Dalton Green Committee Hosts Climate Solutions Fair Sunday

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DALTON, Mass.—The town invites community members to its Climate Solutions Fair at the Stationery Factory this Sunday, Oct. 13, at 1 p.m. 
 
Dalton’s environmental consultant, Blue Strike Environmental, will headline the event with a multi-media presentation on the key components of the Climate Action Plan, followed by an information session for community members. 
 
The Green Committee members will also present their draft climate action plan survey. The event will feature survey workshops, during which attendees can provide input on ways to improve the survey.
 
The community survey is part of a broad community engagement strategy to ensure all voices are heard and have access to the resources they need. 
 
The event will also delve into the benefits of electric vehicle ownership and solar power for homes, review state and federal incentives to increase home energy efficiency, and have other environmental conversations. 
 
“The comprehensive outreach survey will help us provide a plan securely founded on the actual wishes and priorities of its residents,” said Bob Bishop, Select Board chair.
 
“I am very pleased with how the Green Dalton Committee is approaching this important task.”  
 
Dalton became a designated Green Community in 2013. It is now working with its environmental consultant, Blue Strike Environmental, and community stakeholders to create a climate action plan. 
 
The plan aims to mitigate the causes and effects of climate change. It will provide a roadmap for the town’s climate action over the next eight to 12 years and align with the state's mandate to achieve net zero emissions by 2050. 
 
“Our focus over the coming months is ensuring the plan includes collaboration with community stakeholders, social equity considerations, and ongoing community education,” Green Committee chair David Wasielewski said. 
 
Senator Paul Mark commended Dalton for committing to develop a Climate Action Plan to achieve the state’s climate goals. 
 
The state legislature passed the Act Creating a Next Generation Roadmap for Massachusetts climate policy in 2022. 
 
The goal is to achieve net zero Greenhouse Gas emissions by 2050, with interim targets in 2030 and 2040. 
 
Dalton is taking the necessary steps to put this ambitious goal within reach,” Mark said.  
 
“I applaud Dalton for seeking ways to reduce Greenhouse  Gas emissions to improve public health and protect the environment for the next generation,” state representative Smitty Pignatelli added. 
 
The fair’s schedule and additional details, including survey workshop times, are here. 
 
More information about Dalton’s Climate Action plan and the Oct. 13th event here
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Berkshire Money Management Welcomes Financial Paraplanner

DALTON, Mass. — Berkshire Money Management (BMM), a financial and retirement planning firm with offices in Dalton and Great Barrington, announced that Michael O'Brien has joined the team as a Financial Paraplanner.
 
Most recently, Mike worked in the insurance industry. He has a strong background in client service and financial planning, with experience helping high-net-worth individuals protect their assets and their futures. 
 
He is a licensed Property and Casualty Insurance agent and is currently studying for the Series 65 exam so he can advance into a junior advising role. 
 
At BMM, he is focused on supporting the Director of Financial Planning and learning how to deliver personalized service to the firm's clients.
 
"Success is a team sport," said Natalie Wheeler, Chief Operating Officer at Berkshire Money Management. "We're excited to see Mike bring his talents to the table and grow with us. Stay tuned for updates as he continues to hit the ground running."
 
A lifelong resident of Pittsfield, Mike is a former Mr. Taconic and 2024 graduate of the Berkshire Leadership Program and holds a Bachelor of Arts in Communications with a minor in Spanish from Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts. Outside of work, he enjoys traveling, attending concerts, and spending time with his fiancée and extended family, and stays active with Jiu Jitsu, golf, and cheering on his favorite sports teams.
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