“Parents Helping Parents” at the Milne Library

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WILLIAMSTOWN, Mass. - Berkshire Children and Families is pleased to announce a new support group for parents hosted by the Milne Public Library’s children’s department. The initial meeting is scheduled for Monday, May 4 at 10 a.m. and is for everyone raising children ages birth to 18 years. After an initial meeting, facilitator Marcia Hickson hopes parents will step forward to tailor the session to their times and needs.

“Raising children was always challenging, but things seem to be more complicated now,” said Hickson in a recent interview. Hickson envisions a safe haven for parents to share experiences, raise and discuss issues, and help each other through this exciting time in family life. Topics are expected to range from potty training to school readiness or beyond to the college application process and empty nest syndrome.

In order to serve families, Hickson’s organization is willing to provide childcare for this session if parents request it. Library staff will not be able to monitor young children so we ask that you pre-register and indicate your need for child care. Marcia Hickson may be reached at 663-4110 or contact Mindy or Helen at the library 458-5369 ext.11.
If you would like to contribute information on this article, contact us at info@iberkshires.com.

Williamstown Board Opts to Negotiate with College on Water St. Lot

By Stephen DravisiBerkshires Staff

Newly elected board member Nate Budington, far left, participates in his first in-person meeting along with, from left, Matt Neely, Stephanie Boyd, Peter Beck, Shana Dixon and Town Manager Robert Menicocci.
WILLIAMSTOWN, Mass. — The Select Board on Monday decided to enter into negotiations with Williams College on the sale of the vacant town-owned lot at 59 Water St.
 
But the board members made it clear that the college's proposal to acquire the lot is a starting point, not a final deal that the elected officials would accept.
 
"For the sake of continued conversation, I'm in favor of [awarding Williams the site], but if this process wasn't continued with the opportunity for further negotiation, I wouldn't vote to continue this," Peter Beck said. "I think that next step is necessary for us to get to a yes on this."
 
"I think there's wide agreement on that," Matthew Neely said just before the 5-0 vote to enter talks with the college.
 
Williams was the sole respondent to a town-issued request for proposals to develop the former town garage site, currently a dirt lot.
 
The college's stated intent is to build a new Facilities office and create up to 170 parking spaces at 59 Water Street. That use will allow the college to redevelop the current Facilities building site and parking lot as part of a reconception of the school's indoor athletic and recreation facilities.
 
Under the terms of the RFP, the college's proposal was subjected to review by an ad hoc advisory committee to the town manager, who brought the question to the Select Board. That board will have the final say on any purchase and sales agreement.
 
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