LENOX, Mass. — The Town of Lenox Community Preservation Committee is accepting applicants for the fiscal 2022 Community Preservation projects.

 

Adopted by Lenox in 2006, the Community Preservation Act has helped bring many projects to fruition in the categories of Historic Resources, Community Housing and Open Space/Recreation. 

 

Funds have been allocated toward properties and projects in Lenox, benefiting Lenox residents and visitors from the Berkshires beyond. The Community Preservation Committee is appointed by the Board of Selectmen and tasked with stewarding the Community Preservation funds collected via a 3 percent property surcharge and state match.

 

Phase 1 applications are available now on the website.

 

Applications are due no later than Monday, Nov. 30, by 4 p.m. The Board will convene on Dec. 7 to review Phase 1 applications.

 

Phase 2 applications will be due on Jan. 11, 2021, by 4 p.m.

 

On June 7, 2021, the committee will hold a public hearing to hear from residents what they believe are priority funding areas and projects for the town.

 

Recent projects have included assistance to the Berkshire Natural Resources Council "High Road" trail work; renovation to the barn at Mass Audubon's Pleasant Valley Sanctuary, restoration of Trinity Church's historic structure, restoration efforts at the Frelinghuysen-Morris House and Studio, Edith Wharton's The Mount stable restoration and historic preservation efforts at Ventfort Hall. Funds have been used to purchase the Lenox Library; to assist the Lenox Affordable Housing Trust and to improve accessibility at the Lenox Town Beach.

 

Questions may be directed to Land Use Director/Town Planner Gwen Miller, AICP at gmiller@townoflenox.com.