Pittsfield Asks for Info on Vandalism, Ransacking in Parks

By Brittany PolitoiBerkshires Staff
Print Story | Email Story

PITTSFIELD, Mass. — The city is asking that community members report suspicious activity after two parks were vandalized and ransacked.

On Friday, it was reported that Clapp Park, located on West Housatonic Street, and the Common on First Street experienced recent acts of vandalism that included destruction of the bathroom fixtures and the control room.

Copper was taken from both locations. The metal is commonly stolen and sold for profit.

"Both parks are vital resources to our community. We are devastated that this activity has taken place and are going to try our best to have things repaired in time for spring," the city posted on its Facebook page.

"However, we have a lot of work ahead to have bathroom facilities and splash pads available in these two locations."


The post included pictures of what appear to be control rooms with broken pipes and other materials scattered on the ground.

"We now must purchase, repair, and install new doors, locks, toilets, sinks, dispensers, and mirrors," it reads.

"In addition, we need to obtain replacement parts and piping to properly operate the bathrooms and splash pads."

Both parks have bathroom facilities and splash pads, which are recreation areas that spray water on users during the warm months.

The city asked that if members of the public have seen any suspicious activity in either park recently to report it to the Pittsfield Police Department at 413-448-9700.

Additional updates will be shared closer to the spring season.


Tags: vandalism,   

If you would like to contribute information on this article, contact us at info@iberkshires.com.

Lanesborough Farm Appealing Short-Term Rental Prohibition

By Sabrina DammsiBerkshires Staff
LANESBOROUGH, Mass. —  Are short-term rentals permitted in Lanesborough? 
 
That question has sparked debate following a cease-and-desist sent to Second Drop Farm, the new keepers of the historic Bradley Farm, for using its farmhouse as on Airbnb. 
 
The farm's owners have appealed to the Zoning Board of Appeals, which is holding a public hearing  at 6 p.m. on Wednesday at Town Hall
 
The Airbnb is an important part of the farm's services, especially in the winter season, because it helps keep the farm sustainable, said Samantha Phillips, one of the farm's owners. 
 
"We're not growing anything other than raising chickens for eggs in the winter. It's a vital part of our income to have the Airbnbs here on the farm," she said. 
 
Prior to opening the short-term rental, Phillips said they complied with several safety regulations by having the fire inspector visit the property and installing a "state-of-the-art fire/security system."
 
They also made sure their operation was listed on the state website for short-term rentals to ensure it is properly taxed. 
 
View Full Story

More Pittsfield Stories