Civic group in rift over closed meetings

In Great Barrington, Mass., discord within the ranks of the grassroots, nonprofit group Housatonic the Beautiful over its meeting policy has led to confusion and friction within and without the organization, the Berkshire Eagle reports.

"Questions have arisen over whether the board of directors of the nonprofit group, which is leading an effort to revitalize the village, should open its meetings to the public after a reporter was told at the Jan. 13 meeting that the meetings are closed.

"A testy exchange followed, and the Berkshire Record reporter left, according to board members.

"President Benjamin Koldys said Monday that a meeting set for tomorrow evening at 5 at the Housatonic fire station also will be closed. But some board members and residents say it will be open, and a request has reportedly been made to open the meeting to public participation."