GREAT BARRINGTON, Mass. — The town has acted to reduce by 50 percent the license fees required of certain categories of local businesses that have been hardest hit by COVID-19.
Licenses for Restaurants, lodging establishments, entertainment licenses and movie theater license fees are among those for which licensing fees will be reduced for the 2021 fiscal year.
"We wanted very much to do something to help these businesses most harshly affected by Covid-19," Selectboard Chair Stephen Bannon said. "As we look around town, we see how very hard these business owners are working to remain in business serving customers, against tough odds."
Normally, the town takes in approximately $65,000 in all Selectboard-issued licenses. With these reductions, the town will reduce that take to $42,435, a reduction of $21,218. Not all businesses will receive the benefit: purveyors of retail alcohol, real estate companies requiring licenses for signage, and automobile dealers are not subject to the rebate.
For a list of licensees subject to the reduction in fees, click here.
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Friday Front Porch Feature: A Luxurious Home for Hosting
By Breanna SteeleiBerkshires Staff
DALTON, Mass. — Are you looking for a luxurious home with tons of amenities? Then this might be the home for you.
Our Friday Front Porch is a weekly feature spotlighting attractive homes for sale in Berkshire County. This week, we are showcasing 65 Johnson Road.
This 1998 single-family is newly remodeled and has four bedrooms and four bathrooms. It is 4,298 square feet on more than an acre.
It is on the market for $1,075,000.
The home includes a two-car basement garage, a home gym with equipment, and a custom mudroom. There is also a salt water pool and outdoor fire pit. The kitchen has custom built-in freezer and refrigerator, perfect for hosting, and comes with countless built-in space and custom drawers, including a built-in Miele coffee machine.
We spoke with Mia and Melissa Mazzeo with Berkshire Hathaway Homeservices Barnbrook Realty, which has the listing.
What do you think makes this property stand out in the current market?
Mazzeos: What truly sets this property apart in today's market is the exceptional quality and thoughtful attention to detail throughout. The sellers didn't just update this home — they reimagined it with care, intention, and craftsmanship. Every improvement was carefully considered, creating a move-in-ready space that feels both elevated and effortlessly livable
What was your first impression when you walked into the home?
It was an instant 'wow' moment. We were immediately impressed — and we absolutely loved the open floor plan. The space feels bright, connected, and perfect for both everyday living and entertaining.
Are there any standout design features or recent renovations?
Yes — this home truly has it all. Since 2018, the property has been fully renovated with both luxury and long-term quality in mind. Major improvements include a new roof, new windows, updated electrical and plumbing systems, new mini-split systems for efficient heating and cooling, new vinyl siding, and Trex decking for low-maintenance outdoor living. The pool has been converted to salt water, and the professionally updated landscaping enhances the home's curb appeal and outdoor enjoyment.
Inside, the level of customization is exceptional. Every detail was thoughtfully designed with built-in space for everything — including a dedicated coffee station, double dishwashers, a pullout shelf for your stand mixer, and custom drawers for cooking utensils. The large Sub-Zero refrigerator blends seamlessly into the cabinetry for a clean, sophisticated look. The dining room features a stunning built-in buffet complete with pullout refrigerator and freezer drawers, perfectly balancing elegance and functionality.
What kind of buyer do you see this home being perfect for?
This home is incredibly versatile. It's perfect for the buyer who loves to host and entertain, but just as ideal for a family seeking space and thoughtful design. And for someone who simply wants a private, peaceful setting to come home to — this property delivers that balance beautifully.
What would you say to a buyer trying to imagine their life in this space?
Close your eyes and imagine your dream home — every update completed, every amenity thoughtfully added, nothing left to do. Picture yourself soaking in the beauty of Berkshire County's ever-changing seasons through the windows of your all-season sunroom. Imagine the laughs and smiles that fill the air as you host loved ones in your chef's kitchen, designed perfectly for gathering and entertaining.
Now open your eyes… and you'll see 65 Johnson Road — the true definition of move-in ready.
You can find out more about this home on its listing here.
*Front Porch Feature brings you an exclusive to some of the houses listed on our real estate page every week. Here we take a bit of a deeper dive into a certain house for sale and ask questions so you don't have to.
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