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.