Brief Biography

I was born in 1959 in Odesa, Ukraine. Immigrated to the U.S. in 1994. I lived in Brooklyn, N.Y., 11 years, and worked on construction jobs. I moved to Pittsfield in 2005 when I bought my first house on Hamlin St. Next year I bought a next-door rental property. I have been running a Rental business for low-income people, and tenants on disability without City or State help using my own hands, knowledge, and experience. Since 2000 I have worked 3 times for the Federal Government on seasonal jobs. I got an Associate degree in Industrial Technology, a Software Quality Assurance Certificate, a NY State R.E. license, and credits from BCC college in Math, Biology, Psychology, and other fields. I have extensive knowledge of PC, Mac, Internet, hardware and software testing, and verifiable experience in Mass General Laws in local Courts. I am active in Pittsfield politics since 2007. The Second St bridge was repaired after my Petition. One hour parking sign was removed from Hamlin St. with 7 month battle in City Hall after my Petition with the help of Councilor Chris Connell. A fax machine was installed in Pittsfield library upon my Petition.

First year of Mayor Daniel Bianchi I filed a Petition to amend City Ordinance Chapter 3 1/2 which required homeowners certification "under penalty of perjury" to certify what we were not licensed to certify. The petition was approved after 8 month battle in Council with the participation of the Mayor and the Director of the Board of Health. I attended each and every meeting of the Human Rights Committee. I speak frequently at Council Meetings defending residents' interest. I am completely independent — one of you who lives here, in Pittsfield.

Why are you running for City Council?

I am running to represent homeowners, business owners, and taxpayers as we are not represented in Pittsfield Council. Just a few councilors really care about us.

What is your relevant experience?

See my biography above. It's all there.

What are the issues that you would like to address as a councilor? What is the most pressing issue in Pittsfield?

Property taxes; water and sewer; city budget increase; crime, police, drugs, corruption, incompetence.

Are there any City Council actions in the last term that you would have handled/voted differently?

The city budget as of now is $205 million with an 8.9 percent increase instead of the usual 4.5 percent increase. I would never have supported a such budget. If the city keeps this rate — city budget would double just in eight years consequently crushing fixed-income homeowners and elderly residents.

How can the city address the housing crisis and lack of available units?

I disagree with the question. In the capitalist system, it is market, supply, and demand who should address it, not local residents. For that, the State Legislature should change Mass General Laws creating economic stimuluses for investments in residential properties. But we see the opposite in Boston. Recently Governor Maura Healey approved a new bill banning evictions unless the tenant gets approval or is denied for the RAFT program (Residential Assistance for Families in Transition, which may take a long time, effectively cutting any business interest investing in rental housing in Massachusetts.

How do you feel about the current and planned roundabouts on Tyler Street and near BMC?

My personal feelings are irrelevant. Those large projects should be done upon residents' referendum or at least active participation as it is OUR city. We should make decisions.

Do you agree with the bike lanes and Complete Street efforts?

The question combines two different subjects. Personally, I disagree with bike lanes. Bikes should have the rights on the road, but not override whole traffic. Moreover, as a Class A professional driver, I can say what is on North Street violates traffic rules as a driver cannot make a right turn from the left lane of traffic, but that is exactly what it is there. A Complete Street is one that provides safe and accessible options for all travel modes — walking, biking, transit, and vehicles — for people of all ages and abilities. The MassDOT Complete Streets Funding Program provides technical assistance and construction funding to eligible municipalities. In general, I agree with the idea but not as it's done.

How do you feel about policing in the city?

In general, police work well but there is a lot of room for improvement. We must have officers on foot in the downtown to stop harassment, disturbance of peace, garbage, and graffiti. More should be done in training how to handle residents with mental health issues, but in the content of Mass General Laws, not by substitute by social workers.

How can business be stimulated on Tyler Street?

I am against artificial stimulation. The city should not overtax property owners running rental units for businesses. The city should not give any municipal gifts to new companies but create an equal business field for all providing low-interest rate loans upon collateral. Equality in business must be preserved to have a stable working economy. How did the stimulus end with Beacon Cinema? Mr. Rich Stanley went bankrupt while the city lost $2 million loan. Hot Plate near the Police Department is on stimulus now. Just walk and see how they are doing.

What is the most pressing issue in your ward? (Ward 2)

Income inequality between Ward 2A and 2B. All other issues are like the whole city.

How do you feel about the slow development of the William Stanley Business Park?

That question should be addressed to the city Community Development Department. Certain things shall be done strictly by professionals not amateurs trying their best. There are hundreds of business and technical components involved in developing William Stanley. How can anybody feel not knowing all those ingredients? But even knowing it — only professionals can provide evaluation. The question is out of line.

Brief biography

I was born and raised in Pittsfield and after leaving St. Joe's in 1998 I went off to Boston and attended Northeastern University. I graduated in 2002 and embarked on a very diverse career. After options in police work and federal government opportunities, I began my career as a criminal investigator. I received my master’s from Boston University in 2013. I relocated back to Pittsfield in 2016 with my wife Amanda and we are raising our children Emma, Jack, and Mae.

Why are you running for City Council?

I am running for City Council because I want to serve the residents of this city. I feel a change is needed and I can offer a different perspective. I care about the city and its residents and I want to have a say in what happens to my family.

What is your relevant experience?

I've held various positions in my career and have been involved in legislation throughout my career. My family and I have been involved in the community since I moved back.

What are the issues that you would like to address as a councilor? What is the most pressing issue in Pittsfield?

Public Safety, which includes not only traveling on safe streets and sidewalks but the focusing on keeping our residents safe from crime. Additionally, I know homelessness and addiction are serious issues in the community as they are in the United States. Ultimately, people's voices need to be heard and changes need to be made. City officials need to work for the residents and taxpayers not their own agendas. I also believe strongly that city employees need to be accountable.

Are there any City Council actions in the last term that you would have handled/voted differently?

I would have voted 100 percent for mosquito spraying. I also would have handled some of the budgetary votes differently.

How can the city address the housing crisis and lack of available units?

Apply for every single federal grant possible through HUD and USDA. The city also needs to promote all the affordable housing programs available. Additionally, the city needs to promote the services and resources that are out there that are not being taken advantage of.

How do you feel about the current and planned roundabouts on Tyler Street and near BMC?

It depends on if the roundabout plan is being funded by the Department of Transportation or the city because there are many issues that our city needs resolved before we worry about another rotary.

(Editor's note: the roundabout is being funded by MassDOT; the city is paying 20 percent of the design and recently spent $400,000 on rights of way.)

Do you agree with the bike lanes and Complete Street efforts?

I certainly do not like the configuration of the bike lanes on North Street, however, I understand they are not going anywhere and to be able to secure federal funding for road projects they need to be implemented. We need to find common ground on the bike lanes.

How do you feel about policing in the city?

I may be biased but I believe this city has some of the best cops around. I have worked with police departments from all over the commonwealth, New York, Connecticut, Vermont, and beyond. Social influence has put the police in a negative light. I am not naïve to the fact there are bad police officers out there but one bad officer does not mean they all are.

How can Holmes Road become safer for pedestrians? Do you agree with the city’s proposal?

I was skeptical of the project initially but this specific proposal seems like a positive. The additions of the crosswalks and beacons are an increase in walker safety and driver awareness. The only concern I have for the project was the lack of traffic studies related to the design. Again, I think the residents need to input their opinions instead of being told what is going to happen.

What is the most pressing issue in your ward?

I have heard many complaints from poor roads, poor sidewalks, lack of police presence, flooding, and property issues. The most popular issue I have heard has been the lack of effort with city services.

Brief biography

I am 58 years old, retired. When my wife of 15 years, Samantha Tyer,passed suddenly in 2018, I was an instant single parent of 3. My oldest (my stepson), is 22, autistic and a graduate of a full diploma from Pittsfield High School. My other two, are 15 and a freshman at PHS, my littlest is in middle school at Herberg, all here in Pittsfield. I am a graduate of Lee High school, I attended BCC as a theater arts major; I also attended MCLA as a history/political science student. At age 30, I attended BCC again, as a biology major in early 2000.

Why are you running for City Council?

I am running for a Ward 3 city council seat, to serve my neighbors in Ward 3. My background, in the public and private sector, as well as the personal sectors, gives me a very unique skill set, one that would benefit Ward 3 and the city as a whole.

What is your relevant experience?

My almost 40 years' worth of public and private experience make me a driving candidate. I was elected at age 18 to serve as a town representative in Lee, later I would be elected by a very large margin to serve on the Lee Planning Board, and also serve as their rep to the Berkshire County Regional Planning Commission. In Pittsfield, I served as a member of the First Night committee and I was a founding member of the Pittsfield Youth Commission, both mayoral appointments. I was elected to serve on the board of directors of Girls Inc., where I also served as the co-chair of the scholarship fund, which first began entertaining students from throughout the county. I was employed by Kay-Bee Toys, and served on many employee committees, and ended my career with them as the human resources assistant for training and development. I have also worked in the private sector, as a customer service rep, management of small and larger companies (retail). I have always worked part time in the food service industry, serving as a dishwasher, cook, lead cook and kitchen supervisor and manager. My last cooking service was for BHS at the Fairview Hospital campus. I became a stay-home dad, until my wife's unexpected death then I became a retired stay home dad.

What are the issues that you would like to address as a councilor? What is the most pressing issue in Pittsfield?

I will address first and always, Ward 3's need to get its fair share of services, and respective money to service those needs. I will be responsive (within 24 hours), and activate every tool in my toolbox that I have built over the last 40 years in favor of Ward 3. Pittsfield, as a whole, deals with a huge traffic and homeless problem, I feel that what happens on North Street, does not happen in Ward 3, not on Elm, East, not on my watch, and I will work with the mayor, his/her administration, the DA, the sheriff and anyone that will listen to make sure that won't happen, not on Bill Tyer's watch.

Are there any City Council actions in the last term that you would have handled/voted differently?

I felt that the last council missed an opportunity, to streamline the budget process to make it more accountable and to better serve the folks of Ward 3 and the city. I understand the desired change to the charter objection, but removing that tool does nothing to strengthen how our budgets are presented and carried out. I would favor keeping the objection but working with the other councilors and the new administration to present a budget that is much much more reflective of the departments' needs, and in a timely manner, with a strict backlash for those budgets or department heads that do not conform to that.

How can the city address the housing crisis and lack of available units?

We in Pittsfield have a homeless, or housing, crisis. How do we fix it, well that is a multifacilitated answer when you have folks clearly needing mental health services who will not go and get those services. They are giving more benefits than most of the seniors in my ward. You have a choice, not a very happy choice. They get the help, go to the places who can help them, or get off the street. I have been in contact with the new DA, the sheriff, they have plans to help, we need as a city to embrace them. Our PPD, should be instructed to cooperate with them, so things that are currently happening on North [Street]and other places NEVER happen in Ward 3, and they won't not on my watch if elected to serve Ward 3.

How do you feel about the current and planned roundabouts on Tyler Street and near BMC?

I am not a fan of roundabouts in any community, I guess, because of my planning board background, I find them unsafe. There are many ways to slow traffic, a roundabout, is probably the most expensive and the least effective. If a private-sector business would like to do things on there property, that's a different thing, but when you ask for city involvement, that's another. And I will not vote to spend dime one of taxpayers' money on something I feel is unsafe and not in the best interest of our city and Ward 3.

Do you agree with the bike lanes and Complete Street efforts?

Bike lanes have been on the minds of many in the city, and certainly on the minds of my neighbors in Ward 3. The voters deserve my honest opinion to answer the questions in their minds. I have nothing against bike lanes, as long as the design is safe, not just for the bikes, but drivers and walkers as well. I have seen in my Ward 3 many, many occasions that this was not the case. Bikers that ride on the sidewalks, the go in and out in traffic, the scooters are even worse, the don't wear helmets, they go at speeds that are not even what cars can drive at. It's a mess. We need as a ward and a city, in my opinion, to rethink the designs of these.

How do you feel about policing in the city?

I have only great things to say about the Pittsfield PD, the first-responders, the nurses, doctors and support staff. We as a community in Ward 3, see our community as a smaller town, inside a bigger city. We like it that way, we have neighborhoods, that look out for each other, we have folks that are involved, I have personally been contacted by dozens of those neighbors, I try to respond to each. All know Bill Tyer is looking out for them, their interest, and the city as a whole. As a Ward 3 City councilor, I will continue to work with department heads, elected officials and voters, to get to our shared goals.

Brief biography

I grew up as the youngest of three children. My father taught high school biology and my mother worked in a medical office. My father taught me the importance of labor unions and high-quality education. My mother instilled in me the skills to build strong community relationships.

I earned my bachelor's degree in public policy from the University of Albany, N.Y., in 1996. I spent the last 27 years working in nonprofits and state government, implementing policies and strategies to improve public health and lift people out of poverty.

I moved to Pittsfield because of its amazing natural resources and immediately felt welcomed and supported by this extraordinary community. I served as the initiative director for Working Cities Pittsfield, where I connected people to needed resources and new opportunities. I strengthened relationships between the community and people in positions of power.

I am now a consultant for organizations seeking to advance their community engagement practices and change their systems to better meet the needs of our diverse community.

I live with my fiance in the Yankee Orchards neighborhood. I love being out in the community and traveling to learn about and experience different cultures. I enjoy kayaking, hiking, and cooking. You can sometimes find me plucking the bass guitar at local open-mic sessions.

Why are you running for City Council?

I am running for City Council to make our government work better for people. While leading the Working Cities initiative, I worked across sectors with human service agencies, businesses, banks, criminal justice, workforce, and city government to help build Pittsfield's civic infrastructure. I learned where and why people struggle and how to help people succeed. I want to change our systems to provide more people with opportunities to thrive.

What is your relevant experience?

I have more than 25 years of experience in bringing the community together to address complex issues. I built meaningful relationships and collaboration among various people to achieve common goals. My experience showed me how government can improve people's lives and how to recognize policies that create obstacles.

I worked in community organizing, public relations, and public policy development related to public health and poverty. I’ve engaged diverse groups of people and I am very good at helping people navigate complex laws and regulations. I have successfully advocated local, state, and federal governments for changes to help people who are struggling.

I am not afraid to hold uncomfortable conversations. I have demonstrated my ability to build relationships with those who do not share my same beliefs and identify and achieve common goals.

I have volunteered in numerous capacities. I served on the District Attorney's Juvenile Justice Advisory Committee, the city's Mobile Home Park Rent Control Board, and the city's Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Task Force. I served on The Berkshire Business and Professional Women Board of Directors.

What are the issues that you would like to address as a councilor? What is the most pressing issue in Pittsfield?

Our most pressing issue in Pittsfield is poverty. The challenges the city faces with mental health, substance use, education, and infrastructure are all exacerbated by high poverty rates.

I will advocate for changes to our city, state, and federal systems and support city programs and investments that will help Pittsfield residents build wealth.

Are there any City Council actions in the last term that you would have handled/voted differently?

Our government isn't designed to gain input from people impacted by policy decisions. We don't do a good job of creating policies with our diverse communities. I want to bring people closest to our problems into our decision-making processes. Our challenges are complex and often involve multiple sectors of our community. City government alone cannot be the solution. And we must work together more to advocate for state and federal resources to help alleviate that burden on our taxpayers.

How can the city address the housing crisis and lack of available units?

The housing crisis is a result of a system that makes it very difficult to build new housing, especially affordable housing. While we are finally building affordable housing again at White Terrace, that will not be enough to support our community's needs.

I will first request an audit of vacant duplexes and triplexes to learn why and how we can get them back online. I will then work to create a multi-disciplinary team consisting of representatives from city, state, and federal government, property owners, and construction companies to develop a strategic plan to bring them up to code.

I will advocate for the city to develop a housing stabilization plan to prevent homes from falling into such disrepair that demolition is the only option. I support expanding the At Home in Pittsfield and other home improvement programs to make a greater impact.

How do you feel about the current and planned roundabouts on Tyler Street and near BMC?

While roundabouts can be difficult to get used to, they are safer and provide better traffic flow. The key to any successful project is having the community involved early in the process so they can understand the reasons behind the city's decisions and provide them an opportunity to share their thoughts on a proposed development. A fully engaged public yields a greater benefit to our neighborhood development. I believe the current efforts by the Department of Public Utilities will be helpful in the long run.

Do you agree with the bike lanes and Complete Street efforts?

I support making our streets safe for all modes of transportation. The Department of Public Utilities reports an average of 250 cyclists traveling North Street every day. We also have a lot of people who walk our streets every day. Complete Streets are essential for the safety and well-being of all our residents and workers.

We can do better at involving residents in the design phase of road projects and communicating changes to help drivers adjust to new traffic patterns. We also must understand that our streets will continually evolve throughout our lifetime as our community needs change. So whatever our designs are today, we should plan for ways to adapt them in the future so we can mitigate the long-term costs of those changes.

How do you feel about policing in the city?

We need to make sure we are providing the appropriate response to an issue and addressing the root causes of crime instead of demanding more and more from our police officers. I support the Police Department's recent efforts to expand the community policing model, deploy body cameras, and diversify the staff. I also support the state's POST Commission. These programs will build more trust in the community and enhance transparency. I also believe we need a stronger Police Advisory Board with the power of true oversight.

However, policing is inherently reactive. Police respond after a crime is committed and our community can do more to address the root causes of crime to prevent crimes from occurring in the first place. Our community should expand youth mentorship, gun violence prevention, and public health programs to decrease the likelihood of someone resorting to crime. We can build stronger community-based support systems to deter criminal activity.

I also recognize that while some people feel safer seeing a police presence, there are others in the community who do not, which makes it even more important that we provide other resources to address non-criminal matters.

Brief biography

I know Pittsfield and our community. I have been engaged in many different ways for decades.

Education

• Master's degree from MCLA
  
• Educator for 10 years
  
• Berkshire Medical Center, in management for almost 33 years. Currently director of medical services for the practices
  

I have been involved on the city and school side for many years

• Ten years on the School Committee including six as chairperson
  
• Councilor-at-large for four years
  
• Co-chair School Building Needs Commission and member for 15-plus years
  Member of the Licensing Board
  
• Chairperson of the Children's Holiday Extravaganza held at The Colonial Theatre
  

Why are you running for City Council?

There is a lot of work that needs to be done. There always is. I have always done my research, listened, and made an independent vote.

There are 11 councilors. I have always collaborated with my fellow councilors, mayor, community, and other elected officials. You do not always vote the same way, but you should be respectful.

What is your relevant experience?

What are the issues that you would like to address as a councilor? What is the most pressing issue in Pittsfield?

There are many issues that are important to me and the citizens of Pittsfield. As I have talked with people during this campaign, North Street comes up in most of my conversations. It is the gateway to our community. I am on North Street usually two times a day. I don’t think the current bike lane configuration works. I will work with the next council and our new mayor to come up with a plan that is safe, and works for our businesses so that people can park, shop, and enjoy our downtown.

Safety will always be an issue. An important vote for the council in 2024 is approving a new chief of police. A review of what we are currently doing and improvement initiatives will be important to keeping our community safe.

During my tenure on the council, I motioned for more police and it was approved.

Maintaining our roads is important and continually comes up in the campaign. We have made progress on this. We need to keep evaluating and working on our roads.

During my time on the council, I asked for $3 million in more monies for road work. It was approved.

Education is important to our community. I look forward to seeing the results of the strategic plan. Taconic is transitioning to a vocational high school. The extra time spent on the vocational offerings while I was on the School Committee was important. The course offerings have brought in more students in the Pittsfield district and surrounding school systems. The reimbursement rates for vocational students are higher than for traditional students.

Are there any City Council actions in the last term that you would have handled/voted differently?

I am sure there are actions I would have handled/voted differently. I would have handled the budget differently.

How can the city address the housing crisis and lack of available units?

There are many things that are happening that will make units available. White Terrace has been sold and will be affordable housing. Cleaning up this building can't come soon enough. In 2024 the Wright Building will be renovated and will be market-rate housing. Zion church has units available. Another building will be available on West Housatonic Street. We need to make sure our community services come together and work collaborative and efficiently on housing.

How do you feel about the current and planned roundabouts on Tyler Street and near BMC?

Roundabouts are not my favorite implementation.

Do you agree with the bike lanes and Complete Street efforts?

See above. I feel there is a better plan that we can put in place.

How do you feel about policing in the city?

I would like to work with the new chief of police and our police on this issue. They are the experts. I would like to see more police on North Street.

How can business be stimulated on Tyler Street?

Tyler Street has had a transformation in the last several years. It may be time to reinvigorate the Tyler Street Business Group. I would look at incentives for people investing in businesses on Tyler Street.

How do you feel about the slow development of the William Stanley Business Park?

Most projects that I have been involved with for the city seem to go slow. When I say seem to go slow, there are usually hurdles that come up that create processes that are unexpected and cause delays in the project. There is $13 million to get the three parcels to be business-ready. We need to keep marketing and making sure the William Stanley Business Park is ready when the is a business prospect.

How can Holmes Road become safer for pedestrians? Do you agree with the city's proposal?

I am always for pedestrian safety. I have not seen the city's proposal. I understand it may be shrinking the road and adding bike lanes. I really have to understand the data.

How do you feel about the residents of Shacktown's concern over the cell tower at 877 South St.?

I understand their concern. This is very difficult. It is difficult to determine if the neighbors were sufficiently notified. Changes in the notification have now been made. We should be continuing to make sure residents who should be included are included. I don't know if all the health impacts are known. There are studies, but from what I have seen they are by the cell (and the like) companies. In this day and age, everyone wants cell and wi-fi service. We have to do what is best and safe for our residents.

Do you agree with the city's support of Bousquet with a TIF and economic development funding?

In the past, I have voted for TIFs. I have done my research and made an informed vote. You have to make sure the company you are working with is accountable every year for what they say they will do. Mill Town has, up to this point, proven that they want to improve Berkshire County. It is always a risk, but you have to take the risk to make improvements and increase the job force. Yes. I agree with the TIF.

How can West Street become safer for pedestrians? Do you agree with the city's proposal?

This is a very tragic situation. From what I understand the design is still being finalized. I want to make sure the residents of Ward 6 feel that what is in the plan is what they believe and know will keep them safe. I know there have been meetings to make sure St. Mark's is all right with the plan. When making changes, it is important to be inclusive, have experts involved, and educate the community. In this case, the residents of Ward 6.

Do you support the revitalization of Wahconah Park?

I do support the revitalization of Wahconah Park. I know they have a committee working on this. And, have just sent out a survey. Collecting data is important.

Brief biography

I have lived in Pittsfield for almost every one of my 34 years. I was born and raised here, graduated from Pittsfield High in 2007, met my wife a decade later, and have continued to grow my family here. In 2015, my wife and I took over the restaurant we both worked at, Otto's Kitchen & Comfort on East Street, and have continued to successfully operate, expand, and develop the restaurant which has been in operation for 10 years now.

Why are you running for City Council?

I am running for city councilor at large because in 2023 solutions to the issues we face require agile, innovative, equitable, and bold strategies. Growing up in the city of Pittsfield through a lifetime of economic and political turmoil at every level of government, I have seen and experienced the struggles of workers, small-business owners, and those in need of a helping hand.

I have an incredible passion for helping create a better Pittsfield that every one of us can enjoy and benefit from. Joining the City Council in guiding the city into her next stage of cultural, economic, and community progression is something my life here has prepared me for. Pittsfield is for every person who lives, works, and makes a life here. I am confident that I am the passionate, creative, and motivated representative the people of Pittsfield deserve.

What is your relevant experience?

My experience growing up, starting three businesses, and raising a family in Pittsfield has kept me aware of the issues we face at every level. Through the incredibly diverse range of friends and colleagues I have kept throughout my life in the city, I have seen the successes and struggles in every part of our community. I have successfully run a small downtown restaurant for almost 10 years, opening and operating two other eateries briefly in that time.

The adversity we have faced in the world of small business and in the hospitality industry has allowed me to hone my skills in outside-the-box thinking, adaptability, management, and creative problem-solving. My main focus in business has not been my own success, but the success of the people working with me, and the community we are all a part of. This has prepared me to continue pushing Pittsfield toward what I know it can be as one of its elected representatives.

What are the issues that you would like to address as a councilor? What is the most pressing issue in Pittsfield?

Housing should be the paramount focus of city government in the coming years because it serves as the bedrock upon which a thriving, equitable, and sustainable community is built. Adequate housing is not merely a matter of shelter; it is a fundamental human right that influences nearly every aspect of the city's well-being: social equity, economic growth and stability, education, and general well-being to name a few. The council MUST ensure the growth of sheltering programs, affordable and market-rate housing, as well as single-family homes. Housing is not an isolated concern, but an interconnected component of a city's overall health and prosperity. The city council's focus on housing is an investment in its residents' quality of life, economic vitality, and the long-term sustainability of the community.

Are there any City Council actions in the last term that you would have handled/voted differently?

Dwelling on the past; what "could have been," "should have been," or the "way things used to be" do nothing to help those of us in Pittsfield. Rather than try to highlight errors, mistakes, and misappropriations made in the past, I will continue to look towards the future, and what I can do to make a better tomorrow for every one of us.

How can the city address the housing crisis and lack of available units?

Addressing a housing crisis and the lack of available housing units requires a comprehensive plan that involves multiple strategies to increase housing supply, improve affordability, and support vulnerable populations. First, it is imperative that the city gathers and maintains reliable data on housing with which decisions can be made (vacancy rates, rent and home prices, demographics, income data, etc.). Second, we engage the stakeholders in our community: residents, housing advocates, local businesses, and developers, to get a clearer picture of perspectives and priorities. With the foundation laid, we must then reevaluate zoning regulations to encourage higher-density housing, mixed-use, and affordable housing development.

If we incentivize affordable housing development, implement policies to preserve existing affordable housing stock (rent control, stabilization, and tax incentives), and bolster our housing trust and homelessness prevention efforts, we can begin to break away from the national housing crisis. Addressing the housing crisis in Pittsfield requires a multi-faceted approach that combines policy changes, public-private collaboration, and community engagement.

How do you feel about the current and planned roundabouts on Tyler Street and near BMC?

While not every roadway or intersection is appropriate for a roundabout, there is no shortage of real evidence that roundabouts make roads safer for everyone, pedestrians and motorists alike. I support any development that will ensure the safety of the people living, working, and traveling in Pittsfield.

Do you agree with the bike lanes and Complete Street efforts?

The Complete Streets effort offers a holistic approach to transportation planning that benefits our community by promoting safety, accessibility, health, sustainability, and economic vitality while enhancing the overall quality of life for residents. The smart addition of bike lanes to Pittsfield will absolutely help to support the city's safety, accessibility, health, and well-being of community members. Complete Streets is about promoting more inclusive and sustainable transportation systems in the city, which I will whole-heartedly support, in addition to the continued maintenance of our existing transportation infrastructure.

How do you feel about policing in the city?

Policing in 2023 begins with community engagement, which has certainly been one focus of the PPD in the past few years. With that in mind, the city must work even harder with our police to foster regular and meaningful engagement between law enforcement and the community to build trust and gather input on policing practices. As an initial step, city crime data should be kept up to date for all residents to see, as that data hasn't been updated in close to eight months.

The city and its police must continue working towards embracing a community policing model that prioritizes building positive relationships between officers and residents, emphasizing problem-solving over punitive measures. This includes maintaining rigid standards of transparency and accountability, reallocating resources from traditional policing to community-based programs and social services that address the root causes of crime, such as poverty, mental health, and substance abuse, and utilizing alternative-response models that involve mental health professionals, and social workers.

We can create more equitable policing plans by fostering community trust, addressing disparities, emphasizing transparency and accountability, and investing in community-based solutions that prioritize the well-being of all residents.

Brief biography

Born, raised, and educated in Pittsfield. Graduated from BCC and MCLA. Worked for the Brien Center for 7 years from 2005 to 2012. I have been in my current position at the Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission (state agency) for just under 11 years as a job placement/ employment services specialist. Served as Ward 2 councilor in 2010 and 2011 and at-large councilor from January 2016 to present. Council vice president from January 2020 to present. I am single and have a French bulldog named Cookie. I enjoy live music and other performances.

Why are you running for City Council?

I love our city and want to contribute to it meeting its full potential. I want to help our residents and businesses succeed. I enjoy discussing our city and working to resolve issues in it. I feel that my accessible and approachable style makes it easy for people to talk with me. I feel that I am still a contributing and effective voice on the council who is able to assist businesses and get residents' issues solved.

What is your relevant experience?

I served as a ward councilor for two years and an at-large councilor for nearly eight. I have worked with people in Pittsfield on various boards and commissions and am open to listening to everyone. During my career, I have worked in mental health and substance use services for many years and also with employers and job seekers to meet the needs of both.

What are the issues that you would like to address as a councilor? What is the most pressing issue in Pittsfield?

Pittsfield has many pressing issues, housing needs encompassing affordability, homelessness, property taxes, and upkeep are big concerns. Public safety is also a concern that is multifaceted. Infrastructure must be a continued focus. Trash and recycling collection must be addressed by the next Council and must include reasonable limits. Along with these issues I would also like to see a multi-use mid-sized venue established in Pittsfield similar to the Stationary Factory in Dalton and Empire Live/Underground in Albany, N.Y. This type of venue could also serve as a community center during the day and evenings.

Are there any City Council actions in the last term that you would have handled/voted differently?

I voted against putting the residency requirement for the police and fire chiefs and public services manager on the ballot. I would have liked to have seen this discussion happen at the Ordinances and Rules subcommittee and then at the full council.

How can the city address the housing crisis and lack of available units?

We need to explore and if in favor advocate for rent control laws to be changed at the state level. Other ways are to support projects like the White Terrace apartments funding from ARPA along with supporting and taking part in the work being done with the Affordable Housing Trust.

How do you feel about the current and planned roundabouts on Tyler Street and near BMC?

The Tyler Street roundabout improves the safe flow of traffic. I have the hope that the Berkshire Medical Center roundabout will have the same result.

Do you agree with the bike lanes and Complete Street efforts?

I support Complete Street efforts and bike lanes. However, we need to make them fit the area they are in and plan them out carefully. After public input, I would like to see North Street's bike lanes moved to the edge of the sidewalks, then have curbing, parking, one travel lane on both sides and turning lanes where warranted.

How do you feel about policing in the city?

We have difficulty attracting new officers to serve in Pittsfield therefore by not having the full amount budgeted for we rely on overtime. This also stops us from having the ability to staff a Traffic Division and other special details that would benefit Pittsfield.

How can business be stimulated on Tyler Street?

Having a Pittsfield Chamber of Commerce would help all of our businesses.

How do you feel about the slow development of the William Stanley Business Park?

It is frustrating that it is taking so long to redevelop the site and I wish that the numerous times Walmart wanted to remediate, build, and bring other businesses there were embraced. Moving forward the current efforts to develop Site 9 are promising to make it shovel-ready.

How can Holmes Road become safer for pedestrians? Do you agree with the city's proposal?

I agree with the city's proposals, however, I think we need more buy-in from residents built through community discussions and forums. Our streets must be made safe for all.

How do you feel about the residents of Shacktown’s concern over the cell tower at 877 South St.?

Residents of Shacktown should be heard and efforts to alleviate their concerns should be explored while looking at cell towers throughout the city to see why this one is the only one with residents raising concerns.

Do you agree with the city’s support of Bousquet with a TIF and economic development funding?

Yes, this is a great investment that adds to Pittsfield's recreational offerings as well as saving our only ski area.

How can West Street become safer for pedestrians? Do you agree with the city’s proposal?

West Street can become safer by slowing down traffic. The city's proposal still needs more work to determine the best design.

Do you support the revitalization of Wahconah Park?

Yes, especially the elevated grandstand proposal.