Trust Policy

Building Community Trust Through Transparency, Safety, and Accountability

The Town of Great Barrington’s Trust Policy reflects a long-standing commitment to public safety, community trust, and transparent governance. Originally adopted in 2017, the Trust Policy establishes clear expectations for how the Town and its Police Department interact with residents—particularly during sensitive situations—while operating fully within the law.

In February 2025, the Town introduced Trust Policy 2.0, an implementation and governance addendum designed to strengthen how the original policy is carried out in practice.

Trust Policy 2.0 does not replace or change the 2017 Trust Policy. Instead, it provides practical guidance, coordination tools, and accountability structures to ensure the policy is implemented thoughtfully and consistently under current conditions.

The addendum focuses on:

  • Clarifying roles and responsibilities across Town leadership, the Police Department, and community partners

  • Supporting transparency during sensitive incidents

  • Strengthening community relationships and public confidence

  • Aligning Trust Policy goals with planning, staffing, training, and budgeting

Trust Policy 2.0 is proactive, advisory in nature, and scaled for a rural community like Great Barrington.

Click here to view the Current Trust Policy


Click here to view the Draft Trust Policy 2.0


Click here to view the February 9, 2026 Presentation Slides on the DRAFT Trust Policy 2.0


Have Your Say on the Draft Trust Policy

The Town of Great Barrington welcomes public input on the draft Trust Policy 2.0: Implementation & Governance Addendum. Community feedback is an important part of building transparency, accountability, and trust.

Residents, stakeholders, and community partners are encouraged to review the draft policy and share comments, questions, or feedback for consideration.

📝 Submit Your Comments: CLICK HERE


Comments will be accepted through Friday February 27, 2026. All submissions will be reviewed and summarized for the Select Board’s consideration.