Congressman Neal Endorses Bianchi for Mayor

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PITTSFIELD, Mass. — U.S. Rep. Richard Neal, D-Mass., had endorsed Daniel Bianchi in his run for a third term as mayor.

"As the people of Pittsfield prepare to go to the polls to vote for mayor, I would like to take this opportunity to endorse Dan Bianchi for re-election on Tuesday, Nov. 3," writes Neal. "I've know Dan for several years and consider him to be a good friend. He is an honest and sincere public servant who truly has the best interests of the city of Pittsfield in mind.

"When he was elected mayor in 2011, he said his administration would be open and inclusive, and he has fulfilled that promise. He's been accessible in the neighborhoods, supportive of local businesses, and determined that Pittsfield continue to get its fair share of state and federal resources. As a former mayor, I know how difficult the job can be. But Dan has been a fair and tireless leader who I believe deserves another term.

"Economic development, public safety and education have been his top priorities, and he has made progress on all three fronts. Pittsfield's downtown revival has continued under his watch and a nearly $10 million center for manufacturing and innovation is set to break ground this year. His support of law enforcement is well known, and he is genuinely committed to making Pittsfield a safer place to live, work and raise a family. A new high school is ready for construction that has the potential to be a game changer for the community. In my opinion, Dan Bianchi has a proven record that speaks for itself. And that is why I am enthusiastically supporting his candidacy.

"When voters go to the polls in November, I urge them to vote for Dan Bianchi for mayor. No one works harder for the people of Pittsfield that Dan. He and his wife, Theresa, are a terrific team who care deeply about the city's future. I am forever grateful for their friendship and kindness. And I would like to see Dan continue to serve as your mayor for the next four years."


Tags: #PittsfieldElection,   election 2015,   endorsement,   


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Pittsfield Council to See 10-Year Charter Review Report

By Brittany PolitoiBerkshires Staff

PITTSFIELD, Mass. — Following almost two years of work, the Charter Review Committee has made its recommendations to the City Council.

Tuesday's council agenda includes the committee's report dealing with governance items such as the charter objection, term limits, and financial procedures. Every 10 years, a panel reviews the City Charter, which defines the city's structure of government.

"The Charter Review Committee was established by city ordinance in May 2023. Its first meeting took place on August 7, 2023, under the direction of City Solicitor Stephen Pagnotta," Chair Michael McCarthy's executive summary reads.

"Solicitor Pagnotta informed the committee that its mission is to offer recommendations to city government concerning the Charter."

The charter objection was the most discussed issue throughout the preview process.  Members determined "the City's interest in a functioning government is not served well by a Charter' Objection being made by a sole Councilor."

The nearly 50-page report proposes amendments to Article 2 Section 9C, Charter Objection, to allow for discussion, require three supporters, and be prohibited when it pertains to the proposed budget for the upcoming fiscal year.

"The Committee felt strongly that the budgetary process should not be held hostage to a Charter Objection. The process of approving a budget under the Charter involves months of hearings with firm calendar restrictions, leading to a budget that must be in place before each fiscal year begins," McCarthy wrote.

"A Charter Objection during this process would have the potential to disrupt and delay the budget being in place on July 1 of each fiscal year."

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