Krol, Nichols Clash Over Pittsfield's Westside

Incumbent John Krol and challenger Joseph Nichols differed sharply during the Ward 6 at BCC on Monday night.

PITTSFIELD, Mass. — Incumbent John Krol and former Ward 7 Councilor Joseph Nichols traded jabs during a heated debate Monday over who voters should choose to represent Ward 6 in next week's local election.

 

The two candidates, who frequently opposed each other on the council during the 2009-2011 term, drew pointed contrasts to each other on issues and governmental philosophy as well as disputing each other's honesty during the sometimes tense 40-minute forum held at Berkshire Community College by the Pittsfield Gazette and Pittsfield Community Television.

 

Sparring began in opening statements, during which Nichols criticized what he called a lack of responsiveness to constituents on the part of the incumbent.

 

The two were also staunchly divided on the issues of residential property taxes and regulation for homeowners.  

 

Krol defended his role in the council's