Lanesborough Select Board Votes Unanimously to Keep Single Property Tax Rate

LANESBOROUGH -- November 10, 2025, Lanesborough Select Board keeps single property tax rate and authorizes opioid fund talks. The board voted unanimously Monday to maintain a residential factor of 1.00 for fiscal year 2026, setting the tax rate at $17.29 per $1,000 of assessed value, a $0.56 increase, on a total taxable valuation of $611,239,142. Town Assessor Ross Lavori reported the fiscal 2026 levy at $10,568,324, up 6.71 percent, with the average single-family home facing an increase of roughly $350 for the year. Five business owners spoke in public comment against a split rate, with Barb Hassan of 660 North Main Street warning that shifting burden onto commercial properties "carries long-term risks" and sends "the wrong message." The board also voted unanimously to enter discussions on a memorandum of agreement with Berkshire Regional Planning Commission to administer the town's opioid settlement funds, estimated at $217,000 through fiscal 2039, potentially in partnership with the Northern Berkshire Community Coalition's Hub Table program. In a separate unanimous vote, the board approved a conservation restriction on 102.899 acres at 720 North Main Street, held by Berkshire Natural Resources Council and protecting a working farm adjacent to Mount Greylock State Reservation.