Letter: Bond Has Knowledge, Experience for Mayor

To the Editor:

I write this letter asking residents of North Adams to join me in electing Lynette Bond for mayor on Nov. 2.

Believe me when I say that this was a tough decision, as I know both candidates, both with different but relevant backgrounds. For me, though, I find Lynette Bond to be the superior choice.

Lynette has experience in large municipal projects, such as the work she did in Adams securing and managing grant-funded projects that reshaped their downtown. She is director of grants and research at MCLA, where she has developed critical skills in grant writing and management which she will bring to the role of mayor. And during her eight years as a member of the North Adams Planning Board, she has played an important role in the economic growth
of our city.

We have been experiencing much-needed growth in recent years. Some may not like seeing another Cumberland Farms, but it provides important additional revenue for the city which this year could amount to over $300,000 -- $300,000 that resident taxpayers now don't need to come up with. Other major plans and approvals of the Planning Board, such as two in the Hardman Park and properties sold to Moresi Associates, increased the value of these properties and will provide strong net gains in revenue year over year.

Lynette has had a very impressive professional career with many achievements, and that isn't even including her considerable volunteer work, such as leading the charge for the rehabilitation of Colegrove Park School and dedicating so much time to youth sports. She is someone who commits to her jobs, employers, and community wholeheartedly.

I have 100 percent faith in Lynette's experience, knowledge, dedication and love for this great city that we call home. So I ask again that you please join me in voting for Lynette Bond for mayor of North Adams on Nov. 2.

Peter J Oleskiewicz
North Adams, Mass.

Peter Oleskiewicz is a North Adams
city councilor.

Bailey Sworn in as North Adams Police Chief

By Tammy Daniels iBerkshires Staff
03:10PM / Tuesday, July 01, 2025

Police Chief Mark Bailey poses with his family after being sworn in. 

NORTH ADAMS, Mass. — Mark Bailey wanted a simple swearing in as the city's police chief. Family, some colleagues and staff. 

 

"This is as small as I get," said Mayor Jennifer Macksey to the room full of officers, staff, family members, other city employees and press in the police station's meeting room. 

 

Bailey, a sergeant, stepped in two years ago as interim when the former police chief was let go. On Tuesday, he took the position permanently. 

 

Both he and the mayor said the interim length was a matter of timing — there was a police contract being negotiated and Bailey was weighing whether he wanted to continue in the job.

 

"I didn't want any cloud over Mark's appointment," said the mayor, who added she didn't want to dwell on the past. "And then we were in the midst of negotiating the police contract, and I wanted to ensure that he got all the benefits that everyone else did."

 

Bailey will get $115,000 in the first year of a three-year contract. 

 

"He's done some really transformative things within the department, from body cams to additional grant writing to additional training of the force, and the force in general," said Macksey. "And he's the right guy. I really support promoting people through the ranks, and he's a true testament of that."