Information Session on Proposed Pipeline Set Across Region

Several information sessions have been scheduled to update residents on the proposed Kinder Morgan gas pipeline.

The 36-inch high-pressure pipeline is expected to cross Hancock, Lanesborough, Cheshire, Dalton, Hinsdale and Windsor, where a 60+ acre compressor station will also be built. The route, which runs under the Cheshire Reservoir and the Ashuwillticook Rail Trail, will require a 100-foot expansion of the existing utility corridor. A number of local landowners and farmers are directly affected.

Residents will have the opportunity to hear how the pipeline will affect local communities and landowners, as well as its potential impact on landscape, air quality, and water supply for neighboring towns. At some of the meetings, a short film about compressor stations will be shown. Kinder Morgan representatives are invited.

The meetings are open to all and aim to help area residents understand what the pipeline is about and how it will affect them. Among the issues to be considered are what dangers the pipeline presents, whether it is needed, and whether area residents will benefit from its construction. Speakers include Jane Winn of Berkshire Environmental Action Team and Rose Wessel of NoFrackedGasInMass.org.

The schedule of meetings is as follows:

* January 10, 1:30 p.m., Community House, Main Street, Cummington (snow date, Jan. 11), film

Central Berkshire Picks Insider Henault for Next Superintendent

By Sabrina DammsiBerkshires Staff
11:30PM / Wednesday, April 02, 2025

Michael Henault is interviewed by the School Committee on Wednesday. 

DALTON, Mass. — The Central Berkshire Regional School Committee didn't go far to find its next superintendent. 

 

The committee voted unanimously on Wednesday to offer the post to Michael Henault, who has been the district's assistant superintendent for three years. 

 

"He is an incredible candidate. It doesn't matter for what district, and I think he is ready, and certainly chomping at the bit to take on the next challenge," said Charlotte Crane, committee member. 

 

"I suspect that we wouldn't be able to hold on again for too much longer in the assistant superintendent position." 

 

The vote came at the end of a four-hour meeting during which Henault and two other finalists — John Franzoni, superintendent of the Northern Berkshire School Union, and Matthew Bishop, interim deputy superintendent for the Pittsfield Public Schools — were interviewed. 

 

The 13 of the 15 committee members representing the seven towns in the district agreed that it was a difficult decision because of the quality of the candidates. 

 

"I'm extremely torn right now," said Ellen Lattizzori of Dalton.