Letter: Support CPA Question

To the Editor:

The Community Preservation Act would support everything I love about living in Pittsfield: its proud and fascinating heritage, picturesque historic architecture, creative economy, and the natural beauty of its outdoor spaces.

In my work as director of visitor interpretation at The Trustees [of Reservations], I have experienced first-hand the benefits of CPA funding across the state, from restoring historic interiors at the Old Manse in Concord to creating new trails for our beloved Monument Mountain in Great Barrington, all for the enjoyment of the public.

Best of all, the funding decisions are all made right here in our community. As president of the Berkshire Art Association, I can imagine CPA funds being used to enrich our vibrant cultural community through adaptive re-use of historic buildings for galleries, studios and performance spaces. The possibilities are endless.

It breaks my heart to think about all the historic buildings we have lost and the stories we can no longer tell because we didn't have the funds to preserve them. That's why I'm voting yes on 5.

Danielle Steinmann
Pittsfield, Mass.

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