PITTSFIELD – SABIC Innovative Plastics is asking for a tax break as it moves to upgrade its buildings and expand its work force.
The Saudi Basic Industries Corp., which bought GE Plastics for $11.6 billion in August, is planning $10 million in building improvements and $50 million in personal property acquisitions, according Christopher Tessier, communications manager.
The plastics producer will spend about $2 million in salaries for 25 new employees within the next three years.
Mayor James M. Ruberto announced the proposed expenditures for the plastics division's global headquarters on Plastics Avenue and the company's request for incremental tax assessments on Wednesday.
"We want to encourage businesses to come to Pittsfield and create jobs, and I believe tax incentives serve as an effective tool to accomplish those goals," said Ruberto in a statement. "SABIC Innovative Plastics is bringing new life to Pittsfield and the city continues to support them as an important member of our business community."
Ruberto submitted the proposal for a creation of an economic opportunity area for the plastics company along with a 10-year tax increment financing agreement, or TIF.
The TIF would reduce the assessed valuation 20 percent each year for five years, then 10 percent for the last five years. The agreement ensures that SABIC would be eligible to receive other manufacturing tax exemptions.
"We are grateful that the City of Pittsfield has such a positive attitude for it's citizens and the business community," said Tessier.
The proposal has been referred to the City Council's finance subcommittee.
SABIC Innovative Plastics is a global supplier of plastic resins widely used in automotive, health care, consumer electronics, transportation, performance packaging, building and construction, telecommunications and optical media applications.
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LANESBOROUGH, Mass. — Town meeting on Tuesday approved an almost $14 million fiscal 2027 budget, and approved bylaws for short-term rentals and signage, and for public safety vehicles.
Of the 20 warrant articles, one, Article 7, to use free cash to pay prior fiscal year bills of $941.27 was indefinitely postponed by Moderator David Rolle because the bills were for the fire association.
Some 247 of the town's more than 2,600 registered voters filled Lanesborough Elementary School, debating articles during a meeting that lasted more than three hours.
The town's 2027 spending plan is up more than 10 percent, with the main increases from higher enrollment in the regional schools and the McCann Technical School renovation project.
Voters approved the assessment of $7,586,284 for Mount Greylock Regional School. They also approved Article 11, which was the use of $16,298.48 in free cash for the McCann's roof and window replacement project so as not to impact the budget.
Ambulance Director Jen Weber is planning 24-hour coverage, which means more staff and a hike in her budget. Article 5 asked the town to appropriate $234,100 to operate the Ambulance Enterprise Fund for salaries and expenses, which passed.
Fire Chief Jeff DeChaine spoke to the audience on his articles and the need for a new truck to replace the 1996 fire truck, listed on the warrant articles for a total $813,366, which includes a $100,000 contingency cost on whether a 2026 model-year chassis can be secured before new emissions standards in 2027. If they get the 2026 chassis, that contingency likely won't be needed.
Town meeting on Tuesday approved an almost $14 million fiscal 2027 budget, and approved bylaws for short-term rentals and signage, and for public safety vehicles.
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The Berkshire Community College community celebrated outgoing President Ellen Kennedy for the innovation, kindness, and curiosity she has fostered on campus over the last 14 years. click for more
