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Marjorie E. Cohan
Candidate For City Council - Pittsfield Marge Cohan outlined three specific issues that she wants to "remove from the back burner" in the City Council, if elected. The 28-year resident of Pittsfield believes youth development, affordable workforce housing and the preservation of parks, lakes and open spaces are critical issues that have too long gone ignored by those currently at the helm.
"The City Council needs someone to bring these things to the forefront," said Cohan, 61. "This is my way of giving back to the city and my issues affect everyone throughout the City of Pittsfield."
Moving to the Berkshires from New York City in 1980, Cohan has worked to develop the county's mental health and substance abuse care programs, ending her career last year when she retired as the Executive Director and CEO of the Brien Center. She had also worked as the director of community education and housing for the state's Department of Mental Health and as the executive director of Northern Berkshire Mental Health Association.
Cohane said her extensive experience in dealing with drug and alcohol abuse gives her an especially keen perspective on the need for quality education.
"I've spent my life seeing what happens when kids don't feel valued," she said, adding that the community culture perpetuates the notion that youth need to be coddled until adulthood.
"We need to include them in adult activities. It has to do with the whole way we deal with our kids," Cohan said.
A WHEN (Women Helping Empower Neighborhoods) member, Cohan was inspired to become involved in politics after years of community service. Cohan served on several city committees and is a founding member of the Northern Berkshire Community Coalition, the Pittsfield Prevention Partnership and the National Alliance for the Mentally Ill - Berkshire Chapter.
Along with her advocacy for healthy lifestyles, Cohan is the president and founder of the Berkshire Bike Path Council and a member of the Berkshire Cycle Association.
Cohan said she believes that city residents want to be able to enjoy the Berkshire outdoors and her efforts to preserve recreational areas will ultimately benefit everyone.
"Our parks and lakes are a calling card for tourism, amenities for businesses and a treasure for all residents," she said. "I think it's important to balance the continuing development with open spaces."
For more information on Cohan, visit her web site at www.margecohan.com and on Nov. 6, she urges you to vote for "Marge At-Large." |
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