Peacemaker Award Nominations Sought

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NORTH ADAMS, Mass. — The Peacemaker Award is given annually to an individual or group in Northern Berkshire.
 
The award, which originated as part of the annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service, is made to persons who have contributed substantially to peace in our region. In general, the Peacemaker Award recognizes persons who have a history of working with people and/or neighborhoods and communities to provide for greater tolerance, understanding, and caring. While the award may be made to a person or group well known in the region, those making nominations are particularly urged to consider those who have worked hard and have made contributions without much recognition.
 
Past Peacemakers include Kenna Waterman, Don Quinn Kelley, Mark Rondeau, Mark Lincourt, Pastor Dave Anderson, Al & Cindi McLain, PopCares, Inc., Dick Alcombright, Bilal Ansari, Kerri Nicoll, and Mary Lou Accetta.
 
The MLK Jr. Day of Service Committee is also seeking new members interested in helping to plan the January 2024 event. To join the committee, call the Coalition at (413) 663-7588. To nominate a Peacemaker, pick up a form at the Northern Berkshire Community Coalition office at 61 Main Street, Suite 218, North Adams or nominate online at https://bit.ly/Peacemaker2024
 
Nominations must be received by December 17, 2023.

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North Adams Council OKs Funds for Ashland Street Project Easements

By Tammy Daniels iBerkshires Staff
NORTH ADAMS, Mass. — The City Council on Tuesday approved an appropriation of $256,635 from the Land Sales Account for easements and takings related to the Ashland Street project.
 
A second roll call vote approved the easements and takings during a meeting lasting nearly three hours.
 
"This is a construction project that has been in the works for probably, like eight years, coming down the pipe in conjunction with MassDOT," said Mayor Jennifer Macksey. "And what we are asking tonight is permission for appropriation for us to pay for some permanent and some temporary easements to complete this work."
 
The mayor noted the use of "eminent domain" in the legal language but assured the council and audience that no one's home or driveway were being taken.
 
The temporary construction easements will terminate after six years; the permanent roadway easements will give the city rights to access those areas for purposes of repair or public construction. 
 
The takings are the city's contribution to the $11.4 million Complete Streets project, being funded by the state Department of Transportation through the 2026 Transportation Improvement Program. The account has $463,000, leaving a balance of $207,000 after the appropriation.
 
Macksey said this is similar to what was done for the Brayton School safe routes project but the appraisals were much higher.
 
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