Pittsfield's Department of Community Development Launches Public Survey

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PITTSFIELD, Mass. — The City of Pittsfield's Department of Community Development has announced the availability of a survey to receive public input regarding community needs.
 
In collaboration with VHB, the Department has initiated a year-long planning process aimed at crafting a Master Plan that will guide the city's growth and change while preserving its unique character and reflecting shared community values. The updated Master Plan will serve as a key policy document for physical development, addressing critical areas such as land use, infrastructure and sustainability.
 
In addition to public meetings, the survey is a key part of the planning process. Responses will help the city understand community priorities, identify areas for improvement, and shape goals and strategies that reflect the collective vision of Pittsfield. The survey, and more information about the planning process, can be found on the city's website: 2025 Master Plan Update | Pittsfield, MA
 
For more information about this survey and related Master Plan work, email City Planner, Kevin Rayner at krayner@cityofpittsfield.org.
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Adams Couple Sentenced to Staggered Prison Terms in Death of Foster Infant

By Brittany PolitoiBerkshires Staff
PITTSFIELD, Mass. — An Adams couple will serve staggered three-to-five year prison sentences for the 2020 death of their foster infant. 
 
Matthew Tucker and Cassandra Barlow-Tucker on March 16 were found guilty of involuntary manslaughter and reckless child endangerment in the death of Kristoff Zenopolous on Feb. 18, 2020.  
 
Their sentencing was delayed by Judge Tracy Duncan until Thursday to determine how their four children, two of whom have high needs, would be cared for. 
 
Kristoff was just 10 months old when he died from complications with respiratory illness, strep throat, and pneumonia. A Superior Court jury determined that his death was a result of neglect. The commonwealth requested five years in prison and three years of probation for both defendants.
 
On Thursday, the rescheduled hearing for sentence imposition was held, and Tucker and Barlow-Tucker were sentenced to state prison for manslaughter involving neglect of legal duty, and three years of probation for reckless child endangerment. 
 
Court documents state that Barlow-Tucker was committed to the Massachusetts Correctional Institution in Framingham. She will serve three to five years there first; her husband, will serve his sentence once hers is completed but will be on probation.
 
"The sentences imposed will be a state prison sentence of not less than 3 years and not more than 5 years to MCI as to each Defendant as to count #1. The sentences will be staggered. Ms. Barlow-Tucker will serve her incarceration sentence first," court dockets read.  
 
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