URGENT UPDATE: Great Barrington’s long-serving public servant, Steve Bannon, is speaking out about the pressing challenges facing the town. In a recent interview, Bannon, who has been on the Berkshire Hills Regional School Committee since 1999 and the Great Barrington Selectboard since 2010, outlined critical issues such as housing, employment, and infrastructure that need immediate attention from both local leaders and residents.
Bannon’s commitment to addressing these challenges comes as the town grapples with soaring housing costs and a growing demand for affordable living options. “We have a lot of problems,” Bannon stated, emphasizing the necessity for innovative solutions to tackle the escalating housing crisis and the increasing unaffordability of downtown rents.
Having worked at Fairview Hospital for 17 years as a pharmacist, Bannon has seen firsthand how the community has evolved. “The days of mom-and-pop stores are sadly going away,” he lamented, reflecting the challenges many longtime residents face as they navigate a changing economic landscape.
Bannon highlighted the urgent need for actionable strategies to improve infrastructure, particularly the condition of roads and bridges in Great Barrington, which he described as a significant concern. “We have 90 miles worth of roads in Great Barrington,” he explained. “If you’re not doing 20% of the roads every year, you’re falling behind.”
In light of these developments, Bannon is also focused on the upcoming needs of the town’s educational facilities. A newly proposed high school project received overwhelming support, with 78% of voters approving it. “A new high school changes the way people look at the three towns,” Bannon said, stressing the importance of modern educational infrastructure in attracting families to the area.
As Bannon continues his public service, he remains optimistic about the potential for growth and improvement in Great Barrington. “As long as I enjoy it, I will keep doing it,” he asserted, hinting at a possible reelection for another term.
Residents and stakeholders are urged to stay engaged as Bannon and the Selectboard navigate these challenges. The community’s future depends on collaborative efforts to enhance local living conditions and economic opportunities.
WHAT’S NEXT: Bannon’s insights underscore a critical moment for Great Barrington. Local officials are expected to convene in the coming weeks to discuss strategies for addressing housing affordability and infrastructure upgrades. Residents are encouraged to participate in upcoming town meetings to voice their concerns and contribute to the conversation on the future of their community.
