Economists, politicians, and business leaders are split on whether the U.S. economy is heading for a recession, is already in one, or will merely experience a slowdown. With continued supply chain disruptions, geopolitical conflicts (most notably the war in Ukraine), and the Fed’s determination to continue increasing the federal funds interest rate, there is tremendous uncertainty around inflation and where the economy is heading. Mixed signals abound, however U.S. gross domestic product (GDP) increased for the first time this year in the third quarter, expanding at a higher-than-expected 2.6 percent annually. Unemployment remains low, wage increases are strong and while growth and earnings are slowing, most consumers and corporations are in good financial condition with healthy underlying credit.
No appeals were received during the 20-day window after the decision was filed at Town Hall.
The plan, first unveiled for the townâs Historic District Commission in November 2019, has cleared all legal hurdles. A lawsuit against the Winstanleys and the Zoning Board of Appeals filed last February by local architect Jim Harwood has been withdrawn.
The project calls for renovation of the 1790 Northrup House, formerly the site of the now-closed Winstanley Associates marketing firm, and the construction of three new buildings on the 3.26-acre property at 114 Main St.
The ZBA first approved a site plan and special permit in January 2020, but it had to revisit it and issue a final decision under an order from Berkshire Superior Court in response to the original Harwood appeal.