Richmond Sets Meeting Over Break-Ins

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Updated Nov. 17, 2009, at 2:21 p.m.: The meeting with state police has been postponed to Dec. 2 because of an unexpected scheduling conflict.

RICHMOND, Mass. — In response to a recent string of break-ins within town, the Board of Selectmen has scheduled a meeting with representatives from the state police on Wednesday, Nov. 18, beginning at 6:30. 

The meeting is open to the public, which is encouraged to attend.

"The Selectmen are concerned over these recent break-ins and want to gather as much information from the state police as they can about their investigation into these crimes," said Town Administrator Matthew Kerwood.

The state police provide the town with police coverage and has recently published a request for the public's assistance in trying to gather information on these crimes. A rash of break-ins northward, in Clarksburg and Stamford, Vt., have residents there putting together a crime watch.

"The Selectmen would encourage anyone with information to either come to meeting or to contact the state police's Lee barracks," said Kerwood. "They very much want to see those responsible for these crimes caught."
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Pittsfield Council Preview: Councilor Privacy & Halting Berkshire Gas Work Permits

By Brittany PolitoiBerkshires Staff

PITTSFIELD, Mass. — On Tuesday, the City Council will see requests to protect their own safety when it comes to sensitive information, and to deny work permits from Berkshire Gas due to "substandard" conditions. 

A request to remove councilors' addresses from city documents and websites and replace them with "70 Allen Street" to improve safety will be referred to the Ordinances and Rules subcommittee. Councilors' addresses, city email, and phone numbers are currently available on Pittsfield's staff directory page. 

The petition was submitted by Ward 1 Councilor Kenneth Warren, Ward 2 Councilor Cameron Cunningham, Ward 4 Councilor James Conant, and Ward 7 Councilor Katherine Moody. 

The councilors explain in the meeting packet that they want elected officials to have the option to replace their home addresses on all city documents and websites, including Pittsfield Community Television, with the City Hall address. 

Recently, the City Council approved Ward 6 Councilor Dina Lampiasi's request to amend City Council Rule 1C. Rule 1C requires individuals to disclose their name, address, and the subject they wish to address the council about on a sheet before the open microphone portion of meetings.

Lampiasi asked to only require a person's name and municipality. 

"I don't think that submitting a street address is really appropriate," she explained to the O&R subcommittee earlier this month. 

"It feels invasive, and there are some safety concerns for folks." 

President Earl Persip III wants Berkshire Gas to correct safety and access issues before Pittsfield allows them to do additional work on city property. 

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