This is the first time Sandisfield has participated in the State's Open Spaces program.

A local steering committee is working with the Berkshire Regional Planning Commission (BRPC) to prepare a plan for Sandisfield's open spaces that will include recreation opportunities, conservation, and public enjoyment. The plan will be completed by early next year and submitted to the State.

Sandisfield is a small town which means every response carries weight. The committee is counting on you because the more individuals and households respond, the more reliable the data and the better the decision-making.

The first and most important step is to gather residents' and stakeholders' opinions, preferences, and suggestions about potential opportunities.

The Commission has developed an online survey based on experiences in other towns. It takes only about ten minutes to complete. A robust public response is crucial to this plan. Everything in the Plan flows from the opinions, needs, and wishes expressed by residents.

How you can help to realize your vision.

Take the survey right away, today if possible.

A questionnaire can be accessed by going to the website: Sandisfield Open Space and Recreation Plan Survey.

Also, there is a public computer at Town Hall, and staff members ready to assist. Come in any time during regular hours. But please do this soon.

There is a place at the conclusion for verbatim comments including suggestions. These are highly encouraged and much appreciated.

In last month's issue . it was reported that a steering committee had formed to assist the Berkshire Regional Planning Commission (BRPC) in preparing a plan for Sandisfield's open spaces including recreation opportunities. Over the next seven months the group will collect and review information from every sector of the community. It will assess public opinion about how open spaces could be best used for conservation, recreation and enjoyment. The plan will be completed by early next year and submitted to the State. It will include priorities and actionable steps Sandisfield will take over the next decade to "preserve, improve, and manage valuable outdoor assets."

Sandisfield is among thirty-two Berkshire towns being guided in this respect by the BRPC. This is the first time that Sandisfield has participated in the program.

The first and most important step is to gather residents' and stakeholders' opinions, preferences, and suggestions about potential opportunities.

The Commission has developed an online survey based on experiences in other towns. It takes only about ten minutes to complete. A robust public response is crucial to this plan. Everything in the Plan flows from the opinions, needs and wishes expressed by residents.

A plan is also a requirement for the Town to apply for grants to pay for the projects.

How you can help to realize your vision

Take the survey right away, today if possible.

It is easy to do. A questionnaire can be accessed by going to the website: Sandisfield Open Space and Recreation Plan Survey. There is a place at the conclusion for verbatim comments including suggestions. These are highly encouraged and much appreciated.

Also, there is a public computer at Town Hall, and staff members ready to assist. Come in any time during regular hours. But please do this soon.

Sandisfield is a small town which means every response carries weight. The committee is counting on you because the more individuals and households who respond, the more reliable the data is and the better the decision-making.

For more information contact, Andrew McKeever, BRPC at amckeever@berkshireplanning.org