ca tio n , m e m b e rs h ip , s tru ctu re ,
a n d p ro ce s s , in clu d in g p e rio d ic e va lu a tio n o f th e p e rfo rm a n ce o f th e
Co m m is s io n . Pe rio d ica lly, th e Co m m itte e s h a ll a ls o re vie w th e Co m m is s io n ’s
b yla w s to d e te rm in e w h e th e r a m e n d m e n ts a re n e e d e d to e n h a n ce th e
o p e ra tio n s o f th e Co m m is s io n .
Th e Co m m is s io n De ve lo p m e n t Co m m itte e s h a ll s e rve a s th e n o m in a tin g
co m m itte e a n d s h a ll re co m m e n d a s la te o f o ffice r ca n d id a te s fo r th e n e xt
fis ca l ye a r. S u ch s la te o f ca n d id a te s s h a ll re fle ct th e Co m m is s io n ’s d e s ire to
ro ta te o ffice rs a n d b e re p re s e n ta tive o f a ll a re a s o f th e re g io n . S u ch s la te s h a ll
b e p ro vid e d to d e le g a te s a n d a lte rn a te s a t le a s t 14 d a ys p rio r to th e firs t
m e e tin g a fte r J u ly 1.
D.10.3. Th e En viro n m e n ta l Re vie w Co m m itte e s h a ll co n s is t o f a t le a s t five (5)
m e m b e rs . It s h a ll re vie w p ro je cts re q u irin g s ta te o r fe d e ra l e n viro n m e n ta l
p e rm its . It m a y re vie w re q u e s ts fo r fu n d in g a s s is ta n ce is s u e d b y s ta te o r
fe d e ra l a g e n cie s a n d lo ca l la n d u s e a ctio n s fo r p o te n tia l re g io n a l im p a cts a n d
co m p lia n ce w ith a d o p te d re g io n a l p la n s . Th e Co m m itte e s h a ll a d vis e th e
Co m m is s io n o r th e Exe cu tive Co m m itte e re g a rd in g its re co m m e n d a tio n s a n d
re q u e s te d co n d itio n s .
D.10.4. Th e Fin a n ce Co m m itte e s h a ll co n s is t o f a t le a s t fo u r (4) m e m b e rs in clu d in g
th e Co m m is s io n Tre a s u re r w h o s h a ll s e rve a s ch a ir. It s h a ll h a ve o ve rs ig h t
o ve r th e Co m m is s io n ’s fin a n cia l o p e ra tio n s a n d s h a ll re vie w th e a n n u a l
a u d it. It s h a ll re co m m e n d th e p e r ca p ita a s s e s s m e n ts fo r m e m b e r citie s a n d
to w n s fo r th e n e xt fis ca l ye a r a n d p re s e n t s u ch re co m m e n d a tio n to th e
Co m m is s io n fo r a p p ro va l n o la te r th a n in Fe b ru a ry a n d s h a ll re co m m e n d a
fu ll b u d g e t fo r th e n e xt fis ca l ye a r fo r Co m m is s io n a ctio n p rio r to th e
b e g in n in g o f th e n e xt fis ca l ye a r.
Page 5 of 7

D.10.5. Th e Re g io n a l Is s u e s Co m m itte e s h a ll co n s is t o f a t le a s t five (5) m e m b e rs . It
s h a ll id e n tify im p o rta n t re g io n a l is s u e s o r p o licie s fa cin g Be rks h ire Co u n ty
a n d p ro vid e re co m m e n d a tio n s to th e Co m m is s io n . It m a y a ls o p ro vid e
re co m m e n d a tio n s o n p ro p o s e d s ta te o r fe d e ra l le g is la tio n o r re g u la tio n s a n d
m a ke re co m m e n d a tio n s to th e Co m m is s io n co n ce rn in g re q u e s ts fro m
m u n icip a litie s fo r p o licy o r g u id a n ce o n re g io n a l is s u e s .

E.

F.

Du t ie s of t h e Ele ct e d Office rs o f t h e Co m m is s io n
E.1.

Th e d u tie s o f th e e le cte d o ffice rs o f th e Co m m is s io n a re a s fo llo w s :

E.1.1.

Th e Ch a ir s h a ll p re s id e a t a ll m e e tin g s o f th e Co m m is s io n a n d s h a ll s e rve a s
Exe cu tive Co m m itte e Ch a ir. Th e Ch a ir s h a ll s e rve a s th e Co m m is s io n ’s vo tin g
re p re s e n ta tive to th e Be rks h ire Me tro p o lita n Pla n n in g Org a n iza tio n . Th e
Ch a ir s h a ll a p p o in t m e m b e rs a t la rg e to th e Exe cu tive Co m m itte e a n d
co m m itte e ch a irs . In co n s u lta tio n w ith th e co m m itte e ch a irs , th e Ch a ir s h a ll
a p p o in t th e m e m b e rs o f a n y s p e cia l a n d s ta n d in g co m m itte e s . Exce p t fo r th e
Exe cu tive Co m m itte e , w h e re th e Ch a ir is a vo tin g m e m b e r, th e Ch a ir s h a ll b e
a n e x-o fficio , n o n -vo tin g m e m b e r o f a ll o th e r co m m itte e s . Un le s s th e
Co m m is s io n a u th o rize s its Exe cu tive Dire cto r, o r As s is ta n t Dire cto r, to
e xe cu te co n tra cts a n d o th e r le g a l d o cu m e n ts o r in th e a b s e n ce o f a n
Exe cu tive Dire cto r a n d As s is ta n t Dire cto r, th e Ch a ir m a y e xe cu te co n tra cts
a n d o th e r le g a l d o cu m e n ts .

E.1.2.

Th e Vice Ch a ir s h a ll a s s u m e th e re s p o n s ib ilitie s o f th e Ch a ir in th e Ch a ir’s
a b s e n ce , w ith th e e xce p tio n o f a ctin g a s th e re p re s e n ta tive to th e Be rks h ire
Me tro p o lita n Pla n n in g Org a n iza tio n , u n le s s o th e rw is e d e s ig n a te d . If th e
p o s itio n o f Ch a ir b e co m e s va ca n t, th e Vice Ch a ir s h a ll a ct a s th e Ch a ir in a ll
m a tte rs u n til th e p o s itio n is fille d a s s e t fo rth in S e ctio n D.1 o f th e s e Byla w s .

E.1.3.

Th e Cle rk s h a ll ca ll th e ro ll a n d re co rd th e a tte n d a n ce o f d e le g a te s a n d
a lte rn a te s a t Co m m is s io n m e e tin g s . Th e Cle rk s h a ll a u th e n tica te , w h e n
n e ce s s a ry, a cts , o rd e rs , a n d p ro ce e d in g s o f th e Co m m is s io n .

E.1.4.

Th e Tre a s u re r s h a ll b e th e Ch a ir o f th e Fin a n ce Co m m itte e . Th e Tre a s u re r’s
d u tie s s h a ll in clu d e ke e p in g th e Co m m is s io n ’s fin a n cia l re co rd s w ith
a p p ro p ria te a s s is ta n ce fro m th e s ta ff a n d b e in g re s p o n s ib le fo r a ll fin a n cia l
a ffa irs o f th e Co m m is s io n in a cco rd a n ce w ith th e re q u ire m e n ts o f MGL c.
40B. Th e Tre a s u re r s h a ll m a ke a n a n n u a l re p o rt to th e Co m m is s io n a s s o o n
a s p o s s ib le a fte r th e clo s e o f th e fis ca l ye a r a n d a t s u ch o th e r tim e s a s th e
Co m m is s io n m a y re q u e s t. Th e Tre a s u re r s h a ll g ive a b o n d fo r th e fa ith fu l
p e rfo rm a n ce o f th e ir d u tie s a s s u re ty in s u ch s u m s a n d u p o n s u ch co n d itio n s
a s th e Co m m is s io n m a y re q u ire w ith a s u re ty co m p a n y a u th o rize d to tra n s a ct
b u s in e s s in th e Co m m o n w e a lth . Th e Co m m is s io n s h a ll p a y fo r th e co s t o f th e
bond.

E.1.5.

Th e e le cte d o ffice rs s h a ll s e rve e x-o fficio a s m e m b e rs o f th e b o a rd o f
d ire cto rs o f th e a ffilia te d n o n -p ro fit co rp o ra tio n .

Em p lo ym e n t a n d Du t ies o f Exe cu t ive Dire ct or a n d As s is t a nt Dire ct or
F.1.

Th e Co m m is s io n s h a ll e m p lo y a n Exe cu tive Dire cto r. Th e Exe cu tive Dire cto r s h a ll
s e rve a s th e Ch ie f Ad m in is tra tive Office r o f th e Co m m is s io n a n d is re s p o n s ib le fo r
th e a d m in is tra tio n a n d d ire ctio n o f th e Co m m is s io n s ta ff, its a ctivitie s a n d w o rk
Page 6 of 7

p ro g ra m s . Th e Exe cu tive Dire cto r is a cco u n ta b le to th e Exe cu tive Co m m itte e a n d
Co m m is s io n a n d s h a ll p e rfo rm th e ir d u tie s u n d e r p o licie s e s ta b lis h e d b y th e
Co m m is s io n in co n fo rm a n ce w ith a p p lica b le la w s a n d s ta tu te s .

G.

F.2

Th e Exe cu tive Dire cto r is re s p o n s ib le fo r h irin g te ch n ica l a n d cle rica l s ta ff, a s
a u th o rize d b y th e Co m m is s io n , a n d fo r re la te d p e rs o n n e l m a n a g e m e n t a n d
a d m in is tra tive a ctio n s . Th e Exe cu tive Dire cto r m a y e xe cu te co n tra cts a n d o th e r le g a l
d o cu m e n ts a s a u th o rize d b y a n d o n b e h a lf o f th e Co m m is s io n . A w ritte n d e s crip tio n
o f th e re s p o n s ib ilitie s o f th e p o s itio n o f th e Exe cu tive Dire cto r s h a ll b e p re p a re d b y
th e Exe cu tive Co m m itte e . At le a s t e ve ry five ye a rs th e p o s itio n d e s crip tio n s h a ll b e
re vie w e d a n d a s n e ce s s a ry u p d a te d jo in tly b y th e Exe cu tive Co m m itte e a n d th e
Exe cu tive Dire cto r. In co n s u lta tio n w ith th e Exe cu tive Dire cto r, th e d u tie s o f th e
Exe cu tive Dire cto r m a y b e m o d ifie d b y th e Co m m is s io n u p o n a m a jo rity vo te o f
th o s e vo tin g a t a re g u la rly s ch e d u le d Co m m is s io n m e e tin g . On a n a n n u a l b a s is , th e
Exe cu tive Dire cto r s h a ll p re p a re a re vie w o f th e ir a cco m p lis h m e n ts fo r th e p re ce d in g
ye a r a n d g o a ls fo r th e u p co m in g ye a rs a s p a rt o f th e ir p e rfo rm a n ce e va lu a tio n b y th e
Exe cu tive Co m m itte e .

F.3

Th e Exe cu tive Dire cto r s h a ll s e rve e x o fficio a s a m e m b e r o f th e b o a rd o f d ire cto rs o f
th e a ffilia te d n o n -p ro fit co rp o ra tio n .

F.4

Th e Exe cu tive Dire cto r m a y h ire a n As s is ta n t Dire cto r, w h o s e d u tie s w ill b e
d e ve lo p e d b y th e Exe cu tive Dire cto r. Wh e n a u th o rize d b y th e Exe cu tive Dire cto r, th e
As s is ta n t Dire cto r s h a ll a s s u m e th e re s p o n s ib ilitie s o f th e Exe cu tive Dire cto r. If th e
Exe cu tive Dire cto r is u n a b le to fu lfill th e ir d u tie s d u e to m e d ica l re a s o n s o r o th e r
re a s o n s a s d e te rm in e d b y th e Co m m is s io n Ch a ir a n d a p p ro ve d s u b s e q u e n tly b y th e
Exe cu tive Co m m itte e , o r th e Exe cu tive Dire cto r p o s itio n b e co m e s va ca n t, th e
As s is ta n t Dire cto r s h a ll s e rve a s In te rim Dire cto r u n til th e p o s itio n is fille d th ro u g h
th e n o rm a l h irin g p ra ctice o f p o s tin g th e p o s itio n an d re vie w in g a p p lica n ts .

Am e n d m e n t s o f t h e Bylaw s
G.1.

Th e s e b yla w s m a y b e a m e n d e d a t a n y m e e tin g o f th e Co m m is s io n b y a tw o -th ird s
vo te o f th o s e vo tin g p ro vid e d th a t a co p y o f th e p ro p o s e d a m e n d m e n t(s ), a n d
m e e tin g n o tice o f s u ch a ctio n h a s b e e n s e n t to a ll Co m m is s io n d e le g a te s , a lte rn a te s ,
a n d ch ie f e xe cu tive o fficia ls o f m e m b e r m u n icip a litie s a t le a s t o n e w e e k p rio r to s u ch
m e e tin g .

G.2

In a d d itio n to a n a m e n d m e n t(s ) p ro p o s e d b y th e Co m m is s io n De ve lo p m e n t
Co m m itte e , a t a fu ll Co m m is s io n m e e tin g , a n y d e le g a te o r, in th e ir a b s e n ce , a lte rn a te
m a y p ro p o s e a n a m e n d m e n t, in w ritin g , b e p la ce d o n th e a g e n d a a t th e n e xt fu ll
Co m m is s io n m e e tin g fo r d is cu s s io n . S u ch p ro p o s e d a m e n d m e n t, p ro vid e d it
re ce ive s e n d o rs e m e n t b y a t le a s t o n e q u a rte r o f th o s e vo tin g a t th e m e e tin g a t w h ich
it is d is cu s s e d , s h a ll b e p ro vid e d to e a ch d e le g a te , a lte rn a te a n d ch ie f e le cte d o fficia ls
o f m e m b e r m u n icip a litie s a t le a s t o n e w e e k p rio r to th e n e xt fu ll Co m m is s io n
m e e tin g a t w h ich tim e m e m b e rs m a y vo te o n its a d o p tio n .

Page 7 of 7

MALCOLM FICK, Chair
BUCK DONOVAN, Vice-Chair
SHEILA IRVIN, Clerk
SAM HAUPT, Treasurer
THOMAS MATUSZKO,
Executive Director

MEMORANDUM
TO:
Berkshire Regional Planning Commission Delegates & Alternates
FROM: Thomas Matuszko, Executive Director
DATE: March 13, 2026
SUBJ: March 19, 2026 Commission Meeting – Executive Directors Report
A. Into Light
Into Light is a nationwide arts activism initiative that reduces stigma around
addiction by honoring the lives of those lost to addiction. This exhibit includes
ten original portraits of Berkshires residents. The show is at the Hotel
Downstreet in North Adams and is open daily through May 23, 2026. I want to
acknowledge the excellent work that BRPC’s Senior Planner Andy Ottoson and
North County Community Coordinator Anna Youngmann did coordinating this
effort. I attended the opening event and can report that the sketches of the
people and the stories told by the family members are quite memorable. I urge
everyone to visit.
B. April 30th, “Fifth Thursday” Event
On Thursday, April 30th, BRPC will host an in-person 5th Thursday networking
and learning event with guest presenter Rick Collins, Director of the Siting and
Permitting Division of the Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources
(DOER). Mr. Collins will review recent energy siting and permitting regulations
and what they mean for municipalities. Attendees are encouraged to submit
questions ahead of time for inclusion in the presentation and subsequent Q&A.
Join us at The Venue at Skyline on Thursday, April 30th Networking begins at 4
pm, with appetizers and a cash bar, followed by the presentation beginning
shortly after 5 pm. Registration is required at
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/brpcs-5th-thursday-tickets1983617094126?aff=oddtdtcreator
C. Starter Home Zoning District Regulations
Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities (EOHLC) has finalized 760
CMR 69.00 – Starter Home Zoning Districts, implementing the Starter Home
Zoning District Program under M.G.L. c. 40Y. The Regulations are effective
March 13, 2026 and establish the standards and procedures for municipalities
that choose to adopt Starter Home Zoning Districts to support the development
of modest-sized single-family homes suitable for first-time homebuyers and
moderate-income households. Participation in the program is voluntary and
requires a preliminary determination of eligibility by EOHLC and local zoning
adoption. Program information and the final regulation are available here:
Starter Homes Program Webpage. For information contact William Reyelt,
[email protected].

1 Fenn St., Suite 201, Pittsfield, MA 01201
berkshireplanning.org

T: (413) 442-1521 · F: (413) 442-1523
TTY: 771 or 1(800) 439-2370

D. Data Centers Resource Page
In previous meeting interest was expressed about Data Center. The National
Association of Development Organizations (NADO Research Foundation has
created an online resource page for Economic Developments Districts related to
data center development. It compiles reports, model ordinances, and policy
analyses from a range of sources that address the planning, economic, and
infrastructure considerations associated with data center siting and construction.
A NADO RF brief will also be released soon to provide a more in-depth
examination of the roles EDDs play in supporting regional responses to data
center activity. Click here to access the resource page.
E. Special Commission on Micromobility Report
A Special Commission on Micromobility completed a Final Report (Special
commission on micromobility final report January 2026) about micromobility
vehicles (such as motorized bikes, scooters, skateboards, and other vehicles),
making a range of recommendations aimed at improving micromobility
regulation, safety, and infrastructure across the state. The special commission was
established by a 2024 economic development law known as the Mass Leads Act,
which directed the commission to:
• Review state and local laws and regulations for micromobility vehicles (such
as motorized bikes, scooters, skateboards, and other vehicles)
• Make recommendations to regulate micromobility vehicles, including on bike
paths, sidewalks, and shared use paths
• Make recommendations to support the expansion of micromobility vehicle
use and innovation
Thank You for the Opportunity
This will be my last Commission meeting as I am retiring April 30, 2026. By my
rough estimate, I will have attended some 175 Commission meetings. Early in my
BRPC career, Commission meetings were in person. BRPC’s offices were across the
street in offices off of Dunham Mall. The conference room then was about the third
of the size of our current Conference Room – with poor air circulation. In some
regards, the Commission meetings were tests of endurance as meetings routinely
lasted 3 or 4 hours, with intense, lively debate.
My career at BRPC was all that I could have hoped for and I have truly enjoyed it.
Thank you for the opportunity.